Climate and monthly weather forecastDaphu, Bhutan

The climate of Daphu

Daphu is a region seated in the throes of Bhutan, where the climate is predominately humid subtropical with dry winters; this is classified as Cwa under the Köppen climate classification. The annual temperature range of Daphu fluctuates from a comfortable 12.6°C (54.7°F) to a warm 34.3°C (93.7°F). The prevalence of relative humidity annually sits at approximately 54% to 83%. While these intervals can occasionally disrupt the feeling of thermal comfort, the weather remains manageable most of the year.

Rainfall in Daphu varies noticeably, reaching its highest levels from May to August at between 187mm (7.36") and 318mm (12.52"). This is synonymous with the high cloud cover percentage, increasing from 11% to a peak of 56% at the same interval. During dryer parts of the year, specifically between December and March, the rainfalls drop to as low as 2mm (0.08") to 12mm (0.47") monthly. Coupled with the occurrence of minimal rainfall, the cloud cover considerably lessens to about 11% to 22%.

The daylight hours are generally fairly consistent in Daphu, extending from 10.5 hours to 13.8 hours throughout the year. This figure pairs well with the sunshine hours, reaching its peak from May at 10.9 hours and descending to its lowest in winter at an average of 7.4 hours during December. The climate in Daphu is customized with an impressive UV index that sits annually between 5 and 7 throughout the year, implying a high level of solar radiation.

Wind speeds in Daphu generally shift from as low as 5.1km/h (3.2mph) to a maximum of 7.4km/h (4.6mph), whilst the highest gusting winds can reach up to 8.5km/h (5.3mph) to 12km/h (7.5mph). These conditions, coupled with clear visibility extending up to 10km (6.2mi), make the climate in Daphu quite pleasant despite prevailing humidity and rainfall.

The best time to visit Daphu

With its climate considered, the best time to visit Daphu is between October and April. During these months, the temperatures settle comfortably between 25.3°C (77.5°F) and 30.9°C (87.6°F). The climate is well-balanced, with a modest rainfall of 2mm (0.08") to 54mm (2.13"), paired with the reduction of cloud cover to 11% to 22%. These conditions make for beautiful and predictable weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. With less humidity and more daylight hours, enhanced with up to 9.6 hours of sunshine in November and a UV index of 6, this stretch proves to be the most enjoyable time for a visit to Daphu.

The worst time to visit Daphu

Conversely, the damp months between May and September may be considered the least optimal time to visit Daphu. The climate is marked with immense rainfall reaching up to 318mm (12.52") in July, alongside an increase in cloud cover to a high of 56%. Coupled with prevalent humidity of up to 83%, the weather during these periods can be quite oppressive and may limit outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Daphu

Characterize by a steady increment in temperatures, Spring in Daphu witnesses the rise from a mild 24.9°C (76.8°F) in March to a warm 34.3°C (93.7°F) in May. The rainfall is moderate and exists from 3mm (0.12") in March to 54mm (2.13") in May. The cloud cover during this period sequentially increases from 11% to 22%. Although relative humidity climbs, the overall spring weather in Daphu is pleasant, making it a good season to experience Bhutan's natural vibrancy.

Summer weather in Daphu

Summer weather in Daphu, from June to August, expects heavy rainfall, ranging from 219mm (8.62") to 318mm (12.52"). Accompanied by a cloud cover between 44% and 56% and relative humidity peaking at 83%, it makes summer the wettest season. Temperatures range from 32.3°C (90.1°F) to 34°C (93.2°F), resulting in warm and humid days. Despite the prevalent rainfall, daylight hours mark a high at 13.8 hours in June with sunshine hours interestingly reaching a peak of 10.9 hours in June before descending to 8.4 hours in August.

Autumn weather in Daphu

Autumn in Daphu, witnessed from September to November, sees a welcome relief from the hot summers and heavy rainfall. The temperatures during this time slowly drop from 32°C (89.6°F) in September to a comfortable 28.5°C (83.3°F) in November. The rainfall dramatically lessens to between 185mm (7.28") and 2mm (0.08"), resulting in a significant decline in cloud cover from 41% to just 11%. This period marks a more comfortable season with decreased humidity and comfortable temperatures.

Winter weather in Daphu

Winter in Daphu proves to be the coldest and driest season. From December to February, temperatures gradually drop from 25.3°C (77.5°F) to 12.6°C (54.7°F). Rainfall during this time is minimal, ranging between only 2mm (0.08") and 3mm (0.12"), allowing for the cloud cover to dwindle to as low as 11%. The reduced humidity levels and colder temperatures make this season a refreshing change from the usually mild and humid climate of Daphu, still offering up to 10.5 hours of daylight with a moderate UV index of 5 to 6. The winter months also see a decline in wind speeds, dropping to an average of 5km/h (3.1mph). This drop in temperature coupled with the calm winds and clear visibility gives a serenity to the winter season in Daphu.

Weather in January

The beginning of the year in Daphu, Bhutan, is marked by mild temperatures, making it pleasant for the locals and wintry tourists alike. The most notable weather feature of January is its relatively low precipitation. The month records an average rainfall of just 3mm (0.12"), suggesting dry weather overall. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Transitioning into February, the average high-temperature slightly increases, hinting at the arrival of spring. The overall weather remains relatively drier, receiving a comparatively moderate level of precipitation. Rhododendron trees begin to bloom, painting a vibrant picture against the lucid February sky in Daphu. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March witnesses the onset of spring with a significant rise in temperatures, indicating a gradual transition from a mild winter to a warmer climatic phase. The city experiences an increase in rainfall to an average level of 12mm (0.47"), causing an escalation in the humidity to 38%. Weather in March »

Weather in April

As you move further into the year, April is when heat levels begin to climb noticeably and the real advent of summer is realized. This month records a significant spike in rainfall to an average of 54mm (2.13"), a four-fold increase from the previous month. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May looks like it starts the pre-monsoon showers, setting the stage for the impending wet months ahead. Yet, it’s also the month for sun-worshippers because it has the longest daylight hours of approximately 13.5 hours and maximum sun-shining hours of almost 10.9h. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June sees an intensifying of monsoon conditions. Humidity levels make the days feel much warmer and cause sporadic afternoon showers. The lush greenery gets a yearly boost to its vibrancy during this month. Despite the increased precipitation and humidity, the city doesn't come to a halt. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July hits extreme levels on a few fronts. The highest rainfall of the year, at 318mm (12.52"), makes its impact, and the increased pressures of such conditions bring about a unique freshness. Bhutan’s flora and fauna seem to thrive during this period despite the heavy precipitation. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The tail-end of the monsoon season starts reflecting in August, with the rain subsiding slightly. The constant downpour keeps the city's temperature in control though humidity lingers at a high level. The concluding phase of the monsoon sets the ground for a farewell to the wettest season. Weather in August »

Weather in September

With the arrival of September, Daphu's weather gradually moves closer to its delightful autumn season. The decrease in rainfall, wind speeds, and humidity results in a general cooling trend. Streams and waterfalls, filled during the monsoon, now become visitor hot spots. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Daphu, Bhutan, is marked by welcoming autumn hues, cooler temperatures, and a significant drop in rainfall to a comparatively meager level of 38mm (1.5"). It proves to be a great time for outdoor activities with cool breezes blowing through the days. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November ushers in the crisp and pleasant late autumn weather. The vibrantly hued leaves fall from the trees, transforming landscapes into a beautiful carpet of colors. As the month progresses, the temperatures drop further, setting the stage for the approaching winter. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Winter makes its presence known in December. The temperatures drop, marking lower averages compared to previous months. However, the average precipitation levels remain low at 2mm (0.08"), creating an ideal setting for enjoying the winter sun. Weather in December »