Bhutan Pilgrimage—Day 10 – Her Eminence Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche

Friday, April 1 | Paro Taktsang (The Tiger’s Nest)

The group members made an early departure for trail-head of Paro Taktsang. Rinpoche wasted no time beginning the steep climb through a pine forest with the group members scrambling behind. A few chose to ride pack mules which would take them half-way to the sacred cluster of shrines clinging to the side of a sheer cliff (2,950 meters / 9,678 feet). History states that in the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress (Yeshe Tsogyal) where he did retreat in a cave and arose as the manifestation Dorje Drolo to dispel local demons. Group members were deeply moved see the retreat site of Yeshe Tsogyal, one of Guru Rinpoche’s chief disciples and that of Machig Labdron, the great chöd master. Many great masters have since made pilgrimages and done retreats at this sacred place. The monastery itself was built around the caves in the 17th century.

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Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche with hikers and mules at the base of Taktsang.

Rinpoche and hikers resting at the half-way point to Taktsang.

Final leg of the trek to Taktsang gets underway.

Guru Rinpoche shrine with tsa-tsas long the path to Taktsang.

Path-side shrine to Guru Rinpoche during the ascent to Taktsang.

Building made at the site of Yeshe Tsogyal's retreat cave at Taktsang..

Dakini Falls at Taktsang is said to contain blessed water.

Rinpoche and group descending from Taktsang.

The tired but happy group gathers at the half-way point for lunch and a portrait.

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