Merak-Sakteng Trek

Step into one of Bhutan’s most remote and culturally unique regions with the Merak-Sakteng Trek—an enchanting trail that winds through the mystical land of the Brokpas, a semi-nomadic tribe whose traditions remain virtually untouched by modernity. This journey leads you across rolling highlands, ancient forests, and yak pastures into a world where folklore still breathes through the mountains.

Located in the far east of Bhutan, this moderate trek not only offers natural beauty and solitude, but also rare insight into indigenous Himalayan culture, distinctive from the rest of Bhutan. With encounters ranging from red-robed monks to Brokpa women in yak-hair hats, this is a cultural immersion like no other.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Trashigang – Eastern Bhutan Beckons
Fly into Yonphula or Guwahati (India) and drive to Trashigang, Bhutan’s largest eastern town. Spend the day exploring this cultural hub:

• Visit Trashigang Dzong, perched high above the Gamri River
• Stroll through local markets, where red rice, spices, and yak cheese are traded
• Final trek briefing and rest

Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang | Altitude: 1,070 m

Day 2: Drive to Chaling, Trek to Damnongchu – First Steps into the Brokpa World
After breakfast, drive to Chaling (2,120 m), the starting point of your trek. Begin your gentle ascent through pine forests and meadows.

• Follow the traditional trail used by Brokpas to move between villages
• Camp near Damnongchu, a wooded riverside campsite

Overnight: Tented Camp | Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 3,120 m

Day 3: Damnongchu to Merak – Into the Highlands
Climb gradually through rhododendron and fern-covered terrain until you reach Merak, one of the two main Brokpa settlements.

• Witness Brokpa culture: unique language, dress, and customs
• Visit the local temple and interact with villagers over butter tea
• Marvel at how time seems to pause in these highlands

Overnight: Tented Camp or Local Guesthouse | Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 3,499 m

Day 4: Merak to Miksa Teng – Meadows, Monks, and Myths
Today’s trail climbs gently to the Naksikang Pass (4,300 m), offering dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

• Descend into lush rhododendron forests
• Arrive at Miksa Teng, a tranquil riverside campsite
• Possible sightings of musk deer, Himalayan bear, or even the elusive red panda

Overnight: Tented Camp | Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs | Altitude: 3,000 m

Day 5: Miksa Teng to Sakteng – A Living Cultural Museum
Continue through ancient woodland into Sakteng, the spiritual twin of Merak. Known for its folkloric connection to the Migoi (yeti), Sakteng was once closed to outsiders.

• Visit local weaving centers—Sakteng is famed for intricate textiles
• Watch traditional dances and rituals unique to the Brokpas
• The people here speak a different dialect and live by ancestral rhythms

Overnight: Tented Camp or Homestay | Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 2,950 m

Day 6: Sakteng to Joenkhar, Drive to Trashigang – Farewell to the Highlands
Begin your descent through oak and rhododendron forests, passing hamlets and herder shelters. The trail leads to Joenkhar, where your vehicle awaits.

• Drive back to Trashigang with a heart full of stories and sights
• Refresh and relax at your hotel

Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang | Trek Duration: 6 hrs | Drive: 2 hrs

Day 7: Departure – The Eastern Spirit Remains
Transfer to Yonphula Airport or Samdrup Jongkhar for your onward journey. You leave not just a trail behind—but a bond with a culture preserved in the folds of Bhutan’s forgotten east.