Taktsang Lhakhang, A spiritual odyssey atop a breathtaking cliff

Paro Canyon

The most unforgettable attractions in Bhutan

4.7

Introduction

The Tiger's Nest Monastery, located in the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a sacred Buddhist temple built on a cliff over 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The temple, which sits at an altitude of 3,120 meters, is believed to have been the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated for three months in the eighth century, making it a holy site for Bhutanese believers. The monastery was first built in 1692, but in 1998, an unidentified fire destroyed the temple, preventing tourists from visiting for an extended period. With the collective effort of the people of Bhutan, the Tiger's Nest Monastery was rebuilt and re-opened to the world in 2005. The architecture of the Tiger's Nest Monastery combines natural beauty with artistry. The temple consists of four main halls and living quarters, most of which are built into the mountainside. Each building has a balcony for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the Paro Valley. From a distance, the monastery appears as if a gecko is clinging to the cliff. To reach the main cave and pay homage to Guru Rinpoche and the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, visitors must pass through a narrow passage. Inside the dark cave, butter lamps flicker, and visitors can see the Guru Rinpoche's wrathful manifestation, Dorje Drolo, as he appeared during his meditations. There is also an elegant statue of the Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara and dozens of Bodhisattva statues on display.