Weather and When to go to Bhutan | Experience Travel Group

Bhutan has four distinct seasons, with the pleasantly temperate spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) being the most popular times to visit. While the winters do get icy cold, and summers can be wet (the annual monsoon tends to hit between June and August), we would argue that there is no definitive "best" time to go to Bhutan; each season offers something distinctly special, especially as you travel from region to region.

What's more, Bhutan is rollercoaster of mountains and valleys, ranging from 200 to an impressive 7,000 metres above sea level. So, unsurprisingly, the weather varies dramatically depending on the altitude: in essence, the higher you go, the cooler it gets, though the populous central region has a relatively stable climate year-round. Here is our breakdown of seasonal weather in Bhutan - please do get in touch for personalised advice relating to your own trip.

When to visit (Quick Summary)

Best Time

Late Sept/Oct to November
March and May

Monsoon Time

May to mid Sept

Rhododendron Season

March to May

Festivals

All year round although most popular ones in October (main towns/cities)

January - February

This is the coldest time to visit Bhutan, with temperatures across the country frequently dipping below zero. Anywhere above 3,000 metres is likely to see substantial snow and strong winds, making trekking in the highlands untenable. Occasionally, remote regions may be cut off due to extreme conditions. However, the central and southern region will be warmer and still accessible for hiking.

March - April

Widely considered one of the best times to travel, spring sees pleasant temperatures and mostly clear skies, which means the incredible landscapes are at their best. Rainfall and humidity are low at this time. This is also the famous rhododendron season and it is a great time to go trekking.

May - June

Bhutan's long summer begins at the start of May and sees increased humidity and rainfall. But before the arrival of the monsoon in late June, this can still be a good time to visit, with warmer temperatures throughout the country and shoulder-season rates.

July - August

July is the warmest month in Bhutan, with temperates in the east reaching up to 31.5°C. The Indian monsoon is generally in full swing by this time, with rainfall at its peak. While trekking conditions are not ideal, you could still do some sightseeing and pamper yourself in a spa (and certainly snap up some excellent hotel deals).

September - October

Autumn comes in late September and sees the start of another peak season, with October being the most popular month to travel. The weather tends to be bright and crisp at this time of year so you can expect spectacular views and great trekking conditions. Temperatures reach around 25°C, but it gets cooler in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

November - December

Winter begins and temperatures will start to dip again, especially in Paro. November is the best time to see the famous black-necked crane - an excellent reason to visit, but be sure to book well in advance. Despite the crisp temperature, we think early December can be an excellent time to visit: skies are mostly clear and blue, trekking conditions are fantastic and you can take advantage of low season rates too.

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