Merak Village is a remote mountain settlement located in the far eastern region of Bhutan, within the Trashigang District. It is one of the main villages in the Merak-Sakten area, home to the Brokpa people, a semi-nomadic community known for their distinctive culture and yak-herding lifestyle. The village lies at an elevation of around 3,500 meters above sea level, surrounded by highland meadows, cold winds, and dramatic hillscapes.
Life in Merak is shaped by the natural environment and the seasons. The villagers raise yaks and sheep for dairy, meat, and wool. These animals are not only a source of livelihood but are deeply woven into the Brokpa identity. Because of the harsh winters and difficult terrain, the Brokpas have developed a resilient way of life and strong community ties.
The houses in Merak are made mostly of stone and wood, built low to the ground to retain heat during the cold months. People wear thick woolen clothes, including the traditional “Chuba” and unique red woolen headgear that is distinctive to Brokpa culture. Their language, customs, songs, and festivals are quite different from those found in central and western Bhutan.
Merak is known for its rich oral traditions, spiritual practices, and a deep respect for nature. The people follow a form of Tibetan Buddhism mixed with indigenous beliefs, and their rituals often reflect the highland environment in which they live. Local festivals like the Merak Tshechu showcase traditional dances, music, and storytelling, often celebrating spirits and mountain deities.
For many years, Merak remained isolated from the rest of Bhutan. There were no roads, and access was only possible by foot or on horseback. This helped preserve its culture and environment, though it also made daily life challenging. In recent years, however, trails and limited road access have opened the village to outsiders, including tourists.
Visitors to Merak are often struck by its peaceful atmosphere, untouched scenery, and the warm hospitality of its people. Trekking to the village involves crossing high passes and forested trails, offering spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas. Merak is also part of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, an ecologically rich region believed by locals to be the home of the mythical Yeti, known in Bhutan as the Migoi.
Despite the increasing influence of modern life, Merak remains deeply rooted in tradition. Electricity and mobile connectivity have only recently reached the village, and many homes still cook over wood fires. Yet, this blend of slow modernization and cultural preservation gives Merak its unique charm.
Staying in Merak allows travelers to experience a traditional highland lifestyle—one where people live in harmony with nature, value their ancestry, and continue to pass on stories and rituals from one generation to the next. It is a place where time moves at its own pace, and the simplicity of life offers a refreshing contrast to the fast-changing world beyond the mountains.
