Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, is located 15 km north-west of Paro, Bhutan.
At an elevation of 3,120 meters, this sacred Vajrayana Buddhist temple is positioned precariously on a cliffside. The trek of about 4 km one-way is steep; and moderate-to-tough.
The trek involves ascent through the pine forests; and towards the end, a descent and an ascent through numerous steps. The overall gain in elevation through the trek is about 900 meters. One could hire ponies that take visitors up to half-the-distance.
It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava flew into this location on the back of a tigress, hence the name Tiger’s nest. In 8th century CE, Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated in the cave here for 3+ years.
From the 11th century onwards many Buddhist saints and eminent figures came to Taktsang to meditate, including Milarepa.
The Monastery complex was first built in 1692 CE. A fire in 1998 destroyed most of the Monastery, and the current structure was built in the year 2005.
The complex consists of 6 main temples and residential shelters designed by adapting to the rock caves and ledges. All buildings are interconnected through steps and stairways built on the rocks.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sKPjcavkQZEFxUEY8
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