Visiting Bhutan in December: Complete Guide about Bhutan Tour in December

December in Bhutan is the beginning of the winter season and the start of the colder months in the kingdom. However, even with the colder weather, Bhutan is still an amazing place to visit. It's the low travel season, and without the higher number of tourists, you can have a more authentic experience of the unique Bhutanese culture and people.

Here, you can check the detailed weather conditions in Bhutan for December, which can help you plan a wonderful winter trip to Bhutan.

How are the weather and temperature in Bhutan in December?

In contrast to most of the areas of the Himalayas, Bhutan in December is relatively mild. The skies are clear with crisp, fresh air, and the weather is pleasant, more comparable to some northern European countries than the highest mountain range on the planet.

Snowfall comes mostly in January and then mostly in higher areas, with only a little throughout December in the highest mountains. For most of Bhutan, December is still a relatively warm winter month for visiting Bhutan.

Paro Weather in December

In Paro, December is a relatively warm month, with temperatures reaching as high as 13°C and dropping to only around -1°C at night. It is rare to see snow in Paro in December, except in the high mountain areas to the northeast of the valley. The dry, arid weather in Paro, influenced by the northeast monsoon, keeps rainfall minimal, making it a comfortable time for lower-altitude treks under bright sunshine and clear skies.

Thimphu Weather in December

The weather in Thimphu in December is similar to that of Paro. Highs reach up to 12°C and drop to around -2°C at night. There may be a light dusting of snow in late December in the Thimphu Valley as temperatures start to drop a little more toward the end of the year. For tourists, this is a time for warm sweaters and jackets to be out in the cool, sunny days.

Punakha Weather in December

Punakha tends to be warmer in December than in Paro and Thimphu. The lower altitude creates mild conditions, and daytime temperatures can reach highs of 18°C. You can expect it to drop to only 5-6°C at night, making it a much more pleasant place to visit in the colder season. The higher average temperatures do mean that you are more likely to have some short rain showers, especially in the early part of the month, which gradually decrease as the year comes to a close.

Other Areas of Bhutan in December

Other popular tourist areas of Bhutan do not fare as well as Punakha. Around the higher altitude Bumthang region, temperatures are a lot colder, reaching only 11°C in the daytime and dropping as low as -3°C at night. However, with almost no rain, the colder weather is still pleasant for trekking and sightseeing.

In the Phobjikha Valley in Wangdue Phodrang, December is a cool month, with highs reaching around 10°C, and lows of around 1-2°C at night. This is a great time to visit the valley and the Gangtey Monastery, the black-necked cranes settle in the valley for the winter months, escaping the harsher weather of northern Tibet.

Why travel to Bhutan in December? Sunny Winter Days and Lower Tour Prices

Bhutan's low tourist season in December means you can experience the country's unique culture and breathtaking landscapes without the usual crowds. The lack of tourists offers a more peaceful and authentic experience, with more personal interactions with locals and fewer people at popular tourist sites like the Tiger's Nest Monastery and Punakha Dzong.

The cool winter weather remains pleasant, particularly in the daytime. Sunny, blue skies and warm temperatures are perfect for exploring the outdoor scenery.

The low tourist season also brings lower prices. Great deals are available on tours and accommodations, and it's easy to secure the bookings you want. Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fee, charged to tourists to help maintain the country's cultural and environmental heritage, is only 100 USD per day throughout the season.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Bhutan in December

Tiger's Nest Monastery

The Tiger's Nest Monastery, known as the Taktshang Monastery, is the most famous site in the country. It lies on a small ledge around 900 meters up the face of the cliff overlooking the Paro Valley,

In December, the 2-3 hike up to Tiger's Nest Monastery is a delightful trek in the cooler weather. It's made even more amazing by the stunning winter views of the valley below and sparse trees like waving skeletons in the winter winds. The monastery is open all year round, so there is no problem visiting in December.

Paro Rinpung Dzong

One of the highest points of Bhutanese architecture, the Paro Rinpung Dzong, is an ancient fortress that dates back to the early 15th century. Once the meeting hall for the Bhutanese National Assembly, the original building was ordered by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1644 on the earlier site of a small shrine from the 15th century, which in turn was built on a site of worship of Guru Rinpoche from the 8th century.

Punakha Dzong

Also known as Pungthang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang, the Punakha Dzong is the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan and the second oldest Dzong in Bhutan, built by the Zhabdrung in around 1637, just prior to the Paro Dzong. The fortress is located between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers. It's considered one of the most beautiful Dzongs in the world.

Lying at just 1,200 meters above sea level, this stunning Dzong was foretold by Guru Rinpoche, saying that "a person named Namgyal will arrive at a hill that looks like an elephant." The Dzong was designed based on the dreams of the architect Zowe Palep, who spent several nights sleeping underneath a small statue of Buddha.

Dochula Pass

Located between Thimphu and Punakha, Dochula Pass is the highest road pass in Bhutan, at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level. The pass is famous not only for the amazing views of the northern mountains but also for the 108 chortens that line the crest of the pass, built by the wife of the former Druk Gyalpo, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

If you visit Dochula Pass in late December, you will have a chance to appreciate the stunning scene of the 108 stupas covered in a blanket of pure white snow.

Gangtey Monastery

Located in the Phobjikha Valley in Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag, the Gangtey Monastery is one of the most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa School of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan. An extensive monastic complex that includes a college, the monastery is over 450 years old and was prophesied by the 15th-century Pema Lingpa, whose grandson actually built the first temple on the site in 1613.

Can I go trekking in Bhutan in December?

October and November are the best time to trek in Bhutan. In December, the weather in higher altitude locations can be unpredictable, making trekking potentially dangerous. The freezing temperatures present serious challenges, and trekking is discouraged.

Trekking in lower altitude regions is still possible and enjoyable with smaller crowds. Most of the main treks around the areas of Thimphu, Paro, Bumthang, Wangdue Phodrang, and Punakha are still available. If you intend to try Bhutan trekking in December, then the mildest weather can normally be found in Bumthang and Punakha Dzongkhags. The lower altitude allows these areas to avoid the coldest conditions during the month.

Bhutan Festivals and Events in December

Festivals, known as Tshechu, are an important part of life in Bhutan. These religious events are important social gatherings and are a time for entertainment, festivities, and spending time with family and friends. There are several major Bhutan festivals in December, and it's worth checking out if you're there.

Nalakhar Tshechu is a great excuse to visit a remote area often overlooked by tourists. It's held in a countryside town in Bumthang Dzongkhag in the center of Bhutan. Locals gather in the Swan Temple wearing their finest clothes to take part in the rituals and performances of the festival.

Druk Wangyel Tshechu is a unique festival held to honor the memory of the fourth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan. It takes place at the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang Festival Ground at the Dochula Pass, around 22 kilometers from the capital of Thimphu, and is celebrated with dances and performances.

Zhemgang, a large Dzongkhag in the south of the kingdom, is a special place where nine major festivals are held during the month of December. If you're in the area during the month, you're almost guaranteed to be able to take part in something.

What to Wear for Visiting Bhutan in December?

Winter in Bhutan is mild, and December begins with warm and pleasant days. At most, you'll feel a small chill until the evening when temperatures drop. During the night, it can be around or below freezing in many places. Layers will help you adjust to the changing conditions.

Warm sweaters are a must, and it is a good idea to bring a warm jacket, a decent hat, and a scarf and gloves. Warmer pants or a thermal base layer will keep you comfortable. Woolen socks and some decent hiking boots are a must whether hiking or exploring the cities. Most of the country is rough ground, so you will find them useful.

If you're planning on extensive trekking in Bhutan, pack an arctic-rated sleeping bag, Gore-Tex gloves, and a down jacket in addition to warm layers of clothing. The colder air in the higher areas can be chaffing, so bring along some lip balm, moisturizer, and a face mask.

And don't forget sunblock; even the winter sun can be damaging in Bhutan's highlands.

More Insider Tips for Visiting Bhutan in December

Be prepared for snow. Good footwear and warm clothes are essential for navigating snowy landscapes, and road closures can occur, so have backup plans.

Do any traveling during the winter daytime, usually from 9 am to 4:30 pm. The warm daytime conditions are the best for getting around in the country.

Book early. Even with fewer tourists, some smaller hotels and guesthouses might close during the winter, limiting availability.

Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Even though it's cooler, it still takes energy to trek the outdoors. Drink plenty of water, and wear sunscreen.

Enjoy the local cuisine. The hearty, warming local food and hot butter tea are adapted for local conditions. It's not only delicious but will keep you comfortable.

Conclusion

If you are planning a Bhutan tour in December, then you are in for a rare treat. The peaceful low tourist season has pleasant weather if a little cold at night. Snow is rare in December, except in the higher areas of the mountains, and the sunny days can be perfect for short treks and great for sightseeing. See Bhutan as it really is, with tranquil rural settings and impressive scenic views. You'll be able to immerse yourself in the local culture and come away with an experience you'll never forget at a lower price in December.