Hiking during harvest season

There is something particularly beautiful about walking through Bhutan’s scenery in autumn. The air feels clear and light, the mountains stand sharply against the sky, and across the valleys, the landscape takes on the colours of harvest.

Fields are starting to turn golden, a sign of the seasons changing. This is a wonderful time to explore the country on foot.

When people hear ‘hiking in the Himalayas’, they often imagine long days at high altitude, steep mountain passes and trekking for experienced travellers. And whilst Bhutan does have challenging mountain journeys for those who seek them, this is only part of the reality.

You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to discover Bhutan on foot.

Throughout the country, there are walks and hikes for different levels of fitness and experience: some take only an hour, while others can become full-day adventures. 

Rural Bhutan has a particular rhythm in autumn. The rice fields, green all through the summer, begin turning into warm shades of gold. Farmers work in the fields, gathering and drying the harvest, while villages prepare for the months ahead. As you walk through these landscapes, you’re able to see these seasonal changes up close. Gentle walks can take you through pine and broadleaf forests, past traditional farmhouses and through rural landscapes. More energetic hikes climb higher into the hills, while experienced trekkers can choose longer and more demanding routes into the mountains.

However, remember that there is no particular virtue in pushing yourself beyond what you enjoy. A holiday in Bhutan shouldn’t be a test of endurance; just move your body, breathe mountain air, and spend a few hours a day somewhere beautiful, surrounded by nature.

Your guide can also bring another important aspect to the experience. What might first seem to be just a forest path can become a fascinating story about the landscape, local traditions, Buddhism, or the people who have lived there for generations.

Around the Sanctuary, several walks and hikes are available. Depending on your interests, experience and energy level you can decide how you would like to spend your time.  If you like to start with an easy walk, the hike to the Eutok Goenpa Monastery, which lies just under an hour’s walk away, allows for a relaxing stroll. Upon your return, we recommend a calming hot stone bath to soothe your body, mind and spirit. 

You don’t need to decide exactly how much you want to do before you arrive. Doing whatever feels right each day is a core part of the wellness experience at the Sanctuary.