Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a captivating addition to the wildlife tourism of Bhutan that was established in 2003. It is located in the eastern region and is spread over an area of 740 square kilometers. This sanctuary has a thick carpet of rhododendrons. Hence, it is known as the Paradise of Rhododendrons. Apart from it, there are many things to discover and explore that excite you with every step you take in this sanctuary. Sakteng is blessed with the Himalayan ecosystem, which includes snow leopards, barking deer, Himalayan red foxes, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and Himalayan squirrels. Some rarest animals that you can find here are the rarest wildlife species in the country, such as the Red Panda and Himalayan Monal Pheasant.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most captivating tourist places in Bhutan for so many good reasons. One of the most fascinating reasons is that it is believed to be home to the infamous snow mountain men, also known as Yeti, Migoi, and BigFoot. Even though nobody has witnessed this character yet, locals claim that they have seen the footprints of Yeti at night. Check out the details below for more exciting things to do in this wildlife reserve.
Overview of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
| Location | Trashigang District, Bhutan |
| Area | 740 Square Kilometers |
| Established | 17 April , 2003 |
| Altitude | 2,600–4,500 m |
| Best Time to Visit | March and August |
Highlights
- Spot diverse wildlife species, including snow leopard, Himalayan red panda, black bear, barking deer, and Himalayan monal pheasant.
- Witness endemic species such as eastern blue pine and the black-rumped magpie.
- Chance to spot 35 species of Rhododendrons in April and May.
- Get to know about the fascinating legends about Mythical Yeti from the local people.
- Enjoy numerous trekking trails and get panoramic views.
- This Wildlife Sanctuary is home to around 200 species of birds, including hoopoe, Assamese macaw, grey-headed woodpecker, and grey-backed shrike.
- Enjoy Wildlife photography and natural photography with a scenic backdrop.
Recommended for
This national park is a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers, trekking enthusiasts, photographers, and culture fanatics. Moreover, the breathtaking scenery and unspoiled nature make it the most appealing attraction of this country.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket Price
The Ticket Price for Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary depends upon the permit you opt to explore this wildlife reserve. Different types of permits are available, and each has different prices. You must apply for a permit from the Department of Forests and Park Services in Thimphu. However, you will have to show your visa, identity, and other required documents to acquire the permit. And the processing fee for permit is USD 1.25 or INR 100, which goes towards conserving the sanctuary. Below is the list of permits that are required for Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary.
Daily Permit: This is one of the most common types of permit for tourists as it is allowed to explore this wildlife reserve for one day. The price of this permit is USD 6.25 or INR 514 for foreign tourists.
Overnight Permit: The permit allows you to stay in this sanctuary for one night. It is one of the thrilling ways to feel the wilderness. Those who are brave-hearted can opt for this permit.
About Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a guarded area in Bhutan that is located in Trashigang District, the Easternmost part of the country. It was launched in 2003 and has an area of around 740 square kilometers. This sanctuary of Bhutan has a wide variety of flora and fauna. But the thing which makes it more appealing is the belief that it is home to mythical Yeti. You can enjoy various kinds of activities, including trekking, camping, and bird watching. Moreover, this sanctuary is dotted with several villages, such as Merak and Sakteng. By visiting these villages, you will get insight into the traditional culture of the Brokpa people. Apart from it, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Things To do connects you with nature, thrill, history, and culture. However, it is advised to cross check Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Weather condition before going there.
Camping
This sanctuary has various camping sites that you can choose for your camping experience. Moreover, you can enjoy the overnight stay by taking an overnight permit. It is a thrilling way to feel the peace and wilderness.
Bird Watching
This sanctuary offers you an excellent opportunity to enjoy bird watching as it is home to around 200 species of birds. The most famous species of birds in this sanctuary are the blood pheasant, black-rumped magpie, and the rufous-vented tit.
Trekking
Trekking is one of the major elements to attract tourists. The unique landscapes have an impressive range from easy to challenging trekking trails. However, some regions are prohibited for safety reasons as the areas are inhabited by nomadic tribes, which are considered not friendly.
Wildlife Spotting
Majestic animals roam freely in the daytime, and spotting various animals here is relatively easy. Additionally, you can shoot short videos and capture the snow leopards here. But make sure not to get close or disturb the sanctuary's animals. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary animals give you a better outcome in the ecosystem.
Interesting Facts about Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sakteng Sanctuary was established to protect the endangered Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and Himalayan Serow.
- You can find various reptile species in Sakteng Sanctuary, including the common Krait, rock python, and King Cobra.
- The sanctuary has an elevation of 1,500 m to 4,500 m above sea level.
- The terrain of Sakteng Sanctuary is blessed with alpine meadows, temperate forests, and subtropical forests.
- This sanctuary has a wide variety of flora, including the blue poppy, eastern blue pine, and Bhutan's national flower.
