Merak & Sakteng

About Merak & Sakteng

Merak and Sakteng, located in the remote northeastern corner of Trashigang district, represent one of the most culturally unique and geographically isolated regions in Bhutan. Home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people, these twin valleys offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The region is characterized by rugged mountain peaks, vast alpine pastures, and a deep-seated connection to both the spiritual and natural worlds.

Merak, often called the 'Valley of the Sun,' is situated at 3,500 meters and is the ancestral home of the Brokpa community. The Brokpas are famous for their unique attire, particularly the 'Shamo'—a yak-hair hat with five tassels designed to shed rain. Their lifestyle revolves around the seasonal migration of yak and sheep herds, moving between high-altitude summer pastures and lower winter settlements. The village of Merak itself is a picturesque cluster of stone houses with wooden roofs, centered around the village temple which serves as the spiritual heart of the community.

Sakteng, located slightly lower at 3,000 meters, is part of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, an area of immense biodiversity specifically established to protect the habitat of the 'Migoi'—the Bhutanese Yeti. While the Migoi remains a creature of legend, the sanctuary is a very real refuge for red pandas, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears. Sakteng possesses a mysterious atmosphere, often shrouded in mountain mists, and its people share the same resilient and hospitable nature as their neighbors in Merak.

The combined region of Merak & Sakteng is a paradise for trekkers and cultural enthusiasts. The journey through these valleys takes travelers through diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests to stark, high-altitude meadows. Visitors are often treated to the traditional 'Brokpa Dance' and the warm hospitality of local families, who welcome guests with butter tea and 'Ara.' The annual Tshechus in both villages are vibrant celebrations of faith and community, featuring ritual dances that have been passed down for generations.

In conclusion, Merak & Sakteng offer a profound encounter with the soul of eastern Bhutan. It is a land where ancient nomadic traditions, spectacular mountain scenery, and the enduring legends of the Yeti create an experience that is both adventurous and deeply moving. For those seeking to venture off the beaten path, this combined destination provides a rare opportunity to witness a world in perfect harmony with the cycles of the Himalayas.