A gateway to the last Himalayan kingdom, Paro is the little town of Bhutan situated at the banks of the Paro (or Pa). Apart from holding its simplicity and blessing of the nature’s finest views, this town also shelters the ancient monasteries. Among these architectural treasures, Paro Taktsang monastery stands out for its incredible location and magnificent beauty. Scroll down and know everything about this ancient monastery resting at the cliff of the Himalayas.
About Taktsang Palphug Buddhist Monastery
Taktsang Palphug Buddhist Monastery is one the most iconic landmark of Bhutan. Clinging on a cliff at a height of 3120 meters above the sea level, this ancient monastery is a gem of Paro Valley. Located approximately 10 kms north of Paro town, it takes 2-3 hour trek to reach the cave walking amidst the beautiful, shady pine forests.
Reflecting a refined buddhist architecture, the complex of the monastery is adorned with white buildings and golden roof. The Paro Taktsang monastery consists of 4 main temples which are interconnected with staircases carved on the rock.
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Interior Of Paro Taktsang Monastery
The interior of the Taktsang monastery reflects the luxury and wealth in the most finest way. While the dome of the monastery is gold plated and decorated with illuminating golden idols, the inside of Paro Taktsang consists of a hall of thousand Buddhas carved on a rock. Along with this a large statue of a tiger fills up the space which signifies the famous legend of Guru Rinpoche and the tigress.
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Paro Taktsang History
The literal meaning of Taktsang is ‘The Tiger’s Nest Temple’ which was first built in 1692 at cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in 7th century A.D. According to the legends, Guru Rinpoche flew to the site sitting atop of a tigress and meditated in the cave for 3 years, 3 months, 3 days and 3 hours to subdue the evil demons resting inside it. Since then this cave has been a sacred site and many saints visit this place to meditate and has become
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Best Time To Visit
To witness the best views of flora in Bhutan, spring is the best time to visit this hilly treasure. Starting from the month of April, the season ends up till May where the nature lovers can enjoy the surreal beauty of the surrounding while trekking up to Paro Taktsang monastery.
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How To Reach Paro Taktsang
Traveling to the Taktsang monastery is indeed an unforgettable experience with its adventurous route and emerald green surroundings. Settled on a cliff, this monastery can be reached by continuous flights connecting from Nepal, India, Thailand, Bangladesh and Singapore. After de-boarding the flight, the journey continues with a short drive and 2-3 hour trek to reach the monastery.
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Things To See At Paro Taktsang
- The magnificent prayer hall inside the Paro Taktsang monastery which shelters the gigantic statue of Guru Padmasambhava.
- The ancient cave of Taktsang monastery where Guru Padmasambhava meditated for 3 years, 3 months, 3 days and 3 hours.
- And lastly, the panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains nestled above the Paro Valley.
Trekking To Paro Taktsang
The Paro Taktsang trek is the most favoured and adventurous thing to do while in Paro, Bhutan. Travelers come from various corners of the world to explore the picturesque route to the monastery. Walking amidst the dense forests lined up with Rhododendron and blue pine trees, one can see the prayer flags amidst the shades of the trees. Upon reaching the monastery, the breathtaking view of the Paro valley and the serenity filled in the air makes the tedious hike worth the effort.
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Paro Taktsang Trek Route
Tips For A Paro Taktsang Trip
- A traveler must have a standard permit for entering the Taktsang monastery. Plan your tour itinerary few months prior, so that the travel guide will arrange the permit.
- Things like camera, phone and other electronic items are not allowed in the premises of the Paro Taktsang monastery. Strict checking is done at the entrance of the holy shrine, and along with this the travelers are also asked for removing of shoes and buttoning up the coat to mark respect.
- During the Bhutan tour, the Taktsang monastery is always the last attraction to be visited after the round trip of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and other destination in Central Bhutan. This helps the travelers to acclimatize at an higher altitude and makes up more prepared for the trek trail to the monastery.
- For the travelers planning to ride a horse while trekking to the monastery,it is important to inform the guide beforehand. This will make it easier to book a horse during the trip, but it will only take you to till the first section of the road. Afterwards you have to trek till the monastery.
- Photography is strictly prohibited inside the monastery, thus one can capture the beautiful surroundings around the Paro Taktsang.
- There are easily-accessible toilets on the way, except the cafeteria located near the monastery. Inside the monastery there is a toilet which can be used by paying a minimal price.
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Do you want to experience adventure and meditate amidst the magnificent views of the Himalayas? Then don’t wait and book one of the holiday packages for Bhutan with TravelTriangle and find your lost peace in the serenity of this ancient buddhist monastery.
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A mass-media graduate, Priyanka is a passionate writer and an avid traveler. Whether it’s about capturing the sunsets or hogging up some delicious food from different places, she never leaves a second to decide. Her mantra of keep going is “work, save, travel, repeat” which she lives by heart.
