Bhutan in December

Cold but sunny; National Day on the 17th; best Dochula views.

• Western valleys · Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Haacool

  Punakha (1,200 m) stays mild in winter while Thimphu (2,300 m) drops below freezing at night; October–November gives the clearest Himalayan views.

• Central valleys · Bumthang, Trongsa, Phobjikha (Gangtey)cool

  Colder and higher; black-necked cranes winter in Phobjikha from late October to February.

• Southern foothills · Phuentsholing, Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkharbest weather

  Subtropical and very wet in the monsoon; the land gateways to India.

• High treks · Jomolhari, Druk Path, Snowman, Layacool

  Passes above 4,500 m hold snow in winter; October is the prime trekking month.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• National Day

  17 Dec

  Celebrations at Changlimithang in Thimphu; offices closed.

Crowds · Bhutan

Low

Prices · Bhutan

Low

• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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Rated best or good this month

• Southern foothills

  Best weather of the year (Phuentsholing, Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar)

• Thimphu

  Cold mornings, sharp views; National Day on 17 Dec.