You will most probably initiate your trip
in Paro, where the true adventure begins in the airplane. Entering the
country via Kathmandu you will have an amazing view over the snowy tops of the
Himalaya (if it isn’t too cloudy of course). Smoothly soaring in between the
Bhutanese hills you’ll spot a small runway up ahead, not much wider or longer
than the road running next to it. A regular pilot could never land on
this runway with ease. But you’re dealing with the best pilots
in the world here, so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
Paro is a great gateway to the country.
Being the second largest city, it’s the perfect combination of both city and
rural life. And of course it has lots more to offer than just an exciting
entrance.
In the city centre sights like the national
history museum and the first of many Dzongs will catch your eye. A Dzong, which
is Dzongka for ‘fort’ is now split into part temple and part government’s
office. In it’s own way it symbolises the perfect harmony between religion and
politics realised here.
The main attraction however lays a little
outside of the city, about an hours drive away. The Tiger’s Nest is built into
the rocks at the peaks of a soaring hill. So, to reach it, you should prepare
yourself for an hours climb. Half way through you can drink some tea, eat some
cookies and enjoy the spectacular view of the nearing temple. There is a
possibility to ride a donkey all the way up, but if you’re looking for some
good karma, then I suggest you rely on your own strength.
When you finally get up close, you will
understand why the Tiger’s Nest is considered Bhutan’s crown jewel. The legend
goes that one of Guru Rinpoche’s manifestations flew to this rock formation on
the back of a tiger to find solitude for meditation. At that time his face was
visible on the rocks of the cave he meditated in for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks
and 3 days. Buddhist believe that Guru Rinpoche’s face has gradually faded away
over the years because visitors have degraded the spiritual value by disgracing
the surrounding environment.
Once in the temple you soak in all the
holiness and take a rest from your climb while enjoying the great view.
On your
way down there is an opportunity to have lunch halfway and appreciate the last
glances of the temple.
Stay tuned for a trip to the capital...
Lots of love
Tweenie xo
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