The Merak Sakten Trek, opened in 2012, is one of Bhutan’s most unique adventures, taking you into the remote Eastern highlands where few travelers have ventured. Home to semi-nomadic yak herders with a distinct culture, language, and traditions, this trek offers a rare glimpse into a world untouched by time.
At over 3,000 meters above sea level, the route crosses the pristine Sakten Wildlife Sanctuary, habitat of the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan bear, and - according to legend - the yeti. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path Bhutan tours, the Merak Sakten Trek is truly a hidden gem.
General Information
Start/ End: Samdrup/ Paro
Duration: 15 Days/ 14 Nights
Tour Route: Samdrup Jongkhar - Trashigang - Bumthang - Punakha - Thimphu - Paro
Tour Customizable: Definitely! ( Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Guwahati Airport – Samdrup Jongkhar
Day 2: Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang
Day 3: Trashigang – Chaling – Damnongchu
Day 4: Damnongchu – Merak
Day 5: Merak – Miksa Teng
Day 6: Miksa Teng – Sakteng
Day 7: Sakteng Explorations
Day 8: Sakteng – Jyonkhar Teng
Day 9: Jyonkhar Teng – Trashigang
Day 10: Trashigang – Bumthang
Day 11: Bumthang Sightseeing
Day 12: Bumthang – Thimphu
Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
Day 14: Hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest
Day 15: Departure from Paro International Airport
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Guwahati Airport – Samdrup Jongkhar
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Samdrupjongkhar
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 as well as go across the border to the Indian town of Mela Bazar.
Day 2: Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Trashigang
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).
Day 3: Trashigang – Chaling – Damnongchu
19KM | 7-8 HOURS | 2217M ASCENT | 230M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3124M
Accommodation: Campsite
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 3354m. From this vantage point, you will descend through captivating rhododendron forests until you reach the Donmang Chu camp, nestled at 3124m.
Day 4: Damnongchu – Merak
14KM | 5 HOURS | 396M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 3520M
Accommodation: Campsite
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 at 3520m. The campsite before the village has spectacular views of nearby mountains and settlement. Visit the local village to experience the life of this people.
Day 5: Merak – Miksa Teng
16KM | 5 HOURS | 633M ASCENT | 1073M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3080M
Accommodation: Campsite
Today marks the most challenging part of the trek as we ascend to the highest point, Nachungla Pass, standing 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 amidst juniper and rhododendron forests, we will conquer the pass before descending to Miksateng, a campsite at 3080m surrounded by vibrant rhododendron blooms.
Day 6: Miksa Teng – Sakteng
14KM | 5 HOURS | 81M ASCENT | 310M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 2950M
Accommodation: Campsite
Descend to the river, cross it and follow the bank for a few hours, then climb gradually to a hill adorned with a small Chorten overlooking the Sakten Valley. If lucky, you may spot a red panda. Finally descend to camp near the Sakten village at 2950m.
Day 7: Sakteng Explorations
Accommodation: Campsite
On this journey, you will have the chance to explore Sakten village and experience the way of life and vibrant culture of this ethnic community. Interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and discover the richness of their remarkable heritage firsthand.
Day 8: Sakteng – Jyonkhar Teng
17KM | 7 HOURS | 74M ASCENT | 1291M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 1800M
Accommodation: Campsite
Today’s trek will be longer, so we begin early from the camp. Departing from Sakten, take a short ascent to a small hill on the western edge of the village. Continue descending to the river and follow its course through lush broadleaf forests.
The campsite will be set in a scenic meadow by the river near Joenkhar Teng village (1733m). Located on the hillside, Joenkhar Teng is home to Brokpa and Sharchopa communities and features a community school along with an outreach clinic. Overnight in camp.
Day 9: Jyonkhar Teng – Trashigang
12KM | 5-6 HOURS | 346M ASCENT | 942M DESCENT
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
The final day of the trek begins with a short ascent through Joenkhar Teng. After crossing suspension bridges, continue climbing briefly until you reach Phongmay village. Here, meet your transport and drive towards Trashigang. Along the way, make a stop at Rangjung to visit the renowned Rangjung Monastery, founded by His Eminence Garab Rinpoche. Overnight in hotel.
Day 10: Trashigang – Bumthang
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Bumthang
After a pleasant breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to Bumthang, traveling along the route through Ura. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning landscapes as we make our way to the destination.
Day 11: Bumthang Sightseeing
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to Me-bar Tsho (Burning Lake), followed by the sacred Tamshing Lhakhang. After enjoying lunch, continue the journey with stops at Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Kenchosum Lhakhang, where you can experience the region’s deep spiritual traditions.
The day also includes admiring the impressive Jakar Dzong, a grand fortress constructed in 1646 AD by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the esteemed 3rd Desi.
Day 12: Bumthang – Thimphu
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
After a hearty breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Thimphu. Relax and take in the breathtaking views along the way as we head towards Bhutan’s lively capital city.
Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Dodeyna, where a beautiful forest trail leads to the renowned Tango Monastery. Perched high in the mountains, it offers sweeping views of the forested valley and nearby Buddhist retreats.
Following the visit, continue to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of Bhutan’s late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The journey then takes you to Kuensel Phodrang, home to the impressive Giant Sakyamuni Buddha statue overlooking the city. A stop at the Motithang mini zoo provides a chance to see the unique Takin, Bhutan’s national animal.
Later, explore the striking Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body, which also houses the summer residence of the Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s Chief Abbot. Optionally, visit the Handicrafts Emporium and browse local shops in Thimphu for souvenirs.
In the evening, take a scenic drive to Paro, enjoying the stunning landscapes along the way.
Day 14: Hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
After a delightful breakfast, begin the adventure with a drive to the trailhead, where the hike starts with an ascent through a scenic pine forest. Pause for light refreshments at the Taktsang Cafeteria before continuing up to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Built in 1684 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay around Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave, this extraordinary site clings dramatically to a cliffside, dropping 900 meters into the valley below. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava arrived here in 747 AD on the back of a flying tiger, Dorji Drolo, from Kurtoe Singye Dzong.
After lunch, head to the historic Drugyal Dzong, located 16 kilometers from Paro. Though now in ruins, it symbolizes Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders and, on clear days, offers stunning views of the sacred Mt. Jhomolhari.
The journey continues with a visit to Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower built in 1656 and later transformed into the National Museum in 1968.
Just below stands the majestic Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Heap of Jewels,” constructed in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, serving as the spiritual and administrative center of the valley.
Day 15: Departure from Paro International Airport
Accommodation: NA
After breakfast, proceed to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Tour End! Hope to see you in your next tours to Bhutan.
