Horse Types & Rider Requirements
Ride Bhutan’s sturdy Yueta horses (12–15hh), well-suited for mountainous terrain. For multi-day treks, riders must be physically fit and capable of walking, trotting, and cantering. Riders should also be prepared to dismount and walk alongside their horses on steep or rocky sections. The maximum rider weight is 90 kg (198 lbs), and the minimum age is 12. Non-riders can hike while their luggage is transported by horse.
International Horse Trainers at Wind Horse Ranch
Since 2013, Wind Horse Ranch has welcomed two international trainers—one from Italy and another from California, USA. Their expertise played a crucial role in establishing our riding program by training local horse handlers, who have since continued to pass on their skills to a growing network of horse-keepers and riders across the region.
In July 2013, Krystal Kelly, an accomplished rider and trainer from California, spent a month with us in Bumthang. During her stay, she trained our staff, rode all our trails, and provided valuable guidance that helped shape the early foundation of our horseback riding program. Below is a short article she wrote about her experience in Bhutan.
Horseback Riding in Bhutan
(Not Just for Royalty Anymore)
By Krystal Kelly
I arrived in Bhutan during the monsoon season in July, expecting another typical international assignment. As someone who had already worked in six countries as a professional horse trainer and instructor, I thought I knew what to expect. I couldn’t have been more wrong—in the best way possible.
Even on the flight with DrukAir, I sensed something different. Out of the seven passengers onboard, I was the only American. Unlike in India, where my blonde hair and pale skin drew constant attention, the Bhutanese people greeted me with nothing but warm smiles and a sense of calm acceptance.
The architecture was stunning—timeless and traditional. The locals, proudly dressed in their national attire, walked through green valleys beneath towering Himalayan peaks. The landscapes were straight out of a storybook. It felt like I had traveled a thousand years back in time.
And yet, six months earlier, I hadn’t even heard of Bhutan.
The culture was rich, the monasteries awe-inspiring, and the natural scenery beyond words. But one thing stood out: horseback riding was practically nonexistent. I learned that, until recently, the only equestrian facilities belonged to the military and royalty. When I told locals what I did for a living, many were puzzled. “You ride horses?” they’d ask, unsure how such a career could exist.
I started riding at age nine, working odd jobs to afford lessons. By 15, I had saved enough to buy my own horse. At 21, I landed my first international job with a four-time Olympic rider in Belgium. Since then, I’d worked in Egypt, Romania, and India—each experience preparing me for this incredible opportunity to help launch Bhutan’s first public horse riding program.
“That’s right—I ride horses for a living,” I said. The Bhutanese girls were especially inspired. For them, horse riding had always seemed like a “man’s sport.” I explained, “Equestrianism is the only Olympic sport where men and women compete equally.” That simple truth seemed to light a spark.
Thanks to the kind invitation of Wind Horse Tours, I spent my days riding through Bumthang’s breathtaking trails, bonding with sturdy and spirited mountain ponies, and helping develop a riding program from the ground up. We had seven horses, six riders, two weeks—and one unforgettable journey.
I fell in love with the ponies, the landscape, the people, and the purpose behind it all. Riding in the Himalayas isn’t just magical—it’s transformative. You ride across rivers and meadows, visit ancient temples and museums, and connect with Bhutan in its purest form—on horseback, just like the country’s early pioneers.
Join Us – Volunteer with Wind Horse Ranch
We are currently seeking passionate, experienced horse trainers and ranchers to volunteer and help us grow horseback riding as a sport and recreational activity in Bhutan. If you’re eager to contribute to this emerging field and explore one of the world’s most unique destinations on horseback, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply or learn more, please contact us with your credentials and a short letter of interest.