15/05/2025
Mr. Sayanth and Rohith,Our company would like welcome to Nomadic Merak Tour.
The story of Merak, a high-altitude village in eastern Bhutan, revolves around its origins as a settlement established by the Brokpas, a semi-nomadic community with roots in Tibet. Legend has it that the village was cleared and set on fire to create a settlement, leading to the name "Merak," which translates to "set on fire" in Dzongkha.
The Brokpas, a unique community with distinct cultural and linguistic traits, migrated from Tibet centuries ago and settled in the high-altitude valleys of Merak and Sakteng.
"Set on Fire":
The name Merak is said to stem from the Brokpas' practice of clearing the forest and setting it on fire to create a new home in the plateau, where they established their settlement.
The Brokpas are known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, raising livestock and relying on the natural resources of the high-altitude region. They have a unique language and distinctive traditional attire, which reflects their cultural heritage.
Sakteng, another Brokpa settlement, is also said to have a connection to its name, with "Sakteng" meaning "bamboo plains" in reference to the abundant bamboo in the area.
The Brokpas' unique cultural practices, including polygamy, and their distinct costumes, set them apart from other communities in Bhutan.
Until recently, Merak and Sakteng were restricted to outsiders to protect the community and their way of life. However, with the construction of a road in 2012, visitors are now permitted to experience the Brokpa way of life.
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