Merak and Sakteng Trek allow 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.
It is a small Nomadic village in Eastern Bhutan. The village is under the Trashigang District. The District is the largest in Bhutan. The District’s 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
Best Time to Trek Merak and Sakteng
The best time to trek the Merak and Sakteng Trek in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In spring, expect mild temperatures, clear skies, blooming wildflowers, and the chance to experience local festivals. Autumn offers stable weather, excellent visibility, cooler temperatures, and festive cultural events. Both seasons provide ideal conditions and enrich the trekking experience with natural beauty and cultural encounters. The other tour can be done all year round.
The Trek Highlight
- Brokpa Communities: Experience the distinct culture of the semi-nomadic Brokpa people, known for their unique customs, attire, and traditions.
- Traditional Villages: Visit the remote villages of Merak and Sakteng, where ancient practices and a traditional way of life are still preserved.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the eastern Himalayas, with clear skies providing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Cultural Festivals: If timed right, participate in local festivals that showcase traditional Brokpa dances, music, and rituals, offering deep cultural insights.
- Remote Trekking: The trek covers challenging terrains and high altitudes, ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Camping: Enjoy camping in scenic, remote locations, enhancing the sense of adventure and connection with nature.
Merak and Sakteng Trek Price
- Merak Trek Cost for Single Pax Cost US$ 4290 Per Person
- The Trek Cost for 1 to 2 Pax Group is US$ 4050 Per Person
- The Trek Cost above 3 Pax would be US$ 3900 Per Person
Similar Tour Information
Merak and Sakteng Trek Itinerary
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
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.
Fly to Bumthang from Paro Airport to Batpalathang. The flight is one of the amazing experience you can enjoy. Explore the Bumthang Valley.
Tour the ancient city of Ura and explore the popular Burning Lake. The Bumthang Ura Valley in Bhutan is known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. A tour of this area offers an immersive experience into Bhutanese life and traditions.
Scenic Beauty: Ura Valley is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, with rolling hills, traditional villages, and lush green fields.
Ura Village: One of the highest villages in Bhutan, offering a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese rural life. The village is characterized by its clustered houses, cobblestone streets, and serene environment.
Ura Yakchoe Festival: This annual festival, usually held in May, features traditional dances, music, and religious rituals. It's a vibrant display of Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
Start early today and tour the small town of Mongar. Mongar is business hub of Eastern District of Bhutan. Check into Hotel and relax.
Drive to Trashigang. Upon reaching Trashigang visit
Trashigang Dzong.
Khaling Blind School
National Weaving Center.
Trashigang Town.
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.
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.
The trail from Damnongchu to Merak goes along the river bank with gradual ups and downs. Over night at Damnongchu Camp.
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.
Trek to Sakteng from Miksa Teng is easy making your way through beautiful woods with a short climb before reaching Sakteng. Overnight at Camp.
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.
Sakteng to Jyonkhar Teng trek is an easy trek comparing to previous days. It is mostly downhill to Jyonkhar Teng camp.
The final day. This day is full with ups and down until you reach the road that head to Phongmay. Drive to Tashigang.
Drive to Trashigang. Explore the Trashigang Town and walk around the city. Tashigang (also spelled Trashigang), located in eastern Bhutan, is one of the country's largest and most populated districts. It is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and historical significance. A tour of Tashigang offers a unique glimpse into the less-visited parts of Bhutan.
Trashigang Dzong: A 17th-century fortress that overlooks the Drangme Chhu and Gamri Chhu rivers. The dzong is an important administrative and religious center in eastern Bhutan.
Khaling:Home to the National Handloom Development Project, where you can see traditional Bhutanese weaving and textiles. The Khaling National Institute for the Visually Impaired is also located here.
Rangjung: A small town with the notable Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery, founded by Garab Rinpoche.
Radhi: Known as the "Rice Bowl of the East," Radhi is famous for its terraced field.
Over Night at Hotel.
Drive to Bumthang. Upon reaching Bumthang if time permits visit Jakar Dzong, white bird castle. Since the driving time is long you can also take good rest. Over night at Hotel.
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.
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.
