Weather in Bhutan during Monsoon
Monsoon weather in Bhutan is brought by winds from the Bay of Bengal, which bring substantial rain to the southern and central regions, particularly in July and August. The rain is typically sporadic, with mornings often starting clear. This provides an ideal opportunity for sightseeing before afternoon showers set in. Rainfall varies significantly by region:
1. Southern Bhutan (including Phuentsholing): Experiences the heaviest rains and warm temperatures, with daytime highs between 20°C to 30°C, creating highly humid and tropical conditions.
2. Central Bhutan (including Thimphu and Paro): Receives moderate rain with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Here, mornings tend to be clear, with rain mostly in the afternoon and evening.
3. Northern Bhutan (including Bumthang and Haa): Faces cooler temperatures, averaging between 10°C to 20°C, and lighter rain, often in the form of mist or short showers.
Crowds and Costs During Monsoon in Bhutan
Monsoon season in Bhutan is considered an off-peak period, which translates to lower tourist crowds and reduced travel costs. Hotels and tours typically offer discounts, making it an affordable time to visit. Major tourist sites, like Paro Taktsang and Thimphu Dzong, are less crowded, allowing visitors to explore Bhutan’s cultural landmarks in a more intimate setting.
Things to Do in Bhutan in Monsoon
1. Go around Punakha City
Punakha, one of the most beautiful towns in the country, is a place that one cannot afford to miss. Situated in the northern part of Bhutan, it receives less rainfall which makes it easy for tourists to explore the town. The paddy fields look immaculate after the small showers. The famous Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang Temple are the sites that leave you amazed with their architecture and imagery.2. Attend the Haa Summer Festival
This Haa Summer festival is a newly found festival in Bhutan which is celebrated every year in July since 2012. It is dedicated to the nomads of Haa Valley, where people come together to celebrate their rich culture, heritage, and sports. Yak Riding, food tasting, and folk dancing are some of the activities conducted during this festival. Tourists can also experience and enjoy the hospitality of the local people of Haa Valley.3. Trashiayangtse - Shopper's Stop
Grab an umbrella and go shopping in Trashiyangtse, Adang Village of Eastern Bhutan, and don’t let the showers ruin your vacation. The place is famous for its textiles, woven bags, handmade Kira & Gho, bamboo items, Thangkas, and souvenirs. It also consists of sacred sites and is filled with rich culture and heritage.4. Try Ema Datshi
A trip is never completed without trying the best dishes in a place, and Ema Datshi is a cuisine that you must try during monsoon season. It is a stew with cheese and chilies and is also considered the national dish of Bhutan.5. Bumthang Valley - Explore the country
Touring Bumthang Valley is another good spot during monsoon season. Valleys are the best places to explore in this season as one cannot get a clear view of the mountains.6. Touring Religious landmarks
The Memorial Chorten, also called as National Memorial Chorten is the iconic religious landmark situated in Thimpu. The Memorial has caught the attention of the tourists with its ambience and white walls.Located in Paro, Kichu Lhakang is one of the ancient temples of Bhutan. This beautiful temple is also called as the sacred jewel of Bhutan. It is a perfect example of an exemplary architecture of Bhutan with various statues and structures. Admittedly, it is a place of art and architecture. All the art enthusiasts, watch out!!!
7. Get the taste of Bhutan Beer at Namgyal Brewery
It's a place that brews many types of beer satisfies all beer connoisseurs. One can go on a brewery tour and taste different styles like wheat beer, dark ale, red rice lager, etc.; It provides an enjoyable experience to all the beer lovers of the globe.Things to carry in Monsoon
There are a few things one needs to keep in mind during the season of monsoon-like what to wear, carry, any essentials etc.. We have made it easy for you and listed the things below.- Umbrellas are a must. If not, carry raincoats.
- Medicines and mosquito repellents
- Bottled water for drinking purposes
- Carry synthetic clothes as they dry faster.
- Use boots/shoes
