Old and Young alike instinctively turns prayer wheels at every passing,Fingers grumplinig over Mala beads
Bhutan is a fascinating, scenic Asian country that's on many traveler's bucket lists. Given the diverse climate and variations in high- and low-season rates, the best time to visit Bhutan is fall's post-monsoon season, from late September through November. During this time, travelers will find pleasant temperatures and clear days. Of course, travelers wishing to avoid crowds and save money on the country's government-implemented "minimum daily package" rates may want to visit at another time of year.
Bhutan has an extremely diverse climate. This is due to the vast variations in altitude, as well as the influence of the southwest and northeast monsoons from India. From late June through September, the southwest monsoon brings heavy rain and high humidity to the southern border region of Bhutan, but the post-monsoon season, from late September through November, there are bright, sunny days and sometimes early snowfall at higher elevations. Winter (November through March) is the northeast monsoon season, which brings gale force winds through high altitude mountain passes, giving Bhutan its name "Drukyul," meaning Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Winter also sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall often above 3,000 meters. December and January are the coldest months in Bhutan, with overnight temperatures dropping below zero in Paro, Thimphu, and Bumthang. Spring is generally dry and pleasant, while summer produces occasional showers and maximum temperatures of around 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
Passport holders of countries other than India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives must visit Bhutan on a guided tour. The government has set "Minimum Daily Package" rates for all tours. These rates differ according to high and low seasons as follows. High season encompasses March through May, as well as September through November, whereas low season consists of December through February and June through August.
SPRING
Spring in Bhutan is also high tourist season. While the season may be busy, the weather is beautiful and the season hosts many of the country's best festivals and celebrations. The ideal season for rafting and kayaking in Bhutan is spring, too.
SUMMER
Bhutan's monsoon season usually arrives in mid-June, bringing lots of rain. Despite that, the country's lush greenery and lack of crowds can make it an appealing time to visit.
FALL
Fall has mild weather, and like spring, many crowds. The scenery is beautiful, with rice fields turning gold before harvest. Many festivals, including Thimphu Tshechu—one of the country's biggest, take place during fall.
WINTER
Winter in Bhutan can be quite cold, but visiting during December, before peak winter has set in, can make for a pleasant trip with minimal crowds and lower prices. You can also see the country's beautiful black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley.
