Singapore Woman Dies During Bhutan Hike

A Singapore woman died in Bhutan on May 30 after reportedly feeling unwell while descending from Tiger’s Nest Monastery during a group hike, according to travel company Chan Brothers. The woman had been travelling with a tour group that departed Singapore on a chartered flight on May 26 and was taking part in scheduled activities before the incident.

Chan Brothers said the woman alerted the accompanying guide that she was feeling unwell while coming down from the monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred Buddhist sites. The company said immediate assistance was given at the scene, including CPR, and emergency arrangements were activated. She was later taken to Paro Hospital, but did not survive.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is located on a granite cliff about 900m above Paro Valley and sits at an elevation of 3,120m, according to Chan Brothers’ website. The site is one of Bhutan’s best-known landmarks and a popular destination for visitors, but the hike to and from the monastery is physically demanding because of the steep terrain and high altitude.

In a statement, Chan Brothers said it was deeply saddened by the woman’s death and was in contact with her travelling companion and family members. The company said it was providing full support to those affected during the difficult time and had informed the relevant authorities, including the Singapore Embassy.

The travel agency said investigations and a post-mortem examination were ongoing and that it could not comment further at this stage. No additional details about the woman’s identity, age, or cause of death were released.

The incident occurred during a tour in Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom known for its mountain landscapes, Buddhist heritage, and tourism centred on cultural and scenic experiences. Tiger’s Nest Monastery is among the country’s most visited and revered religious sites, drawing thousands of travellers each year.

The Straits Times said it had contacted Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information. The case remains under investigation, and authorities have yet to release a final determination on what caused the woman to fall ill and die during the hike.