About Bhutan trips
There are many reasons to take a tour of Bhutan, including its rich culture, outdoor activities, and unique landmarks.
Culture
Bhutan is the world's last Buddhist kingdom, and its culture is deeply influenced by Vajrayana Buddhism. You can visit many Buddhist temples, stupas, and dzongs, including the Punakha Dzong monastic fortress.
Outdoor activities
Bhutan has many outdoor activities, including hiking and biking on its network of suspension bridges. You can also explore the Phobjikha Valley, which is home to endangered black-necked cranes in the winter..
Landmarks
Bhutan is home to many unique landmarks, including the Tiger's Nest Monastery, which clings to the side of a cliff at 3,000 meters above sea level. You can also visit the Dochula Pass, which has stupas and temples and is set against the backdrop of the Gangkar Puensum peak.
What is the weather like in Bhutan and when is the best time to visit?
Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied.
Bhutan's generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist's delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.
In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer.
In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes.
Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It's the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work.
From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan's national language).
Bhutan's generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist's delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.