Merak Sakteng Trek
18 Days Eastern Bhutan Adventure
Dragon Vista Tours
Trek Overview
Journey into one of Bhutan's most remote regions. The Merak Sakteng Trek combines untouched Himalayan wilderness, rare wildlife, sacred landscapes and the fascinating culture of the Brokpa semi-nomadic communities.
Distance
14 KM+
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
March–May / September–November
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive in Bhutan and meet your guide. Drive to Thimphu, acclimatise and visit highlights including National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma overlooking the valley.
Day 2
Explore Thimphu
Discover Bhutanese culture through the Textile Museum, Tashichho Dzong, traditional paper-making factory, Simtokha Dzong and the local farmers market.
Day 3
Thimphu to Punakha / Wangdue
Cross the scenic Dochula Pass with its 108 chortens and Himalayan views. Continue towards Wangdue Valley and enjoy Bhutan's traditional landscapes.
Day 4
Explore Phobjikha Valley
Visit the beautiful glacial valley of Phobjikha, winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes, and explore Gangtey Monastery.
Day 5
Journey to Trongsa
Travel to the historic home of Bhutan's royal family. Visit Trongsa Dzong, one of the kingdom's most impressive fortresses.
Day 6
Discover Bumthang Valley
Explore Bhutan's spiritual heartland including Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery, Jakar Dzong and Thangbi Valley.
Day 7
Bumthang to Eastern Bhutan
Travel through Thrumshingla National Park with untouched forests, waterfalls and spectacular eastern Himalayan landscapes.
Day 8
Begin Trek – Radi to Charbaling
Start trekking from Radi and Khardung villages. Follow forest trails and the Murbi Chhu before reaching Charbaling grazing grounds.
Day 9
Charbaling to Merak Village
Cross Thumburtsa La Pass and walk through yak pastures before arriving in Merak, home of Bhutan's unique Brokpa highland community.
Day 10
Merak to Sakteng
Cross Nyuksang La Pass with dramatic mountain scenery before descending into the remote and culturally rich village of Sakteng.
Day 11
Explore Sakteng Village
Spend the day experiencing Brokpa traditions, highland culture, local lifestyles and the unique heritage of eastern Bhutan.
Day 12
Sakteng to Jyonkhar
Trek across Munde La through peaceful forests, yak grazing areas and traditional mountain landscapes before reaching Jyonkhar.
Day 13
Jyonkhar to Phongmey
Enjoy a shorter trekking day through beautiful valleys and traditional villages before arriving at peaceful Phongmey.
Day 14
Return Journey to Bumthang
Enjoy a scenic drive back towards central Bhutan through changing landscapes.
Day 15
Bumthang to Punakha
Travel west to Punakha Valley, famous for its warmer climate, history and beautiful scenery.
Day 16
Explore Punakha
Visit Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten while exploring one of Bhutan's most beautiful valleys.
Day 17
Punakha to Paro & Tiger's Nest
Return to Paro. Visit Rinpung Dzong, hike towards the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery and explore Kyichu Lhakhang.
Day 18
Departure from Bhutan
Transfer to Paro International Airport and depart with unforgettable memories of Bhutan's mountains, culture and people.