10 Things to Do in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Bhutan
Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a magical kingdom filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and stunning wildlife. One of the best places to experience all of this is the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the eastern part of the country near the border of India and Tibet. This protected area is home to a wide variety of species, including snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and takin. Here are 10 things to do in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Bhutan.
1. Take a Wildlife Safari: The best way to experience the wildlife of Sakteng is to take a wildlife safari. You can hire a guide who will take you on a trek through the sanctuary, pointing out the different species and helping you spot the rarer animals.
2. Visit the Takin Preserve: The takin is a unique species of goat-antelope found only in Bhutan and parts of Tibet and China. The Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a large population of takin, and you can visit the preserve to get close to these amazing animals.
3. Go Bird Watching: Sakteng is home to a wide variety of birds, including the endangered white-bellied heron, the Himalayan monal, and the beautiful crimson-breasted rosefinch. Bring a pair of binoculars and spend a few hours bird watching in the sanctuary.
4. Trek to the Chhokhorsum Glacier: There are several trekking routes in the sanctuary, but the most popular is the one that leads to the Chhokhorsum Glacier. The trek takes a few days and is quite challenging, but the views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains are worth the effort.
5. Visit the Monasteries: Sakteng is home to several ancient monasteries, including the famous Tashigang Monastery. Take some time to explore the monasteries and learn about the history and culture of Sakteng.
6. Explore the Villages: The villages around Sakteng are home to some of the most welcoming people in Bhutan. Take some time to explore the villages and get to know the locals.
7. Go Fishing: Sakteng is home to several rivers and streams, and fishing is a popular pastime in the area. Cast your line and see what you can catch!
8. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s eye view of the sanctuary by taking a hot air balloon ride. You’ll get a unique perspective of the landscape and the wildlife below.
9. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets in Sakteng are a great place to buy souvenirs and to sample the local cuisine.
10. Stay in a Homestay: For a truly unique experience, stay in a homestay in one of the villages around Sakteng. You’ll get to experience life as a local and learn about the culture and traditions of the area.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a truly special place, and there are plenty of things to do here. Whether you’re looking for a wildlife safari, a trek to the glacier, or a relaxing stay in a homestay, Sakteng has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Sakteng!