Geography and climate of Bhutan
Bhutan travel information
About Across Bhutan
Across Bhutan travel agency offers Organized Tours & Custom Tours through Bhutan’s tranquil landscapes.
Contact us
Geography and climate of Bhutan
Bhutan, a sovereign country nestled in the eastern extreme of the Himalayas mountain range, boasts a diverse climate that varies significantly with elevation. Spanning approximately 38,394 square kilometers, Bhutan is bordered to the north and northwest by the People’s Republic of China and to the south, east, and west by India.
Climate and Temperature Variations
Source: ResearchGate.net
The country experiences four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—each bringing unique weather conditions. Due to its varied topography, Bhutan’s climate ranges from subtropical in the south to alpine tundra in the north.
Southern Bhutan (Duars Plain - Subtropical Climate)
- Temperature: Ranges from 15°C in winter (December-February) to 35°C in summer (June-August).
- Rainfall: The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, averaging 2000-5000 mm annually.
- Landscape: This region consists of dense tropical forests, fertile river valleys, and grasslands.
Central Bhutan (Lesser Himalaya - Temperate Climate)
Source: Weather-Atlas.com
- Temperature: Winter temperatures drop to around 0°C (December-February), while summer temperatures reach 25°C (June-August).
- Rainfall: Annual precipitation is 500-1000 mm, mostly from the monsoon rains between June and September.
- Landscape: Characterized by rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and lush forests, the central region hosts many of Bhutan’s key cultural and religious sites.
Northern Bhutan (Greater Himalayas - Alpine & Tundra Climate)
- Temperature: Winter temperatures can plummet to -20°C or lower (December-February), while summer remains cool at around 10°C (June-August).
- Snowfall: Heavy snowfall occurs from December to March, covering the rugged peaks and high-altitude pastures.
- Landscape: Dominated by towering mountain ranges, glaciers, and high-altitude alpine meadows, this region is home to some of the highest peaks in Bhutan, including Gangkhar Puensum (7,570 meters).
Precipitation and Weather Patterns
Source: Weather-Atlas.com
- The monsoon season from June to September brings intense rainfall, particularly in the south and central regions.
- Winter months see dry and crisp weather in central Bhutan, while northern Bhutan remains under snow.
- The best seasons for travel are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate, and the skies are clear, offering stunning mountain views.
Bhutan’s geographical diversity, ranging from tropical lowlands to high-altitude glaciers, shapes its unique climatic zones, making it a land of incredible contrasts and breathtaking natural beauty.
Ready to visit Bhutan?
Design your custom Bhutan tour
Let us help you craft a personalized adventure in Bhutan.
Work with our experts to design a tour tailored to your interests and dreams.
Our packaged Bhutan tours
Bhutan travel information
About Across Bhutan
Across Bhutan travel agency offers Organized Tours & Custom Tours through Bhutan’s tranquil landscapes.
