Winding Trails to Tiger’s Nest

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Paro Valley
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 550.- per person (excluding flights)

During this trip you'll combine the peaceful town of Paro with an invigorating hike to one of the Himalaya's most iconic sites. Explore the impressive Paro Dzong, stroll along the charming streets and try your hand at a spot of Bhutanese archery. A highlight is the spectacular Tiger's Nest monastery, perched on the side of a cliff above Paro valley. The climb is challenging, but the view more than makes up for it.

Day 1 – Arrival in Paro

After your arrival in Paro, you’ll be taken straight to your charming hotel, just outside the town centre. In the afternoon you’ll visit the Paro Dzong; this large monastery fortress used to play a crucial role in protecting Paro from the invaders and now remains one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. After the tour, you can visit the archery grounds where your guide will set you up with a traditional Bhutanese bow and arrow and you’ll have a go at trying to hit the target. The Bhutanese make it look so easy! As always, your guide will arrange your dinner before driving you back to your hotel.

Day 2 – Paro – Tiger’s Nest – Paro

After an early morning breakfast, you’ll begin your hike to the most famous monastery in Bhutan, the Tiger’s Nest. Built on a 3000-metre high cliff above the Paro valley, it’s a must-see. You’ll reach the monastery on foot as you follow the winding path between pine trees and past the spinning prayer wheels. Around halfway you’ll find a small cafe with the views of the monastery. It’s a good place to stop for a tea break before your final climb.

Finally, you’ll reach the waterfall and hundreds of steep steps leading up to the monastery. If you like to go inside, you’ll have to leave all your belongings in a deposit box at the entrance and take your shoes off (the stone floors are very cold, make sure you have a spare pair of warm socks to put on). Your guide will share the legends about Guru Rinpoche and the tigress and tell you how this fascinating place was built. Your driver will be waiting for you at the foot of the hill, ready to take you back into town. After lunch, we’ll arrange a hot stone bath for you to help you relax. Made with fresh herbs, it’s an authentic Bhutanese spa treatment you won’t experience anywhere on earth!

Day 3 – Departure

This bite-sized trip ends after breakfast. If this marks the end of your Bhutan trip then today you’ll be driven to the airport ready for your international flight. We recommend spending another night somewhere en route before catching your long-haul flight home. Alternatively, if you are continuing your trip from here your guide and driver will take you on to the next destination.