Best time to visit Bhutan

Bhutan is one of the most popular countries in Asia due to its varied culture, rich religious beliefs, and thrilling history. The country has many stories hidden behind its ever-marvelous beauty. Hundreds and thousands of visitors worldwide enjoy visiting Bhutan to escape their daily routines. The nation surely does not fail to give visitors the best possible experience. We can travel to this country throughout the year, but the Best time to visit Bhutan is in Autumn.

Nothing will leave you dissatisfied with your visit, from nature to the hospitality and the exceptionally alluring architectural masterpieces. Besides a few things that you do need to keep in mind before you visit Bhutan, a significant aspect to keep in mind is to find the best possible time of the year to go there.

Given the country’s nature, you may not face inconveniences regardless of which time you go there throughout the year. However, choosing the most favorable time will always help you get the most out of your trip. This article will discuss everything a traveler needs to know while deciding.

Make sure to read till the end for the Best time to visit Bhutan

Can you go to Bhutan at any time of the year?

Though you can travel to Bhutan any time throughout the year, you can always choose a peak season to get the most out of your trip. However, it is not a country that will push you into significant difficulties even when you go there in seasons with extreme weather conditions since it usually has a moderate temperature, meaning months are generally neither too hot nor too cold.

Different seasons in Bhutan

Before exploring the best time to visit Bhutan, you must introduce yourself to the many different seasons there. The country’s seasonal cycle is the same as any other Asian country. However, there might be a few exceptions that travelers need to take care of. That can be done when they learn in-depth about what happens during different seasons and what makes certain seasons preferable.

The following are different seasons in Bhutan:

Spring is the second Best time to visit Bhutan

Out of all the seasons, you get to experience in Bhutan, spring will fill your heart with joy since there are plenty of festivals you can enjoy and natural blooms that will freshen up your mind and heart in all the best ways. Your trip to the country is going to be exceptional through the following factors:

Natural blossom

Bhutan is one of the greenest places in Asia. While greenery is present throughout the year, spring is an exceptional season that brings color. During spring, natural blossoms bless the surroundings with much-appreciated aesthetics.

Festivals

Bhutan celebrates many spring festivals, some of the most popular ones being Paro Tshechu, Punakha Drubchen, Punakha Tsechu, Ura Yakchoe, Domkhar Tshechu, and Nimalung Tshechu.

Peak season for national park visits

Since Bhutan’s national park is famous for its flora and fauna, you will come across some unique plants, animals, and other species of flora and fauna when you go there in spring. Since it is a season of freshness, animals come out of hiding and hibernate while the flowers and plants are blossoming. This is why spring is a peak season for national park visits.

Photography heaven

Bhutan is heavenly in spring due to the aspects mentioned above. The sky is more apparent than at any other time of the year. Taking pictures can be a blessing when a few disturbances and external factors disturb a photographer’s experience.

Convenience in hiking

The trails in Bhutan are better during the spring season. There is no rain, excessive heat, or extreme cold during the time. Choosing the proper clothing for your journey is never a hassle, as you can wear whatever is light and easy for hikes. You also get to explore a maximum number of places during this season.

Mouthwatering seasonal cuisines

Visitors can devour the most unique food varieties during spring festivals. Many foods in Bhutan can only be enjoyed during this specific time.

Art exhibitions

Spring also invites several artists and artisans to come out with their creative shoes. Many events, such as art workshops and exhibitions, keep travelers engaged in the architecture, culture, and traditions of ancient times and those of modern-day creative locals.

Fall is the Best time to visit Bhutan.

After spring, fall is the most famous best time to visit Bhutan. The air is usually crisp and fresh during this time of the year. The temperature of the air, similarly, is not too chilly either. It would help if you did not face excessive heat as you do in summer or fall. The season is viral among visitors since the weather is moderate and sees no extremity. The following are the highlights of fall:

Changing colors of nature

In general, fall is a beautiful season. Visitors can experience a change in their surroundings as the colors fade from nature. This does not mean you won’t find beauty around you, though. Despite the fall of leaves from its branches, one can never hold oneself back from appreciating the aesthetic element the change of colors brings.

Harvest festival activities

Fall is the season when the Bhutanese people celebrate harvest festivals. During these festivities, they plant rice, grow local ingredients, and conduct farming rituals that have been practiced for several decades. As a visitor, one can indulge in different cuisines and local gatherings while also exploring the beauty of the somewhat eccentric celebrations.

Best outdoor adventure experience

You can have as many outdoor adventures during this season as you like. Unlike most other seasons in Bhutan, there is always more to explore during the fall without any environmental disturbances.

Best temperature and weather

Fall offers the best temperatures and weather to roam around various locations in Bhutan. The air is usually refreshing, and you won’t have to endure extreme weather conditions. Because of the bright days with no clouds, you can also enjoy the beauty of the surroundings despite the distance between you and what you’re looking at without an issue.

Summer and Monsoon

Both summer and monsoon come together in Bhutan. Therefore, you will find yourself in balance with chilly monsoon weather and heated summer days. Though monsoons come right after summer, summer and monsoon months are similar. Depending on the visitors’ preference, these seasons may or may not be favorable for visits to the country. The following are some of the key highlights of the seasons:

Widespread greenery

In Bhutan, during summer and monsoon season, you will encounter a wide variety of greenery, from trees to smaller plants, almost everywhere you go. Since monsoons water the plants in the country, the air is often fresher due to the increase in greenery and the growth of everything green in nature. This will keep you fresh during your visit there.

Unique cultural exploration

Though some may not always prefer visiting different temples and religious sites on a hot summer day, others may often consider doing the same on a bright sunny day. Likewise, during monsoon season, many might even enjoy the thrill of going from one site to another while it rains. Either way, you will have the opportunity to explore and experience sites uniquely during both seasons.

Better food

Several delightful food items are available in Bhutan during both summer and monsoon. Having food made from architectural masterpieces when it rains can be a beautiful experience. Similarly, the many cuisines local vendors serve during monsoon season are to die for.

Winter

Alluring mountain views

The views of the mountains in Bhutan are stunning during the wintertime. This season, snow covers the tops of the peaks, stunning any visitor with its beauty. Winter is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy the view of the mountains over every other aspect of the country.

Winter sports

If you love sports and were born with adventure pants, you cannot miss out on all the different winter sports. You will have the opportunity to discover and enjoy them during winter. These sports include ice skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, and snow trekking.

Natural springs exploration

Several hot springs in Bhutan can best be discovered during wintertime. This is the perfect season to relax your body while enjoying a perfect trip.

Wildlife Exploration

During winter, several animals come out of their hiding. These animals and living species are not likely to be seen at any other time of the year besides the coldest season. To explore such wildlife elements, you should visit Bhutan during winter.

Comforting food

The food that you find in Bhutan is somewhat comforting and hot. And, there is no better time to enjoy the fantastic and wide variety of spicy and warm cuisine than in winter. After all, food always tastes better in the right season and during the most suitable weather.

Activities to do during different times of the year in Bhutan

Different seasons hold different significance and specialties. Bhutan is one such place in the world that visiting at any time of the year will give you pleasure to a maximum level in almost every way you can think of. You can keep entertained during all these seasons by participating in different activities during your visit. There is no one activity to do during all the seasons. You have several activities to explore during a single season, some of which are as follows:

Spring activities

During springtime, you can go on hikes and explore various famous sites in Bhutan without worrying about bad weather, travel delays, or possible inconvenience due to external factors. This season is the best for anyone who only wants a peaceful outing with almost no difficulty. You can go to spring festivals that take place once every year. Roaming around nature does not only include going on intense hiking journeys but also walking around some natural yet accessible sites to see the blossom of the season.

Fall activities

During the fall, you can enjoy hiking and trekking even to the most challenging destinations. Trekking can be strenuous for travelers and visitors unfamiliar with extreme weather and trail conditions. But fall is one such season that favors beginner trekkers and hikers. The weather and temperature make outdoor activities enjoyable and more accessible. Since this season is also one for harvest in Bhutan, you can go to various harvest festivals celebrated with great joy in the country.

Summer and monsoon activities

Travelers often prefer going to Bhutan during summer and monsoon season because of the many festivals they enjoy as part of their journey. Moreover, you can visit lush vegetation in natural sites without failing to appreciate the fresh air due to rainfall. Activities like this one are all the more enjoyable for those who love the rain and the beauty it brings to the surroundings.

Winter activities

Winter is a typical season for visits by regular-natured visitors and adventure lovers. During this time of the year, there are plenty of activities, including indulging oneself in snow-related sports. You can also go sightseeing in high-altitude places without having to trek or hike to see the beauty of snow atop mountain peaks. There are just as many opportunities to explore culture during winter. So, going there during the season will take you on a thrilling journey in seasonal art and mastery of traditions.

Considerations to choose the best time to visit Bhutan

Suppose there is one thing every visitor needs to know before coming up with a decision of whether they should choose one season over the other for a visit to Bhutan. In that case, every traveler is different, and their visit should be planned according to their preferences. No one has the same preference, and the motives of every visitor differ. That said, the following are some considerations that you need to make before choosing the best time to visit Bhutan:

Weather and temperature

Weather and temperature in Bhutan change throughout the year due to the changing seasons. When you choose the best time to visit there, you need to remember your motive. For some visitors, going to a place like Bhutan may be to enjoy the views of mountains that shine brighter than ever with snow clad on it. Others may want to enjoy rainfall while they roam around major exploring sites. Likewise, some may also prefer to go there for a month, where they can make easy hikes to prominent locations.

Suppose you are going to engage yourself in different outdoor activities. In that case, you should least prefer a season that will keep you hot and heavy physically, like summer, and opt for other seasons, like winter, spring, and fall. There is always a different element to explore during each of the seasons, and it takes a person’s preference and goals to choose the time that has the best weather and temperature for them.

Trek/hikes

Trekkers should not think twice before choosing fall or spring as the best time to visit Bhutan. During spring and fall, you will experience the beauty of nature, the moderation of temperature in the air, and no clouds in the sky. It is neither too hot nor too cold in both seasons. Therefore, finding the right gear to take and the right pair of shoes and clothes to wear will not be an issue at all. Trekking activities always feel better when other fellow trekkers accompany you.

That can also happen during peak seasons like fall and spring when many trekkers worldwide visit. Networking with others will increase your chances of enjoying your trek.

The clear sky lets you view the stunning mountains and surroundings without disturbance. Unlike in other seasons, due to trail difficulties and bad weather conditions, you can also go to certain paths of specific destinations during spring and fall without any issues. Druk Path Trek and Tiger Nest Monastery Trek are two of the most popular treks you can make during the seasons.

Celebrations

Travelers can get more than they have signed up for with the many festivals the Bhutanese people spend. If you want to experience the authenticity of such celebrations, you can check the Bhutanese calendar. Doing this will help you spot the best times of the year when you can experience such festivals. Similarly, a brief research can also help you find out things about certain popular celebratory events, which will further help you find one that interests you the most. Planning a visit can happen accordingly.

Outdoor activities

Going outdoors for physical activities is possible when you visit Bhutan during spring and fall. Both seasons will keep you occupied since there is so much you can do outside your hotel room or a sheltered space when neither the weather nor an extreme temperature is the problem. One can always enjoy certain winter sports as well.

So, going there during this season, given your preference lies in sports that take place only during winter, can also be a good decision. If your choice of the season does not entirely facilitate your longing to explore outdoor activities, like summer and monsoon, it is best to avoid such seasons.

Wildlife adventure

Taking a round in the wildlife also requires making the perfect choice by selecting the best season. Flora and fauna in Bhutan flourish and are seen outside in the open for the visitor’s delight in spring and winter. However, you will not see the same animals and vegetation in both seasons. Spring may cater to certain species of flora and fauna, and winter may cater to others. Regardless of your chosen season, both seasons are popular among those looking for a wildlife adventure in Bhutan.

Peak season troubles

The visitors may often face issues while choosing the best season, as the ones with the most favorable conditions also have an equal crowd. Visitors almost always crowd Bhutan during spring and fall, the most preferred seasons. Travelers choose these seasons for their trip for many reasons, including pleasant weather, better views of nature, accessibility of almost every other location and festival, and ease in overall experience during touring sessions. One may, however, not be aware of the adamant crowd that emerges at almost every location you visit.

Excessive crowds during peak seasons may also cause issues finding the best hotels and flight availability. They might even lead you to sacrifice on a peaceful journey since you hear noise and crowds approaching no matter where you go. If you make bookings before starting your trip and are prepared beforehand, avoiding all the problems above is possible. But, if you would rather have a relaxed journey overall without making much effort, you can opt for seasons like summer, monsoon, and winter.

Location accessibility

It is not easy for visitors to get access to any location they want all around the year. One has to decide if one is interested in visiting certain places. Thinking through before coming up with the best season for your travel also includes selecting all the locations you may want to explore. Two seasons that make it impossible for visitors to go to specific destinations are monsoon and winter. During monsoon season, you will face lots of traffic on the road, and it may not be as simple to get through slippery roads. Conversely, winter limits visitors from going to high-altitude locations due to excessive snowfall and the likelihood of avalanches.

Religious sites visits

Visiting specific religious sites is enjoyable during certain seasons. Monsoon, spring, and even winter will give you the experience of a lifetime with Bhutan’s most important festivals. Some festivals and celebrations only occur once or a few times a year.

Likewise, a person’s preference for the weather conditions they prefer while making tours around different towns and cities also makes a difference in the long run. Some tour in the rain, while others prefer a brighter season. Considering their plans, it is to enjoy the trip to Bhutan to the fullest.

What should you pack during every season during your Bhutan visit?

Packing essentials for your trek is fundamental before you go to Bhutan. Choosing the right time of the year for you will eventually determine all you might need during the trek. Your needs for essentials may differ from season to season. What you will carry during winter may not be helpful during hotter months and vice versa. Therefore, you need to pack very carefully. The following are some of the things that you need to pack as per different seasons:

Clothing

If you travel to Bhutan during winter, you must pack warm clothes. Going on journeys at a higher altitude will demand better coverings for clothing choices, including down jackets, protective layers of thermal tops, and bottoms to wear inside rather than warm outer. Similarly, you need to avoid carrying too thin fabrics as the temperature in Bhutan is always colder during winter nights compared to most other parts of the world due to natural differences.

Fall requires wearing relatively warm clothes, but not as warm as the ones you wear during winter. You can also do well with the clothes you wear during springtime. Spring does not require too much fabric layering, either. Both fall and spring require wearing lightweight, functional, and comfortable since you will likely participate in more physical activities during both seasons.

Summer and monsoon will require light cotton shirts, shorts, and pants to keep you cool throughout your trip. Wearing excessive clothes and layering too much will cause discomfort regardless of how much it rains. You will be carrying the least amount of load during both summer and monsoon.

Footwear

No right pair of shoes will fit all year round when going to Bhutan. Summer and monsoon require lightweight footwear with fewer coverings, like slippers, sandals, and sneakers that are easy to walk around. Depending on a visitor’s preferences, the same may or may not apply during spring and fall. On the other hand, wearing such footwear during winter is nearly impossible because it will leave your feet frozen, though not literally, unless you go to high-altitude locations.

The winter season favors boots, sneakers, and warm socks. Carrying flip-flops may not be helpful since the temperature drop will also affect your feet. During this season, you can always rely on comfortable, warm shoes with fleece inside. This does not apply to any other season.

Undergarments

Though one may not put as much stress on the necessity of taking and wearing the right pair of undergarments, it is mandatory to choose the look and fabric of whatever you’re wearing inside your outer clothes. An excellent and breathable cotton underwear will keep you comfortable throughout the journey. Anything uncomfortable and crampy may lead to discomfort and a journey that is only half-fun.

From underwear to upperwear, your undergarment has much to do with your traveling experience. Be mindful about what you buy and which fabric you choose to purchase. Socks and gloves must also be purchased with much consideration. You should select thicker fabrics for socks and gloves during winter and thinner ones every other month. The latter can even be skipped during months besides the winter.

Hygiene items

Travelers must always take care of their hygiene when they travel to a place like Bhutan. Though the country is pretty developed, it is not always possible to find facilities for purchases everywhere they visit. Carrying items that serve you hygienically will likely keep your sanity throughout the journey.

Some of the items as such include hand sanitizer, essential skin care products like moisturizer, sunscreen, and body lotion, sanitary pads or period cups for women, genital wipes, microfiber towels, insect repellent, lip balm, deodorant, etc. Certain hygiene items tend to be used more during certain seasons, like lip balm and moisturizers during winter and insect repellent during summer and monsoon.

Headwears

Choosing the proper headwear during your journey to Bhutan is also very important. Sunhats and sun caps are a must during the summertime. On the contrary, you cannot carry the same headwear during winter as you will need other items like beanies and warmer caps to help you get through your trip.

Bottles and snacks

Not every traveler will visit rural places. However, those going on treks must carry their bottles and snacks. Hydration and a loaded stomach are necessary while going on complex trekking journeys. Similarly, one also needs to bring purifying tablets during an outdoor trip. Water bottles come in handy even when you are not on a hiking journey. It should be remembered that unless you are hiking, you should not take food or snacks to just about any place in Bhutan since many locations restrict them.

Umbrella and raincoat

Both umbrellas and raincoats come in handy when traveling during summer and monsoon. Other seasons don’t see as much sun or rain. Therefore, in exceptional journeys, carrying these items from home or buying them in Bhutan can be helpful.

Conclusion

Bhutan will give you many elements for exploration in all its seasons. And, though fall and spring are the most favorable seasons for travel to any place in Bhutan, including the most remote ones, it is totally up to a person’s preference and travel goals as to which season he considers the best for a visit. You can remember all the points mentioned in this article and make considerations accordingly to make the best out of your trip.