Deep in the eastern highlands of Bhutan, far from the typical tourist trails, lie the remote villages of Merak and Sakteng. These isolated settlements are home to the Brokpa people, an indigenous semi-nomadic tribe with a rich culture, unique traditions, and a profound bond with nature. Visiting Merak and Sakteng is not just about seeing scenic landscapes—it’s about stepping into a living cultural museum, one that has stood the test of time.
In this guide, you’ll discover who the Brokpa are, why their way of life is so unique, and how to plan a responsible and immersive visit to this fascinating corner of Bhutan.
Who Are the Brokpa People?
The Brokpa (also spelled Brokpas) are an indigenous tribe residing primarily in the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan’s Trashigang District. The word “Brokpa” translates to “highlander” in Dzongkha, and rightly so—the Brokpa people inhabit some of the most rugged and remote regions of the eastern Himalayas.
With a population estimated to be around 5,000, the Brokpa community is centered in two main villages: Merak and Sakteng, located at elevations of over 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). Historically cut off from the rest of Bhutan by steep terrain and thick forests, the Brokpa have preserved their own dialect, clothing, architecture, and spiritual beliefs.
Where Are Merak and Sakteng Located?
Merak and Sakteng are nestled within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Bhutan’s most biodiverse and culturally significant protected areas. These villages are situated in eastern Bhutan, in a region close to the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh.
The sanctuary was created not only to protect rare flora and fauna but also to preserve the cultural heritage of the Brokpa people. Access to these villages was limited until recently, but with the development of trekking routes and the opening of the area to tourism, it is now possible for intrepid travelers to explore this unique region.
Traditional Brokpa Clothing and Dress
One of the most striking features of the Brokpa identity is their distinctive attire. Unlike the national dress of Bhutan (gho for men and kira for women), the Brokpa people wear clothing made of handwoven yak wool, designed for insulation in the cold highlands.
- Men wear a woolen tunic called the chuba, often belted at the waist with a colorful sash.
- Women wear layered dresses and accessorize with unique felt hats with flaps, often compared to wings or horns, believed to protect them from rain and snow.
The Brokpa’s dress is both practical and symbolic, reflecting their environment and ancient beliefs.
Spiritual Life and Shamanic Traditions
While most of Bhutan follows Vajrayana Buddhism, the Brokpa also practice a form of animism and shamanism, rooted in their close relationship with nature. Rituals to appease mountain deities, forest spirits, and guardian gods are common in Brokpa villages.
Lamas (Buddhist monks) coexist with shamans and local healers, creating a spiritual fusion rarely seen elsewhere in Bhutan. Villagers often consult shamans for blessings, healings, or to maintain harmony with the land.
Livelihood and Nomadic Lifestyle
The Brokpa are traditionally semi-nomadic yak herders. Their livelihood depends on the highland pastures where they raise yaks, sheep, and cattle, which provide them with meat, dairy, wool, and leather.
- Yak wool is spun into textiles.
- Butter and cheese are essential dietary staples.
- Barter trade with nearby lowland villages used to be the main form of commerce.
Though modernization has reached parts of Brokpa society, their economic and cultural life remains deeply tied to their livestock and the seasons.
The Merak–Sakteng Trek: A Journey Through Time
The Merak–Sakteng Trek is one of Bhutan’s most culturally immersive and scenic treks, offering a window into Brokpa life. This trek takes travelers through alpine meadows, dense rhododendron forests, high passes, and secluded villages.
Highlights of the trek include:
- Meeting Brokpa families in their traditional homes
- Witnessing rare Himalayan wildlife, including red pandas and Himalayan monals
- Visiting ancient temples and sacred sites
- Participating in local festivals and traditional dances
This is one of Bhutan’s least commercialized treks, perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.
Festivals in Merak and Sakteng
The Brokpa celebrate several unique festivals, where folk dances, music, and ancient rituals are performed. One of the most famous is the Sakteng Tsechu, held in the summer.
These festivals are colorful and deeply spiritual. Masked dances are performed to honor deities and spirits, while villagers wear their finest attire. Tourists are welcomed as guests, and participation is encouraged in certain parts of the festivities.
Plan your trip around vibrant festivals like the Sakteng Tsechu.
Wildlife and Biodiversity in Sakteng Sanctuary
Beyond culture, the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is also a biodiversity hotspot. Home to a variety of rare and endangered species, the sanctuary was even established to protect the mythical yeti, locally known as the Migoi.
Wildlife you might encounter:
- Red pandas
- Himalayan black bears
- Himalayan blue sheep (bharal)
- Blood pheasants and satyr tragopans
The sanctuary’s pristine ecosystems range from alpine meadows to subtropical forests, making it a paradise for bird watchers, botanists, and wildlife lovers.
Challenges Facing the Brokpa Community
Despite their rich heritage, the Brokpa people face challenges from modernization, climate change, and economic migration. Young Brokpa are increasingly drawn to urban areas, threatening the continuity of traditional practices.
Efforts are underway from the Bhutanese government and NGOs to:
- Promote sustainable tourism
- Improve education and healthcare without disrupting culture
- Encourage preservation of language and crafts
Tourism, if managed responsibly, plays a vital role in sustaining the Brokpa way of life.
Responsible Travel Tips for Visiting Merak and Sakteng
If you plan to visit the Brokpa people, here are a few tips for respectful and responsible travel:
- Book with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator who supports community-based tourism.
- Learn a few phrases in Sharchop or Dzongkha—it goes a long way!
- Always ask before taking photos, especially during rituals or inside homes.
- Consider bringing small gifts such as school supplies or local produce.
- Stay in homestays or community lodges to directly support local families.
Explore more of eastern Bhutan with our curated travel packages.
Conclusion: Why Meet the Brokpa People?
Traveling to Merak and Sakteng is not just a trip—it’s a journey into a disappearing world. The Brokpa people offer a rare glimpse into a self-sustaining, culturally rich, and spiritually grounded way of life. Their resilience, hospitality, and traditions are an essential part of Bhutan’s cultural mosaic.
By choosing to visit this remote region respectfully and mindfully, you help ensure that the Brokpa legacy continues to thrive, not just for tourists, but for generations to come.
