Discover the untouched eastern frontiers of Bhutan on this extraordinary 18-day Merak-Sakten trek through the remote Tashigang Valley. Journey into the realm of the semi-nomadic Brokpa people, known for their unique culture and distinctive yak-hair hats. This lesser-explored trek offers pristine alpine landscapes, ancient trading routes, and authentic encounters with one of Bhutan’s most fascinating indigenous communities.
Experience optimal trekking conditions during peak seasons (March-April and October-November) or embrace the serene winter atmosphere. Conclude your adventure with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, a centuries-old therapy perfect for rejuvenating tired muscles. Ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking to explore Bhutan’s most isolated and culturally distinct regions.
This was the Perfect trip from first contact to the end. Every question was answered almost immediately before we arrived and once in Bhutan, we had one of the best guides that I have ever had. Sanguay and our driver, Terine, were always nearby making sure we had an understanding of the culture and history of what we were seeing or getting the best service from our hotel or restaurant. I wouldn’t hesitate using them again or recommending them.
I chose Best Bhutan Travel because it was high on the tripsdvisor ranking - and frankly because their communications were very professional compared to other agencies and individual travel guides I had reached out to. Communication has been fast, crisp and helpful. They were very supportive with the payment which honestly felt so strange to me (you pay Bhutanese agencies through the national Bhutan bank). They took care of the visa, and our return flights from Nepal to Bhutan. We were happy with the suggested itinerary. We spent 12 days together, all the way to Bumthang. On the trip itself we realised it is more of a guideline where to go - with changes possible for e.g. hotel or activities. The latter was notably thanks to our guide and driver who were phenomenal. We had an amazing time with Lotay (guide) and Khandu (driver). They were kind, attentive, knowledgeable and fun to hang out with. They adjusted the itinerary based on our interests* and their experience. We went to the (in)official start of the Paro festival which is held in the "second tiger nest". We were the only Western foreigners and were so welcomed by all locals, and really enjoyed watching the masked dances, with Lotay explaining to us their meanings and purposes. *Our guide was very, very attentive. For example I mentioned quickly that my wife does a lot of arts and crafts. Therefore, we visited a paper making factory and the institution of 13 arts in Timphu. We really appreciated it. We also went to Karaoke twice, and competed in archery and darts. Our visits to the temples were amazing, with Lotay teaching us about tantric Buddhism, and as a very social person, always talked with the monks and shared more insights with us. Along the way we learnt from the head monks and got blessed. Honestly I could go on about all the positive aspects. On the 2nd day I briefly mentioned that this trip was actually our honeymoon. The very evening they congratulated us with wine and cake, and every hotel had some decoration to celebrate our marriage. It was also very important for me that we eat local, Bhutanese food. It's spicy, trust me. This may be an important element to mention in your planning so that restaurants and hotels are made aware. Our guide and driver took care of everything. We were also always fed to keep energy levels up. Honestly, you get the drift, so I wholeheartedly recommend Best Bhutan Travel. Finally, surprisingly, some hotels were very nice and empty, as if they were just booked for us. We were lucky. As a word of advice: the more East you travel, the more you'll spend time in the car, so prepare accordingly your expectations. We did enjoy Trongsa and Bumthang though! Very different to Western Bhutan.
My partner and I visited Bhutan over the course of a week and was wowed by the majestic nature and vibrant culture that Bhutan had to offer. Even though both of us were unfortunate to come down with food poisoning towards the latter half of the trip, we were super well taken care of by our guide Lotay and driver Khandu. Would recommend Bhutan Best Travel for a well curated itinerary and thought through recommendations, but I would pay abit more attention in retrospect to a couple of the dining establishments (which were likely the cause of our stomach upsets)
My husband and I have just completed a 12 day tour with Bhutan Best Travel. We are in our mid-50s and have been travelling most of our adult lives. We have almost always done this independently, so we were a little unsure how we would fare on an organised tour. We needn't have worried. We had an amazing experience of Bhutan, and that was in no small part due to our guide Sangay and driver Tshering. They were incredibly thoughtful and always looking for ways to make our trip special. We had the flexibility to change what we did, when we did it, where we ate, and what we ate. Sangay picked up on things we said during the trip and then incorporated that into our experience. (Eg. We told him early on we liked eating fish, so he organised with some of our hotels some delicious fish meals.) We opted for 3 star hotels and we were very happy with the choices that Bhutan Best Travel made for us. Our experience with the staff at all the hotels was positive, and our rooms were comfortable with great views, usually looking out across a valley at the local dzong. There were so many highlights - the stunning natural scenery, the fauna and flora, the unique architecture, the fascinating history and traditions, the Bhuddist culture and way of life, and the warm and gentle Bhutanese people. We started in Paro and timed our visit in April so we could see the Paro festival and the Rhododendrons in bloom. From Paro, we headed east, visiting Thimpu, Punakha, Trongsa, Jakar (in Bumthang), and Gangtey. We visited dzongs, temples, monasteries, local markets, a local school, a local brewery, a home stay, tried our hand at archery (the national sport) and went on a number of short hikes. A real highlight was the hike up to Tiger's Nest. We started out just before sunrise to beat the crowds to the top and weren't disappointed. It was a magical experience and one not to be missed. Bhutan is a small country, but the challenging geography means a bit of time spent in the car travelling from valley to valley, negotiating narrow roads that cling to steep valley walls, snaking their way up over high passes where yaks graze amongst the Rhododendrons, with distant views of snow capped mountain peaks. Despite the challenging road conditions, we always felt safe with Tshering at the wheel. Our time in the car was spent learning about life in Bhutan, which Sangay and Tshering were happy to share with us. We can't speak more highly of Sangay and Tshering. They went out of their way to make our experience enjoyable. We learnt so much from Sangay and his knowledge of Bhutanese history and culture, and he really enriched our experience as we explored the numerous temples and dzongs that we visited. We really appreciated his willingness to tailor our experience according to our interests. Tshering was so sweet and caring. He was great company and very thoughtful. He drove extra cautiously when my husband was sick with a stomach bug for a couple of days, and constantly checked in to make sure he was OK. Sangay and Tshering made us feel relaxed and at home. We shared many meals with them, and the four of us spent hours in the car together. We developed a great rapport and had a lot of laughs along the way. It's only been a few days, but we are already missing them both. If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, we would both thoroughly recommend Bhutan Best Travel. From our first contact with the office team when we started looking into the trip, through to our final farewell with Sangay and Tshering at the airport, our experience was first rate.
Gateway to the Dragon Kingdom
The flight to Paro crosses the Himalayan Mountains, offering spectacular views of the majestic peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. Upon arrival, your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
After lunch, visit Ta Dzong, a former fortified lookout tower that now houses the National Museum. Then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels.”
Next, visit Kichu Lhakhang, the country’s oldest temple. From there, proceed to Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. On a clear day, you can see Mount Jumolhari, Bhutan’s second-highest mountain at 7,314 metres (23,996 feet).
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Paro.
After breakfast, begin an exciting excursion to Chele La Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,810 metres (12,500 feet) and a scenic 35-kilometre (22-mile) drive from Paro. Walking along the high ridges dotted with colourful Buddhist prayer flags offers stunning views of Mount Jumolhari and other mountains, plus incredible vistas of the valleys below the pass. Enjoy a picnic lunch while at the pass.
After lunch, hike further down the ridges to Kila Gompa Nunnery, which is nestled in a craggy patch on the mountainside below the pass and perched precariously along the rock face. Gain insight into the lives of Buddhist nuns who devote their lives to dharma. Walk for a few miles through coniferous forests to the road head, where your vehicle will be waiting to return you to Paro.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Paro.
From Tiger’s Lair to the Dragon’s Capital
This morning, hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous monastery. It is breathtaking, situated at 3,170 metres (10,400 feet) and perched on the edge of a cliff about 915 metres (3,000 feet) above the Paro Valley. Guru Rinpoche (great spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands.
Lunch is served at the Cafeteria Restaurant, located approximately halfway up the mountain. Explore the monastery and, if you wish, take time for a short meditation before hiking back to the valley floor.
This evening, transfer to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The evening is free time for strolling and shopping in the town.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Thimphu.
Treasures of the Dragon Kingdom’s Capital
After breakfast, visit the Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), Nunnery temple, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Textile Museum and Handicraft Emporium.
After a relaxing lunch, visit the Gagyel Lhundrup weaving centre, where you can observe women creating intricate tapestries with their nimble hands. Then proceed to the traditional paper factory, the majestic Tashichhodzong, and the giant Buddha statue overlooking Thimphu, which is reputed to be the largest Buddha Shakyamuni in the world.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Thimphu.
Sacred Rivers and Divine Blessings
After breakfast this morning, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha with a stop for tea at Dochu La (3,100 metres), where on a clear day you can enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the pass, drive downhill through forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. Arrive at Punakha after traversing rice fields and following the bank of the Punakha River.
En route, stop at Metshina Village and take a 20-minute walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley.
If you wish, receive a blessing from the Lama’s wooden phallus.
After lunch, visit the Punakha Dzong, which is magnificently situated between the male and female rivers like an anchored ship.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Punakha.
Rest Day at the Roof of Bhutan
After early breakfast, drive to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of the country. The route follows a spectacular winding road, crossing the 3,300-metre-high Pele La pass, where at certain times of the year it’s possible to see yaks.
Stop in Trongsa for lunch. After lunch, visit Trongsa Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Then proceed to Bumthang with its lush valleys and hilly forests. Along the way, stop at a yathra (textile weaving) factory, where textiles are designed with patterns unique to Bumthang, and you can observe weavers at their looms.
Check into your hotel upon arrival. Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Bumthang.
Sacred Footprints of the Valley of Faith
Today’s sightseeing in Bumthang includes visits to Jakar Dzong, the administrative centre of the valley; Jambey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries dating from the introduction of Buddhism in the country; and Kurjey Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places, where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on the cave during meditation.
After lunch, tour Tamshing Lhakhang, a treasure house of fascinating religious Buddhist paintings. In the evening, explore the local shops.
Overnight accommodation at your hotel in Bumthang.
Eastern Crossings: Journey to Mongar
Begin your journey to eastern Bhutan, a region distinct from western and central Bhutan in terms of development and lifestyle. The steep terrain offers spectacular views, complete with rushing waterfalls and sheer drops. The day’s drive is an exhilarating 6 hours, particularly across Thrumshing La (pass), which peaks at 3,750 metres.
Stop for a picnic lunch at the pass while enjoying the magnificent scenery. You can walk certain stretches of road to stretch your muscles while your bus follows behind. Check into your hotel upon arrival in Mongar.
In the evening, explore Mongar town before enjoying a relaxing dinner.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Mongar.
After breakfast, head to Trashigang, passing through several villages. Visit Gom Kora temple, which features a large black rock behind it. Legend says that Guru Rimpoche meditated in a cave within the rock, and you can see impressions of his thumb, hat, and body in the stone. Continue driving to Trashigang. Check into your hotel upon arrival.
In the evening, stroll through Trashigang town to observe the local lifestyle.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Trashigang.
19 KM / 6-7 HOURS / 2,000M ASCENT, 230M DESCENT
From Trashigang, take a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive to Chaling, passing through Rangjung town and Radhi village. Your trekking crew and pack animals will be waiting for you here.
The trek begins with a gradual climb towards Shaktimi meadow, where you’ll see yaks and sheep grazing, with yak herders’ huts dotted along the hillside. Climb further to reach Mendula Pass at 3,354m. From this pass, descend through rhododendron forests until reaching Donmong Chu at 3,124m.
Overnight in camp.
14 KM / 4-5 HOURS / 396M ASCENT
The trail from Domong Chu to Merak largely follows the river bends. The final stretch features a gentle ascent before reaching Gangu village. After another 45-minute walk from this village, arrive at Merak, situated at an altitude of 3,520m.
The campsite, located before the village, offers spectacular views of nearby mountains and the village itself. Visit the local village and meet with its inhabitants.
Overnight in camp.
16 KM / 5-6 HOURS / 633M ASCENT, 1,074M DESCENT
Today marks the most challenging journey of the trek, crossing the highest point at Nachungla pass (4,153m). From the campsite, climb gradually to the first pass at 3,900m, where you can take a final glimpse of Merak valley.
Continue trekking along the tree line of juniper and rhododendron forests before conquering Nachungla pass. Then descend to Miksateng at 3,079m.
Overnight in camp.
14 KM / 4-5 HOURS / 80M ASCENT, 310M DESCENT
First, descend to the river, cross it, and follow the riverbank for a few hours. Then climb gradually to a hill adorned with a small Chorten (Stupa) overlooking the Sakten valley. If fortunate, you may spot red pandas among the trees.
Descend from the ridge and camp on the outskirts of Sakten village at 2,950m.
Overnight in camp.
You will visit Sakten village and explore the lifestyle and unique culture of this ethnic group.
17 KM / 6-7 HOURS / 75M ASCENT, 130M DESCENT
Today’s journey will be longer, so we will start early from camp. Leaving Sakten, begin with a short climb to the small hill at the village’s western end. Then descend to the river and walk alongside it through broadleaf forests.
Camp in a beautiful meadow near the river by Joenkhar Teng village (1,733m). Joenkhar Teng is situated on the hillside, with a population comprising Brokpa and Sharchopa communities, and features a community school and an outreach clinic.
Overnight in camp.
12 KM / 5-6 HOURS / 350M ASCENT, 950M DESCENT
The final day of the trek begins with a short climb through Joenkhar Teng. Cross several suspension bridges and navigate short climbs to reach Phongmay.
Meet your transport and drive to Trashigang. En route, stop at Rangjung to visit Rangjung Monastery, founded by His Eminence Garab Rinpoche.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Trashigang.
After breakfast, drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, en route visiting Sherubtse, the country’s only premier college. At Khaling, visit the National Institute for the Disabled (School for the Blind) and the Handloom Development Project, where you can observe women weaving textile tapestries and witness traditional Bhutanese dyeing techniques.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Arrive at Samdrup Jongkhar after passing through various villages, landscapes and forests.
Overnight accommodation at a hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar.
After an early breakfast, drive to Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. The journey takes you through tea gardens, clear rivers interspersed with peaceful villages, and small townships of vibrant culture. Our representative will bid you farewell.
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Yes, all international travelers (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) require a Bhutan travel visa. The visa must be processed through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator or a partner agency. Visa approval is granted prior to your arrival and stamped at the airport.
Yes, we guarantee your Bhutan visa application process with a full refund policy!
Our Guarantee:
For the smoothest experience, we recommend:
Peace of mind guaranteed – Book with confidence!
We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance for the best experience. Here’s why:
Peak Seasons (Book 3-4 months ahead):
Regular Seasons (Book 1-2 months ahead):
Last-minute bookings possible but:
Book early for better rates, preferred accommodation, and smoother visa processing!
The best seasons to visit Bhutan are:
Spring (March to May) – Ideal for hiking, nature lovers, and rhododendron blooms.
Autumn (September to November) – Perfect weather and famous Bhutan festivals like Thimphu Tshechu.
Tip: Avoid the monsoon (June–August) if you prefer dry trekking conditions.
A Bhutan itinerary usually covers:
Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Paro Dzong, National Museum.
Thimphu – Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong.
Punakha – Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, and scenic river valley.
Optional: Haa Valley, Phobjikha Valley, or Bumthang for cultural depth and nature.
Yes. Bhutan has a mandatory guided tour policy for international tourists. Throughout your stay, you must travel with a licensed Bhutanese guide, which ensures cultural preservation and enhances your experience.
The Tiger’s Nest hike in Paro is moderately challenging.
Duration: 4 to 6 hours round-trip.
Elevation gain: ~600 meters.
You can rent a pony up to the halfway point. Wear good hiking shoes and bring water.
We recommend all travellers to obtain their own travel insurance.
A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a cornerstone of the country’s visionary
“High Value, Low Volume” tourism strategy. This mandatory daily charge ensures that
tourism aligns with Bhutan’s goals of environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and
equitable socio-economic growth for its communities.
Standard Fee Structure
Special Rates and Conditions
The SDF funds development projects, preserves cultural traditions, enhances
sustainability, upgrades infrastructure, and provides free healthcare and education.
A visa is to be obtained through a foreign or local agent in Bhutan (excluding Indians, Bangladeshis and Maldivians).
We require a scanned clear copy of your passports to process visas. Payment is required to be made in full in order to process your visa. Please ensure that your passport has more than 6 months of validity.
There is will be no charge for delays in arrival and departure due to weather conditions, flights disruption or road blocks.
However, the guest will have to bear the cost of food, accommodation transportation and other services required.
Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.) that is at par with the Indian rupee. US dollar are also accepted only at certain shops, restaurants and hotels. Generally, credits cards are not accepted, with the exception of hotels.
Almost all hotels in Thimphu and Paro have internet access. Mobile (cell) phones are also widely used with international roaming facilities.
Bhutan is an ideal place for photographers, offering immense opportunities for photography, especially our outdoor sightseeing trips.
However, indoor photography is not allowed inside Dzongs, temples, monasteries and religious institutions, unless you have a special permit from the Department of Culture.
Nevertheless, you can capture images of the landscapes, panoramic views of the mountain ranges, the rural folk life, the flora and fauna, the Bhutanese architecture and the Dzongs and Chortens in particular.
You may shop for a a variety of goods such as hand-woven textiles that is either in raw silk or silk, carved masks of various animals, woven baskets of cane and bamboo, wooden bowls known as Dapas, handmade paper products or finely crafted gods of silver.
There are also shops that sell beautiful Thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. There are many handicraft shops in and around Thimphu and Paro.
Tipping is generally only for your guide & driver, hotel porters, and trekking crew, as for the rest, tipping is generally discouraged. For children accompanying you, please do not include them in the tipping formula as only adults need to tip.
1- 2 persons travelling: US$8 – 10 per person per day for your guide & USD5 – 7 per person per day for your driver
3 -8 persons travelling: USD6 – 8 per person per day for your guide & USD3 – 5 per person per day for your driver
8-16 persons travelling: USD4 – 6 per person per day for your guide & USD3 – 5 per person per day for your driver
For travellers that are staying more than 8 nights, we recommend a slightly lower rate to be paid for your guide and driver tips, at your own discretion.
You will also need to tip your trekking cooks and horsemen (not structured to day hikes). Normally, your trekking guide will be with you throughout your entire journey. Tip your guide & driver at the end of your tour using the formula above.
We recommend the below total tips for the entire cook/horsemen crew and not per person.
Tips for 5 trekkers or less:
Short treks 4 nights or less: total USD80 to the cook/s & total US$50 to the horsemen
Longer treks 5 night plus: total USD150 to the cook/s & total US$80 to the horsemen
Tips for 6 trekkers or more:
Short treks 4 nights or less: total US$150 to the cook/s & total US$100 to the horsemen
Longer treks 5 nights plus: total USD200 to the cook/s & total USD150 to the horsemen
Tourists travel in Bhutan with medium-sized buses (20-22 seats), small buses (8-12 seats) or hired cars. Larger coaches are not permitted due to the road’s limited width.
With the high altitude, Bhutan is a challenging and rewarding experience for trekkers. It will take you deep into the beautiful and unspoilt nature. It will lead you to evergreen forests populated by various plant and animal species, forming a scenic path for you to follow. These treks lead you through villages, farms and religious temples, allowing a chance to witness the rich culture and the life of the rural Bhutanese people.
We have knowledgeable and friendly guides, cooks, porters, assistants and pony handlers at your disposal.
In short, all you need to do is simply enjoy the trek with a camera in hand as you take shots of the breathtaking scenery and mingle with the indigenous people.
In addition, we customise treks to suit each individual of different groups and needs.
Bhutan’s summers are warm with daily temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees celsius, while winters are cold with daily temperatures often falling bellow 15 degrees celsius.
If you’re visiting Bhutan during winter, be sure to pack a few sets of warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook and usually at least one horseman or yak herder.
They will lead your trekking group. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day.
They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp.
They set up tents, cook dinner and ready the area for arriving trekkers.
When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours on the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter.
For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are just as delicious as they are welcoming.
In Bhutan, all trekking supplies – camping equipment, kitchen implements, food – are all carried by pack animals. Usually, the loads are carried by horses or, in higher regions, yaks.
It’s always important to ensure that you’re well-prepared before you head off on your trekking expedition in Bhutan. Here’s a little packing list that will guide you along.
Footwear
Other equipment
Clothing
Miscellaneous
Altitude sickness can be a serious problem at the altitudes hiked to in Bhutan.
If you feel sick, dizzy or have a worsening headache, stop and drink as much water as possible.
If the symptoms persist, go back down the mountain.
Bhutanese guides are trained to look out for altitude sickness and other ailments that can affect trekkers.
They are expert walkers who have been trained as trekking guides and follow routes that have been walked for centuries.
All trekkers are required to strictly follow trekking rules to protect the fragile environment at high altitudes.
Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest countries to visit.
Low crime rate.
Friendly and welcoming locals.
Clean, peaceful environment.
Respect local traditions and follow these basic Bhutanese cultural etiquette rules:
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Walk clockwise around stupas and religious structures.
Remove your shoes before entering temples.
Avoid pointing at sacred objects.
Always ask before photographing monks or locals.