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Thimphu, Bhutan

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Thimphu, Bhutan

October to December is the ideal time to visit Bhutan as the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies.

January and February are colder, but from then until April the climate remains dry and pleasant and in late spring the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly, flooding the valleys with colour.

Heat and humidity increase from May, and from June to September the monsoon rains cover the mountains. If you're interested in seeing the rare black-necked cranes, we recommend visiting the Phobjikha Valley between late October and mid-February.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Bhutan

Khamsum Yul-le Namgyel Chorten

Visiting Bhutan in December - February

From December to February Bhutan is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.

Rhododendrons in Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan in March - April

March and April are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Paro Tshechu, so book ahead to get the best accommodation and flights.

Events & Festivals

  • Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan's landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
  • Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
Punakha Dzong

Visiting Bhutan in May

Temperatures increase in May, bringing humidity as well as cloud over the mountains. However, fewer visitors and lower prices can make it a perfectly viable time to visit. The rhododendrons should also still be in bloom — ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

Events & Festivals

  • Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan's landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
King's Memorial Chorten, Thimphu, Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan in June - August

June to August (and sometimes into September) is monsoon season in Bhutan. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations, conditions aren't ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible — just be prepared with a raincoat! It’s also ideal for retreating to a spa. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours.

Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan in September

September, October and November are ideal for hiking, seeing festivals (particularly the popular Thimphu Tshechu) and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

Drukgyel Dzong, near Paro, Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan in October

The majority of travellers (around 80% of all international visitors) want to visit Bhutan in October, so plan well in advance to ensure you get your preferred accommodation and good value flights.

Events & Festivals

  • Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
Gangtey monastery, Phobjika Valley, Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan in November

Black-necked cranes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the protected Phobjikha Valley each year. They remain in the region from late October to early February. In Gangtey, a special festival is held every November to celebrate the arrival of the birds. Plan ahead if you want to be a part of it.

Events & Festivals

  • Black-necked crane festival (November): These endangered birds migrate to spend each winter in the Phobjikha Valley. The festival celebrating their arrival takes place in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa to promote their conservation.
  • Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.

Bhutan Climate Guide

Destination Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Bumthang 9°C 4mm 10°C 8mm 13°C 26mm 16°C 48mm 19°C 102mm 21°C 194mm 21°C 226mm 20°C 186mm 19°C 129mm 17°C 46mm 13°C 9mm 10°C 2mm
Jakar 10°C 5mm 12°C 10mm 14°C 32mm 17°C 59mm 20°C 129mm 21°C 244mm 21°C 271mm 21°C 219mm 20°C 155mm 18°C 57mm 14°C 10mm 11°C 3mm
Paro 10°C 11mm 11°C 24mm 14°C 50mm 17°C 87mm 19°C 145mm 20°C 262mm 21°C 316mm 20°C 250mm 20°C 192mm 18°C 71mm 14°C 14mm 11°C 4mm
Phobjikha Valley 8°C 5mm 9°C 12mm 12°C 30mm 15°C 56mm 17°C 102mm 19°C 186mm 19°C 220mm 19°C 181mm 18°C 128mm 15°C 51mm 12°C 9mm 9°C 3mm
Punakha 15°C 13mm 16°C 18mm 20°C 60mm 22°C 114mm 24°C 263mm 25°C 514mm 25°C 597mm 25°C 441mm 24°C 326mm 23°C 102mm 19°C 16mm 16°C 6mm
Thimphu 10°C 10mm 11°C 21mm 15°C 48mm 17°C 84mm 19°C 149mm 21°C 273mm 21°C 325mm 21°C 256mm 20°C 193mm 18°C 70mm 14°C 13mm 11°C 4mm

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Travel advice

Practical tips for travelling to Bhutan, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest FCDO travel advice.

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