Merak Sakteng Trek

Set in eastern Bhutan among the semi-nomadic Brokpa herders, this trek is one of the few open to the remote Merak and Sakteng valleys, offering a very different cultural experience from western routes.

  • Duration: 7 days
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max elevation: 4,100 m
  • Starts: Trashigang

Overview

Set in eastern Bhutan among the semi-nomadic Brokpa herders, this trek is one of the few open to the remote Merak and Sakteng valleys, offering a very different cultural experience from western routes.

Best season: March–May, September–November

Trek Highlights

  • Brokpa culture and distinctive yak-wool clothing
  • Remote eastern Bhutan, rarely visited by trekkers
  • High pastures shared with yak and sheep herds
  • Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary landscapes

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Trashigang to Merak trailhead, trek to Merak

    Drive to the roadhead and trek into the Brokpa village of Merak.

  2. Day 2

    Explore Merak village

    A day among the herding community and its traditional houses.

  3. Day 3

    Merak to Miksateng

    Cross open highland pasture toward the next camp.

  4. Day 4

    Miksateng to Sakteng

    Continue over a pass into the neighboring Sakteng valley.

  5. Day 5

    Explore Sakteng village

    Time to visit the second Brokpa community and its temple.

  6. Day 6

    Sakteng to Joeng

    Begin the return trek through forested valleys.

  7. Day 7

    Joeng to roadhead, drive to Trashigang

    Final descent and transfer back to town.