Taktsang Monastery, sometimes referred to as Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan, is situated in the Paro area. Taktsang lies 2,950 meters (9,678 feet) above sea level and clings to the rock that rises 800 meters (2,600 feet) above the valley. Climbing to the monastery from the base on the Ramthangkha road, 12 kilometers from Paro town, takes roughly two to three hours, depending on your level of fitness.
The story of Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) began in 747 AD when Guru Padmasmbhava (also called Guru Rinpoche) meditated in a cave on a sheer rock face. Then, in a fit of rage, Guru Dorji Drolo rode a tigress to slay the local bad spirits. According to legend, the tigress was actually Yeshi Tshogyal, a spouse of Guru Rinpoche who had changed into a terrifying beast in order to defeat spirits. In order to transport Guru Rinpoche from Singye Dzong in Eastern Bhutan to Taktsang, Yeshe Tshogyal is also reported to have changed into a tigress.
After meditating in the same location, Guru Rinpoche manifested in eight different incarnations. As a result, one of the most significant Buddhist holy sites in the Himalayan Buddhist world is Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest monastery). Guru Rinpoche gave his followers exquisite teachings at Taktsang and revealed the Pelchen Dorje Phurpa’s Mandala. After three years, three months, three weeks, and three days of meditation in the cave, he defeated the evil spirits and hid priceless treasures for the benefit of living things.
