A mystery to most for centuries, Bhutan is unique in every way. Protected by the snow-laden Himalayas, the pint-sized kingdom is a country of rapturous vistas, spirituality and adventure – for those that wish to find it. Separated by nail-biting mountain passes, Bhutan’s main destinations are nestled in bucolic valleys, along with luxury lodges to carry out the R&R portion of your trip. When it comes to the best time to visit Bhutan, altitude plays a large role, as does your capacity for rainy conditions and whether festivals are on your list of ‘musts’. Read on for our season-by-season guide…
September to November
Being an alpine country with a myriad of hiking trails to explore, planning a visit to avoid the rain is often a top priority in Bhutan. Step in autumn, when vast blue skies graze the Himalayas and the mountain passes and hiking routes are at their best. October is an idyllic time to brave the trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which clutches the cliffside in Paro, and, if you’d like an action-packed trip, the river in Punakha will be freshly replenished and ready for rafting. And of course, we can’t forget the festivals. Bhutan’s famous Tsechus (Mask Dance Festivals) are held at various dzongs throughout the year, but late September/early October brings the vibrant Thimphu Tshechu and the fire dances of Bumthang’s Thangbi Mani. In November, the endangered black-necked cranes make their auspicious arrival into the Phobjikha Valley, signalling peace and fruitful harvests and remain until early February. Being the most temperate time to visit, autumn attracts the crowds (by Bhutan’s standards) so be sure to book flights and accommodation well in advance. Perhaps our Bhutan in Style trip can tempt you?
December to February
While the temperatures drop in the winter months, this has no effect on Bhutan’s striking scenery and the Himalayas are unobstructed by mist. A photographer’s nirvana, the towering peaks are laden with snow, which form a wonderful backdrop for pictures of vivid prayer flags and the ornate monasteries. However, road closures are common along mountain routes, and trekking may be off the cards in some regions, especially Bumthang. If you can brave the freeze, curling up with a book in front of a log fire for a few days is definitely appealing… Under a blanket of white, Gangtey is delightful and the black-necked cranes are a startling sight against the snow. Lower in the valleys, the weather is notably warmer and you’ll have the towns to yourself.
March to May
As the snow melts and spring arrives in Bhutan, the valleys and pastures burst with colourful blooms – the rhododendrons are spectacular! Hiking trails become easier to navigate, there is a flurry of birdlife and the scenery wouldn’t be out of place in a Monet painting. This is a fantastic time to peruse Thimphu’s historic buildings and try your hand (or arm) at archery, or to head to Gangtey; the twitchers will have gone, leaving its walking trails free to be explored. The Himalayas are often wrapped in clouds at this time of year, but fewer visitors and a decrease in prices could just convince you. In early April, the Paro Tsechu takes place and its extravaganza of dance and song is one of the most popular events on Bhutan’s calendar. On our Mountains and Valleys trip, you’ll visit magnificent dzongs and majestic Buddhas, travel the enthralling Dochula Pass, and enjoy a little adventure in Paro. Oh, and one final piece of advice: the temperatures at this time of year steadily rise, bringing the humidity with them, but remember to pack a few warm items for the chilly nights.
June to August
This is Asia and even Bhutan can’t escape the monsoon season, which coincides with the country’s highest humidity levels. Between June and August, around half a metre of rain falls in Thimphu and up to a metre in the eastern hill regions, while the Himalayas are coated in a layer of clouds. Bhutan’s northern regions do however receive lighter showers and some valleys remain pleasant and accessible. If this is your time of year to visit, why not head to Bumthang and hear the legend of the Burning Lake, or Punakha for misty rice paddies, tranquil walks and amazing architecture? Trekking is mostly out of the question, but instead get acquainted with Bhutan’s handicraft shops, monasteries and cuisine. Just remember to bring your raincoat and a pair of sturdy shoes!
