Bhutan in December
Quiet, bright, cold — winter on the western circuit.
December is the start of low-season pricing — accommodation drops, crowds disappear, and conditions stay surprisingly clear. The Druk Wangyel Tshechu at Dochula on December 13 is a small, photogenic festival held high in the mountains. A good month for travellers who don't mind cold mornings in exchange for empty trails and lower prices.
Weather in December
Paro and Thimphu: -1 to 14°C (30–57°F). Bright winter sun, frosty mornings.
Punakha: 6 to 19°C (43–66°F). Comfortable — winter's warmest western valley.
Bumthang and Phobjikha: -4 to 10°C (25–50°F). Cold at night.
Festivals in December 2026
Best for
Budget-conscious travellers who want mostly clear conditions plus the occasional dusting of snow on the high peaks. Photographers chasing low-angle winter light at Tiger's Nest and the dzongs.
Caveats
High passes (Pele La, Thrumshing La) can close briefly with snow. Some homestays in Phobjikha and Bumthang close for the season.
What to pack for December
Pricing in December
December is low season — accommodation, hotel tier upgrades, and tour rates often run 10–20% below peak. Booking lead time can be as short as 2–3 weeks (visa permitting). See our full Bhutan cost breakdown for what's included and excluded.
Tours that fit December
Compare other months
The neighbouring months — useful if Decemberdoesn't quite work for your dates.
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