Asia
Bhutan in November
Superb clarity and fewer visitors than October. The cranes return to Phobjikha, celebrated at a festival on November 11.
The straight answer
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Bhutan. Superb clarity and fewer visitors than October. The cranes return to Phobjikha, celebrated at a festival on November 11.
- Weather
- Crisp and clear, Paro highs near 61F (16C), cold nights
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What November is like in Bhutan
November is crisp and clear, with Paro highs near 61F (16C) and cold nights. The clarity is superb, and there are fewer visitors than in October. The black-necked cranes return to Phobjikha, celebrated at the Black-Necked Crane Festival on November 11. The Jambay Lhakhang Drup can also fall this month. Prices stay fairly high, but you get more space at the dzongs.
It suits photographers, hikers, and families who want clear views and fewer people. Pack for cold nights. If you want spring flowers instead, come back in March or April.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Bhutan this month.
Black-Necked Crane Festival
On November 11, Gangtey Goenpa in Phobjikha celebrates the cranes' return with local dances and songs.
Jambay Lhakhang Drup, in some years
When it falls in November, this Bumthang festival includes a midnight fire blessing at one of Bhutan's oldest temples.
Sharp mountain views
Crisp, dry air makes November one of the best months for Himalayan views.
What to pack for November
- A warm down jacket
- Thermal layers
- Hiking boots
- Gloves and a hat
Our timing tip
Plan your itinerary so you are in Phobjikha on November 11 for the crane festival.
Book Bhutan for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BhutanOpens a hotel search for Bhutan in November, 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 November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Black-Necked Crane Festival
November 11 every year
At Gangtey Goenpa in Phobjikha, celebrating the return of the endangered cranes with local dances and songs.
Jambay Lhakhang Drup
October or November in Bumthang, varies by lunar calendar
Known for its midnight fire blessing ceremony at one of Bhutan's oldest temples.
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Bhutan?
November is one of the best months of the year to visit Bhutan. Superb clarity and fewer visitors than October. The cranes return to Phobjikha, celebrated at a festival on November 11.
What is the weather like in Bhutan in November?
Crisp and clear, Paro highs near 61F (16C), cold nights.
Is Bhutan crowded in November?
Crowds in Bhutan are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Bhutan in November?
Black-Necked Crane Festival (november 11 every year); Jambay Lhakhang Drup (october or november in bumthang, varies by lunar calendar).
Keep planning Bhutan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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