Merak Sakteng Trek
Duration11 Nights/12 Days
Places Covered :
- Paro
- Trashigang
- Yonphula
- Damnongchu
- Merak
- Miksa Teng
Starting From
Nu. 4320 / Person
Nu. 4320 / Person
$4320
The Merak Sakteng Trek is a unique cultural journey through the remote valleys of Eastern Bhutan, home to the Brokpa people, a semi-nomadic tribe with rich traditions. This moderate trek crosses alpine meadows, pristine rivers, and dense forests, offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas. Trek through the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, home to red pandas and Himalayan black bears, and experience authentic village life in Merak and Sakteng. With gradual ascents and a maximum altitude of 4,100m, this trek is perfect for those seeking cultural immersion, scenic landscapes, and adventure. The journey ends with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, making it an unforgettable Bhutanese experience.
The Merak Sakteng Trek is Bhutan’s most unique cultural trek, offering an authentic experience of the Brokpa people, a semi-nomadic tribe with distinct traditions. Unlike other treks in Bhutan, this journey takes you through untouched valleys, yak herder camps, and remote villages that have remained isolated for centuries.
Beyond culture, the trek boasts breathtaking landscapes—alpine meadows, dense forests, and high mountain passes—with opportunities to see rare wildlife in the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, including red pandas and Himalayan black bears.
With moderate altitude and gradual ascents, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking a balance of adventure and cultural immersion without the extreme challenges of high-altitude treks. Plus, ending the journey with a visit to Tiger’s Nest Monastery makes it an unforgettable Bhutanese experience.
Arrive in Paro, Bhutan’s scenic gateway, surrounded by green valleys and towering mountains. Visit Paro Dzong, an impressive fortress, and the National Museum, which showcases Bhutan’s history and culture. Explore Paro town and enjoy its traditional Bhutanese architecture and handicraft shops.
Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most famous landmark, dramatically perched on a cliffside at 3,120m. The trek follows a steep but well-maintained trail through pine forests, with stunning views along the way. Explore the sacred monastery and learn about its deep spiritual significance.
Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Take a scenic domestic flight from Paro to Yonphula, offering breathtaking aerial views of Bhutan’s mountains. Upon arrival, drive to Trashigang, the largest town in Eastern Bhutan. Visit Trashigang Dzong, a historic fortress that played a key role in Bhutan’s defense.
Overnight at a hotel in Trashigang.
Drive through scenic landscapes to Chaling, the trek’s starting point. Walk through dense rhododendron forests and open meadows before reaching Damnongchu, a beautiful campsite surrounded by high-altitude landscapes.
Overnight in tents at Damnongchu.
The trek follows gradual ascents through yak grazing pastures and alpine meadows. Arrive at Merak, a remote village home to the Brokpa people. Visit Merak Lhakhang, a historic monastery, and witness the unique customs of the Brokpa community.
Overnight in tents at Merak.
The most challenging day of the trek, with a steep ascent to Nyakchung La Pass (4,100m), offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas. The descent passes through dense pine and rhododendron forests before reaching Miksa Teng, a riverside campsite.
Overnight in tents at Miksa Teng.
A gentle trek through pristine forests, traditional wooden bridges, and rolling hills. Arrive at Sakteng, a beautiful valley surrounded by grasslands and mountains. Visit Sakteng Monastery and explore the local Brokpa village, known for its distinct culture.
Overnight in tents at Sakteng.
A long scenic descent through subtropical forests and open pastures, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as red pandas and Himalayan black bears. The trail continues along bamboo forests before reaching Jyonkhar Teng, a small village.
Overnight in tents at Jyonkhar Teng.
A short trek through traditional villages before completing the trek. Drive to Mongar, a town known for its lively markets and beautiful landscapes.
Overnight at a hotel in Mongar.
Drive through Thrumshing La Pass (3,780m), Bhutan’s second-highest motorable pass. Arrive in Bumthang, home to Jakar Dzong and ancient monasteries like Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang.
Overnight at a hotel in Bumthang.
For a faster return, take a short domestic flight to Paro. Alternatively, an overland journey via Trongsa and Wangdue Phodrang allows visits to Trongsa Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most significant fortresses.
Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.
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