Merak and Sakteng Highlands, Bhutan: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that the remote Merak and Sakteng Highlands in eastern Bhutan are home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people, whose unique culture and traditions have remained largely unchanged for centuries? These indigenous communities, nestled in the pristine valleys of Bhutan’s easternmost frontier, are among the last people on earth to maintain their ancient way of life, complete with distinctive yak-hair hats, traditional dress, and a dialect that predates the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching the Merak and Sakteng Highlands requires careful planning due to their remote location in eastern Bhutan. The journey itself is part of the adventure, taking you through some of Bhutan’s most spectacular landscapes.

International Access

Your journey begins with a flight to Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport. From there, you have two options:

• Take a domestic flight from Paro to Yonphula Airport (near Trashigang)
• Embark on a scenic multi-day road journey across Bhutan

Finding the right flights is crucial for your journey. Compare options to find the best connections to Paro International Airport.

Permits and Requirements

All visitors to Bhutan require:

• A valid Bhutanese visa (must be arranged in advance)
• Payment of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – currently $200 USD per person per day
• Special permits for the Merak-Sakteng protected area
• A licensed Bhutanese tour guide (independent travel is not permitted)

The Merak and Sakteng region is a restricted area that requires additional special permits. These must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator well in advance of your trip.

Local Transportation

From Trashigang (the main gateway town to the region), you’ll need:

• A 4WD vehicle to reach the trailhead at Chaling or Phongmey
• A 3-4 hour drive on mountain roads
• Trekking equipment for the journey between villages

The final approach to both Merak and Sakteng villages is on foot, as no roads reach these remote settlements.

Best Time to Visit Merak and Sakteng Highlands

Timing your visit to the Merak and Sakteng Highlands is crucial for an enjoyable experience. The region’s high altitude (ranging from 1,500 to 4,100 meters) creates distinct seasonal conditions that significantly impact trekking conditions and cultural experiences.

Recommended Months

Months to Avoid

Weather Considerations

Even during ideal seasons, mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack layers for temperature fluctuations, and always be prepared for unexpected rain or cold spells. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in spring and autumn.

Getting Around Locally

Navigating the Merak and Sakteng region requires a combination of vehicular transport and trekking on foot. The remote nature of these highlands means traditional transportation is limited, adding to the authentic experience.

Trekking Between Villages

The primary way to explore the region is on foot. The classic Merak-Sakteng trek typically follows this route:

• Day 1: Chaling to Damnongchu (3-4 hours)
• Day 2: Damnongchu to Merak (4-5 hours)
• Day 3: Merak to Miksa Teng (6-7 hours, crossing Nachungla Pass at 4,153 m)
• Day 4: Miksa Teng to Sakteng (4-5 hours)
• Day 5: Explore Sakteng village
• Day 6: Sakteng to Jyonkhar Teng (6-7 hours)
• Day 7: Jyonkhar Teng to Phongmey (4-5 hours)

This moderate to challenging trek requires reasonable fitness but rewards you with incredible landscapes and cultural encounters.

Local Transport Options

Within the region, your options include:

• Guided treks with porters (recommended and often required)
• Pack animals (yaks or horses) for carrying equipment
• 4WD vehicles for transfers to and from trailheads

For those who prefer not to trek the entire route, it’s possible to arrange direct transport to either Merak or Sakteng village (though some hiking is still required for the final approach).

Where to Stay

Accommodation in the Merak and Sakteng Highlands is limited but authentic, offering a genuine glimpse into local life. Prepare for basic facilities that provide a comfortable but rustic experience.

Homestays

The most authentic and common accommodation option in both Merak and Sakteng villages is staying with local Brokpa families. These homestays offer:

• Simple rooms in traditional stone and wooden houses
• Shared family spaces with central hearths
• Home-cooked Bhutanese meals
• Cultural immersion with host families
• Basic washing facilities (no hot showers)

Homestays typically cost around 1,000-1,500 Ngultrum ($12-18 USD) per night, often including meals. Your tour operator will arrange these in advance.

Community Guesthouses

Both villages have small community guesthouses that offer slightly more amenities:

• Private or shared rooms with proper beds
• Common dining areas
• Basic bathroom facilities
• Solar-powered electricity (limited hours)

These guesthouses are often the preferred option for trekking groups and provide a good middle ground between homestays and camping.

Camping

For the trekking portions between villages, camping is the primary accommodation:

• Established campsites at Damnongchu and Miksa Teng
• Tents, sleeping bags, and mats provided by tour operators
• Camp meals prepared by trekking staff
• Basic toilet facilities at designated campsites

Trashigang Accommodations

Before and after your trek, you’ll likely stay in Trashigang town, which offers:

• Several 3-star hotels with modern amenities
• Reliable electricity and hot water
• Restaurant facilities and WiFi access
• Convenient access to banks and supplies

Popular options include Druk Deothjung Hotel and Lingkhar Lodge, which provide comfortable bases for preparing and recovering from your highland adventure.

Dining & Local Cuisine

The food experience in Merak and Sakteng offers a unique glimpse into traditional Bhutanese highland cuisine, with influences from the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Brokpa people. Meals are simple, hearty, and designed to provide energy for high-altitude living.

Brokpa Specialties

The local Brokpa cuisine features several distinctive dishes you won’t find elsewhere in Bhutan:

• Yak Butter Tea (Suja) – A rich, salty tea churned with yak butter that provides essential calories at high altitudes
• Puta – Buckwheat noodles served with chili and cheese sauce
• Yaksha Shakam – Dried yak meat, often prepared in stews
• Chugo – Hard cheese made from yak milk that locals chew like jerky
• Ara – Locally distilled rice or wheat spirit, often served warm

Common Bhutanese Dishes

You’ll also encounter these staples of Bhutanese cuisine:

• Ema Datshi – Bhutan’s national dish of chilies and cheese
• Red Rice – Nutty, mineral-rich rice grown in high-altitude valleys
• Kewa Datshi – Potatoes cooked with cheese and chilies
• Jasha Maru – Spicy chicken stew
• Momos – Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables

Dining Arrangements

During your stay, meals will be provided in various settings:

• Homestays – Family-style meals shared with hosts around the central hearth
• Trekking – Camp meals prepared by your trekking crew
• Guesthouses – Simple set menus featuring local ingredients

Most tour packages include all meals, with special dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

The Merak and Sakteng Highlands offer a wealth of unique attractions that combine natural beauty with cultural significance. Here are the must-see sights and experiences in this remote region.

Merak Village Highlights

This picturesque settlement offers several notable attractions:

• Merak Lhakhang – The village’s main temple, housing ancient relics and beautiful murals
• Gengo Tsho (Lake) – A sacred alpine lake about 30 minutes’ hike from the village
• Traditional Brokpa Houses – Distinctive architecture with colorful wooden facades
• Aum Jomo Shrine – Dedicated to the protective deity of the Brokpa people

Sakteng Village Highlights

The larger of the two settlements features:

• Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Visitor Center – Information about local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts
• Sakteng Lhakhang – An important Buddhist temple with regular prayer ceremonies
• Traditional Weaving Center – Where local women create distinctive Brokpa textiles
• Yak Herding Areas – Surrounding pastures where semi-nomadic herding can be observed

Natural Attractions

The region’s pristine environment offers spectacular natural sights:

• Nachungla Pass (4,153 m) – Offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys
• Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary – One of Bhutan’s most biodiverse protected areas
• Rhododendron Forests – Spectacular blooms in spring (April-May)
• Alpine Meadows – Vast grasslands dotted with grazing yaks and rare wildflowers

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

The cultural heritage of the Brokpa people is one of the main attractions of the Merak and Sakteng Highlands. Their unique traditions, preserved through centuries of relative isolation, offer visitors an authentic glimpse into Bhutan’s diverse ethnic tapestry.

Cultural Highlights

Key cultural attractions include:

• Brokpa Heritage House (Merak) – A small museum showcasing traditional artifacts, clothing, and household items
• Weaving Demonstration Center (Sakteng) – Where visitors can observe the creation of traditional textiles
• Community Cultural Performances – Arranged through tour operators for authentic song and dance displays
• Local Monasteries – Centers of spiritual and community life with unique architectural features

Distinctive Brokpa Culture

Notable aspects of Brokpa culture include:

• Traditional Dress – Men wear black yak hair hats with five points (representing the five treasures of the snow) and sheep wool capes, while women wear colorful striped dresses with distinctive headdresses
• Language – The Brokpa dialect differs significantly from Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language)
• Spiritual Beliefs – A blend of Buddhism and animistic practices, including worship of mountain deities
• Craftsmanship – Specialized skills in yak hair weaving, bamboo crafts, and silver jewelry making

Festivals

If your timing allows, these festivals offer exceptional cultural experiences:

• Gasa Tshechu (May) – A vibrant religious festival in Merak featuring masked dances and community celebrations
• Sakteng Cultural Festival (October/November) – Showcasing traditional Brokpa dances, music, and customs
• Yak Festival (Summer) – A celebration of the region’s vital relationship with yaks, featuring competitions and trading

Festival dates follow the lunar calendar and can vary year to year, so check with your tour operator for precise timing.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

The pristine natural environment of the Merak and Sakteng Highlands offers exceptional opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From challenging treks to wildlife spotting, the region’s untouched landscapes provide memorable adventures.

Trekking Highlights

The region offers several notable trekking experiences:

• Merak-Sakteng Trek – The classic 7-day route between the two villages
• Nachungla Pass Crossing – The challenging high point (4,153 m) with spectacular views
• Gengo Tsho Lake Hike – A day trek from Merak to a sacred alpine lake
• Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Trails – Guided walks through protected forests

Wildlife Watching

The Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous rare species:

• Red Panda – The elusive mascot of Himalayan forests
• Himalayan Black Bear – Occasionally spotted in remote valleys
• Snow Leopard – Extremely rare but present in the higher elevations
• Himalayan Monal – A spectacular pheasant with iridescent plumage
• Blood Pheasant – Bhutan’s national bird, found in high-altitude forests

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, knowledgeable local guides can maximize your chances.

Photography Opportunities

Photographers will find endless inspiration:

• Cultural Photography – Traditional dress, architecture, and daily life
• Landscape Photography – Dramatic mountains, forests, and valleys
• Macro Photography – Rare alpine flowers and insects
• Night Photography – Exceptional stargazing in this remote region with minimal light pollution

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Understanding local customs and safety considerations is essential for a respectful and trouble-free visit to the Merak and Sakteng Highlands. The Brokpa people are known for their hospitality, but visitors should be mindful of cultural sensitivities.

Cultural Etiquette

When interacting with local communities:

• Greet people with “Kuzu Zangpo La” (Hello) with a slight bow
• Ask permission before photographing people or entering religious buildings
• Remove shoes when entering homes and temples
• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees
• Accept offered food or drink when possible (even if just a small taste)
• Walk clockwise around religious structures (chortens, prayer wheels, mani walls)

Health and Safety

Prepare for the remote nature of the region:

• Altitude sickness is a risk – acclimatize properly and recognize symptoms
• Bring a basic first aid kit with altitude medication
• Purify all drinking water or use bottled water
• Pack sun protection – UV exposure is intense at high altitudes
• Travel with a licensed guide who can assist in emergencies
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and evacuation

Local Taboos

Avoid these cultural missteps:

• Never point at people or religious objects
• Don’t touch anyone on the head (considered sacred)
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Don’t discuss the monarchy or politics critically
• Never climb on religious structures
• Avoid killing any living being (including insects) near religious sites

Practical Travel Tips

These practical tips will help you prepare for the unique challenges and rewards of visiting the Merak and Sakteng Highlands, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience in this remote corner of Bhutan.

Packing Essentials

Be sure to bring these items for your highland journey:

• Layered Clothing – Temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night
• Quality Hiking Boots – Well broken-in and waterproof
• Sleeping Bag – Rated for temperatures below freezing
• Water Purification – Tablets or a filtration system
• Headlamp/Flashlight – Villages have limited or no electricity
• Power Bank – No charging facilities in the villages
• Cash – No ATMs or card facilities in the highlands
• Basic Medications – Including altitude sickness prevention

Communication

Prepare for limited connectivity:

• Mobile network coverage is extremely limited or non-existent
• Inform family and friends you’ll be unreachable during your trek
• Consider renting a satellite phone for emergencies
• Learn a few basic Dzongkha phrases to communicate with locals

Money Matters

Financial considerations for your trip:

• The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee
• Bring enough cash for the entire trek – no ATMs in the highlands
• Small denominations are best for purchasing crafts or making donations
• Most trek costs are covered in your tour package, but bring extra for souvenirs

Sustainable Tourism

Help preserve this unique region:

• Follow “Leave No Trace” principles – pack out all trash
• Use biodegradable soap and toiletries
• Respect wildlife by maintaining distance
• Support local economy by purchasing handicrafts
• Conserve water, a precious resource in mountain communities

Conclusion

The Merak and Sakteng Highlands represent one of Bhutan’s last frontiers of authentic cultural heritage and pristine natural beauty. This remote corner of the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” offers intrepid travelers a rare glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

From the distinctive yak-hair hats of the Brokpa people to the breathtaking mountain passes and sacred lakes, every aspect of this journey provides an unforgettable experience far from the beaten path. The challenges of reaching this remote region are amply rewarded by the warm hospitality of the locals, the spectacular landscapes, and the sense of discovering a place where ancient traditions still thrive in harmony with the natural world.

As you plan your adventure to the Merak and Sakteng Highlands, remember that the journey itself—across Bhutan’s diverse landscapes and through its rich cultural tapestry—is as meaningful as the destination. Take your time, open your heart to new experiences, and prepare to be transformed by this special corner of the Himalayas.