DAY 6 - 28 JUNE 2024, FRIDAY

An Early Start for Tiger's Nest

Today's agenda held a major challenge - scaling the rocky cliffs to reach Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. Knowing an early start would make the climb more manageable, we opted for a 4:45 AM wake-up call. After a quick shower and tea in the room, we fueled up with a packed breakfast provided by the hotel. Since the starting point was just a 10-minute drive away, we left by 5:30 AM and began our ascent by 5:50 AM.



Halfway Point Decisions

Geetha was unsure about completing the entire climb. We devised a plan – if needed, she could rest at the halfway mark, a cafe stop Birkha had mentioned. The rest of us would continue, picking her up on the descent. However, Birkha informed us that entry tickets were purchased at the foothills, and the counter wouldn't open until 7 AM. So, our driver would wait back, buy the tickets, and WhatsApp an image to Birkha who would guide us to the top.



A Gradual Ascent with Stunning Views

Our climb began slowly and steadily, with Birkha offering frequent encouragement to take it easy. We paused frequently for photos – of ourselves, the breathtaking surroundings, and the unique flora and fauna. We sipped water and munched on snacks from our backpacks, supplemented by the hotel's packed breakfast. The weather was perfect – neither too sunny nor rainy – making it a pleasant climb, despite the occasional knee complaints that warranted short breaks. We enjoyed a breakfast break at the halfway point.

 

 
 



Reaching the Monastery

Finally, the monastery came into view, nestled dramatically amongst the rocks with a deep valley below. It was a sight that truly took our breath away. Resuming our climb, we tackled a challenging section – a descent of roughly 700-800 narrow stairs with only a handrail for support beyond which lay the deep valleys. After a gradual, 3-hour climb, we reached the monastery around 9 AM. We had to store our bags and phones in lockers before ascending a steep set of around 30 steps to reach the temples.

 

 
 


Exploring the Temples

Nine temples stood before us, eight open to all visitors and the last reserved for locals. We spent a rewarding hour and a half soaking in the serene atmosphere and observing local customs and traditions.


Descent and Relaxation

The descent was easier, with the exception of the initial 700-800 stairs. We rested with tea at the Tiger's Nest Restaurant before reaching the base point and returning to the hotel by 1:30 PM. Needless to say, we were all quite tired. Lunch at the hotel was followed by a well-deserved nap.



Hot Stone Bath Rejuvenation

Birkha had recommended a hot stone bath, a one-hour ritual we all agreed to try. After his advance booking, we left the hotel at 4 PM and reached the spa. Immersing ourselves in hot water infused with herbs for 50 minutes was a wonderfully relaxing experience. Refreshed, we returned to the hotel and ordered hot pakoras with tea to satisfy our post-bath hunger pangs.


A Well-Earned Rest

After some leisure time in the room, where I delved into my next Agatha Christie novel, "By the Pricking of My Thumbs," we enjoyed an early dinner before collapsing into bed, exhausted but content.

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