Best time to visit Bhutan; A 4-Seasonal Travel Guide 2024

Before knowing the best time to visit Bhutan, let’s know a bit about the country

Bhutan or Druk Yul (Land of the Thunder Dragon) is said to be a trekker’s paradise, a land known for some of the world’s famous monasteries and rich cultural heritage. 

Huddled in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a carbon-negative country, almost 70% of the land is covered with lush green forests, which means, the carbon dioxide absorption is greater than emission. 

Imagine going on a drive, meandering through the ranges of Bhutan, fresh air bursting with aromas of nature, filling your senses- Therapeutic! Isn’t it? 

Being a landlocked country, surrounded by India and China, Bhutan has many faces and flavors, explore some of the best Indian restaurants in Bhutan for authentic Bhutanese cuisine. 

If you want to explore the whole of Bhutan’s beauty, you need at least 10 days to experience the magic of the land of the thunder dragon. 

When is the Best time to visit Bhutan?

Needless to say, the best time to visit Bhutan is when you want to experience nature in its full bloom. But when is the best time to visit Bhutan from India? December-February, March-May, June-August, or September-November, or which are the best seasons to visit Bhutan? Let’s find out. 

Winter

December marks the advent of winter in Bhutan, therefore the temperature remains from 8 to 15 degrees during the daytime and falls lower in the night. The climate is pleasant with no fear of snowfall or slippery pathways. 

Therefore, even winter can be considered as one of the best seasons to visit Bhutan, because of the perfect climatic conditions and many other factors:

Lower costs

Less crowded

As a result, Bhutan is comparatively less crowded during winter, leaving ample room for winter-loving tourists to enjoy their stay. 

Winter can be the best time to visit Bhutan for a honeymoon, for all winter lovers, as the weather is perfect for a romantic getaway, and good accommodations are easily available at reasonable prices. 

Special winter events

Amazing things to do in Bhutan in winter

1. The Annual Black-necked Crane Festival

The black-necked cranes are considered sacred heavenly birds. Therefore, this festival holds great importance for the locals and tourists. Winer is the best time to travel in Bhutan for all the chilly weather fans.

Several cultural programs like folk songs, mask dances, and folk dances are performed by the local people, children, and monks. The main attraction of the festival is the regionally choreographed crane dance performed by local school children.

2. The National Day of Bhutan

The National Day of the Kingdom of Bhutan is the most important event in the country. It is celebrated every year with utmost zeal and enthusiasm. The event is attended by the royal family of Bhutan as well as VVIP dignitaries and delegates from all over the world.

The capital city of Thimphu is flooded with locals to attend the national day ceremonies, cultural dances, and public addresses. Witnessing this event is a unique experience for tourists. 

If you want to witness the royal family and experience regal splendor then the best time to visit Bhutan is December.

3. Gangtey Monastery

A drive to this monastery or a trek on the Gangtey Nature trail in the mild winter season gives captivating scenic views of the enormous Black Mountains and the U-shaped Phobjikha Valley. Being the winter home of the black-necked crane, the Phobjikha Valley is more than just a pilgrimage destination. 

4. Royal Manas National Park

5. Buddha Dordenma

The most fascinating part about this site is, that the huge Buddha statue houses around 100,000 small, 8-inch Buddha idols inside of it.

It is difficult to claim that only one particular season is the best time to visit Bhutan, majorly due to its subtropical climate, which ensures that every season has some precious gems hidden in Bhutan hill station.

Spring

Costly

Tourist Influx

Exploring the enchanting Bhutan in spring

1. Bumthang Valley

Taste the Red Panda Wheat Beer from the only brewery in Bhutan, set up at Jakar,  the main town in the Bumthang Valley. 

2. Paro Tshechu

During the Tschechu, the town looks like a bejeweled princess, fully decked up in the best of her attire. Men, women, children, and monks are dressed in the best of clothes and the town is filled with vibrant music, dances, and songs. 

The celebration is a feast for the eyes and a spiritually exhilarating experience. This is also the best time to visit Paro, Bhutan, as you can witness the mesmerizing Tschechu.

3. Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The best time to visit Paro, Bhutan is in the spring season as the weather is clear and you can easily witness some of the magnificent scenic views. As it is a 5 to 6-hour hike, it can be slightly challenging for beginners, but there is an option to take a snack break at the well-known Takstang Cafeteria. 

If it gets too difficult, one can even hire a horse on the way. But this hike will be worth it! 

4. Rhododendron Festival

The festival is held at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Lampelri, and the aim of holding such biological festivals is to spread awareness and sensitivity towards the natural environment and biodiversity of the nation. Out of 46, around 40 species are said to be present in the park.

5. Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek

This 20-day hike can be intimidating, but once you set out on this trail, you’ll witness valleys filled with wildflowers, and lush green pathways, and the beautiful scents of the jungle will fill you with joy. 

For seasoned and professional hikers, the best time to visit Bhutan would be when they can finally conquer this trail. 

Summer- Autumn

The trekking pathways are slippery and can be dangerous. But there are several other things to do and places to explore in Bhutan in June.

On the other hand, the Autumn season is considered the best time to travel in Bhutan. As the weather is moderate, the skies are clear, and several migrating bird species can be witnessed. If you want a calming and serene experience, then autumn is the most suitable time to visit Bhutan. 

Things to consider

Changing colors of Bhutan in Summer-Autumn

1. Thimphu, the capital of the Kingdom

Some of the major attractions of Thimphu are Simtokha Dzong, Motithang Takin Reserve, Dochula Pass, Shopping at Weekend Markets, and Simply Bhutan a Living Museum. Even the winter season can be considered the best time to visit Thimphu, Bhutan, as most of the activities can be enjoyed even during winter.

2. Haa Valley

While crossing the valley, one can visit some of the major attractions like the Chele-La Pass, Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, Gyechu Lakhang/Chundu Lhakang, and much more. 

Autumn is also the best time to visit Bhutan for a honeymoon, and Haa Valley can prove to be the perfect romantic excursion spot. 

3. White Water Rafting 

Though, rafting can be undertaken, throughout the year, the full doubles if done in autumn which is the best time to visit Bhutan, given the weather conditions. Mo Chuu, Paro Chuu, Pho Chuu, Mangde Chuu, Kuri Chuu, and many other river treks are organized by trained agencies.  

4. Paragliding

Witness the exhilarating picturesque sights, spectacular peaks, and crystal-clear rivers meandering through the mountains from up above the sky. 

Autumn is the best time to travel in Bhutan for adventure sports like paragliding in Bhutan as the winds are calm and temperatures moderate. 

Some of the best places for paragliding in Bhutan are Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. 

5. Mountain Biking

Many monasteries can be visited by mountain biking, adding a cultural charm to the exciting expedition.