Trek Duration
6 nights/7 days
Trek Duration
6 nights/7 days
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Best Time
Oct, Nov & Dec
Highest Walking dist
15 km
Highest Altitude
4153 m
Highest Walking Time
6 hrs
The Merak Sakten Trek, which was opened in 2012, holds a significant place in Bhutan’s tourism history, emerging three decades after the inception of tourism in the country. This remote region in Eastern Bhutan remains largely unexplored, with only a handful of guests having ventured into its captivating landscapes.
The inhabitants of the twin village are semi-nomadic yak herders, nurturing a distinctive and captivating culture. Their language is a unique dialect, their deities are exclusive, and their traditional attire is adorned with a remarkable headgear made of yak-hair, featuring five tentacles designed to divert rainwater.
Embarking on this trek will offer you an opportunity to delve into the extraordinary and untouched world of Merak and Sakten, situated at an elevation exceeding 3000 meters above sea level. Along the way, you will traverse the Sakten Wildlife Sanctuary, which serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan bear, Himalayan red fox, and according to local belief, even the legendary yeti.
Join us in exploring Bhutan’s hidden gem, a treasure waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls like yourself.
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HIGHLIGHTS
1
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Samdrupjongkhar
Meals: lunch, dinner
Upon arrival at Guwahati International Airport in India, you will be met by our representative. Then it is about a three hour drive to Samdrup Jongkhar in Bhutan. After lunch, explore the border town of Samdrup Jongkhar town as well as go across the border to the Indian town of Mela Bazar.
2
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Trashigang
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Following breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Trashigang, passing through a stunning forested area. If the weather conditions are favorable, we will make a brief stop at Tshelingkhor to marvel at the picturesque valleys of the southern foothills. Our next destination is the renowned Trashigang Dzong, majestically perched on a high promontory, offering panoramic views of the confluence between the Drangme Chu and Gamri Chu rivers. This architectural masterpiece was constructed in 1667 by Chogyal Mingyur Tempa, who served as Bhutan’s third Desi (Governor).
3
19KM | 7-8 HOURS | 2217M ASCENT | 230M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3124M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Leaving Trashigang behind, you will embark on a picturesque one and a half-hour drive to Chaling, passing through the charming town of Rangjung and the scenic village of Radhi. Upon reaching Chaling, you will find your dedicated trekking crew and pack animals eagerly awaiting your arrival. The trek commences with a gentle ascent towards the scenic meadow of Shaktimi. As you progress, you will witness the tranquil sight of yaks and sheep grazing, while yak herders’ huts dot the hillsides. Continuing the climb, you will eventually reach the enchanting Mendula Pass, standing at an elevation of 3354m. From this vantage point, you will descend through captivating rhododendron forests until you reach the Donmang Chu camp, nestled at an elevation of 3124m.
4
14KM | 5 HOURS | 396M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 3520M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
The trail from Domang Chu to Merak mostly follows the river bends. The final stretch has gentle ascend before you reach Gangu village. After another 45 minutes walk from this village, you will arrive at Merak located at an altitude of 3520m. The campsite located before the village has spectacular views of nearby mountains and village. Visit the local village to experience the life of this people.
5
16KM | 5 HOURS | 633M ASCENT | 1073M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3080M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today marks the most challenging part of the trek as we embark on a journey to conquer the highest point, Nachungla pass, standing proudly at 4153 meters. Starting from the campsite, we will gradually ascend to the first pass at 3900 meters, offering a final glimpse of the picturesque Merak valley. Continuing our trek amidst the lush tree line of juniper and rhododendron forests, we will conquer the Nachungla pass. As we descend, we will reach our campsite, Miksateng, nestled at an elevation of 3080 meters, surrounded by vibrant rhododendron blooms.
6
14KM | 5 HOURS | 81M ASCENT | 310M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 2950M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Descend to the river, crossing it and then following the river bank for few hours, you will climb gradually to a hill adorned by small Chorten (Stupa) overlooking the Sakten valley. If you are lucky, you can spot red panda among the trees. Descend down from the ridge and camp on the outskirts of the Sakten village at 2950m.
7
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
During your journey, you will have the opportunity to visit Sakten village and immerse yourself in the lifestyle and distinctive culture of this ethnic community. Take the time to engage with the locals, gain insights into their traditions, and witness firsthand the richness of their unique heritage.
8
17KM | 7 HOURS | 74M ASCENT | 1291M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 1800M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today’s journey will be a longer and so we will start early from the camp. Leaving Sakten, start with short climb to the small hill towards the west end of the village. Then descend down to the river and walk alongside it through the broad leaf forests. We camp in a beautiful meadow near the river by Joenkhar Teng village (1733m). Joenkhar Teng is situated on the hillside and its population comprises of Brokpa and Sharchopa with a community school and an outreach clinic. Overnight in camp.
9
12KM | 5-6 HOURS | 346M ASCENT | 942M DESCENT
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
The last day of the trek begins with short climb through the Joenkhar Teng. Crossing the suspension bridges, you will climb shortly to Phongmay village. Meet your transport and drive to Trashigang. On the way, stop at Rangjung and visit the Rangjung Monastery, which is founded by His Eminence Garab Rinpoche. Overnight in hotel.
10
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Bumthang
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Following a delightful breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Bumthang, taking the route via Ura. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as we journey towards our destination.
11
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
After breakfast, our first stop will be at Me-bar Tsho, also known as the Burning Lake, followed by a visit to the revered Tamshing Lhakhang. After a satisfying lunch, we will continue our exploration with visits to Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Kenchosum Lhakhang, where we can immerse ourselves in the rich spiritual heritage of the region. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to marvel at the architectural marvel of Jakar Dzong, a magnificent fortress built by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the esteemed 3rd Desi, in the year 1646 AD.
12
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Following a delightful breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as we journey towards Bhutan’s vibrant capital city.
13
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Dodeyna, where we will commence a beautiful forest track ascent to reach the esteemed Tango Monastery. Perched high in the mountains, the monastery offers panoramic views of a forested valley and other Buddhist retreats. Following our visit, we will proceed to the National Memorial Chorten, a sacred site built in honor of Bhutan’s late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Our journey continues to Kuensel Phodrang, where we will be greeted by the magnificent Giant Sakyamuni Buddha statue, overlooking the city. A visit to the mini zoo at Motithang will provide an opportunity to observe the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal.
Next, we will explore Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body. This remarkable structure also houses the summer residence of the esteemed Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Optionally, we can visit the Handicrafts Emporium and indulge in some souvenir shopping at the shops in Thimphu.
In the evening, we will embark on a scenic drive to Paro, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
14
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: lunch, dinner
After a delightful breakfast, we will drive you to the trailhead where our exhilarating journey begins, climbing through a picturesque pine forest. Along the way, we will pause for light refreshments at the Taktsang cafeteria before continuing our walk to the renowned Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. This extraordinary monastery was built in 1684 around Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, the Penlop of Paro. Perched dramatically on the edge of a sheer rock cliff, plunging 900 meters into the valley below, it is a sight to behold. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava, the tantric mystic who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in 747 AD, flew to this sacred spot on the back of a flying tiger, Dorji Drolo, from Kurtoe Singye Dzong in the east.
Following a fulfilling lunch, we will visit Drugyal Dzong, a historic fortress located 16 kilometers away from Paro. Although now in ruins, this dzong holds great significance in Bhutanese history as it marks the site of the Bhutanese triumph over a Tibetan invasion. On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sacred Mt. Jhomolhari, the mountain of the Goddess. Our exploration continues with a visit to Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower built in 1656 and renovated in 1968, which now houses the National Museum. Below the museum lies the majestic Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Heap of Jewels,” serving as the center of both civil and religious authority in the valley. This impressive fortress was constructed in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
15
Accommodation: NA
Meals: breakfast
After breakfast, proceed to Paro International Airport for your scheduled departure flight.
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