The Merak Sakteng Trek is a unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure that takes you through the remote eastern regions of Bhutan, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Brokpa people. Here’s an overview of the Merak Sakteng Trek:
Duration: The Merak Sakteng Trek typically takes around 7 to 9 days to complete, depending on the chosen route and trekking pace.
Starting Point: The trek often begins from Chaling, a small village in the Trashigang District of eastern Bhutan.
Route Highlights:
- Chaling to Merak: The trek usually starts with a scenic drive from Trashigang to Chaling. From there, you’ll begin trekking towards Merak, passing through pristine forests, alpine meadows, and traditional yak herding grounds. Merak is a remote village inhabited by the Brokpa people, known for their unique culture, language, and customs.
- Exploration of Merak: Spend a day exploring the village of Merak and its surroundings. Interact with the friendly villagers, visit their traditional homes, and learn about their way of life. The Brokpa people are semi-nomadic yak herders who have preserved their ancient traditions for centuries.
- Merak to Sakteng: Continue trekking from Merak to Sakteng, another remote village in the region. Along the way, you’ll traverse high mountain passes, cross crystal-clear streams, and encounter breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Sakteng is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna.
- Exploration of Sakteng: Spend a day exploring the village of Sakteng and its surroundings. Visit the local monastery, interact with the villagers, and experience their hospitality. Sakteng is also home to the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, which is inhabited by unique species such as the elusive snow leopard and the red panda.
- Sakteng to Phongmay: The trek continues from Sakteng to Phongmay, passing through diverse landscapes and traditional villages. Phongmay is a charming village located amidst lush forests and rolling hills, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
- Phongmay to Trashigang: The final leg of the trek takes you from Phongmay to Trashigang, the largest town in eastern Bhutan. Enjoy the scenic views as you descend towards the valley, passing by terraced fields, rushing rivers, and traditional farmhouses.
Scenic Beauty: The Merak Sakteng Trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and pristine forests. The trail passes through some of the most remote and untouched landscapes in Bhutan, providing a true wilderness experience.
Cultural Immersion: Throughout the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Brokpa people. Interact with the villagers, participate in cultural activities, and gain insights into their way of life. The trek offers a rare chance to experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Terrain and Difficulty: The Merak Sakteng Trek is considered to be moderately challenging, with some steep ascents and descents, as well as high-altitude passes reaching over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Trekkers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including cold temperatures and the possibility of snow at higher elevations. A reasonable level of fitness and acclimatization to high altitude is recommended for this trek.
Overall, the Merak Sakteng Trek promises an unforgettable adventure through the hidden gems of eastern Bhutan, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and wilderness exploration.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
- Arrive at Paro International Airport.
- Transfer to your hotel and settle in.
- Explore Paro town and visit attractions like Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum.
- Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 2: Paro to Trashigang
- Take an early morning flight from Paro to Bathpalathang Airport in Trashigang.
- Drive from Trashigang to Chaling, the starting point of the trek.
- Begin trekking towards Merak, passing through forests, villages, and yak herding grounds.
- Camp overnight in Merak.
Day 3: Exploration of Merak
- Spend a day exploring Merak village and interacting with the Brokpa people.
- Visit local homes, learn about their traditional way of life, and enjoy cultural exchanges.
- Overnight stay in Merak.
Day 4: Merak to Sakteng
- Resume trekking from Merak to Sakteng, crossing high mountain passes and enjoying scenic views.
- Pass through remote landscapes and encounter unique flora and fauna.
- Arrive in Sakteng and camp overnight.
Day 5: Exploration of Sakteng
- Explore Sakteng village and visit the local monastery.
- Learn about the cultural and religious significance of the area.
- Enjoy leisure time and interact with the villagers.
- Overnight stay in Sakteng.
Day 6: Sakteng to Phongmay
- Trek from Sakteng to Phongmay, traversing diverse landscapes and traditional villages.
- Enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings and spot wildlife along the way.
- Camp overnight in Phongmay.
Day 7: Phongmay to Trashigang
- Continue trekking from Phongmay to Trashigang.
- Descend towards the valley, passing by terraced fields and rushing rivers.
- Arrive in Trashigang and transfer to your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Trashigang.
Day 8: Departure from Trashigang
- Transfer to Bathpalathang Airport in Trashigang for your flight back to Paro.
- Fly back to Paro and connect with your international flight or continue your journey in Bhutan.
Please note that this itinerary is a general guideline and can be customized according to your preferences, trekking pace, and specific requirements. Additionally, trekking routes and camping locations may vary depending on local conditions.
