15 days
Duration
Moderate
Difficulty
4,100 m
Max Elevation
Apr - Jun & Sep - Nov
Best Season
The Brokpa Cultural Odyssey
Embark on a 15-day cultural and trekking odyssey across Bhutan’s most enchanting landscapes — from the sacred valleys of Paro and Punakha to the untouched wilderness of eastern Bhutan’s Merak and Sakteng.
The Merak Sakteng Trek offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Brokpa people, Bhutan’s semi-nomadic highlanders known for their distinct red attire, yak herding lifestyle, and unique folklore.
Starting in western Bhutan, you’ll hike to Taktsang Monastery, explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Phobjikha, cross the cultural heartland of Bumthang, and trek through Merak and Sakteng valleys — regions only recently opened to visitors.
End your journey at Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan’s eastern border town, and continue to Guwahati, India.
This immersive journey perfectly blends nature, culture, and adventure, offering a true taste of Bhutan’s living heritage.
Tour Highlights
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Phobjikha Valley
- Discover Bhutan’s spiritual heartland Bumthang
- Journey through scenic Mongar and Trashigang
- Experience the Brokpa highlanders of Merak & Sakteng
- Exit through Samdrup Jongkhar to Guwahati, India
- Perfect balance of culture, nature, and authentic adventure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Gateway to the Kingdom
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your guide will receive you.
Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum (Ta Dzong). Stroll through the traditional Paro town.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro | Altitude: 2,280 m
Day 2: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
Embark on Bhutan’s most iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff 900m above the valley floor.
Return to Paro for rest and acclimatization.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Highlights: Sacred monastery, scenic hike, panoramic views
Day 3: Paro – Thimphu Sightseeing
Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hrs), Bhutan’s charming capital.
Visit Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, and Folk Heritage Museum.
Evening leisure in Thimphu’s local cafés or markets.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha – Phobjikha
Drive over Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with 108 stupas and Himalayan vistas.
Descend to Punakha, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, and hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
Continue to Phobjikha Valley, a glacial bowl famous for black-necked cranes.
Overnight: Hotel in Phobjikha
Highlights: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, scenic drive
Day 5: Phobjikha – Bumthang (Cultural Heartland)
Drive through Trongsa, stopping to visit Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong Museum.
Continue to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual hub filled with sacred monasteries.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang
Highlights: Central Bhutan scenery, cultural landmarks
Day 6: Bumthang Sightseeing
Explore Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery, and Jambay Lhakhang.
Experience local weaving traditions and sample Bumthang cheese or honey.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang
Highlights: Monasteries, crafts, local culture
Day 7: Bumthang – Mongar
A full-day scenic drive crossing Thrumshing La Pass (3,780 m), descending into the warmer eastern valleys.
Enjoy changing vegetation from alpine forests to subtropical greenery.
Overnight: Hotel in Mongar
Highlights: Mountain passes, dramatic landscapes
Day 8: Mongar – Trashigang
Drive to Trashigang, the largest town in eastern Bhutan.
Visit Trashigang Dzong, perched high above the river, and explore the bustling local market.
Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang
Highlights: Eastern Bhutan culture, local trade hub
Day 9: Trashigang – Chaling – Merak (Trek Begins)
Drive to Chaling (approx. 1 hr) and begin your trek.
Ascend gradually through yak pastures and forests to Merak village, home to the semi-nomadic Brokpas.
Trek Distance: 14 km | Time: 5–6 hrs | Camp Altitude: 3,500 m
Highlights: Highland landscapes, Brokpa culture
Day 10: Explore Merak Village
Spend the day exploring Merak, interacting with locals, visiting traditional homes, and learning about yak herding and Brokpa traditions.
Enjoy a cultural evening with folk songs and dances.
Overnight: Camp in Merak
Highlights: Cultural immersion, village exploration
Day 11: Merak – Sakteng (Trek)
Cross the Ngangchung La Pass (4,100 m) and descend to Sakteng Valley, known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.
Trek Distance: 16 km | Time: 6–7 hrs | Camp Altitude: 2,950 m
Highlights: Mountain pass, alpine flora, yak herders
Day 12: Sakteng Exploration
Explore Sakteng village, visit local temples, and experience the lifestyle of the Brokpa community — known for their distinctive red woolen attire and yak-based livelihoods.
Overnight: Camp or village guesthouse
Highlights: Brokpa culture, nature, photography
Day 13: Sakteng – Joenkhar Teng
Descend through rhododendron forests and meadows to Joenkhar Teng, a subtropical village marking the end of the highland route.
Trek Distance: 17 km | Time: 6 hrs | Camp Altitude: 1,730 m
Highlights: Birdlife, forest trail, changing climate
Day 14: Joenkhar Teng – Samdrup Jongkhar (Trek End)
Complete the final stretch and drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan’s southeastern trade town on the Indian border.
Overnight: Hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar
Highlights: End of trek, tropical scenery, local market
Day 15: Departure – Exit to Guwahati, India
After breakfast, your guide will assist you with border formalities.
Drive to Guwahati Airport (approx. 3 hours) for your onward flight.
