A hike to the Tiger's nest

A hike to the Tiger’s nest

We began the thrilling hike on the last day of our trip in Bhutan to the Tiger’s nest. The hike  usually takes about 2 hours for someone who is fit, otherwise it may take longer.

We started at 7:45 am from the parking lot and we were one of the first few to start our journey. The path is really steep and there are no steps, also to add to the pandemonium  and difficulty there are horses that take rations up to the monastery. We (my parents, myself and our guide) divided ourselves into two groups. The tour guide and I were ahead and my mother and father were behind us. The first bit of the path is a rather narrow and uneven causing us to watch our step.

Our goal was to reach half way up the cliff and meet up, but  as my mother was a little out of exercise she needed more time! So as we continued we decided to meet each other near the café. Many people trek up to this point and stop as they are unable to climb up.

I had reached half way up, when, I heard to people discussing amongst themselves as to how tiring it was, I immediately looked back as saw that it was my parents! So I asked my mother how she was feeling, and all she did was heave a big sigh of relief for having reached the mid-point.  

Our guide Mr. Dorji met many  of his acquaintances on the way and kept chatting with them as we walked up. There are many small places of prayer on the way to the top of the cliff, but some do not have name boards. There are many smaller paths that are likely to create confusion to tourists.  So one must be alert while trekking up, lest you reach the wrong place!

About the Tigers nest

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Tasksang  is in Paro, Bhutan. It was built around the 8^th century AD. It is believed that  Guru Padmasambahava  who was from the Swat region, now in Pakistan, came  here on a flying tigress and meditated for several months and built the monastery. The monastery is right on a steep cliff and the temperatures are freezing in winter. There is a water fall which was frozen and it looked beautiful. It is advisable to wear thick jackets and  thick socks, as the floor of the monastery can be very cold, especially in winter . 

On our way back we had a hearty lunch  at the cafeteria before getting back to our car. The café serves good vegetarian food and is very clean even though it located up in the mountains. 

The cafeteria also gives you a stunning view of the monastery.                                                                                                                                                                                                 

On your way down the hill you must make sure you stick to one side of the path, and walk slowly. Our way down the cliff, we encountered a lot of tourists climbing up, this was really scary! As they were all over the path and it was difficult  for us to control our pace. You must wear footwear that have good cushioning and grip to keep you from twisting your ankle when climbing down.The Tiger’s nest is a fabulous place and is a must visit for those who enjoy hiking and are fit also for people who are interested in history, culture, and food!