Visiting Bhutan in February: Does it snow in Bhutan in February?

Lying in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan has a dry climate in February with plenty of sunshine, but a large temperature difference between day and night.

The daytime temperature in the main attractions in the west, like Thimphu and Punakha, is around 10 to 15 degrees, and the temperature in high-altitude areas such as Tiger's Nest Monastery and Bumthang is relatively low. There is also a high probability of seeing snowfall in these places.

As the off-season for tourism, there are few tourists in Bhutan at this time, and you have a better chance to immerse yourself in the most beautiful parts of this Himalayan kingdom.

Let’s explore Bhutan’s February weather and climate in detail, along with essential travel tips for a smooth winter trip.

General Weather Condition of Bhutan in February

Generally, the weather in Bhutan is getting a little warmer as February progresses towards March, and in the mountains, the snow is not quite as thick. However, the conditions are still just as harsh at higher altitudes as in the rest of the winter months.

February is generally characterized in Bhutan by superb visibility, crisp and refreshing air quality, and unusually low rainfall for a country that has rain to some degree all year round.

Temperatures in Paro and Thimphu can reach highs up to around 11-14 degrees during the day, though daytime averages are more likely to be around 5-6 degrees.

Out in the east, Trashigang is already seeing daytime highs of up to 20 degrees. However, temperatures still fall rapidly at night, so your thermal underwear is still a necessity.

Temperatures in Punakha are already reaching up to 18-19 degrees, with averages of around 12-14 degrees during the day.

However, it is still cold in Bumthang in February. Highs of up to 8 degrees may be seen in extremes, but the average daily temperatures are normally around 0-1 degrees. And at night, it can still drop to around -6 to -7 degrees.

Does it snow in Bhutan in February?

With Bhutan lying on the southern edge of the Himalayas, you can safely say that it does snow in Bhutan in February. However, it may not snow in the lower altitudes, since the climates are very different from north to south.

Bhutan has four distinct seasons, and February falls in the winter season, which generally runs from late November to the beginning of March.

Normally, at higher altitudes that have snow, you can expect to see the major snowfall in early February, and the snow can even disrupt road transport to eastern Bhutan.

However, there is no set date for snowfall, and in some years, almost none is seen in the colder areas that normally see at least a little snow.

Where to see snow in Bhutan in February?

If you want to see snow in Bhutan in February, you do not have to go that far. There are several places where you can go where you are more likely to encounter heavier snowfall.

The Tiger’s Nest, also known as the Taktshang Monastery, lies more than 900 meters above the Paro Valley - an iconic highlight of any Bhutan tour. Located at a high altitude, it has greater chances of receiving snow, especially in the colder winter months, though usually only a few centimeters at most, which soon melt within a few days.

Dochula Pass is another good place to find snow in February. The pass, which lies on the road from Thimphu heading east to Bumthang, is renowned for its 108 Memorial Chortens, and usually sees a light dusting of snow when it comes in February. Chele La Pass is another good place to see snow, on the road from Paro to Haa. At an altitude of 3,880 meters, this high pass can often see a fall of snow in the middle of February.

The main snowfall in the more tourist-related areas of Bhutan can fall in several Dzongkhags, including Thimphu, Haa, Paro, Gasa, and Bumthang. While these districts usually receive some snowfall in February, the weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and stay warm.

Unusually, while it is the winter feeding ground of the black-necked cranes, the Phobjikha Valley in Wangdue Phodrang often sees a very light amount of snowfall in or around February. While it is just a one-day snowfall, if you are there at the right time, you might get lucky. Other than that, the best places to see snow in Bhutan are on the high mountains of the Himalayas. Most of the higher peaks of the mountains have snow in the winter months.

Is that too cold to do mountain trekking in February?

Trekking in Bhutan during winter is still possible. This varied landscape means that there is always somewhere that you can go hiking, and February is no exception.

One of the most popular options at this time of year is the Druk Path Trek from Paro to Thimphu via the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The relatively lower altitude means that it is not as cold as other places in February, and the treks are all still open and available.

Some short treks around Paro are also available in the second half of February, such as the famous Bumdrak Trek and the Sagala Trek. Both of these tours take 2 days, during which you will experience the cultural and religious sites around Paro. And when you trek through the Sagala trekking trail, you will have a chance to enjoy a stunning view of Jhomolhari.

What to wear when visit Bhutan in February?

While temperatures may seem warmish in February, you should not be deceived, since most people mention the “high” temperatures, not the average ones. Aside from Punakha, all of the major tourist areas are still cold, and you still need to pack those thinner layers to keep warm. You will also still need to have fleece or down jackets for the colder periods and in the evenings. And you should bring cotton pants, not jeans, and thermal underwear for the colder periods.

Whether or not you are hiking, you should bring some decent hiking boots with you, as the ground in many places can be rocky. Boots are better than shoes, as they can better support your ankles and provide better grip, but hiking shoes are adequate for those not intending to trek in the mountains. You should also bring some comfortable shoes for wearing in the hotel and when traveling.

It is still necessary to take sun protection when visiting high-altitude areas in Bhutan. It is a good idea to bring a decent hat to both stay warm and keep off the harmful UV radiation. Sunglasses are also essential, and a good pair of gloves will keep your hands warm.

You may want to bring some moisturizer and lip balm with you, to protect your face and lips from the chaffing winds.

How much does it cost to visit Bhutan in February?

According to the latest policy, Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) has been halved to 100 US dollars (the same price year-round). On top of that, you will also need to pay for hotels, attraction tickets, the guide and the driver service fees, etc., which range from about 150 US dollars to 500 US dollars, or even more if you choose a luxury tour in Bhutan. In addition, you will also need to pay the Bhutan Visa fee of 40 US dollars.

Feel free to contact us and get a quote for your Bhutan tour in February.

Conclusion

Visiting Bhutan in February is a great way to explore the areas that are normally crowded with tourists in peace. With fewer tourists traveling to Bhutan in the winter months, you will be able to enjoy the attractions without lots of people getting in the way.

There are downsides, in that there are some places which you may not be able to get to in February, especially if it has snowed over the higher passes and blocked roads. While this is not a common occurrence, it does happen.

Overall, February is a great time to go to Bhutan to enjoy the amazing landscapes, stunning scenery, and the inspiring Bhutanese culture. Welcome to winter in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.