travelandleisureindia.in
Perchedonacliffsideataheightof
3,050 metres, the Taktsang Monastery
in Paro stands over a vast blue pine
forest. Legend has it that Guru
Rinpoche tamed a local demon to
sanctify Bhutan in the eighth century at
this very site; he landed here on a tiger’s
back, lending the site the nickname
‘Tiger’s Nest’. Without a flying tiger at
your disposal, the best way to visit the
monastery is with a three-hour trek on
a trail flanked by Tibetan prayer flags,
rhododendron trees, and spectacular
mountain views. There are ponies
available at the start of the trail until
halfway up. On arriving at the top,
navigate the many temples within
the complex and visit the caves where
Rinpoche is believed to have meditated.
Plan your tour to Bhutan, including
the trek, with Bhutan-based company
Druk Asia (drukasia.com). Stay at
Le Meridien Paro Riverfront—from
`22,000 per night; marriott.com.REASONS TO TRAVEL NOW
BetweenthemonthsofMayandOctober,thelargestanimalever to have lived on Earth visits the east coast of Sri Lanka.
Far from the tourist traps, the port city of Trincomalee is the perfect base to go blue whale-watching with friends or
family. Book a luxury yacht with Sail Lanka Charters and head out for a private day cruise to spot the giants. Besides seeing
the whales, you can also enjoy a swim, go stand-up paddleboarding, or snorkel in the ocean. For a higher probability of
multiple whale encounters, choose a sailing holiday that spans several days. Beach bums can luxuriate on the beaches
of Trincomalee while going on short whale expeditions. Day cruises begin at `10,000 per person; sail-lanka-charter.com.
Indulge in the cottages of Jungle Beach Resort from `23,896 per person (August rate); ugaescapes.com.no. Spot Blue Whales in Sri Lanka
no.
Trek to the Tiger’s Nest
in Bhutan
FROMTOP:SHUTTERSTOCK;DESIGNPICSINC/ALAMYLocatedontheKodiBengre
beachinUdupi,Karnataka—
on the southwest coast of
India—Shaka Surf Club is
meant for those looking to
truly ‘hang loose’. Started by
the first and perhaps the most
prominent female surfer of
India, Ishita Malviya, and her
partner Tushar, the club offers
world-class surfing lessons
for enthusiasts of all levels.
The remote location of the
surf school, the lovely hosts,
the endearing village
community involved
at the school, and the pristine
sea come together to make
it a memorable experience.
Whether you book a single
two-hour lesson or a full-
fledged training programme,
the joy of riding the Arabian
Sea waves is thrilling. Lessons
include surfboard rentals and
start at `1,500 per person;
shakasurfclub.com. Stay in
the presidential suite at The
Ocean Pearl in Udupi—from
`11,000; theoceanpearl.in.no.
Ride the Wave on
India’s West Coast