With temperate weather, Bhutan is an ideal year-round destination

The Thimpu Tshechu which takes place in either September or October each year, is one of the largest and most popular festivals in Bhutan. Dedicated to Bhutan’s most revered saint, it draws people together to celebrate, pray, and receive blessings. From December to February, the lodges experience sunny days with clear mountain views. The Paro Tshechu takes place in late March or early April to celebrate Bhutanese tradition with masked dances, rituals and festivities. From April to May, both valleys see warmer weather. June to August brings light rains and lush, green landscapes. September onward offers clear skies and pleasant weather.

At the end of September, Wangdue Phodrang offers a feast for the senses as you immerse in the time-honored traditions of this Tshechu dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Featuring a range of traditional dances and rituals, it is particularly loved for its Raksha Mangcham or the dance of the ox. From December to February, Punakha has mild weather due to its lower altitude. Every year in mid-February, this second capital buzzes with a week of vibrant dances and processions against the stunning backdrop of Punakha Dzong. It tells the story of Bhutan’s victory against Tibet in the seventeenth century, and masked dances performed during the festival are inspired by real events. From June to August, summer brings warmer temperatures, light rain showers and vibrant green hues. September to November brings mild, pleasant temperatures.

Held in the expansive courtyard of the sixteenth-century hilltop Gangtey Goemba, the Gangtey Tshechu takes place in mid-September. From mid-November, the Himalayan peaks come into view, the yaks descend, and the rare, black-necked cranes make their annual pilgrimage to Phobjikha. The Crane Festival is a secular celebration to welcome these famous feathered friends, where children dressed in colorful costumes perform a series of dances. From November to March, the black-necked cranes migrate to the valley. March to May brings mild weather and abundant flora and fauna. June to August brings light showers with lush landscapes. September to November offers clear days and a cooler climate.

Bumthang comes alive with unique rituals in early November, including the fire blessing ceremony (Mewang), and mystical naked dances performed at midnight. The festival celebrates the establishment of Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, believed to have been built in the seventh century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a powerful ogress. From December to February, Bumthang sees bright, sunny days. March to May offers warmer weather. June to August brings rains and lush, green landscapes. September marks the beginning of autumn displaying clear skies and pleasant weather.