Current Weather in Thimphu
Patchy rain possible16.2°C61.1°F
- Current Temperature: 16.2°C61.1°F
- Current Feels‑Like Temperature: 16.2°C61.1°F
- Current Humidity: 84%
- Minimum Temperature/Maximum Temperature: 11.3°C52.4°F / 18.9°C66°F
- Wind Speed: 6.8km/h
- Wind Direction: ↑ From the North-Northwest
(Data Time 04:00 / Data Retrieved 2025-09-06 23:00)
Seasonal Events & Climate in Thimphu
Bhutan has a significant elevation difference, resulting in marked changes in climate and cultural events with each season. Below is a summary of the climate characteristics and main events by season.
Spring (March - May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Daytime 5°C to 15°C, with some nights close to freezing
- Precipitation: Minimal rainfall toward the end of the dry season, slightly increasing after April
- Features: Snowmelt progresses, with remnants of snow coexisting with fresh greenery in mountainous areas
Main Events and Culture
| Month | Event | Description and Relation to Climate |
|---|---|---|
| March | Punakha Tshechu | Held at the end of the farming off-season. Many sunny days make outdoor performances shine. |
| April | Paro Tshechu | A mask dance festival celebrating the arrival of spring. Warm daytime weather makes it easy for tourists to participate. |
| May | Buddha's Birthday (Saka Dawa) | Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Buddha. Ritual bathing is performed using the snowmelt water from the mountains. |
Summer (June - August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Relatively cool at around 15°C to 25°C
- Precipitation: The monsoon season from late June to early September brings considerable rainfall
- Features: Rapid weather changes and increased humidity in high-altitude areas
Main Events and Culture
| Month | Event | Description and Relation to Climate |
|---|---|---|
| July | Thimphu Summer Festival | Showcases traditional crafts and sports. Held outdoors aiming for clear weather. |
| August | Farmers' Day | A thanksgiving ceremony performed before the rice planting period, right after the monsoon. |
Autumn (September - November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Comfortable at 10°C to 20°C
- Precipitation: Residual light rain in September; dry season begins with continued sunny weather from October onward
- Features: Clear air allows for a stunning view of the peaks of the Himalayas
Main Events and Culture
| Month | Event | Description and Relation to Climate |
|---|---|---|
| September | Haa Summer Festival | A cultural event in the mountainous region. Local traditional dances and markets flourish under sunny weather. |
| October | Lhuentse Tshechu | A mask dance festival held during the autumn leaves. There might be some chill, but stable weather. |
| November | Jambay Lhakhang Drup | A naked body ceremony at a mountain temple. A solemn atmosphere prevails in the clear air. |
Winter (December - February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Daytime 0°C to 10°C; some areas drop below -10°C at night
- Precipitation: Peak dry season with little to no rainfall or snowfall
- Features: Radiational cooling leads to extremely chilly mornings and evenings, while daytime often sees clear skies
Main Events and Culture
| Month | Event | Description and Relation to Climate |
|---|---|---|
| December | Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival | Enjoying 108 stupas and vibrant dances in the clear winter highlands. |
| January | Black-necked Crane Festival | Commemorating the migrating cranes. Cold weather is harsh, but the contrast of blue sky and white snow is beautiful. |
| February | Losar (Bhutanese New Year) | Tibetan lunar new year. It varies according to the lunar calendar, but typically sees many dry and sunny days. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
| Season | Climate Characteristics | Examples of Main Events |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Coexistence of snow and fresh greenery, end of dry season | Punakha Tshechu, Paro Tshechu, Saka Dawa |
| Summer | Rainy weather during monsoon, relatively cool | Thimphu Summer Festival, Farmers' Day |
| Autumn | Continued sunny weather, autumn leaves, clear air | Haa Summer Festival, Lhuentse Tshechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup |
| Winter | Peak dry season, radiational cooling leading to cold | Dochula Festival, Black-necked Crane Festival, Losar |
Additional Notes
- Due to elevation differences, the perceived climate can vary greatly even within the same season.
- Buddhist events are scheduled based on the lunar calendar, targeting periods of stable weather.
- The dry winter season is suitable for birdwatching and climbing, but caution is advised regarding night-time cold.
- The agricultural culture and festivals from spring to autumn are deeply connected to the changing seasons.
In Bhutan, the natural environment and religious culture are intertwined, fostering a habit of experiencing the changes in climate through festivals and rituals.