Merak

Merak is a high-altitude village in the far east of Trashigang district, Bhutan, at an elevation of about 3,500 m. It is one of the two main settlements (along with Sakteng) of the Brokpa people, a semi-nomadic community of yak-herders with their own distinct language, dress, and customs. The Brokpa are renowned for their distinctive attire — the women wear felted woollen capes and large bamboo hats, while the men wear traditional woollen robes.

Merak is accessible only on foot or by rough track, making it one of the most remote inhabited places in Bhutan. The surrounding landscape is stark alpine beauty — rolling mountain ridges, yak pastures, and clear mountain streams. The village was opened to tourists only in recent years and visitors must obtain a special permit from the tourism authorities in Thimphu.

By Plane

Yongphulla Airport (YON IATA) is about 3–4 hours by road, then a further 6–8 hours on foot.

By Car / Road

The nearest road head is at Phongmey or Radhi, from where a multi-day trek leads to Merak. The trek passes through rhododendron and juniper forests before reaching the alpine zone. A guide is mandatory, and permits must be obtained in advance.

On foot. Local guides are essential for navigating the terrain and interacting with the Brokpa community.

• Brokpa village — Traditional stone houses with yak-hair roofs and brightly painted decorations.

• Yak herds — The Brokpa economy centres on yaks. Visitors can observe traditional yak-herding practices.

• Views of the Himalayan foothills — Panoramic vistas of the eastern Himalayan range.

• Trekking — The approach trek itself is a highlight, passing through diverse ecosystems.

• Cultural immersion — Interact with Brokpa families and learn about their unique traditions.

• Photography — The Brokpa people and their alpine environment are highly photogenic.

Basic meals at a homestay — tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak cheese, butter tea, and dried yak meat.

Suja (butter tea) is the staple. Yak milk and ara (rice wine) are also available.

Basic homestays in the village. Conditions are very basic — simple rooms with minimal furniture and outdoor toilets.

Brokpa handicrafts — woollen items, yak-hair products, and traditional textiles.

• Sakteng — 2–3 hours trek east. The other main Brokpa village, reached via the high ridges.
• Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary — The surrounding protected area offers excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.
• Trashigang — 2–3 days trek back to the road head.