Bhutan in March 2024 : Travel Guide & Tips

With its breath-taking views, deep valleys and gorges, crisscrossing rivers, alluring culture and warm people, Bhutan is on the bucket list of almost every traveller, especially the ones hailing from its neighbouring countries. While its best to avoid the winters as the road would be blocked, the best time to make a trip to the Himalayan kingdom is from March to June where the spring is at its best. Bhutan in March has its own perks with pleasant weather and a lot of festivals taking place at different parts of the country.

Why visit Bhutan in March 2023?

The best month to visit Bhutan in March if you want to experience the onset of spring. With the last snow of the season shedding from the branches of the barren trees, the entire country starts blooming again after a cold, long winter. Therefore, you would witness the Himalayan snow while enjoying spring in the kingdom and not having to cancel any of your plans.

Average Temperature and Weather in March in Bhutan

The temperature in the country varies due to altitudinal differences but maintains an average of 25-15Â° C during March. The southern region starts experiencing a warm, sunny and pleasant climate while the northern part experiences its last round of snowfall. The entire country is a sight to marvel at with blooming rhododendron, clear sky and vibrant spring making its way. The region sees an influx of tourism around this time due to the numerous opportunities for outdoor activities possible.

What to do in Bhutan in March?

1. Find Solace at the Monasteries

Bhutan is home to spirituality and tranquillity. With numerous monasteries dotting the hills and landscapes of the tiny kingdom, be sure to spend a few hours with the monks in the heart of Buddhism. It is not just the interior which calms your mind and soul but also the surrounding quaint environment and the serene aura of the place engulfs your body. Meditate there for a few hours, if possible and notice the change that you feel within yourself.

Monasteries You Must Visit

Tiger's Nest Monastery

Taktsang Monastery in Paro, standing on an elevation of 3,120 metres and surrounded by panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Tango Monastery

Tango Monastery in Thimphu, a prominent Buddhist learning centre.

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong or the "palace of great happiness" is the second oldest and second-largest dzong in the country. Apart from being an architectural marvel, it is regarded as culturally vital due to the relics of the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism found here.

Gangtey Monastery

The Gangtey Monastery in Wangdue Phodrang District is home to the rare Black Necked Cranes. You can attend the Annual Black Necked Crane Festival held every year in November with about 300 cranes rushing to the area where the importance of conserving the endangered species is explained. It is a much-cherished sight for bird watchers and wildlife photographers.

2. Go and Challenge Yourself to the Most Thrilling Adventure Sports

If you are in Bhutan, you must have your dose of adrenaline rush. The landlocked country has several untouched, undulating terrains that are a paradise for travellers and adventure lovers. With numerous perennial rivers crisscrossing its land through the lofty high mountains. Bhutan is an ideal country to tick off the escapade activities in your wish-list. Moreover, with the offset of the snow and the gradual increase in temperatures, the locals bring you the best sports of the season.

3. Connect with Nature and Wildlife

The happiest country will not fail to surprise you. Bhutan is rich in flora and fauna and the locals in the region respect nature and worships it. Here, you find a connection with nature which you may not find anywhere else. With a vibrant ecosystem and pristine waters, Bhutan is a favourite hotspot for migratory birds as well as rare endangered species.

Wildlife sanctuaries you can visit Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Dorji National Park, Phrumsengla National Park etc.

4. Attend the Traditional Festivities

Bhutan is the best to visit during its fairs and celebrations. The entire region, uniquely the monasteries, are decorated, the lamas and monks take part, delicious local cuisines are shared, and Bhutanese artefacts are on display. Two of the festivals which takes place in March are Paro Tshechu and Gomphukora Tshechu. The respective region comes alive with vibrant colours, music, mask and folk dances, and sacred rituals.

What to Pack for Bhutan in March?

Packing is always a hassle. It only adds to your annoyance when you cannot predict the weather and have to carry almost everything you own to be on the safe side. However, here is a shortlist for you to not forget the essentials and reduce the weight of your backpack.

Sunglasses/ sunscreen lotion
Warm jackets, gloves, caps, thermals, woollen sweatshirts
Boots/hiking boots
Umbrella/raincoat
Moisturisers
Flashlight/binocular
Insect repellent
Important documents

Well, your list for Bhutan is ready with the places you need to visit and the activities you should try out. Book your tickets in advance to avoid any rush and save up on ticket prices and explore the country before it is flocking with tourist like any other destination with too many pictures already on Instagram!