We recommend saving your visit to Tiger’s Nest for the end of your Bhutan trip. By then your body will have had time to adjust to the altitude, which makes the hike up to the monastery a little easier. And it’s a pretty special way to end your journey – with one of Bhutan’s most iconic sights.
Day 1 – Arrival in Paro
On arrival in Paro, you’ll be taken straight to your traditional hotel, just outside the town centre. In the afternoon you’ll visit the impressive 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.
Archery is Bhutan’s national sport and an important part of local culture. Across the country, you’ll often see people gathering at village archery ranges, especially during festivals and weekends. This afternoon we will arrange a quick detour to the archery grounds for an archery lesson. Using a traditional handcrafted bow and arrow, you’ll learn the basics from a local instructor before trying your luck yourself. The Bhutanese make it look so easy!
Optional cultural experiences in Paro
While staying in Paro, you can add a traditional Bhutanese experience to your trip (at a small supplement).
You could relax in a traditional hot stone bath (Dotsho), where heated river stones warm a wooden tub filled with fresh water and medicinal herbs. It’s a simple wellness ritual long used in Bhutan to ease muscles and unwind after a day of exploring. Alternatively, join a hands-on cooking class in a local farmhouse and learn how to prepare classic Bhutanese dishes such as Ema Datshi (chillies with cheese) and other hearty local specialities. Cooking over a traditional stove and sharing the meal afterwards offers a simple but memorable glimpse into everyday life in Bhutan.
Ask your Travel Specialist for more information.
Day 2 – Trek to Tiger’s Nest
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’d like to go inside, you’ll have to leave all your belongings in a deposit box at the entrance and take your shoes off. Your guide will share the legends about Guru Rinpoche and the tigress and tell you how this fascinating place was built. It’ll take about one hour to trek back to the starting point where your driver will be waiting to drive you back to your Paro hotel where you’ll spend another night.
Day 3 – Departure
We recommend saving your visit to Tiger’s Nest for the end of your Bhutan trip, so today you’re likely to be heading to the airport in time for your international flight. Alternatively, if you are continuing your trip from here, your guide and driver will take you on to the next destination.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Winding trails to Tiger Nest - In Style accommodation
If you’re looking for a little extra comfort during your stay in Paro, consider upgrading to our In Style option. You’ll stay at a comfortable, boutique hotel set on a forested hillside just outside town. The hotel is built in traditional Bhutanese style, with stone walls, wooden beams and colourful details that reflect local craftsmanship. Rooms are cosy and comfortable, many with views across the pine forest and valley below. If you’re interested in upgrading to our In Style accommodation for this bite-sized trip, you can select this option below.
Winding trails to Tiger Nest - Special Stay accommodation
For something extra special why not upgrade to our Special Stay accommodation in Paro? This is likely to be the last stop on your Bhutan journey – finish your trip in style and comfort! You’ll stay in a stylish mountain lodge in Paro, surrounded by pine forests and valley views. The rooms are warm and inviting, with a blend of Bhutanese charm and modern comfort. Fancy a bit of pampering after your Tiger’s Nest hike? The spa offers relaxing treatments, and there’s a heated indoor pool to unwind in. In the evening, you can enjoy delicious Bhutanese and international dishes at the in-house restaurant, all with stunning views of the valley. If you’d like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-sized trip, select our Special Stay option below.