Bhutan travel guide
The Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Month by month: clear skies, rhododendrons, festivals, cranes and the quiet, cheap months in between.
Overview
What you should know
Bhutan works all year, but the valleys are very different from season to season. Spring and autumn are the classic windows; winter and summer have real advantages if you know what to expect.
Because we live here, we plan around the season rather than pretending every month is the same.
Spring, March to May
Rhododendrons and magnolias across the passes, mild days, and the Paro Tshechu festival. The best all-round window for walking and photography.
Summer monsoon, June to August
Green, lush and very quiet. Afternoon rain is common and mountain views are limited, but hotels are at their least busy and the valleys are beautiful. Good for Bumthang and for guests who want solitude.
Autumn, September to November
The clearest skies of the year, harvest colour in the fields, and the biggest festivals including Thimphu Tshechu. This is the busiest season, so book early.
Winter, December to February
Cold mornings, bright afternoons and the sharpest Himalayan views. Black-necked cranes are in Phobjikha, Punakha stays warm, and there are very few other visitors.
Quick facts
- Clearest mountains
- Late October to January
- Flowers
- March to May
- Biggest festivals
- September and October
- Quietest, best value
- June to August, December to February