Merak-Sakteng Helicopter Tour – Discover the Untouched Eastern Highlands

Merak-Sakteng Helicopter Tour – Discover the Untouched Eastern Highlands


Location: bhutan
Trip: 2 hours
Duration: 2 hours
Start Location: Yonphula Airport (Trashigang)
End Location: Yonphula Airport (Trashigang)

This exclusive two-hour round-trip helicopter tour transports you to the remote easternmost reaches of Bhutan, offering a rare glimpse into one of the country’s most culturally preserved and ecologically rich landscapes.

The journey unfolds over unspoiled terrain, pristine riverbeds, and hidden valleys, revealing the breathtaking beauty of Eastern Bhutan. One of the tour’s highlights is flying above the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rare flora, elusive wildlife, and diverse birdlife. Nestled near the Indian border, the secluded highland villages of Merak and Sakteng provide a window into the unique way of life of the Brokpa people, famed for their ancient traditions, yak-herding culture, and distinctive attire.

Main Attractions:

  • Spectacular panoramic views of Eastern Bhutan’s rugged landscapes, with Trashigang Dzongkhag visible in the distance.
  • A scenic flight over pristine riverbeds, deep valleys, and forested hills en route to Merak and Sakteng.
  • Unforgettable aerial views of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rich biodiversity, rare wildlife, and untouched alpine meadows.
  • An authentic glimpse into the traditional highland villages of Merak and Sakteng, where ancient Brokpa culture endures.
  • The perfect combination of Eastern Bhutan’s raw natural beauty, cultural isolation, and ecological diversity — all within two unforgettable hours.

 

Short Itinerary

Title Accommodation Meals
7:30 AM – Arrival at Yonphula Helipad (Trashigang) – Welcome, check-in, and tea
7:45 AM – Pre-flight briefing: Geography, culture, and overview of Sakteng Sanctuary
8:00 AM – Helicopter Takeoff – Begin Eastern Bhutan Aerial Expedition
08:00 – 08:25 AM – Flight to Merak
08:25 – 08:45 AM – Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Overpass
08:45 – 09:00 AM – Sakteng Village Flyover
09:00 – 09:20 AM – Return flight over Trashigang Dzongkhag
09:20 – 09:30 AM – Arrival back at Yonphula Helipad

Tour Program

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Guests are welcomed at the Yonphula Helipad with warm Eastern Bhutanese hospitality, completing check-in while savoring traditional tea amidst the peaceful highland morning.

A pre-flight session provides fascinating insights into the region’s unique geography, the vibrant traditions of the Brokpa people, and the ecological significance of the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary.

Take to the skies for an unforgettable journey over Bhutan’s rugged and remote eastern highlands, renowned for their pristine wilderness and rich cultural heritage.

Fly over dramatic ridgelines and deep valleys on the way to the highland village of Merak, home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people.

Soar above the lush forests and alpine meadows of Sakteng Sanctuary, a biodiversity haven safeguarding rare flora and elusive wildlife, including the elusive red panda.

Glide over Sakteng Village, an isolated highland settlement where ancient traditions, yak herding, and distinctive Brokpa attire remain an enduring way of life.

Enjoy panoramic views of Eastern Bhutan’s largest district, featuring winding rivers, scattered hamlets, and the majestic Trashigang Dzong perched dramatically on a cliff.

Land back at Yonphula Helipad, concluding a rare and enriching aerial journey through one of Bhutan’s most culturally vibrant and untouched regions.

Tour Includes


Tour Excludes

  •      The Merak-Sakteng Helicopter Tour is an aerial journey that provides participants with a unique opportunity to explore the remote and culturally rich Merak and Sakteng valleys in Bhutan.

Ø  The tour typically departs from Paro International Airport in Bhutan, where participants board a helicopter for the scenic flight to the Merak and Sakteng valleys.

  •      The highlights include breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan landscape, remote villages, pristine forests, and the unique culture and lifestyle of the Brokpas, an indigenous community of eastern Bhutan.
  •      The duration of the tour varies depending on the specific itinerary and package chosen, typically ranging from a few hours to a full day of exploration.
  •    The tour typically utilizes modern helicopters equipped with large windows to provide participants with unobstructed views of the stunning landscape below.
  •     While the tour does involve flying at higher altitudes, participants do not typically experience severe altitude sickness as they remain within the helicopter for the duration of the flight.
  •      The capacity of the helicopter depends on the model and configuration, but most tours accommodate a small group of passengers to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.
  •       Participants should dress in comfortable layers suitable for the varying temperatures encountered at higher altitudes. It's also advisable to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, cameras, and any personal items they may need during the flight.
  •      Yes, many tour operators offer customizable options such as extended flight times, additional landing sites, or special cultural experiences tailored to the participants' preferences upon request.
  •       Participants can book the tour through authorized tour operators specializing in helicopter tours of Bhutan. Booking procedures typically involve selecting the desired package, confirming availability, and making payment arrangements.

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Things to know

Duration: Approx. 2 hours (round trip)

Departure Point: Typically from Paro or Bumthang (custom logistics based on flight plan)

Altitude: High-altitude terrain; bring warm clothing and sunglasses

Weather Dependency: Subject to weather clearance, especially in the eastern hill regions

Wildlife Viewing: Chance to see rare Himalayan species—bring binoculars for better observation

Photography: A great opportunity for landscape and cultural photography

Local Culture: Brokpa people are known for their hospitality; cultural sensitivity is encouraged

Remote Location: Minimal infrastructure; the area remains largely untouched by modern development

Best Time to Fly: Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies and lush landscapes

Permit Requirement: Booking and travel permits may be needed for the sanctuary flyover

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