Travel guide · Before you go
Bhutan Weather
Why temperatures vary so much from valley to valley, and what to expect in each region through the year.
Bhutan’s climate is shaped more by altitude than by latitude. Over a few hours’ drive you can travel from subtropical forest to alpine meadow.
The three zones
- Southern foothills (below 1,500 m) — hot and humid, with heavy monsoon rain. Phuentsholing and Samdrup Jongkhar sit here.
- Central valleys (1,500–3,000 m) — temperate, with distinct seasons. Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue and Bumthang are here, though Punakha is noticeably warmer.
- Northern highlands (above 3,000 m) — cold and alpine, with snow in winter. Trekking routes and high passes are here.
What to expect
| Region | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paro and Thimphu | Mild, some rain | Warm and wet | Clear and cool | Cold, dry, frosty |
| Punakha | Warm | Hot and humid | Warm and clear | Mild and sunny |
| Phobjikha and Bumthang | Cool | Cool and wet | Crisp | Very cold |
The practical advice
Pack layers. A warm fleece or down jacket is useful year-round, and a lightweight rain layer is wise in any season. Mornings are often clear and afternoons cloudier, so plan photography accordingly.
Common questions
How cold does it get?
It depends on altitude. Winter nights in Thimphu and Paro can fall below freezing, while Punakha stays mild. At passes and on treks above 4,000 metres, expect freezing temperatures at any time of year.
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A real person from our Thimphu team will answer — usually within one working day.