Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Sakteng covers the far eastern highlands against the Indian border, protecting rhododendron forest, alpine pasture and a landscape shaped by centuries of yak herding. It is unusual among protected areas in that it was created partly to conserve the culture of the Brokpa, semi-nomadic herders of Merak and Sakteng who speak their own language, wear distinctive felt hats with spider-leg spouts to shed rain, and move with their yaks between summer and winter pastures. The sanctuary is also, officially, protected habitat for the migoi, the Bhutanese yeti, which is listed with a straight face in the founding documents. Access was long by trek only; a road now reaches Merak and Sakteng, though the trek between the villages remains the way most visitors see it.

Highlights

• Brokpa herders - the semi-nomadic communities and their distinctive dress.
• Yak pastures - high grazing worked through the summer months.
• Rhododendron forest - dense flowering slopes in spring.
• Village homestays - accommodation in Merak and Sakteng houses.

When to go

April to June for rhododendrons, September to November for clear weather. Winter is severe at this altitude and the villages are hard to reach. Monsoon brings leeches and difficult trails.

Practical notes

This is remote even by Bhutanese standards: days of travel from western Bhutan, then rough roads or trekking. Accommodation is homestays with no facilities. Altitude is around 3,000 metres and higher on the passes. Visitor numbers are capped and permits go through operators.

Nearby

Merak and Sakteng villages are inside; Trashigang lies west.

Key facts