|
|
|
Tiger Nest or Paro Taktshang is a famed
Buddhist temple and monastery located in Paro in the kingdom of Bhutan. This place is
definitely not for the faint-hearted. Perched precariously atop at height of
3000 meters from Paro valley and nestled on a cliff, the winding paths through
cragged mountains will surely jolt you down.
If you love mountaineering and
gravity-defying heights, then this trek is a must-visit. The beauty of this
place is simply majestic and breathtaking.
How to get there: There are direct flights to Bhutan from major
Indian cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Gaya, Bagdogra. Paro, the
destination is 1 ½ hour drive from the state capital Thimpu. Once you reach Paro valley,
TigersNest is a short distance from there. Alternatively, if you land at Paro
airport, then you’ll be at a striking distance. Hire a pony and mules from
below the valley to ascend up to the shrine. There are also some small stalls selling
Souvenirs, trinkets & craft items. Bargain with the vendors and you are sure to
get that killer deal.
budget accommodations located in the range of 2-5kms from Tigers Nest. You can
avail some good discounts from Hotel & Travel websites like TripAdvisor.com
& Agooda.com. The rates vary in the range of 2000-6000 per day inclusive of breakfast
& snacks. Get ready to be mesmerized with some stunning views from across
your boarding.
- Ema Datshi – A extremely favored dish made of Chilly and
cheese, a must-have when you visit Bhutan - Jasha Maroo– A variety of spicy chicken
- Paksha Paa – Pork gravy with Red Chilies
- Red Rice – Crunchy, nutty, nutritious
& flavorsome rice high in anthocyanins & flavonoids to provide you
satiety.
Bhutan and can set you back by 785 NU per head.
- Glory Amber Ale – Bhutanese Beer
specialty - K5 (Whiskey)
- Royal XXX-Rum.
- Takin Red Wine
- Raven Vodka.
- Zum Zin Peach Wine
- Ara.
Above listed drinks will debit you by 100-150 NU local
currency (Ngultrum).
Handy Tip: Denominations of INR 500, 1000,
2000 are not accepted in Bhutan.
Tourists can exchange
cash and traveler’s cheques at the Foreign Exchange Desk at Paro Airport and Bank
of Bhutan branches located in major townships such as Paro and
Thimphu. Ngultrum is the widely accepted currency at major shopping points and will get you all the necessary services in a breeze, so try to shop using the local currency.
Best time to visit: Oct-Dec is the most favorable time to visit as the weather is pleasant.
Time to start the trek: It’s better to start the climb at 8am and
get back to your destination before 5pm. The climb is arduous, and mind you, as a matter of precaution, High BP patients should better avoid it. If you feel
faint or dizzy, fret not. There’s a cafeteria just at a halfway mark to
refresh you. In between the ascent, you will encounter numerous prayer flags of
different hues. It’s a Sight to Behold! You will be greeted with a prayer wheel to
turn & make that silent wish. Lucky You! From here maneuver on a straight path ahead. You are now heading towards the Tigers Lair.
But hold on, it’s still a long way to the apex. You will encounter a steep
ascent and a deadly descent along a gurgling waterfall coupled
again with ascending a flight of steps before reaching the shrine. The ascent is more spine chilling than
the descent due to the thinning air and increasing heat.
your breath, as now we are at the final leg of the journey. Completing the final
climb lands you at the Iconic prestige of Bhutan, the Land of Thunder
Dragon.
understood why Bhutan is named the ‘Happiest Country‘ with the
highest happiness index. The Place and its environs are so serene that you will
feel of settling down.
in, be sure to respect the sentiments of the local populace by removing your
footwear at the entrance and bow with reverence to the grand deity inside – Guru Rimpoche.
You
can photoshoot and curate the memories but it’s better to ask for permission as you
are in a sacred place.
Let me sign off by mentioning the famous Buddhist Chant of ‘Nam Myoho Renge Kyo’ which means ‘Glory to the Dharma
of Lotus Sutra’.