Bhutan Climate & Weather

1. Southern Bhutan (Subtropical Zone)

• Climate: Warm and humid subtropical climate.
• Weather: The temperature remains relatively mild throughout the year, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Monsoon: Southern Bhutan experiences heavy monsoon rains from June to September, accounting for most of its annual rainfall.
• Best time to visit: November to March when the weather is cooler and there is less rain.

2. Central Bhutan (Temperate Zone)

• Climate: Temperate with warm summers and cool winters.
• Weather: In summer (June to August), temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while in winter (December to February), temperatures can drop to -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F).
• Monsoon: This region also experiences the monsoon from June to September, but rainfall is less intense than in the south.
• Best time to visit: March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and skies are clearer.

3. Northern Bhutan (Alpine and Subalpine Zone)

• Climate: Cold alpine climate with harsh winters and mild summers.
• Weather: Summers (June to August) are cool with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Winters (December to February) can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, sometimes as low as -10°C (14°F) or lower.
• Snowfall: The higher altitudes experience heavy snowfall during winter.
• Best time to visit: April to June and September to November for trekking and exploring the mountains, as these months offer clearer skies and more moderate temperatures.

Monsoon Season (June to September)

• Bhutan’s summer is dominated by the monsoon rains, particularly in the southern and central regions. The high rainfall can make travel difficult due to landslides and road closures, particularly in rural areas.

Winter Season (December to February)

• Winters are cold, especially in northern and higher regions, but the southern parts remain relatively warmer. Snowfall is common in the higher altitudes.

Spring (March to May)

• This is one of the most pleasant times to visit Bhutan. Temperatures are mild, and the valleys are in full bloom with rhododendrons and other wildflowers.

Autumn (September to November)

• The post-monsoon season is another excellent time to visit. The weather is clear, with warm days and cool nights. This is also a popular time for trekking in Bhutan’s mountainous regions.

Best time to visit Bhutan:

• Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons due to their mild temperatures, clear skies, and ideal conditions for sightseeing and trekking.