Despite being the mountainous kingdom, many regions in Bhutan enjoy the warm sub-tropical climate. It is possible to venture into Bhutan sightseeing tour throughout the year. The country will never disappoint its host who ventures into its realm at any time of the year. Besides, the country maintains a busy calendar of Tshechus or Bhutan festival dates throughout the year, favoring you to plan Bhutan festival tours and cultural trips according to your preference. Bhutan is blessed with four major seasons, each of which has its own appeal presenting the excellent weather and climate. So, if you wish to relish the best tourist season in Bhutan here is the complete and comprehensive Bhutan peak season and off-season in Bhutan, month wise Bhutan travel guide, Bhutan weather, which helps you to plan the best season for Bhutan tour.
1. Spring Season in Bhutan:
Spring season they say is ‘the queen of seasons’ and unquestionably Bhutan offers the plethora of charm that will leave the visitors spell-bounded. Spring season is the best season to go to Bhutan if you’re fond of nature and wish to see the forests in full bloomed rhododendrons, primulas, and every kind of wildflowers.
Months: March, April, May
Recommended things/activities to do spring: Jhomolhari Trek and Drukpath Trek, hike and trek, Rhododendron festival of Bhutan
Festival in spring season in Bhutan: Gomkora Festival in Trashigang, Paro Tshechu in Paro (early April)
Places to visit in spring season in Bhutan: Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, and Bumthang
2. Summer Season in Bhutan:
Consider a visit to Bhutan in summer if you like to avoid higher prices and cold weather. Marvel at the breathtaking sights of the vast stretched valleys covered with terraced paddy fields gains the backdrop of azure sky.
Months: June, July, August
Recommended things/activities to do in summer: Attend Haa Festival in Haa Valley (avoid trekking, hiking, and outdoor activities to escape moisture and leeches)
Festival in summer season in Bhutan: Kurjey Tshechu in Bumthang, Nimalung Tshechu (June)
Places to visit in summer season in Bhutan: Bumthang, Thimphu, and Haa Valley
3. Autumn Season in Bhutan:
Autumn is the best season to travel to Bhutan when the heavy monsoon downpour recedes allowing the major festivals in Bhutan to take place without any inconvenience. Pack your bags for an incredible vacation in Bhutan with brighter days and milder climate with stunning views of the snow-decked peaks. Autumn is the best season to indulge in adventure activities in Bhutan.
Months: September, October, November
Recommended things/activities to do in autumn: Explore Sarpang and Samtse rice fields, Trek in Mount Jhomolhari, hike to Tiger’s Nest, Watch Takins (national animal of Bhutan at Motithang Takin Preserve), watch autumn complimenting gold and bronze of Buddha Dordenma.
Festival in autumn season in Bhutan: Black-Necked Crane Festival, Jakar, Jambay Lhakhang Drup & Prakar Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu
Places to visit in autumn season in Bhutan: Thimphu, Phobjika, Paro, Trongsa
4. Winter Season in Bhutan:
If you love seclusion then plan your trip to Bhutan in winter. Witness the sight of gleaming white snow-covered peaks and the clear Himalayan sky without paying an extra tariff. Winter is the best time to have a thorough insight into the mysterious country and its culture because Bhutan’s famous festivals are held during winters.
Months: December, January, February
Recommended things/activities to do in winter: Attend week-long Tshechus or festivals that are held for honoring the foundation of Bhutan in the 1600s, shop in weekend market, indulge in archery games, and mask dances
Festival in winter season in Bhutan: Punakha Dromche and Tshechu (February), Trongsa Tshechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival
Places to visit in winter season in Bhutan: Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Paro, Thimphu, and Phuentsholing
Each season presents the best of Bhutan sightseeing places and activities that include adventure trips, culture and pilgrimage trips, festival tours, etc. As far as the natural appeal is concerned, mountains covered with flowers will turn into pristine white in winter, and the lush greens of monsoon will turn grey in autumn. So, decide for yourself a season that best meets your quest, pack your bags, and embark on your incredible journey to the Dragon Kingdom.