Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Bhutan season by season: clear skies and festivals in spring and autumn, green monsoon summers and bright, cold winters.
The short answer
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular seasons, with the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and trekking and many of the largest festivals. Winter and summer are quieter, and each has its own rewards.
Spring: March to May
Warm days, cool nights and rhododendrons in bloom on the high passes. The Paro Tshechu is held in spring. Skies are often clear early in the season, with more haze and afternoon cloud by May.
Summer: June to August
The monsoon season. The valleys are green, the rice fields are growing and there are far fewer visitors. Expect rain, mostly in the afternoons and evenings, cloud on the mountains, and occasional road delays from landslides.
Autumn: September to November
After the monsoon the air clears, and autumn usually brings the best mountain views of the year. It is also festival season, including the Thimphu Tshechu. This is the busiest time to visit, so book early.
Winter: December to February
Dry, sunny days and cold nights, especially in the higher valleys. The black-necked cranes winter in Phobjikha and Bumdeling, and the lower valleys such as Punakha stay mild. High passes can see snow.
Festivals
If you would like to see a festival, plan your dates around it: see the festival calendar. Dates follow the lunar calendar and change every year.