Known as the Tigers Nest, Paro Taktsang Monastery is found on a 1,200 metre crag below a rocky mountain with only the swirling mists below when you peer from the edge. The site itself is sacred as it is said to be the place where Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated in eight caves in the 8th century. A temple complex was subsequently built around the caves eight centuries later. Although there are several legends as to how the monastery came to be, it is firmly established that Guru Padmasambhava lived here in the 8th century and that his body is interred in a chorten within the monastery. The site was visited by many Tibetan saints and other important religious figures in the 11th century. Tibet saw some strong Buddisht religious influences in Bhutan right up to the 17th century. Several important Tibetan monks lived at Taktsang and traces of wall paintings done by these monks between the 12th and 17th centuries can still be discerned on the walls of the caves.
The monastery building comprises four main temple buildings and residential facilities, all built incorporating the existing rocky terrain into the structure. All the buildings are connected with steps hewn into the rock and a few wooden bridges. The topmost temple has a frieze with Buddhist legends. Each building has a balcony overlooking the valley below. This is obviously the best view that anyone can have of the beautiful Paro valley. Other buildings in the premises include a nunnery founded by Padmasambhava’s wife, a prayer wheel and the residence of the head lama. Out of the eight caves that were the abodes of the first priests, four can be accessed rather easily. The entrance to the main cave is through a narrow passage. The cave, with hardly any light entering it, is lit with butter lamps and there are several images of various Bodhisattvas including one of Avalokitesvara within. The cell next door houses the divine scriptures written with gold dust and the crushed bone of a divine lama. It takes about 3 hours to hike up to the monastery although the timing would depend on individual fitness levels. A café along the way provides a place to rest and buy refreshment.
Overlooking the beautiful Paro valley, the Uma Bhutan is well located not only to provide some of the best views but also as a base to explore the wilderness and the many historical attractions including Taktsang Monastery. Guests are able to enjoy the highest level of accommodation and service at this prominent option of a Bhutan hotel. See more of an ancient and beautiful land during your visit by taking advantage of Bhutan tour packages that can be arranged through the hotel.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+