Weather and Temperature in Major Cities of Bhutan

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Weather and Temperature in Major Cities of Bhutan

Bhutan’s diverse topography and altitude variations result in a wide range of weather conditions across the country. While the southern plains are subtropical, the central valleys experience a temperate climate, and the northern Himalayan region remains alpine and cold year-round. Here's a breakdown of the weather and average temperatures in Bhutan’s major cities and travel destinations:

1. Thimphu (2,334 meters / 7,655 feet)

Capital City | Central-Western Bhutan

Thimphu enjoys a mild temperate climate with distinct seasons.

Spring (Mar–May): Pleasant with blooming flowers, average temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C.
Summer/Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Warm and humid with occasional rain; 15°C to 27°C.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; 10°C to 22°C.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and dry, with occasional frost and snow; -2°C to 10°C.

Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn, especially during the Thimphu Tsechu festival in September/October.

2. Paro (2,200 meters / 7,218 feet)

Gateway to Bhutan | Paro International Airport

Paro has similar weather to Thimphu but can be slightly colder, especially at night.

Spring: Crisp and clear, 10°C to 20°C.
Summer: Lush green but humid; 15°C to 25°C.
Autumn: Ideal weather, 8°C to 20°C, great visibility for mountain views.
Winter: Cold mornings and nights, sometimes below freezing; -5°C to 10°C.

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November, especially during the Paro Tsechu.

3. Punakha (1,200 meters / 3,937 feet)

Former Capital | Warmer Valley in Central Bhutan

Thanks to its lower elevation, Punakha remains warmer year-round, making it a popular winter getaway for locals.

Spring: Warm and vibrant, 15°C to 28°C.
Summer: Humid with occasional heavy rainfall; 20°C to 32°C.
Autumn: Mild and dry; 14°C to 27°C.
Winter: Pleasant daytime temperatures; 5°C to 18°C.

Best time to visit: Winter and early spring for views of blooming jacaranda trees around Punakha Dzong.

4. Bumthang (2,600–3,000 meters / 8,530–9,842 feet)

Spiritual Heartland | Central Bhutan

Bumthang Valley, consisting of four major valleys, has a cooler climate year-round due to higher altitude.

Spring: Cool and dry; 5°C to 18°C.
Summer: Rainy but moderate; 12°C to 25°C.
Autumn: Fresh and cool; 8°C to 20°C.
Winter: Cold, with frequent frost and snow in higher areas; -5°C to 10°C.

Best time to visit: Autumn for clear skies and local Tsechus in Jakar and nearby monasteries.

5. Phuentsholing (300 meters / 984 feet)

Southern Bhutan | Border Town with India

Located on the border with India, Phuentsholing experiences a hot and humid subtropical climate.

Spring: Warm and humid; 20°C to 30°C.
Summer: Monsoon rains and high humidity; 25°C to 35°C.
Autumn: Slightly cooler but still humid; 22°C to 30°C.
Winter: Mild and dry; 15°C to 25°C.

Best time to visit: Winter and early spring to avoid high summer humidity and rainfall.

6. Trongsa (2,200 meters / 7,218 feet)

Historical Central Bhutan Town

Trongsa has a moderate mountain climate with pleasant summers and chilly winters.

Spring/Autumn: 10°C to 22°C
Summer: 15°C to 26°C, with light monsoon showers
Winter: 0°C to 12°C, sometimes lower at night

7. Haa Valley (2,700 meters / 8,858 feet)

Remote Western Valley

One of Bhutan's highest valleys, Haa is relatively cool throughout the year.

Spring: 5°C to 18°C
Summer: 10°C to 22°C, with rain
Autumn: 6°C to 20°C, clear skies
Winter: -6°C to 8°C, very cold and frosty

????️ Overall Weather Tips for Bhutan Travelers:

Layered clothing is essential due to changing temperatures between day and night.
Warm jackets, raincoats, and sun protection are recommended regardless of season.
The spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) seasons are ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and festivals.

Weather and Temperature in Major Cities of Bhutan

Travel Info