01/03/2024
Wondering where to find adventure and joy packed together. Think about visiting with to find in your journeys
Bhutan is pure magic. I’m fortunate to have gone twice: in 2009 & 2017. It’s one of the few places that lives up to the hype surrounding its mystery. Bhutan is a unique place in the world. From the crazy Paro airport approach, to the flag, to the dzongs, archery and lovely people-to the abundance of phallus (yes, phallus) everywhere-you will remember your trip to Bhutan. The place where gross national happiness is said to be more important than gross national product.
By far, the most famous site in Bhutan is Taktshang Goemba, otherwise known as the Tigers Nest. It’s a monastery perched on the side of a sheer cliff about 1000 meters above the Paro Valley below. The only sounds are the sound of the waterfall accompanying the monastery and the chanting monks who pray in the nest.
It is called the Tigers Nest because the Bhutanese believe that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress, a manifestation of his consort to subdue the local demon. He then meditated in the cave for three months.
The site has suffered two fires, the most recent in 1998 and was finally completed and re-opened to tourists in 2005-those who can make the hike.
The hike is relatively arduous to the point where I took this photo. Then you have to walk down about 400 wet steps; cross the waterfall; and then up another 300 steps to the Tigers Nest. You hike from 7500 feet to 11,500 feet so altitude could be a problem. It takes most people 2 hours to get up. I am a good hiker and was able to make it in an hour each time. There’s a horse option if you’re unable.
You’re not allowed to take photos inside the monastery; which is a series of temples. It’s a peaceful, fascinating place in a jaw dropping setting. The monks are true believers, dedicated to their beliefs. It’s awesome to behold. I once named the Tigers Nest as the greatest man made site in the world. I still think so.
Have you been to Bhutan?