Bhutan: when to go?
subtropical montagnard climate
Bhutan offers a subtropical mountain climate marked by three distinct seasons. From March to May, spring reveals mild temperatures and spectacular rhododendron blooms, an ideal period for trekking. Summer (June-August) brings the Himalayan monsoon with intense rainfall that makes trails slippery but beautifully verdant the valleys. Autumn (September-November) is the most sought-after season with crystalline skies offering breathtaking views of Everest and the Himalayan peaks, pleasant daytime temperatures and a dry atmosphere perfect for photography. Rigorous winter (December-February) transforms the country into a frozen kingdom where only the lower valleys remain accessible. For a first discovery of Bhutan, prioritize October-November when mountain visibility is exceptional and trekking conditions are optimal.
- Best period
- March to May, September to November
- Good alternatives
- none
- Rainy season
- December to February, June to August
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Bhutan
IdealBhutan features a subtropical mountain climate influenced by altitude, ranging from 200m to over 7,000m. The central val...
Vallée de Paro
IdealThimphu, capitale royale
IdealPunakha et vallées centrales
IdealBumthang, cœur spirituel
IdealGangtey et hauts plateaux
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
-10° — 17°C
Precipitation
17 mm
Average temperature
0.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Frequent below-freezing temperatures. Only the lower valleys remain accessible.
Temperature
-8° — 19°C
Precipitation
28 mm
Average temperature
1.3°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Still cold but slight improvement. Early flowering beginning in sheltered valleys.
Temperature
-4° — 23°C
Precipitation
47 mm
Average temperature
2.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Pleasant daytime temperatures. First rhododendrons blooming in the forests.
Temperature
0° — 26°C
Precipitation
87 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Rhododendron season in full bloom. Perfect conditions for trekking.
Temperature
5° — 29°C
Precipitation
141 mm
Average temperature
3.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Hot temperatures, pre-monsoon. Last favorable period before summer rains.
Temperature
9° — 30°C
Precipitation
268 mm
Average temperature
3.4°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Frequent and intense rainfall. Slippery trails and mountain views often obscured.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
355 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Peak monsoon season. Frequent road closures, leeches in forests.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
333 mm
Average temperature
3.4°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Heavy rainfall. Lush vegetation but difficult access in mountainous areas.
Temperature
7° — 28°C
Precipitation
182 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Return of fine weather. Clear air and first unobstructed views of the Himalaya.
Temperature
1° — 25°C
Precipitation
54 mm
Average temperature
2.6°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Exceptional visibility of Everest and the Himalayas. Perfect trekking conditions.
Temperature
-5° — 21°C
Precipitation
12 mm
Average temperature
1.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Crystal-clear skies and dry air. Last period before winter cold sets in.
Temperature
-9° — 18°C
Precipitation
9 mm
Average temperature
1.2°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Cold temperatures but clear skies. Frequent frost in the early morning.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Bhutan
The best months to visit Bhutan are March, April, May, September, October, November. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The subtropical climate of Bhutan alternates between dry and wet seasons, with consistently warm temperatures (average 12.5°C). Variations are more pronounced than in a classic tropical climate: winters can be cool depending on the region.
The wet season in Bhutan covers June, July, August, December, January, February, with frequent rainfall. Nature is lush but some itineraries may be affected. The dry season (March, April, May, September, October, November) is preferred.
If Bhutan is located in a typhoon zone, these phenomena generally occur in late summer and autumn. Our local agency monitors weather in real time and adapts itineraries as needed.
The driest months (March, April, May, September, October, November) offer the best conditions for cultural site visits and urban exploration. Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and often clear skies for photography.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Bhutan, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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