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Bhutan
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Largely untouched by the modern world, Bhutan is an enigmatic mountain kingdom of green valleys crowned with dzongs (fortresses) and chortens (shrines). As the country operates a strict entry policy, it’s essential that your trip is planned thoroughly. Our specialists will use their extensive knowledge to create a carefully arranged itinerary that’s tailored to your interests. We have also worked hard to find the best drivers and guides (the government requires all visitors are accompanied), who can enhance your holiday to Bhutan.
A journey through Bhutan will take you through rich forests, over high mountain passes and to some of the most biologically diverse national parks in the world. The cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest is one of many white-walled monasteries that overlook yawning valleys, which burst into bloom with wildflowers in spring. And, you’ll find the Bhutanese welcoming in showing you their deeply Buddhist and traditional way of life, where Gross National Happiness is more important than gross domestic product.
Bhutan in pictures
The remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is proudly independent, with strongly established traditions and deep-rooted religious beliefs. Our specialists have explored the country many times and can put together a detailed tailor-made itinerary for Bhutan to suit your interests. We’ll suggest what to see in Bhutan, from well-known chortens (shrines) to little-visited rural communities.
From Paro in the west you can visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which precipitously sits atop a shelf on a cliff-face above Paro Valley. Explore the capital Thimpu’s markets and crisply painted chorten. Head east across the Dochu La pass to the green vales of Punakha to reach the 17th-century Punakha Dzong. The arrival of migratory black-necked cranes is celebrated each winter in the rural communities of Phobjikha Valley, while Bumthang Valley shelters royal shrines and celebrated temples. Cross the Thrumsingla Pass to the east and you find minority villages with traditional animalist beliefs.
Popular places to visit in Bhutan
Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Bhutan, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.
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Jakar
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Paro
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Phobjikha Valley
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Punakha
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Thimphu
Deeply spiritual Bhutan’s desire for happiness over superficial worth is reflected in its respect of tradition, apparent in the 17th century dress worn by all citizens, and the pristine countryside and towns. Though this remote Himalayan kingdom is no stranger to visitors, much of it is yet to be explored and there are many things to see and do.
Climb to the cliff-perched Tiger’s Nest Monastery near Paro, or visit the Phobjika Valley in winter to see the rare black-necked cranes that migrate from Tibet. Make time to explore the country’s dzongs, or fortresses, such as those in Trongsa and Punakha, and trek through the pastures of the Bumthang Valley, staying in farmhouse homestays.
Ideas for experiencing Bhutan
Experiences you have as you travel often hold the longest memories. As part of their research trips, our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know Bhutan, and the best local guides. These activities reflect some of their best-loved experiences.
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Tiger's Nest Monastery 
Tiger's Nest Monastery
ParoTiger's Nest Monastery
The Tiger's Nest Monastery is possibly the most famous in Bhutan, having been founded in the late 1600's, and perched on a high rocky ledge 900m above the valley floor allegedly at a place where Guru Rinpoche rested, travelling on a flying tiger.
The monastery suffered a disastrous fire in April 1998, but great efforts are being made to repair the extensive damage.
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Ura Tsechu Excursion 
Ura Tsechu Excursion
BumthangUra Tsechu Excursion
The Ura Tsechu is a five day festival which attracts local villagers. Held in the courtyard of the Ura Lhakhang, the festival involves the same masked dancers and songs as the Thimpu and Paro festivals as well as the Yak Dance.
These religious festivals are in honour of Guru Rinpoche commemorating one of his great deeds. They are celebrated for several days and are the occasion for dances that are clearly defined in religious content.
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Visit to the weekend market at Thimphu 
Visit to the weekend market at Thimphu
ThimphuVisit to the weekend market at Thimphu
Take an early morning stroll around the colourful weekend market, which is held just north of the sports stadium. People from surrounding villages start arriving on Friday evening and come to buy and sell produce, ranging from dried chillies and yak butter to textiles and bamboo products. The market continues until Sunday afternoon.
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Trongsa Dzong & Ta Dzong 
Trongsa Dzong & Ta Dzong
TrongsaTrongsa Dzong & Ta Dzong
In Trongsa by far the most impressive place to visit is Trongsa Dzong. The Dzong is one of the largest in Bhutan and is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture.
Inside, the building opens up on a number of different levels. Higher up there are excellent views across the Mangde valley.
A short distance above Trongsa Dzong lies Ta Dzong, the old watchtower. This building is currently being renovated into a museum like the National Museum in Paro.
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Punakha Dzong Excursion 
Punakha Dzong Excursion
PunakhaPunakha Dzong Excursion
Situated at the confluence of the Mo (Mother) and Pho (Father) rivers, the large fortress with its temples, courtyards, hall and towers overlooks the town and provides excellent views.
Built in 1637 it served as the seat of the government until the mid 20th century. Over the centuries it has suffered damage from several fires and flooding but still remains one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan.
October to December is the ideal time to visit Bhutan as the air is clear and fresh with sunny skies.
January and February are colder, but from then until April the climate remains dry and pleasant and in late spring the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly, flooding the valleys with colour.
Heat and humidity increase from May, and from June to September the monsoon rains cover the mountains. If you're interested in seeing the rare black-necked cranes, we recommend visiting the Phobjikha Valley between late October and mid-February.
Bhutan Climate Guide
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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| Bumthang | 9°C 4mm | 10°C 8mm | 13°C 26mm | 16°C 48mm | 19°C 102mm | 21°C 194mm | 21°C 226mm | 20°C 186mm | 19°C 129mm | 17°C 46mm | 13°C 9mm | 10°C 2mm |
| Jakar | 10°C 5mm | 12°C 10mm | 14°C 32mm | 17°C 59mm | 20°C 129mm | 21°C 244mm | 21°C 271mm | 21°C 219mm | 20°C 155mm | 18°C 57mm | 14°C 10mm | 11°C 3mm |
| Paro | 10°C 11mm | 11°C 24mm | 14°C 50mm | 17°C 87mm | 19°C 145mm | 20°C 262mm | 21°C 316mm | 20°C 250mm | 20°C 192mm | 18°C 71mm | 14°C 14mm | 11°C 4mm |
| Phobjikha Valley | 8°C 5mm | 9°C 12mm | 12°C 30mm | 15°C 56mm | 17°C 102mm | 19°C 186mm | 19°C 220mm | 19°C 181mm | 18°C 128mm | 15°C 51mm | 12°C 9mm | 9°C 3mm |
| Punakha | 15°C 13mm | 16°C 18mm | 20°C 60mm | 22°C 114mm | 24°C 263mm | 25°C 514mm | 25°C 597mm | 25°C 441mm | 24°C 326mm | 23°C 102mm | 19°C 16mm | 16°C 6mm |
| Thimpu | 10°C 10mm | 11°C 21mm | 15°C 48mm | 17°C 84mm | 19°C 149mm | 21°C 273mm | 21°C 325mm | 21°C 256mm | 20°C 193mm | 18°C 70mm | 14°C 13mm | 11°C 4mm |
Month-by-month guide to travelling in Bhutan
Visiting Bhutan in December - February
From December to February Bhutan is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.
Visiting Bhutan in March - April
March and April are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Paro Tshechu, so book ahead to get the best accommodation and flights.
Events & Festivals
- Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan's landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
Visiting Bhutan in May
Temperatures increase in May, bringing humidity as well as cloud over the mountains. However, fewer visitors and lower prices can make it a perfectly viable time to visit. The rhododendrons should also still be in bloom - ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Events & Festivals
- Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan's landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
Visiting Bhutan in June - August
June to August (and sometimes into September) is monsoon season in Bhutan. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations, conditions aren't ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible - just be prepared with a raincoat! It’s also ideal for retreating to a spa. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours.
Visiting Bhutan in September
September, October and November are ideal for hiking, seeing festivals (particularly the popular Thimphu Tshechu) and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
Visiting Bhutan in October
The majority of travellers (around 80% of all international visitors) want to visit Bhutan in October, so plan well in advance to ensure you get your preferred accommodation and good value flights.
Events & Festivals
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
Visiting Bhutan in November
Black-necked cranes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the protected Phobjikha Valley each year. They remain in the region from late October to early February. In Gangtey, a special festival is held every November to celebrate the arrival of the birds. Plan ahead if you want to be a part of it.
Events & Festivals
- Black-necked crane festival (November): These endangered birds migrate to spend each winter in the Phobjikha Valley. The festival celebrating their arrival takes place in in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa to promote their conservation.
- Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.
