Dochula Pass
Bhutan is a year-round travel destination with a unique climate determined by its varying altitudes. The mild and humid weather makes every season perfect for travel and trekking. There is no single “right” season to visit, as Bhutan’s warm and temperate climate, endless festivals, and rich cultural heritage sites offer a diverse range of experiences throughout the year across the country.
Bhutan has all four seasons and the climate varies widely depending on the altitude.
Mask Dancers at the Tsechu
Spring (March, April & May) is considered the most beautiful time of the year, resplendent and ablaze with a spectacular array of bright colors. This is the time when the valleys are green with fresh vegetation and fruit trees are blossoming – the time when locals are naturally mirthful and cheery; when visitors can witness the most pleasant atmosphere of the year’s fresh start. Experience the famous Paro tshechu festival held in Paro Dzong to celebrate the birth anniversary of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche).
Autumn (September, October & November) is lovely with clear and crisp blue skies, providing a grand view of some of the tallest unclimbed mountains in the world. It is the best time for trekking and traveling. The climate is cool and temperate while you can get lovely photography opportunities of willows shedding their golden brown leaves, the solitude of parks and somber views of dzongs and monasteries.
Paro Valley in Autumn
Lake Tshophu
Monsoon (June, July & August) In Bhutan, the Monsoon is the month of mild rainfall that offers the perfect opportunity to explore cultural and historical sites via road, as the weather is warm and the skies are a beautiful sapphire blue. While this season may not be ideal for trekking, those with a spirit of adventure can still enjoy short hikes with the aid of an umbrella or raincoat. Additionally, Bhutan hosts several festivals throughout the country, so during the monsoon season, such as the Haa Summer Festival and Bumthang Summer Festival are held.
Winter (December, January & February) is sunny, cool and agreeable to say the least. Much of the east-west highway remains snowbound during winter.
Winter in Bhutan is easily bearable, with average temperatures ranging from -4 to 12 degrees. December and November are the best times to visit the Western and Eastern districts because it’s the time when Bhutan welcomes several festivals, such as the Dochula Festival held every 13th of December allowing travelers to get a glimpse of the Bhutanese way of life as well as enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest mountain peak, Gangkar Puensum. Moreover, during Winter the graceful Black-Necked Cranes come to roost at the plains of Phobjikha and Trashigang from the Tibetan plateau.
Black Necked Cranes at Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)
High Season (March, April, May, September, October & November).
Mid Season (December, January & February).
Low Season (June, July & August).
