The weather in Bhutan varies with the altitude. In the northern parts of the country where mountains rise up to 7,000m, weather conditions are similar to the arctic and get snowfall two to three times every winter. Southwards, closer to India, the weather is hot and humid in the summer and cool in winter. The monsoon rains are usually heavy. The east is also warmer than the west. The central part of the country enjoys sub-tropical climate with very cool winter.

The best times to visit Bhutan are in Spring (March-May) and in Autumn (late September – November) when the weather is warm, dry and sunny.

The months of January and February are colder, but from March until April the climate remains dry and pleasant. In late spring the heat and humidity increase but at this time the famous rhododendrons bloom spectacularly and flood the valleys with colour.

From June to September the monsoon rains cover the mountains and one may find it difficult to explore the places. If one is interested in seeing the rare black-necked cranes, it is recommended that you visit the Phobjikha Valley between late October and mid-February.

Bhutan is cold during the months of December to February, with most days clear and sunny with very little rainfall. During the winter months, warm jackets, waterproof jackets, thermals, gloves, sunhats, sunscreen & sunglasses are recommended.

During a typical day, you may choose to wear a shell jacket with a fleece or wool sweater underneath along with a shirt or T-shirt or jumper and long pants.

Due to the hilly terrain in most parts of the country, good quality leather or waterproof fabric boots/shoes with good soles are recommended. One should also carry a good pair of waterproof walking shoes for regular use.

When you visit the monasteries and temples, do not wear fancy hats, shorts or sleeveless tops/t-shirts. Shoes always have to be removed outside before entering any shrine or temple, however socks are allowed.

Smoking, consumption of alcohol or any narcotic in and around temples/monasteries or other religious monuments is a taboo and so is shouting, yelling, laughing or talking loudly in and around these religious areas. When visiting any temple or monastery, small donations are welcomed.

The women there prefer to dress modestly, so try to avoid low-cut tops and sleeveless tops. Very short or tight fitting clothes are considered inappropriate in public areas in most Asian countries. Therefore we recommend light-weight, loose fitting trousers or skirts. Even at dinner, it is rare to dress up.

The consumption of tobacco is not altogether prohibited in Bhutan, though it is largely banned in places of public accommodation. However consumption of liquor is allowed in private.

All tourists except SAARC country residents, must obtain a visa clearance prior to travelling to Bhutan. Visas are processed through an online system by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator that you can contact directly or through a travel agent.

One is required to send a copy of the photo-page of their passport to the tour operator who will then apply for the visa. The visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) after the full payment of the holiday (including a USD $40 visa fee) has been received in the TCB bank account. Then the visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours.

When entering the country, you are required to show the visa clearance letter after which the visa will be stamped on the passport. 

Upon entering Bhutan, all foreigners are issued a 7 or 14 days of "Entry Permit" by default, which is valid only for Thimphu and Paro. The rest of Bhutan is considered as restricted areas and foreigners need a "Restricted-Area Permit" to enter those places.

Visa / Entry Permit is subject to change and depends on the Government policy. Our team will provide you with the exact details on your query about this important & crucial aspect of your travel.

• Refrain from passing negative comments on religion, the royal family and chief abbot.
• Locals are very simple & thus sensitive, so you may not want to sound rude.
• Always ask for permission if you are photographing a person.
• Taking pictures inside the altars of the dzongs (fortress), temples and monasteries is strictly prohibited.
• Dress modestly. Singlet and miniskirts are not well accepted dressing styles
• Enter temples and monasteries only if you have permission. Allow your guide to lead you.
• Remove your shoes before entering the temple and leave your camera at a safe place, if photography is prohibited.
• Leaving a donation at the temple is at personal discretion, normally all Bhutanese do.
• Refrain from pointing your feet at anyone; cross your legs or kneel when sitting in religious places.
• Don't wash, swim or throw objects into lakes, many of which are considered sacred.
• Public displays of affection between men and women, men and men and women and women are not common. Please refrain from doing so in public places.
• Smoking in public places is not allowed in Bhutan