Merak and Sakteng Trek allows trekkers to experience a unique semi-nomadic lifestyle and culture in one of the most scenic pastoral valleys in Bhutan. Embark on the Merak and Sakteng Trek in Bhutan, a journey into pristine landscapes and the cultural heart of the Brokpa community. Witness untouched beauty, encounter rare wildlife in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of these remote valleys for an authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusion / Exclusion

FAQs

Overview

Merak and Sakteng Trek. It is a small Nomadic village in Eastern Bhutan. The village is under Trashigang District. The District is the largest in Bhutan. The District altitude ranges from 600 meters to 4000 meters. The nomadic people of Sakteng and Merak have a rich spiritual background. The people still practice a nomadic lifestyle and often travel to India to sell their Yak products. The area falls under Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Highlights

Trek the beautiful Tribal Village of the east.
Enjoy the amazing mountain flights.
Hike the popular Tiger Nest temple.
Visit the twin jewels of the East(Merak and Sakteng Village).

Day 1 :

Arrival at Paro Airport

You will be welcomed by the representative of Tour Bhutan at the airport.Paro Airport, Bhutan's sole international airport, welcomes travelers with a breathtaking landing amidst Himalayan peaks. Renowned for its challenging approach, it offers a unique aviation experience. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Paro Airport is the gateway to exploring the cultural richness and natural wonders of Bhutan

Day 2 :

Tiger Nest Hike

Bhutan’s most scenic icon and important place for pilgrimage and refuge for over 1200 years the Takshang or the Tiger’s nest clings 200 meters on the steep cliff overlooking Paro valley. The place was first visited by Guru Rimpoche, the founder of tantric form of Buddhism in Himalayan countries in 8th century. It was said that he came there riding on a tigress and meditated in a cave about three months. After him, lots of high Buddhist priests came to meditate and had attended highest spirituality.
The original temple was built in 17th century, but it was burnt by fire in 1998. The temple was rebuilt to its fullest glory in 2003. It is considered as the 10th holiest site in the Buddhist world.
The total hike will take you about four hours. From the parking, you will take about one hour to get to the tea house and then another one and a half hours to the temple.
In the evening visit KyichuLhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the 7th century by the Tibetan king SongchenGyampo.
Try the Bhutanese Jacuzzi or Hot stone Bath at the farmhouse.
Overnight hotel at Farmhouse.

Day 3 :

Paro to Batpalathang Airport:

Fly to Bumthang from Paro Airport to Batpalathang. The flight is one of the amazing experience you can enjoy. Explore the Bumthang Valley.

Day 4 :

Bumthang Tour

Tour the ancient city of Ura and explore the popular Burning Lake.

Day 5 :

Bumthang to Mongar

Start early today and tour the small town of Mongar. Mongar is business hub of Eastern District of Bhutan. Check into Hotel and relax.

Day 6 :

Mongar to Trashigang

Drive to Trashigang. Upon reaching Trashigang visit

Trashigang Dzong.
Khaling Blind School
National Weaving Center.
Trashigang Town.

Day 7 :

Trashigang to Merak

Start of the Trek to Merak. From Trashigang drive for about 2 hours to the road end at Chaling at 2135m. Then begin trekking with a gradual climb towards Shaktimi meadow, with yaks and sheep grazing with some yak herders’ huts scattered on the hillside. Continue the climb to reach Mendula Pass at 3345m. After the pass, it is all downhill through the rhododendron forests to the campsite at a beautiful meadow known as Donmong chu by the river at 3145m. Overnight in camp.

Day 8 :

Chaling to Damnongchu

The trek to Merak will start from Chaling reached by following an unsealed road from Rangjung. Damnongchu camping area is located after Mindrula which lies at about 3,316m / 10,880ft.

Day 9 :

Damnongchu to Merak

The trail from Damnongchu to Merak goes along the river bank with gradual ups and downs. Over night at Damnongchu Camp.

Day 10 :

Merak to Migsa Teng

The trek from Merak to Miksa Teng is long and of medium difficulty. It will pass through the beautiful Nagchungla pass (approx 4,100m / 13,451ft). The campsite is located in a clearing surrounded by rhododendron trees.

Day 11 :

Migsa Teng to Sakteng

Trek to Sakteng from Miksa Teng is easy making your way through beautiful woods with a short climb before reaching Sakteng. Overnight at Camp.

Day 12 :

Sakteng Day Halt

Sakteng is a town in Trashigang District in far eastern Bhutan. The nearby Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is named after it. Explore the beautiful valley of Sakteng.

Day 13 :

Sakteng to Jyengkhar Teng

Sakteng to Jyonkhar Teng trek is an easy trek comparing to previous days. It is mostly downhill to Jyonkhar Teng camp.

Day 14 :

Jyengkhar Teng to Phongmey

The final day. This day is full with ups and down until you reach the road that head to Phongmay. Drive to Tashigang.

Day 15 :

Phongmey to TrashiGang

Drive to Trashigang. Explore the Trashigang Town and walk around the city. Over Night at Hotel.

Day 16 :

Trashigang to Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang. Upon reaching Bumthang visit Jakar Dzong, white bird castle. Over night at Hotel.

Day 17 :

Bumthang to Paro

Fly to Paro International Airport. The flight is about 25 minutes from Batpalathang airport to Paro Airport. The flight is beautiful experience to explore the central Bhutan. Upon reaching Paro our team from Tour Bhutan will receive you at the airport. Visit Drugyel Dzong the victory Dzong. On the way back visit 6th century Kichu monastery. Over Night at Hotel.

Day 18 :

Paro to onward Journey

Your Guide will drop you at the airport. If you feel the trip was good you can always tip the guide and driver depending upon the service they have provided.