Visiting Bhutan in May: Best Weather and Top Places to Visit

May is the last of the spring months and one of the best times to travel to Bhutan, as the weather is warmer and the skies are still clear and bright. You can go trekking around Paro, visit national parks, and see dzongs and temples before the summer monsoon rains arrive.

If you’re planning a spring trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, here is the ultimate guide for visiting Bhutan in May.

Bhutan Weather and Climate in May

May is one of the best times to visit Bhutan. It marks the end of the spring, just before the monsoon rains arrive, bringing dampness and humidity to the kingdom. There is usually an increase in both rainfall and temperatures, but not enough to disrupt travel in May. The heavy rain does not fall for another month yet, so you are safe to travel without risking getting soaked in the monsoon downpours.

Weather in West Bhutan in May

West Bhutan has many of the popular tourist areas including Paro, Thimpu, Punakha, and Gagntey. In May, average temperatures are around 15°C in most of the region but reach 20°C in Punakha. You can expect 19 to 22 clear, sunny days with only mild wind.

Weather in Central Bhutan in May

Trongsa and Bumthang are two of the main areas of central Bhutan. The region is slightly cooler than west Bhutan, averaging 14°C. May averages 23 clear days, with only light rain.

Weather in East Bhutan in May

East Bhutan, including Mongar and Trashigang, is a warm area, with average temperatures around 17°C. May brings a lot of precipitation to the eastern part of the country, with rain falling on 21 days during the month.

Visit Paro in May: Enjoy Himalayan Treks and Scenic Views

In Paro, May is one of the best times to visit, especially if you are planning to trek in the higher altitudes. Many of the best Bhutan trekking routes begin around the Paro area, and the mighty Himalayas can be seen clearly from the city.

You can visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliffside at 3,120 meters above sea level and see incredible panoramas of the Paro Valley.

The Druk Path Trek is a popular 6-day adventure along a route that connects Paro and Thimpu. May’s clear skies are ideal for trekking through the high mountain passes and dense rhododendron forests.

For a more challenging trek, the Jomolhari Trek lasts between 7-9 days. It follows ancient trade routes that pass through remote villages and has stunning views of Mount Jomolhari, Bhutan’s third-highest peak.

Visit Thimphu in May: Explore the Capital and Discover Wildlife

Bhutan’s capital, Thimpu, is alive and filled with delightful sights throughout the month of May, from the famous Tashichho Dzong to the intense National Memorial Chorten. A Thimphu tour allows you to explore the charming markets and ancient temples around the city and soak up local culture.

Nearby Jigme Dorji National Park is one of Bhutan’s largest protected areas. During May, the park is in full bloom, perfect for peaceful nature walks and a chance to spot wildlife like Takins, red pandas, and blue sheep.

Visit Punakha in May: Admire the Valley and its Majestic Dzong

Punakha is pleasant throughout the month, with lush valleys and peaceful rivers. The landscapes are bursting with life, and it’s an ideal time to visit the famous Punakha Dzong in May.

Sitting at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers, Punakha Dzong is one of the most beautiful fortress monasteries in the country. Its towering whitewashed walls and intricate wooden carvings are stunning against the backdrop of rolling hills. The blooming jacaranda trees in May surround the dzong with vibrant purple flowers.

Visit Phobjikha Valley in May: Go on Scenic Hikes and Bird-watching

Phobjikha Valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, with perfect weather conditions in May for exploring the outdoors. Trek the Gangtey Nature Trail through pine forests and past quaint villages to reach the hilltop with panoramic views of the valley’s rolling hills and lush meadows.

The valley’s tranquil ambiance also makes it an ideal bird-watching spot. It’s home to many local species, such as Himalayan monals, magpies, and several species of eagles. If you plan to visit Bhutan in May, it is highly recommended to include the Phobjikha Valley in your trip.

Visit Bumthang in May: Experience Central Bhutan's Colorful Festivals

Bumthang is the spiritual heart of Bhutan and a beautiful region filled with ancient monasteries. In May, you can join in colorful Bhutan festivals and experience the rich local culture.

The Domkar Festival, held in Domkar Lhakang, attracts people from all over the region. It’s celebrated with mask dances, traditional music, and religious rituals. In 2025, it will take place from May 7th to 9th.

During the Ura Yakchoe Festival in Ura Village, you can watch the retelling of stories from Bhutanese mythology and Buddhist teachings through masked dances performed by monks. It will be held from May 9th to 13th in 2025.

More Things to Do for Visiting Bhutan in May

Go Cycling in Bhutan in May

Cycling in Bhutan is a popular pastime for both tourists and locals, and there are plenty of biking trails that run through the hills, valleys, and dense forests across the country. Mountain bikes can be hired easily in the major cities, and the most popular places for this adventure sport are in the Paro Valley, Phobjikha Valley, Punakha, and the Cheli la Pass. You can also take on a longer ride from Thimphu to Paro or Tango to Cheri and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Go River Rafting in Bhutan in May

Bhutan’s pristine rivers are one of its greatest natural resources. The rugged waterways are perfect for adventure seekers looking for rafting experiences at any skill level. The Pho and Mo rivers are two of the most popular choices. With mostly class 2 rapids, the 10-16 km routes are suitable for beginners and have enough thrills for more experienced rafters. The routes can be completed in 1.5 hours for a fun and memorable half-day activity.

Go Wildlife Safaris in Bhutan in May

Jungle safaris and wildlife tours will let you explore Bhutan’s virgin forests and stunning natural settings while seeing the diverse flora and fauna of the world. The rich landscapes are home to rare and endangered animals like royal Bengal tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, and blue sheep. Explore the many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to experience the thriving ecosystem of the country.

How much does it cost to visit Bhutan in May

May in Bhutan is still in the peak season of Bhutan tourism, which runs from March to the end of May, just before the monsoon begins. The cost of the trip to Bhutan largely depends on how long you are staying, what type of hotel you want, and other factors.

Plan to spend at least 270 USD per day. This includes the cost of comfortable 3-star hotels, domestic transportation, entrance tickets, and Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee. More luxurious accommodations can be arranged at additional cost. Tour costs are all-inclusive, and once you arrive, you will have a few other expenses in Bhutan.

Book Your Bhutan Tour in May in Advance

Bhutan in May can be quite busy, at least by Bhutanese standards. This means that you should really book your tour well in advance of the date of travel. Flights to Bhutan are limited, and depending on where you are traveling to Bhutan from, you may have to book further in advance than for other flights, due to limited availability.

This is not only due to the number of travelers heading to the kingdom at this time of year, but also to ensure your visa is ready for your arrival. Your Bhutan visa will only be applied for once you have booked the Bhutan tour, and if you leave it too late, you may not have been approved in time, which means your tour will not go ahead.

Conclusion

May in Bhutan is the last of the spring months and the start of the rainy, wetter season. It is one of the best times for Bhutan tours. You may experience some rain toward the end of the month, but the warm weather is pleasant for exploring cities and beautiful natural surroundings. What rain that does fall is never enough to spoil the enjoyment of this last true Himalayan Shangri-La. If you need any help planning your Bhutan tour in May, feel free to contact us for assistance from local tour experts.