The Merak Sakteng Trek takes you into one of Bhutan’s most remote and culturally fascinating corners—a high-altitude world shaped by wind, mountains, and an ancient nomadic way of life. Sitting at around 3,500 metres, the valleys of Merak and Sakteng have sheltered the Brokpas for centuries since their migration from Tsona in southern Tibet. To this day, the Brokpas maintain a lifestyle that feels beautifully timeless, herding their livestock between low valleys in winter and high alpine pastures in summer.
Their traditions are rich and deeply ceremonial: marriages are sealed with elaborate rituals, archery remains a beloved pastime, and women are especially known for their soulful singing—melodies dedicated to gods, nature, youth, and the passing of time.
Their attire is equally distinctive: men wear yak-hair garments, a unique black hat with five fringes, and leather vests cinched with a kera belt, while women dress in raw silk adorned with colourful motifs, coral necklaces, and ribbons braided into their long plaits.
A trek through Merak and Sakteng is as much a cultural immersion as it is a journey through wild Himalayan landscapes. The region’s festivals, temples, myths, and the rare wildlife of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary make this route one of Bhutan’s most intriguing experiences.
Highlights of the Merak Sakteng Trek
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Meet the Brokpas, one of Bhutan’s last semi-nomadic highland communities, known for their distinct dress, music, and traditions.
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Experience ancient rituals, including elaborate marriage customs, traditional archery, and women’s ceremonial songs passed down through generations.
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Witness the Jomo Kuengkhar Festival in autumn—two sacred days of blessing, featuring the rare naked terchham dance and the graceful Ache Lhamo performances.
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Explore historic temples and monasteries, including Borangtse Lhakhang, Guru Goemba, Labrang Lhakhang, and Gango Tashi Choling, where the remains of its 15th-century founder are preserved.
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Discover living legends, such as the ancient saddle and phallus of the mountain goddess Jomo’s horse at Samtencholing Lhakhang.
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Venture into the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s only protected area dedicated to the habitat of the mythical Yeti.
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Spot rare Himalayan wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, red foxes, and a colourful range of bird species.
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Walk among seasonal blooms, from blue poppies—Bhutan’s national flower—to primulas and gentians that light up the highlands in spring.
You can also shorten travel time with domestic flights, now available between Paro and Yonphula, allowing you to reduce the trek duration to around 15 days.
Distance: 14KM
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Months: March — May, September — November
All our tours are fully customisable — the itineraries you see are simply a starting point. We’ll work closely with you to tailor every detail so your Bhutan journey is truly your own.
