Eastern & Western Bhutan with Merak & Sakteng Highlands

Explore Bhutan’s Highlands, Hidden Valleys & Cultural Heartlands

This immersive journey is ideal for travelers returning to Bhutan to discover what was left unexplored—namely, the spiritual heartland of Bumthang and the culturally rich, remote eastern frontiers. The tour begins in Samdrup Jongkhar, and takes you overland across Eastern and Central Bhutan into the historic valleys of the West, blending cultural immersion, scenic drives, and optional trekking in some of the most secluded corners of the country.

A highlight of this itinerary is a visit to the isolated Merak and Sakteng highlands, a region that only opened to tourism in 2009. This area remained closed to protect the unique cultural heritage of the Brokpa people—semi-nomadic yak herders known for their distinct dress, dialect, and stone-built homes. Access was restricted, and only a handful of researchers and tourists were ever granted permission to enter. It is also said that this valley was kept undisturbed to offer peace to the mythical Yeti, whose legends are still very much alive among the locals.

Trekking or driving through this region is a truly remarkable cultural and natural journey, as you pass through the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary—a biodiverse area that encompasses alpine meadows, temperate forests, and broadleaf woodland. Whether on foot or by road, you’ll gain rare insight into a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.

After your time in Merak and Sakteng, you’ll traverse across Bhutan, journeying through Mongar, Yongkola, and into the Bumthang Valley—often called the spiritual heart of Bhutan—before flying west to Paro, where you’ll end the journey with a hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery.

This tour covers the full spectrum of Bhutan’s cultural and ecological diversity—historic monuments in the west, deeply traditional and lesser-known communities in the east, and natural beauty throughout.

Highlights:

• Visit the remote highland villages of Merak and Sakteng, recently opened to visitors
• Encounter the Brokpa people, with their unique customs, language, and attire
• Explore Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, rich in Himalayan biodiversity and folklore
• Cross Bhutan from east to west, traversing towns, valleys, and national parks
• Delve into the spiritual sites and living traditions of Bumthang
• Conclude with a scenic flight and a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest in Paro
• Optional trekking from Merak to Sakteng or overland journey by vehicle

Outline Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Samdrup Jongkhar (via Guwahati or other nearby Indian cities)

Day 2: Drive to Trashigang

Day 3: Explore Trashigang, and visit Ranjung and Radhi villages, with an overnight stay in a local homestay

Day 4: Drive to Merak (2–3 hrs) and explore the remote Brokpa village

Day 5: Trek to Miksakteng, continuing on to Sakteng (this is a long day trek, with the option to camp in Miksakteng)

Day 6: Explore Sakteng on foot, a culturally unique highland village

Day 7: Drive back to Trashigang (approx. 3 hrs)

Day 8: Drive to Mongar, continuing onward to Yongkola, a hotspot for birdwatching

Day 9: Drive to Bumthang, crossing scenic mountain passes

Day 10: Explore Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural heartland

Day 11: Fly to Paro

Day 12: Contingency day in case of flight delays; explore Paro, or hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery

Day 13: Departure

Customization Options:

• This itinerary is especially suited for travelers who have previously visited Bhutan but, due to time constraints, were unable to explore the Bumthang region or venture into the eastern highlands. It offers an ideal opportunity to fill in those gaps with a rich, meaningful experience.
• The itinerary can be done in reverse, starting in Paro and ending in Samdrup Jongkhar.
• The trek between Merak and Sakteng can be replaced with a drive.
• You may skip Bumthang and fly directly from Trashigang (Yonphula Airport) to Paro.
• Additional time can be added for hiking in Bumthang or exploring the Lhuentse (Kurtoe) region, known for its ancient temples and exquisite weaving traditions.
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