Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike
Climb to Paro Taktsang, the cliff-clinging Tiger’s Nest and Bhutan’s most iconic sight.
About Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike
Paro Taktsang — the Tiger’s Nest — clings to a granite cliff 900 m above the Paro valley, founded where Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown in on a tigress to meditate. The Tiger’s Nest trek is the defining experience of any Bhutan trip: a steady 2–3 hour uphill walk through blue-pine forest and prayer flags to one of the Himalaya’s most photographed monasteries.
What to see & do
- The cliffside monastery of Paro Taktsang itself
- Prayer-flag forest trails and a waterfall near the top
- The halfway cafeteria viewpoint for tea and photos
- Sacred meditation caves and gilded inner shrines
- Sweeping views back down the Paro valley
🗓️ Best time to visit
March–May and September–November for clear skies. Start by 08:00 to beat the heat and crowds; the monastery interior closes for lunch around 13:00.
🚆 How to reach
The trailhead is a 20-minute drive north of Paro town. Your guide and vehicle take you to the base car park; from there it is a 2–3 hour climb each way on foot, with ponies available for the first half.
💰 Cost
The hike is included in guided packages; the monastery entry runs roughly ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person, plus optional pony hire of about ₹1,500 for the lower section.
Insider tips
- Wear broken-in trail shoes and carry layers — it is cool at altitude.
- Take it slow; the air at 3,000 m+ is thin if you are new to altitude.
- Photography is allowed outside but not inside the shrines.
- Carry water and a light snack for the cafeteria viewpoint stop.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to experience Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike?
March–May and September–November for clear skies. Start by 08:00 to beat the heat and crowds; the monastery interior closes for lunch around 13:00.
How do I get there?
The trailhead is a 20-minute drive north of Paro town. Your guide and vehicle take you to the base car park; from there it is a 2–3 hour climb each way on foot, with ponies available for the first half.
How much does Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike cost?
The hike is included in guided packages; the monastery entry runs roughly ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person, plus optional pony hire of about ₹1,500 for the lower section.