Asia
Bhutan in December
Cold but reliably clear, and the Druk Wangyel Tshechu is held at Dochula Pass each December.
The straight answer
December is a good month to visit Bhutan. Cold but reliably clear, and the Druk Wangyel Tshechu is held at Dochula Pass each December.
- Weather
- Paro highs near 54F (12C), dry, frosty nights
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What December is like in Bhutan
December is cold but reliably clear, with Paro highs near 54F (12C) and frosty nights. The Druk Wangyel Tshechu is held at Dochula Pass each December. Crowds are light and prices moderate. Cranes are wintering in Phobjikha. Days are short and sunny, and Punakha, lower and warmer, makes a comfortable base. Views of the high peaks are often at their clearest in the early morning.
It suits travelers who want quiet valleys and clear views, and who do not mind the cold. Families should pack warm layers. If you want warmer days, March and April are ideal.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Bhutan this month.
Druk Wangyel Tshechu at Dochula
This festival is held at Dochula Pass each December, with dances against a backdrop of mountains.
Winter clarity
Clear, dry air brings wide Himalayan views on cold mornings.
Cranes in Phobjikha
The valley is quiet, with cranes feeding in the wetlands.
What to pack for December
- A warm down jacket
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sturdy walking shoes
Our timing tip
Ask your operator for the Druk Wangyel Tshechu date and plan a drive over Dochula that day.
Book Bhutan for December.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BhutanOpens a hotel search for Bhutan in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in BhutanWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in BhutanTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Bhutan for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Bhutan
Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest)
The cliffside monastery is a steep 2 to 3 hour hike up. Start early for cooler air and softer light on the temple.
Punakha Dzong
The most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the jacaranda trees bloom around it.
Dochula Pass
108 memorial chortens and, on a clear fall or winter morning, a sweeping view of the eastern Himalaya.
Thimphu
The capital without traffic lights: the giant Buddha Dordenma statue, the weekend market, and the National Memorial Chorten.
Phobjikha Valley
A glacial valley where black-necked cranes winter from about late October to February. Quiet farmhouse stays and forest walks.
Bumthang Valley
Bhutan's spiritual heartland with some of its oldest temples. A long drive east, best in spring or fall.
Beat the crowds
- Visit in November rather than October: the weather is just as clear and demand eases after the Thimphu Tshechu.
- If you want a festival without the biggest crowds, look at smaller district tshechus rather than Paro or Thimphu. Your tour operator can match one to your dates.
- Hike Tiger's Nest as early as the trail opens, or pick a weekday outside festival weeks when domestic visitors are fewer.
- Consider December through February for Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha: cold, clear, and very quiet, with lower hotel demand.
Know before you go
- Most visitors book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, and a licensed guide is required for most travel beyond Thimphu and Paro. Check current entry rules before booking.
- Dzongs usually open to visitors only outside office hours on working days and fully on weekends and holidays; some sections stay closed to visitors at all times.
- Monsoon landslides (June to August) can close sections of the lateral highway for hours or days, especially heading east toward Bumthang.
- High treks such as the Snowman Trek have short windows, mainly in October, and are often cancelled when passes are snowbound.
Bhutan in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Bhutan?
December is a good month to visit Bhutan. Cold but reliably clear, and the Druk Wangyel Tshechu is held at Dochula Pass each December.
What is the weather like in Bhutan in December?
Paro highs near 54F (12C), dry, frosty nights.
Is Bhutan crowded in December?
December is one of the quieter months in Bhutan; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Bhutan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
- 01Bhutan in NovemberThe month before: Crisp and clear, Paro highs near 61F (16C), cold nightsBest
- 02Bhutan in JanuaryThe month after: Paro highs near 50F (10C), nights below freezing, dry and clearQuiet value
- 03Bhutan in MarchThe next best month: Paro highs near 61F (16C), warming, occasional showersBest
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