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Bhutan in August: Weather & Travel Tips 2024

Written by Senior Expert Felicia|Updated: 2024-04-01

In August, Bhutan experiences the monsoon season, characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and significant rainfall. August is one of the wettest months in Bhutan, with heavy rainfall throughout the country. The average daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in the lower valleys. While it is not excessively hot, the high humidity can make it feel warmer.

The rainfall is plentiful, often transforming the landscape into a lush, emerald paradise, but also posing challenges with swollen rivers and slippery roads. Given the potential for heavy downpours, which can impact road conditions, it's advisable for travelers to concentrate their itinerary on the more accessible western regions, such as Paro and Thimphu. In these areas, cultural sights including majestic temples and dzongs, remain accessible for exploration. Several luxury high-end hotels are also located in these two biggest cities of Bhutan. Visitors can take solace in hotels, where one can indulge in the serene beauty of the surroundings, often with dramatic views of mist-shrouded mountains and verdant valleys.

In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the weather conditions you can expect in Bhutan's various regions during August, including temperature ranges and precipitation levels. We'll provide essential advice on what to wear to stay comfortable and dry, and highlight the most rewarding places to visit during this verdant season. Furthermore, we will suggest itineraries to see Bhutan in its most lush and vibrant state, ensuring you are well-prepared for a journey that embraces the monsoon's embrace.

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  • triangleBhutan Weather in August: Overview
  • trianglePlaces to Visit in Bhutan in August
  • triangleWhat to Wear in Bhutan in August & Packing Tips
  • triangleHow to Plan a Bhutan Tour in August - Recommend Itinerary
  • triangleExplore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel

Bhutan Weather in August: Overview

August is the heart of the monsoon season in Bhutan, which significantly impacts travel, temperature perception, precipitation, and road conditions across the country.

Bhutan Temperature in August

  Average Temperature Weather Condition
Paro 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) Occasional showers with sunny intervals
Thimphu 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F) Similar to Paro with a blend of rain and sunshine
Punakha 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) Hotter and more humid, with heavy rainfall
Bumthang 13°C to 23°C (55°F to 73°F) Cooler with less rain than the lower regions
Trongsa 14°C to 21°C (57°F to 70°F) Moderate rainfall and mild temperatures
Wangdue Phodrang 19°C to 29°C (66°F to 84°F) Similar to Punakha, hot and wet
Tiger's Nest 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) Cooler due to altitude, with rain likely affecting hiking conditions
Dochula Pass 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) Cooler with clouds and mist, occasional rain
Phobjikha Valley 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F) Pleasant temperatures with chances of rain
Gangtey Monastery 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F) Similar to Phobjikha Valley, with a mix of rain and cooler weather
Haa Valley 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F) Cool and wet, less rain than other areas
Chele La Pass 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) High altitude brings cooler temperatures and possible mist

Bhutan Road Conditions in August

Landslides: Heavy rains can cause landslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain, which can block roads and lead to travel delays.

Potholes and Erosion: Prolonged moisture can degrade road surfaces, creating potholes and causing erosion along the roadside.

Rural Roads: Can be more affected than the main highways and may become impassable, especially after heavy rainfall.

Visibility: Reduced during heavy rain and fog, common on mountain passes, can make driving conditions hazardous.

Bhutan tour
Bhutan Paro Taktsang in summer
Bhutan tour
Haa Summer Festival in Summer

Places to Visit in Bhutan in August

Traveling to Bhutan in August allows you to experience the verdant splendor of the monsoon while taking advantage of off-peak season benefits. Luxury accommodations are more affordable compared to high-season rates. Even with the likelihood of rain, certain destinations offer unique charms that are especially captivating in this period.

Thimphu in August

In August, Thimphu's monsoon brings lush landscapes and a serene atmosphere, ideal for a luxurious, yet culturally rich retreat. Stay in a high-end hotel where you can relish the greenery and river views at a lower cost. Explore indoor attractions like the National Memorial Chorten and the Folk Heritage Museum without the usual tourist crowds. Savor Bhutanese dishes in cozy local eateries, with the misty monsoon adding a mystical touch to the city's historic charm. This season offers both the delights of Thimphu's cultural heart and the tranquility of an off-peak travel experience.

Paro in August

An August visit to Paro reveals a valley teeming with life, its terraces a vibrant quilt of monsoon-enriched greenery ideal for photographers seeking natural beauty. The rains, a regular presence, enhance the majesty of historical sites like Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, bastions of Bhutan's rich heritage. The journey to the iconic Paro Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger's Nest, clinging to the cliffside, becomes an ethereal adventure amidst the fog and drizzle.

Luxury accommodation in Paro serves as your sanctuary, offering respite with traditional Bhutanese spa rituals and culinary delights featuring the freshest local flavors, all against a backdrop of a landscape invigorated by the rains. Paro in August is a symphony of lush scenery and cultural depth, wrapped in the comfort of high-end hospitality.

Punakha in August

August in Punakha is a time when the monsoon breathes life into the landscape, turning the rice fields into a tapestry of vivid green. The grand Punakha Dzong, a fortress at the river's confluence, stands more imposing against the swollen waters. Nearby, the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to fertility, remains a beacon of tranquility amidst the rain-washed scenery. Adventure seekers can revel in the thrill of rafting on the vigorous rivers, their rapids energized by the monsoon. Though the rains demand respect, they also add a sense of adventure to outdoor treks, offering a unique perspective of the valley's lush beauty. Visiting Punakha in August promises a blend of cultural wonders and natural exhilaration, set against the backdrop of an enchanting monsoon season.

Bhutan tour
Water rafting in Punakha in summer
Bhutan tour
Dochula Pass in summer

What to Wear in Bhutan in August & Packing Tips

Clothing:

Waterproof Raincoat: Essential for staying dry during frequent showers.

Layered Outfits: Include short and long-sleeved shirts and a sweater or fleece for cooler evenings.

Breathable Waterproof Trousers: For trekking in wet conditions.

Sturdy Walking Shoes: Waterproof and comfortable for slippery paths.

Warm Socks: Preferably wool or a quick-drying blend.

Hat and Sunglasses: To protect against sporadic sunshine.

Scarf or Shawl: Useful for warmth and necessary for visiting religious sites.

Accessories:

Umbrella: Compact and easy to carry for sudden drizzles.

Waterproof Backpack or Cover: To safeguard your belongings.

Sunscreen: High SDF for protection at higher altitudes.

Remember, Bhutan is largely a cash economy, especially outside of Thimphu and Paro, so carry enough local currency (Ngultrum) for small purchases. Credit cards may not be widely accepted. Keep your belongings secure and always respect the local customs and traditions while enjoying your Bhutan adventure.

Bhutan tour
Tashichho Dzong in summer
Bhutan tour
Bhutan Thimphu Buddha in summer

How to Plan a Bhutan Tour in August - Recommend Itinerary

Planning a Bhutan Tours in August requires consideration of the monsoon weather, but it also offers the opportunity to see the country in its most lush and green state. Here's a recommended 4-day itinerary that balances cultural immersion with the practical aspects of traveling during the rainy season.

Day 1: Arrive in Paro; be welcomed at the airport and settle into your hotel to acclimatize and relax.

Day 2: Explore the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on the cliffs above Paro, a spiritual and physical journey.

Day 3: Travel to Thimphu to behold the gigantic Buddha Dordenma Statue, visit the National Memorial Chorten, and tour the majestic Tashichho Dzong.

Day 4: Return to Paro to experience Bhutan's national sport at the Paro Dzongkhag Archery Ground and unwind with a traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath.

Day 5: Depart from Paro, with an airport transfer, carrying memories of a journey through the mystical and cultural landscapes of Bhutan.

Bhutan tour
Jakar Dzong in August
Bhutan tour
Trongsa Dzong in August

Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel

Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.

Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.

Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.

Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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