Trek · Paro, Bhutan
Hike to Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest
The classic Bhutan day: a steady climb of about 500 m from the car park to the cafeteria viewpoint, then on to the monastery at 3,120 m, with a final drop and climb of roughly 700 steps past a 60 m waterfall.
Photo: Original: Nina R from Africa Derivative work: … · CC BY 2.0 · CommonsThe trail starts at a car park at about 2,600 m, 10 km north of Paro town. A water-powered prayer wheel turns in a stream near the start. The first section climbs through blue pine forest on a broad, dusty mule track. After about 1.5–2 hours you reach the cafeteria, which faces the monastery across the ravine and serves tea, biscuits and a simple buffet lunch. Many people stop here, and that is a fine choice for children or anyone who feels the altitude.
From the cafeteria the path climbs to a viewpoint level with the monastery, then descends a long flight of steps to a bridge over the waterfall and climbs again to the gate. Lockers take cameras, phones and bags; photography is not allowed inside. A guide is required to enter, and the shrines usually close for a midday break. Inside, the main cave is linked with Padmasambhava's meditation and is opened to the public only once a year.
Ponies can carry you uphill as far as the cafeteria; they do not go down, because the descent is hard on their legs and riders are thrown forward. Wear shoes with grip, carry 1 litre of water and a light jacket, and go slowly: the monastery sits above 3,000 m. Talk to your doctor before the hike if you have heart or lung conditions. Return the same way, which takes about 2 hours.
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Questions
Before you book
How difficult is the Tiger's Nest hike?
It is moderate: about 4–5 km each way with roughly 500–600 m of climbing to the monastery at 3,120 m, plus steep steps near the end. Fit adults take 2.5–3 hours up and 2 hours down. Go slowly, drink water and turn back at the cafeteria if you feel dizzy or breathless.
Can children and seniors do the hike?
Many do. Children over about eight usually manage with breaks, and seniors can ride a pony to the cafeteria and decide there whether to continue. The final steps cannot be done on horseback. If you have heart, lung or knee problems, talk to your doctor before you go.
Can I take photos inside Taktsang?
No. Cameras and phones go into lockers at the entrance and photography is banned inside all shrines. The best photos are from the cafeteria and the viewpoint opposite the monastery, ideally in morning light before 10 am.