Asia
Bhutan in September
The monsoon fades and the Thimphu Tshechu often falls in late September or October. Rice terraces turn gold.
The straight answer
September is a good month to visit Bhutan. The monsoon fades and the Thimphu Tshechu often falls in late September or October. Rice terraces turn gold.
- Weather
- Rain easing, highs near 73F (23C), clearing late month
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What September is like in Bhutan
September is when the monsoon fades. Highs sit near 73F (23C), rain eases, and skies clear late in the month. Rice terraces turn gold, and the Thimphu Tshechu, the biggest festival in the capital, often falls in late September. Crowds build as the month goes on. Early in the month, rain and cloud can still hide the peaks.
It suits travelers who want harvest color and a chance at a big festival. Late September is better than early. If you want the clearest views, October and November are even better.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Bhutan this month.
Golden rice terraces
Rice terraces turn gold as the harvest approaches, a beautiful sight in Punakha and Paro.
Thimphu Tshechu, in some years
When the lunar calendar puts it in late September, the capital's biggest festival fills Tashichho Dzong's courtyard.
Clearing skies
Late September often brings the first clear mountain views after the monsoon.
What to pack for September
- A light rain jacket
- Layers
- Hiking shoes
- Modest festival clothes
Our timing tip
Aim for the last ten days of September, when the rain usually eases and the festival season begins.
Book Bhutan for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BhutanOpens a hotel search for Bhutan in September, 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 September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
Thimphu Tshechu
Late September or October, set by the lunar calendar
The biggest festival in the capital, in Tashichho Dzong's courtyard. The busiest week of the year for visitors.
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Bhutan?
September is a good month to visit Bhutan. The monsoon fades and the Thimphu Tshechu often falls in late September or October. Rice terraces turn gold.
What is the weather like in Bhutan in September?
Rain easing, highs near 73F (23C), clearing late month.
Is Bhutan crowded in September?
Crowds in Bhutan are moderate in September; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Bhutan in September?
Thimphu Tshechu (late september or october, set by the lunar calendar).
Keep planning Bhutan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
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