Journal · Paro
Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang)
Temples on a cliff 900 m above the Paro valley, around the cave where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated.
The story
Tradition says Guru Rinpoche, who brought tantric Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century, flew here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave in the cliff. Many great masters meditated here after him. In 1692 Tenzin Rabgye, the fourth Desi, founded the temple built around the cave.
A fire on 19 April 1998 destroyed much of it. It was rebuilt and consecrated again in 2005.
The walk
The temples stand at about 3,120 m. You start from a car park at about 2,600 m, so you climb about 500 m, on a steep trail that ends with a long staircase. Allow 4 to 6 hours there and back, plus time inside. A cafeteria sits about halfway.
Before you go
Start walking by 7.30 am. Bags and phones go in lockers at the gate. Dress for a temple, with long sleeves and long trousers. Do it near the end of your trip, when you are used to the height.
Sources
Checked October 2026. Where sources disagree, we say so or leave the detail out. Opening times and rules change, so your guide confirms on the day.