Merak Sakteng Trek
Trekking through the Land of the Brokpa
Difficulty Level :
Duration : 12 Days
Maximum Elevation : 4,070 m
Merak and Sakteng is one of the highlights of Eastern Bhutan. The area has been closed to foreign visitors for many years and was opened for tourists only in 2010. The inhabitants, the Brokpa (which means herder) originate from Tibet and have maintained their own culture and traditions.
The Brokpa are semi nomadic herders with an economy solely based on yak and sheep products. The yak pastures are situated in the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, which was established to protect the unique nature of the Sanctuary as well as the Yeti, called Migoi in Bhutan. The best time for a trek in M&S is from April to October when the Brokpa are grazing their animals in the higher pastures. During this time high altitude plants are blooming in abundance and the Tsechus (religious festivals) of Merak and Sakteng are taking place. During the winter months, the Brokpa are grazing their animals in the forests and pastures around Khaling, Kanglung, Shinghar Lauri and Radi.
Four days leisurely drive from Paro through fascinating Himalayan landscapes are necessary to reach Trashigang, the base to start the trek to Merak and Sakteng. After the trek, Bhutan can be exited through Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan’s eastern border town to India, and depart from Guwahati International Airport. This journey can also start in Guwahati and end with your departure from Paro International Airport.