Bhutan is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit can depend on several factors. Weather, costs, and other considerations could impact your travel dates to the country.
Weather
Spring (March to May) and Fall (late August to November) are ideal times to visit Bhutan, if weather is a priority. During these months, you can avoid the monsoons which can impact your tour, and day to day itinerary.
These months also offer specific landscapes. During the fall, towards the end of October, paddy fields across Bhutan turn yellow with farming activity at its height. Besides observing these changing landscapes, travelers can also choose to participate in farming activities, through a HomeStay.
Spring and Fall are also ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and camping.
The best time to visit Bhutan for those with specific health conditions is during these seasons, as temperatures remain relatively mild, especially in March and April. However, if you’re seeking a challenge or some adventure, there are trekking tours available year-round.
Cost
When visiting Bhutan, it is important to keep in mind the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) that tourists pay per day to the government. Currently, the SDF is USD $100, a reduction from USD $200. While the SDF remains unchanged throughout the year, hotels offer seasonal discounts during the months of December, January, February, June, July and August. If you are a hotel enthusiast, you could take advantage of this discount and book premium hotels for affordable rates. While all hotels in Bhutan are at least 3-star, services and food quality can vastly differ when compared to premium, luxury hotels.
Other Considerations
Additional elements to consider include holiday dates for guests, and other practical factors like convenience from work or holiday plans. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your trip at least six months in advance. That said, we have also accommodated guests who planned last-minute trips to Bhutan because they were in a neighboring country and decided that they wanted to visit Bhutan.
Book your trip to Bhutan today! Contact us at [email protected] or call +975 1711-2338 any time, anywhere!