• Last Updated on Nov 20, 2023

The best time for visiting Bhutan is in the spring and autumn seasons, when travelers experience the country's beauty at its best. At these times, the weather is pleasant and stable, with clear skies. However, when it comes to Bhutan, the situation is a bit more complex. 

Many travelers describe Bhutan as "the final earthly Shangri-la. Still, choosing the best time to visit this diverse country is not an easy task because of the different climates and landscapes that allow unlimited opportunities all year round.

As we said earlier, the best time to visit is Spring (March to May) orAutumn (September to November). In these seasons, you will experience a moderate climate with little rain, and landscapes become more beautiful than ever before. 

The Punakha Dzow, Takstag gompa, and the Tashi Chod down are usually crowded in spring and autumn. However, owing to tough visa restrictions, long queues are not a concern here. 

If you are visiting Bhutan for trekking activities, then it will depend on climatic conditions such as rains that are frequent in June or the length of days, which differ from those experienced during winter months. 

The prime trekking season is autumn, which comes in October-November. In these times, trekkers can find clear skies and magnificent views across the mountains and valleys. 

Similarly, the condition of these trails is much dryer than when it rains or during the rainy season.  The best thing about visiting autumn is you get to encounter and take part in several festivals in Central and Western parts of Bhutan.  Thus, this is an awesome chance for you to enjoy all aspects of Bhutanese society and make a long and high-altitude hike this season.

The other good trekking and touring season occurs in spring (from March to May). These are months when the forest is abuzz with life, flowers blossom on all trees, and animals abound in numbers. 

Moreover, this is the time when the rhododendrons bloom, and it is commonly referred to as "the rhododendron season." If you love winter tours and treks, then Short walking trails and tours are recommended in the winter months, which run from December up to February. 

The climate in the winter will be very cold, with temperatures dropping below zero during the day in the highlands of this area. Similarly, there might be snow on the tracks, so it is not advisable to trek at higher elevations.

From June to the middle of September, rains fall in lowlands, and uncertain conditions are experienced at high heights. Most of the travelers avoid this season for trekking purposes. However, the same unfavorable season can be appropriate for excursions to observe Bhutan's religious landmarks.

If this short introduction to the best time to visit Bhutan has piqued your interest, there is much more to this article below. 

Table of Contents

Understanding the Best Time to Visit Bhutan From Nepal

The mountainous kingdom of Bhutan should be visited in Autumn and spring. These are the preferred periods of tourist activity, including walking, traveling, or trekking adventures due to good weather.

Your trip begins in Nepal, which is just for some days, and then you proceed to Bhutan with our Bhutan Tour Package. As a result, you will have to choose the most convenient traveling time, when the sun shines with the pleasant warmth of nature, and one can see the mountains.

In addition, people who love adventure need to know the best season to go to Nepal or Bhutan. It is better to choose the appropriate time because it enables you to follow clear trails, observe mountain tops clearly, and enjoy normal temperatures. The following is a more elaborate description of Bhutan's appearance during the summer, Rainy, Autumn, spring, and winter seasons.

Autumn Season in Bhutan  (September, October, and November) 

Travelers love visiting Bhutan during autumn since it's great for trekking and sightseeing.  It is easier for people worldwide to adjust as their climate is moderate. The atmosphere is still fine, making traveling a pleasant experience alongside beautiful scenic sights.

However, autumn and spring are characterized by more or less uniform temperature fluctuations. Their temperatures cover a temperature range of approximately 9°C to about 23°C in the surroundings of the Himalayan Mountains. However, at the same time, their temperature is approximately 10 °C – 23°C in the plain lands.

The Autumn season in Bhutan is a hiker's definition of Heaven. This is due to its brilliant sky, which has a small touch of cool Himalayan air. At this time, it is a high season for tourism.

Some of the most amazing high-altitude trekking is open by AutumnTrekking above 4000 meters is quite a pleasant experience with clear sky and serene Himalayan conditions. This is when the enigmatic beauty of Bhutan presents itself from behind curtains of mist and clouds as it reveals majestic mountains and hills. The daytime temperature often varies between 29 °C and 0 °C and nighttime sometimes reaches as low as –10 °C or as high as 3 °C. 

Here is the Temperature you will likely experience at different popular places in Bhutan. 

Places 

September (°C)

October (°C)

November (°C)

Paro

23.5- 11.7

18.8- 7.5

14- 1.5

Bumthang

21.4- 12.1

2- 6

16.2- (-0.5)

Thimphu

23.1- 15.2

21.9- 10.4

18- 5

Trongsa

22.8- 14.2

21.8- 11.7

19.9- 6.5

Trashigang

29- 21.9

29- 17.7

6.7- 13.5

Average Rainfall

8 -155mm

8 -155mm

8 -155mm

Spring season in Bhutan (March, April, May)

Spring is the second best time to visit Bhutan. During this time, it is possible to have a stroll outdoors and enjoy the nice weather in the different regions of the country. Temperatures vary in altitude; taller areas are generally colder, while lower regions remain hotter. Nature's symphony of beauty and the season's charm work perfectly in the spring season here. 

The temperatures in the low valley and high plains of Bhutan during spring range from about 15 degrees Celsius minimum to about 25 degrees Celsius maximum. However, in the mountains, spring temperatures vary from 9 degrees Celsius ( 48 degrees Fahrenheit) on the cold side to 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) on the warm side.

In addition, spring is the best time of the year for trekking in this country. During this particular season in Bhutan, the flora and fauna bloom, hence trekking expeditions. You can experience nature while strolling and enjoying various trees in a verdant forest. March, April, and May offer ideal conditions for medium-high trekking because the weather is mostly sunny with fair skies.
 

Places 

March (°C)

April (°C)

May (°C)

Paro

4.6- 0.6

17.7- 4.6

23.6- 10.7

Bumthang

16.1- 3.5

18.9- 4

21.2- 9.5

Thimphu

16.7- 3.9

20- 7.2

22.5- 13.2

Trongsa

16.8- 4.4

20.1- 6.6

21- 16.6

Trashigang

24.9- 14.4

28.1- 17

29- 22.6

Average Rainfall

23-57mm

23-57mm

23-57mm

Winter Season in Bhutan (December, January, February)

Traveling in winter, however, comes with several issues. It becomes hard to travel around vast temperature drops at night compared to during the day. This being said, the temperature can reach about - 5 degrees Celcius (23 degrees Fahrenheit) and be between eleven and 15 degrees Celsius (51.8 – 59 Fahrenheit). Also, snow can make paths impassable, with attendant difficulties in a journey.

On the other hand, it gives a unique character to Bhutan because of the snowfall. This season comes alive at the time of the Punakha Dromche festival. It is a festival that marks a victory over the Tibetans in the 17th century. Individuals wear face masks and engage in different dances and songs while wearing the appropriate attire. 

The festival brings a unique experience of visiting it amidst the beautiful white snow. Winter does not have to be the best season for hiking, but it can allow people to make some short trips to the lowlands during the period. The winter in Bhutan is usually referred to as a season that occurs from December to February, and the daily temperatures are approximately ten to 5 degrees Celsius. For example, at night, in high elevations, night time may be -17⁰C.

There will be few people in a guesthouse or hotel and less crowded trails on trekking Bhutan in spring. This means a variety of rooms and accommodation from which you can choose. However, trails are less populated, hence enabling one to get away with the quietness around those hills and valleys.

Places 

December (°C)

January (°C)

February (°C)

Paro

11- (-1.7)

9.4- (-5.7)

13- 1.5

Bumthang

13- (-2.3)

11- (-5.3)

10.5- (-1.5)

Thimphu

14.3- (-1.1)

13.3- (-2.5)

14.4- 0.5

Trongsa

18.7- 2.5

13.5- 0

13.7- 0.5

Trashigang

23- 11.3

20.4- 1.7

21.8- 11.7

Average Rainfall

0 -21mm

0 -21mm

0 -21mm

Monsoon/ Summer Seasons (June, July, August)

 

Bhutan beckons travelers to experience a refreshing summer getaway. There are rumors about annual rain clouds interfering with hiking schedules; however, this is not true. 

While some countries experience a monsoon season that drenches them with non-stop rain, Bhutan enjoys gentle rains every few days. It's still nice and mild during this time of year without becoming too cold for tours. Temperatures usually are between 25-31°C (77F – 87.8 °C). Amazing sight comes alive as the landscape displays spectacular views of mountains, forest, flowers, and wide spaces.

Bhutan manages to remain peaceful despite being overrun by tourists. Summer, a good time for vacations, is an appropriate season for people who enjoy tranquillity outside crowds.  

Importantly, the Haa festival appears during this time of year. It is a celebration, a feast of Bhutan culture that has been gradually growing to become an event filled with excitement as people engage in dancing, singing, eating, drinking, and jolly-joking. Moreover, several sports, such as archery, darts, and horseback riding, contribute to the cheerful atmosphere. Tourists also have an opportunity through the Haa festival to experience the Bhutanese mode of living.

Monsoon is not the right period for hiking along the trails of Bhutan. Trekking in the Land of the Thunder Dragon, where one has to go through high mountain passes with unexpected weather, becomes further complicated during this period.  This period is characterized by a lot of rain that makes the atmosphere humid and leads to slippery roads. Therefore, it's not a facilitative season for the long hikes at the upper altitude.

Places 

June (°C)

July (°C)

August (°C)

Paro

25.5- 14.2

26.8- 15

25.3- 14.8

Bumthang

22.7- 35.5

24- 13.6

23.2- 13.8

Thimphu

24.5- 15.1

25.9- 15.6

25.1- 15.8

Trongsa

22.5- 13.7

25.7- 15.6

23.8- 15

Trashigang

30.5- 22.5

31.1- 23

30.1- 22.8

Average Rainfall

120-345mm

120-345mm

120-345mm

Best Time (Weather and Climate) To Visit Nepal

Just like Bhutan, Nepal has two seasons that define it as the best climatic conditions to visit. These seasons are Autumn and Spring, whose period is also similar to the two stated seasons for Bhutan. For an enjoyable travel experience, you must be certain of favorable weather when planning your vacation. In these autumn and spring seasons, one can escape the severe winter cold and heavy monsoon rains that would make exploring neighboring Himalayan countries impossible.

Spring (March to May) Time in Nepal

Nepal has good weather conditions in spring as it enjoys sunny days with no cloudy skies. Rhododendrons painted with vibrant colors and high mountains like the Manaslu circuit, Three-pass trek, Annapurna circuit, and famous vantage points like Kala Pattar and Gokyo Ri are worth visiting during this time. Similarly, choose secluded treks if you are looking for fewer crowds. During spring, Kathmandu Valley warms up and makes Thamel quite busy while it is warm weather. 

Autumn (September- November) Time in Nepal

The next best time to visit Nepal is during fall when the weather and temperature are mild. Similarly,y during this time, the atmosphere is always comfortable with clear skies. 

This season is also the peak season for trekking as it provides ideal conditions for trekking and traveling, like the spring season. Although the skies may be generally crispier in auAutumnthe number of tourists is very high, and you should think of much less crowded trails if you want a more peaceful experience. In general, traveling throughout the autumn months in Nepal is quite comfortable because there are cool temperatures throughout the hillsides.

Winter (December-February) Time in Nepal

In Nepal, winter is typically cool and dry, with occasional mountain snowfalls. The mountains are clearly visible due to the clear skies. This means visiting the country with fewer tourists, and therefore you will have all the views all to yourself.

The high regions and trekking paths above 4,000 meters, like high passes, become too cold. While the foothills below 4,000 meters provide moderate temperatures in the daytime. If you still want to hike, choose short trekking in Nepal, particularly in the lower Everest region, around Everest and Pokhara. Similarly, this unfavourite time for trekking becomes the best time for visiting Chitwan and Bardia National Parks, located within the lowlands experience. 

Summer (June-August) in Nepal

The summer weather in Nepal is characterized by hot and humid atmospheric conditions accompanied by constant rains. The monsoon and summer months occur at the same time, so from June – September, clouds often cause flight delays. Moreover, visibility may be damaged by landslides that could also block roads and railways. Additionally, leeches can be bothersome. Prefer trekking in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, such as the Upper Mustang, Nar-Phu, Upper Dolpo, and Limi Valley. Also, the more superior regions in the Everest area

Here is the table representing the minimum and maximum temperatures in Nepal for each month

Month

Avg. Daily Temperature

Avg. Nightly Temperature

January

17°C

2°C 

February

19°C

4°C

March

14°C

8°C

April

28°C

12°C

May

29°C

17°C 

June

27°C

18°C 

July

27°C

18°C 

August

27°C

18°C 

September

27°C

17°C

October

27°C

15°C

November

23°C

10°C 

December 

18°C

6°C

Best Time to Visit Bhutan From Nepal: Festivals

Festivals In The Spring Season

There are different colorful festivals held during one of the best times to visit Bhutan, springtime, honoring its ancient culture and traditions.

Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu in March: Pumukha Draubchen and Tchevu are among the major events the Bhutanese hold yearly in March. These festivals are a symbolic representation of the formation of the nation since the 16th century. This festival features two significant highlights:

During the celebrations, picturesque Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress, makes for a superb background.

The most important event included in this celebration is a dramatic re-creation of the battle of Bhutan with the Tibetan army, portraying the country's history with heroics.

Ura Yakchoe Festival in May: Another festival that occurs in the spring month is the Ura Yakchoe Festival, which is held in May. This festival is a great opportunity to see the famous Ura Yakchoe dance, attended by an exhibition of a venerated religious artifact.

Paro Tsechu in Early April): Paro Tsechu, held in April, is one of Bhutan's well-known festivals. However, it presents not only an opportunity for merrymaking but also the possibility of meeting Royalty. 

Festivals in The Autumn Season

Black-necked Crane Festival: The Black-necked Crane Festival is celebrated in November. The festival celebrated the arrival of the endangered black-necked cranes during their annual migration from late October to early November. This is one of the great opportunities to enjoy the Bhutanese traditions, religion, and culture. Similarly, the festival is held in the Gangtey Gonpa's courtyard and aims to promote the protection of these magnificent birds.

Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival: This is a 5-day festival celebrated during the last week of October or early November. This celebration festival serves a dual purpose: one paying to Guru Rinpoche and the other celebrating the establishment of Jambay Lhakhang in the 7th century. Bhutanese celebrate this festival with beautiful traditional and mask dances. During this time, travelers get to observe the mesmerizing fire ceremony (Mewang) and the religious dance 'Tercham too. 

Thimphu Tsechu and Wangdue Tsechu: Thimphu Tsechu is a grand festival held in the modern capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. Wangdue Tsechu coincides with Thimphu Tsechu, providing a unique opportunity in October to experience these two distinct tsechus during a single visit.

Festivals in the Winter Season

Trongsa Tshechu is an annual festival that gives the rare opportunity to experience the customs of Bhutan. The harsh climate discourages many visitors during winter. However, such a small number of attendees during the festivals makes it feel like an exclusive event.

A great thing about this festival is that the dancers wear colorful costumes and masks. Moreover, the sophisticatedly designed attires during the festivals further spice up the celebration through their beautiful artistry

Generally held in December or January, this Trongsa Tshechu is one of the grandest displays of Bhutan's culture. The attendants learn about ancestral traditions through this festival, with its dance rituals and religious rites. 

Nomad Festival: The other remarkable celebration is in Bumthaan, which takes place in late February. The special thing about this festival is that herders are from two northern frontiers in the eastern and western Himalayas.

These nomadic families celebrate their cultures together during this festive season. It turns into an amazing occasion to encounter if you plan your Bhutan visit in winter. 

Festivals In Summer/ Monsoon Season 

Kurjey Tshechu: This is the only festival during the summer season. Travelers can observe this festival in July at Kurjey Lhakhang of Bumthang Chokhor Valley. Locals revere the belief that Guru Rinpoche imprinted his presence on a rock within the temple, marking this place where Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan and where the great Guru meditated.

Amidst this same season, a few other lesser-known festivals come to life:

In July month, there is the Haa Summer Festival. This is celebrated in the high-altitude alpine forests, fields, and lakesides, representing the meaning of what being Bhutanese means. They celebrate this festival by offering local food, cultural practices, and sweets.

Another festival that may not be big but is very important is the Mushroom Festival. This festival is celebrated in the mid-August in Ura, Bumthan. 

Bhutan Tour From Nepal in Off-Season

The best time for a Bhutan Tour from Nepal is the peak seasons of spring and autumn, but if you have no time for your tour during the spring or autumn season, travelers can still find out the magic of these Himalayan countries in the off-season.

Most budget-season travelers generally prefer paying less during their trip. If you are interested in these types of budget travel, then do take advantage of cheaper fare, which covers meals and accommodation during your Bhutan tours. Most travel companies do not conduct off-season tours and treks in Bhutan. So, to attract travelers, they often provide free extras and complementary services to the guests throughout this period.

However, it is worth mentioning that traveling to Bhutan from Nepal may still entail some difficulties. It is a very hard season for crossing these inland states, with a monsoon period (June to August) and a winter season (December to February).

Spring and Autumn are usually agreeable weather, but the off-season months may not be too good on climate aspects. In winter months, the visitors experience very cold weather at these Himalayan frontiers. If you plan a tour or trek in a high-altitude area, it may not be a good idea as the average temperature will be less than zero in both countries. Still, if you are determined to trek and tour in the high-altitude areas in Bhutan and Nepal, then take the proper equipment and clothes to make the most out of your adventure. 

The same is not true regarding the so-called period of the monsoon season. The journey to Bhutan, especially in high-altitude areas, will be more difficult due to the sloppy roads. Similarly, there will be high chances of disaster risks of flooding and landslides due to the heavy rainfall. 

Monsoon season's heavy rains also affect transportation services. As a result, flights and road trips could be canceled. Therefore, it is always advisable to travel during the high season for a maximum experience that will remain in memory.

Accommodations During Best Time to Visit Bhutan From Nepal 

You can be sure about the variety of accommodation services, thus raising your chance of obtaining the most suitable rooms. 

During the best time to travel in Bhutan from Nepal, you will find lodges, guest houses, luxury resorts, and fancy hotels according to what you want.

You also might be lucky enough to fix a booking in hotels located in breathtaking areas among the scenic views of the Himalayan Mountains and attractive countryside settings.

Most of the locals in the accommodations business close their services except for the peak seasons. 

In the spring and autumn months, these accommodation providers welcome the guests and provide extra services to meet their increased demand during holiday times. 

Moreover, advanced bookings can earn you some extra facilities, particularly when the period is characterized by extremely bustling times.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan From Nepal: Foods

There are various reasons to consider visiting these magical Himalayan countries, i.e., Nepal and Bhutan. But one of them is eating exotic dishes prepared in local ways. Foodies will never be bored while visiting these Himalayan countries, so why can they try out the local dishes rich in taste and cultural significance? bedeis the local foods you can, as well as try out the continental savory dishes that have a touch of local flavor here. 

Match your traveling dates to peak seasons in Nepal and Bhutan, where fresh seasonal spices are abundant for a wilder yet fulfilling taste. Here are some must-try dishes while exploring these two remarkable countries:

Delicacies You Can't-Miss in Nepal:

Traditional Nepali food Called Dal Bhat consists of steamed rice with lentil soup, vegetables, and side dishes. Here are other Nepali cuisine to try: Chowmein/Thukpa, Momo/Dumplings, Dhindo tarkari, Chhoila, Yomari

Chatamari, Sel roti, Gundruk, Sukuti, Samosa, Pani puri, Fried rice, Kodo etc. 

Delicacies You Can't-Miss in Bhutan: are Ema Datshi, Khur le, Shamu, Datshi, Suja, Red rice, Kew Datshi, Goen Hogay, Hoentay, Juma, Jasha Maru, Lom, Khatem, Jaju etc. 

Best Bhutan Tour Packages From Nepal 

Here are our best Bhutan tour offers in peak and off seasons. Below. 

Nepal Bhutan 6 night 7 Days Tour

Our 6 night 7 days Bhutan tour package takes you to the best places of Bhutan, like the capital city, Thimphu; the main city, Para, where Para's uncommon international airport is situated together with famous Dzongs and breathtaking scenery. We shall also visit other renowned places in Thimphu, interact with the locals, and explore village life for a full understanding of Bhutan. This itinerary includes exploring Bhutan's wonderful landscapes, including green valleys, clean forests, and tall mountains. The trip to this secret Shigri La (meaning Heaven) will involve a week of touristic activities, mainly visits and culture-oriented excursions, that are certainly very interesting.

Bhutan Tour- Group Joining Tour

A 6-night, 7-day tour of Bhutan by joining our Bhutan tour is an opportunity to enjoy the greatness that lies in these two major towns/cities of Paro & Thimphu. The beautiful Dzong is in the city center, while Parro is the country's only international airport. On the other hand, we shall spend some time in Thimpu, where we can see its famous places of interest. For your one-week trip, we will take you beyond the tourist sites and offer you an authentic Bhutan adventure.

Final Say 

As we said, the best time to visit Bhutan from Nepal is spring and Autumn. Both trekking and tour activities are at their best during these seasons. However, if you cannot be there during the peak season or other times, you can go hiking or trekking in the lowly areas of the park during summer or winter. Either way, the Nepal-Bhutan tour is the best adventure for travelers. 

Many individuals are drawn to travel to Bhutan, an enchanting destination. The region has beautiful scenery, diverse cultures, and ways of living, among others. The environment will enchant your eyes, and culture will penetrate your soul.

It depends on your preference or your choice of when to visit Bhutan. As we have already said, it is possible to travel to Bhutan throughout all seasons of the year. There is some charm associated with each month as well as the season. For any inquiries on a visit, trekking, or tour in Bhutan and Nepal, don't hesitate to contact us. 

Dipak Pande

Dipak Pande

Dipak starts to step up from potter, guide, and trekking leader to the company owner. Sometimes he share his experience with others as well as wrote in local travel news. Most of time he spend his time on mountain and his company.