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When Is The Best Time To Visit Bhutan? Your Month-by-Month Guide To Visiting Bhutan
So you want to book a dream trip – but when’s the best time to go to Bhutan? Knowing what the weather’s likely to get up to and when you’d bump into the most tourists can make a big difference to the time of year you decide to go.
So in this detailed guide, we’ll chat you through the best time to visit Bhutan, analysing each month’s unique offerings.
Enjoy!
Bhutan In January: A Wintry Retreat
Let’s not beat around the bush here, January marks the coldest month in Bhutan. But if you like to wrap up warm, this could be the month for you!
Though the temperature hovers around the freezing point, visitors seeking peace and tranquillity actually find January a really ideal time. Photography enthusiasts will find snow-dusted landscapes captivating; just don’t forget your thermals…
What’s Bhutan Like In February? The Start Of Spring Blooms…
Depending on where in Bhutan you are, February brings slightly warmer temperatures with the arrival of the first spring blooms. In lower regions like Thimphu and Paro, daytime temperatures range between 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Higher elevations in the northern parts of Bhutan can experience much colder conditions, often still well below freezing.
Then you’ve got Punakha Dromche, a colourful, spiritual festival, honouring an ancient victory over Tibetan invaders. It’s a must-see for cultural enthusiasts, but it does mean you’ll bump into a few other tourists.
Visiting Bhutan in March: An Ode To Spring!
March is one of the best months to visit Bhutan. Daytime temperatures warm up, typically ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F).
Meanwhile nature treats you to a colourful spectacle as rhododendrons, magnolias, and a sea of wildflowers burst into bloom. ADon’t miss the colourful Paro Tshechu festival too – a unique embodiment of Bhutanese culture and history!
Bhutan in April: Celebrating Nature’s Grandeur
April continues the springtime bloom, painting landscapes in vibrant hues. It’s the perfect time for trekking and bird watching with clear skies and moderate daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Higher elevations are still cooler, but you’re way less likely to see any snow now.
April’s a great opportunity for exploring Bhutan’s incredible flora and fauna too. The Rhododendron Festival in Lamperi Botanical Garden offers an immersive natural experience.
Bhutan in May: Warming Up
Hello, hiking weather! In May, Bhutan gets balmier, with warm spring weather hitting the climes – perfect for trekking. Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 26°C, and the wildflowers are in full bloom too, making it an ideal time for botanists and nature lovers. Lush, green and warm; man, it’s just gorgeous.
The Domkhar Tshechu festival in May is a cultural highlight, featuring traditional masked dances and spiritual rituals. Lots of fun!
Bhutan in June: Don’t Forget Your Umbrella
June ushers in the monsoon season, characterised by intermittent rains that enhance Bhutan’s green landscapes. Great for the grass, but… not so great for trekking.
The weather becomes warmer and more humid, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), and nighttime temperatures around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). The rainfall can muddy up the trails and make trekking more challenging.
Although June sees more frequent rain showers, especially in the afternoons and evenings, the mornings can still be clear and really lovely. The lush greenery and blooming flora make the landscape super vibrant too! And the Nimalung Tshechu festival in Bumthang is definitely worth witnessing for those who don’t mind occasional rainfall.
Visiting Bhutan in July: Now THAT’s A Monsoon.
In July, Bhutan is in the peak of its monsoon season, with warm and humid weather accompanied by frequent rain showers. How do you like getting wet?!
In lower regions like Thimphu and Paro, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), while nighttime temperatures remain between 15°C and 18°C (59°F to 64°F). The landscapes are lush but cloud cover and fog can mess up your trekking plans.
Still, July’s ideal for travellers who prefer quieter experiences and want a piece of Bhutan’s surreal beauty. Bit less suited for outdoor activities though.
What’s Bhutan Like In August? Yep, Still Wet.
Yep, it’s still raining.
August is perfect for indoor activities like visiting monasteries and museums. Plus you’ve got the Festival of Mountain Echoes, a literary festival, featuring writers, thinkers, and creative minds from all around the world.
Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures stay around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). Rain showers are frequent, especially in the afternoons and evenings, and can be heavy at times, so make sure you’re dressed for the wet!
The wet conditions can make trekking and outdoor activities challenging thanks to mud, fog and cloud cover. August’s ideal for anyone seeking Bhutan’s rich greenery though, and a quiet atmosphere too!
Bhutan in September: The Arrival Of Autumn!
In September, Bhutan finally begins to transition out of the monsoon season, with decreasing rainfall and more stable weather. Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures cool down to around 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F).
While early September can still see some rain, especially in the afternoons, by mid-month, the skies tend to clear, so it’s a great time for trekking and outdoor activities. The landscape remains lush and green from the monsoon, and the milder temperatures, combined with fewer rain showers, create an ideal environment for exploring Bhutan’s natural and cultural sites. That’s why we love it!
What’s The Weather Like In Bhutan In October?
October is arguably the best time to visit Bhutan, boasting mild temperatures and clear skies. The Thimphu Tshechu festival is a major tourist attraction in October, celebrating Bhutanese culture, spirituality, and traditions through, shall we say, “intriguing” performances. You’ll love it.
We love Bhutan in October as the monsoon season has ended, and clear skies prevail. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), while nighttime temperatures cool down to between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F).
Unsurprisingly, October is one of the most popular times to visit Bhutan. With that comfortable, dry weather and stunning scenery, plus landscapes still lush from the rains and the autumn colours starting to emerge – you’ve got a delicious travel recipe. It’s an ideal time for trekking, cultural festivals, and exploring Bhutan’s natural beauty.
Why Visit Bhutan In November?
In November, Bhutan experiences cooler temperatures as winter draws in. Daytime temperatures tend to range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F).
November’s generally dry with clear skies, making it a great time for trekking and enjoying Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. The crisp air and beautiful autumn colours add to the charm, attracting many visitors who appreciate the serene atmosphere.
Bhutan In December: A Different Kinda Christmas
December’s the start of Bhutan’s winter, marked by clear skies, lower tourist crowds, and crisp mountain views.
Temperatures drop significantly, especially in the higher regions. In lower areas, daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while nighttime temperatures can fall to around -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F).
Although December is generally dry with clear skies, the cold can be quite biting, particularly in the evenings. Still, it’s a great month for travellers seeking a quieter experience, as fewer tourists visit during the winter, and it offers beautiful snow-capped landscapes in the northern regions.
White Christmas, anyone?!
So When IS The Best Time To Visit Bhutan?
For us, it’s got to be the shoulder seasons before and after the monsoons kick in. But for you? The best time to visit Bhutan truly depends on what you want from your adventure. Whether you’re drawn to festivals, tranquil landscapes, trekking, or exploring flora and fauna, Bhutan’s got something for everyone at any time of year, with unparalleled natural beauty and rich traditions.
Click HERE to find out when our next trips to Bhutan are taking place
And if you don’t book that adventure of a lifetime now… will you ever?
