Expand
Contents
- The climate of Thimphu
- The best time to visit Thimphu
- The worst time to visit Thimphu
- Spring weather in Thimphu
- Summer weather in Thimphu
- Autumn weather in Thimphu
- Winter weather in Thimphu
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
Mountain peaks and slopes in the Valley country of Thimphu, Bhutan
The climate of Thimphu
Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, lies within a vegetated area of the country's western interior. Its climate is classified as Temperate Highland Tropical with Dry Winters. This specific classification signifies the city's geographical position and correlating weather pattern. The city is encased in a high-altitude region, giving Thimphu a climate that can drastically fluctuate based on the time of year.
Thimphu exhibits typical variations in overall weather conditions on a monthly basis. Daylight hours fluctuate from 10.4 hours to 13.9 hours throughout the year. On average, Thimphu records sunshine hours between 5 hours and 8 hours daily. Notably, the annual UV index shifts significantly, attaining a maximum rated index of 12 in the summer months.
Precipitation trends in Thimphu are characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The city experiences an enormous increase in rainfall from May to September, with rain falling for an average of 20 days in July and August. In contrast, there is limited rainfall from November to March, with almost none in December and January. Interestingly, average temperatures in Thimphu range from -2.6°C (27.3°F) to 25°C (77°F), signifying a tangible shift across seasons.
Thimphu exhibits typical variations in overall weather conditions on a monthly basis. Daylight hours fluctuate from 10.4 hours to 13.9 hours throughout the year. On average, Thimphu records sunshine hours between 5 hours and 8 hours daily. Notably, the annual UV index shifts significantly, attaining a maximum rated index of 12 in the summer months.
Precipitation trends in Thimphu are characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The city experiences an enormous increase in rainfall from May to September, with rain falling for an average of 20 days in July and August. In contrast, there is limited rainfall from November to March, with almost none in December and January. Interestingly, average temperatures in Thimphu range from -2.6°C (27.3°F) to 25°C (77°F), signifying a tangible shift across seasons.
The best time to visit Thimphu
From March to May, Thimphu enjoys mild weather - offering favorable conditions for outdoor exploration. During these months, the average maximum temperatures gradually rise from 16.4°C (61.5°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F) accompanied by moderate rainfall. The predictable increase in both daylight and sunshine hours offers visitors ample opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and numerous cultural sites around Thimphu during spring. Moreover, the UV index is moderate to high, suggesting the use of protection for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Thimphu
The time period between June and August encompass the city’s monsoon season and is generally considered an unfavorable time in Thimphu as a visit during these months would result in confinement to indoor activities due to incessant rainfall. In addition to this, the city experiences its warmest months with average temperatures reaching 24.4°C (75.9°F) and 24.9°C (76.8°F). Frequently, the city recounts rainfall exceeding 240mm (9.45"), and heavy cloud cover reduces sunshine hours to a year’s minimum of 5 - 6 hours per day.
Spring weather in Thimphu
Thimphu welcomes the spring season from March till May. During these months, the city observes a gradual increase in daylight hours from 12 hours in March to 13.9 hours in May. The overall average daytime temperatures scale from 16.4°C (61.5°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F) while nighttime temperatures fluctuate between 3.9°C (39°F) and 15.2°C (59.4°F). The quantity of rainfall scene in the city escalates in this period, with minimal rain in March, shifting towards higher precipitation in May exceeding 120mm (4.72"). The UV index is moderate to high in spring, indicating the need for suitable skin protection.
Summer weather in Thimphu
Thimphu's summer extends from June through August. In these months, average maximum temperatures fluctuate slightly, from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 25°C (77°F). Furthermore, minimum temperatures range from 15.2°C (59.4°F) to 15.8°C (60.4°F). As the heaviest rainfall occurs in this period, exceeding 240mm (9.45") in June and reaching over 370mm (14.57") in July, it has limited sunshine hours and the daylight hour scale from 13.7 hours to 13.1 hours. The UV index reaches its peak at 12, ensuring visitors would need to use high-level UV protection.
Autumn weather in Thimphu
From September to November, Thimphu experiences its autumn. Maximum temperatures decrease gradually from 23.1°C (73.6°F) in September to 17.9°C (64.2°F) by November. Minimum temperatures fall similarly, from15°C (59°F) to 5°C (41°F), during this time frame. Rainfall reduces drastically during autumn, from 155mm (6.1") in September to just 8mm (0.31") by November. Whilst sunshine hours increase from 5 to 7 hours daily, daylight hours dwindle from 12.3 hours to 10.8 hours.
Winter weather in Thimphu
Winter in Thimphu spans from December to February. Throughout the winter months, maximum average temperatures fall from 14.5°C (58.1°F) to a year’s low of 12.3°C (54.1°F) in January, before rising again slightly. The average winter minima range from -1.1°C (30°F) to -2.6°C (27.3°F) in the same period. Rainfall is extremely scarce, with an average monthly accumulation failing to exceed 13mm (0.51"). The limited rainfall and lower temperatures result in less humid weather conditions that provide clear views of Thimphu's picturesque winter landscapes.
Weather in January
Transitioning from the colder year's end, Thimphu’s weather in January continues to be chilly, underscoring the city's continental climate. The low temperatures serve as a wintry backdrop for the unobstructed sunshine throughout the month. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As the calendar flips to February, Thimphu transitions delicately into slightly warmer Western Himalayan weather. As the city bids farewell to the frosty conditions of January, precipitation stays low, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The Thimphu weather in March signifies the arrival of spring. It exhibits a noticeable jump in the city's temperatures, hinting at the oncoming warmer seasons. The increase in rainfall, from 31mm (1.22") to 58mm (2.28"), punctuates the daily temperature swings from 3.9°C (39°F) to 16.4°C (61.5°F). Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings notable changes in Thimphu's weather with warmer afternoons and increasingly frequent precipitation events. The city's landscape bursts with spring vibrancy, accentuated by the rainfall. The range of temperatures rises notably, with values from 7.1°C (44.8°F) to 20°C (68°F). Weather in April »
Weather in May
Moving into May, the weather in Thimphu undergoes a significant shift. A significant increase in rainfall coincides with the continued trend of rising temperatures. The temperatures reflect the arrival of late spring with the lows at 13.1°C (55.6°F) and highs peaking at 22.5°C (72.5°F). Weather in May »
Weather in June
The weather in June segues into Thimphu's rainy half of the year. As summer sets in, the frequency and intensity of rainfall start to surge. Amidst the predominantly wet weather, temperatures remain mild with values between 15.2°C (59.4°F) and 24.4°C (75.9°F). Weather in June »
Weather in July
Thimphu's weather in July is synonymous with monsoon showers as it reaches the peak of the rainy season. The month is characterized by heavy rain and the prevalence of high humidity levels. Temperatures stay warm, measuring between 15.4°C (59.7°F) and 24.9°C (76.8°F). Weather in July »
Weather in August
August continues the monsoon trend in Thimphu, featuring persistent rains and high levels of humidity. Reminiscent of July's weather, the temperatures rise slightly from 15.8°C (60.4°F) to 25°C (77°F). The daylight period begins to decline marginally, signaling the oncoming end of summer. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Transitioning from the monsoon-laden summer, Thimphu weather in September experiences a decrease in rainfall. As the city moves towards autumn, the temperatures also begin to cool down, ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 23.1°C (73.6°F). Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Thimphu marks the start of fall with a drastic decrease in rainfall and cooler temperatures. A noticeable chill pervades the morning air while pleasant warmth characterizes the afternoons. The temperature ranges from a low of 10.4°C (50.7°F) to a high of 21.9°C (71.4°F). Weather in October »
Weather in November
November weather in Thimphu presents a dramatic shift as fall gives way to the city's winter. The largely dry weather, owing to a scanty rainfall of 8mm (0.31"), complements the descending temperatures. November's daily temperature span from a chilly 5°C (41°F) to a milder 17.9°C (64.2°F). Weather in November »
Weather in December
Closing the year, Thimphu's weather in December presents a full-fledged winter spectacle. As temperatures drop further, reaching lows of -1.1°C (30°F) and highs of 14.5°C (58.1°F), the city slips into its coldest phase. Peculiarly, December experiences a curiously low rainfall of 13mm (0.51"), asserting its position during the dry half of the year. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What part of the year is the coldest in Thimphu?
January is the coldest month, with an average high-temperature of 12.3°C (54.1°F) and an average low-temperature of -2.6°C (27.3°F).
How many days does it rain in Thimphu?
In Thimphu, Bhutan, during the entire year, the rain falls for 97 days and collects up to 1447mm (56.97") of precipitation.
What is the month with the most sunshine in Thimphu?
January, March, April and November, with an average of 8h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Thimphu, Bhutan.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Thimphu?
April through September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index.
When are the longest days in Thimphu?
With an average of 13h and 48min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What is the rainiest month in Thimphu?
The month with the most rainfall in Thimphu is July, when the rain falls for 20 days and typically aggregates up to 373mm (14.69") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Thimphu?
The months with the least sunshine are July through September, with an average of 5h of sunshine.
What are the warmest months in Thimphu?
Thimphu's warmest month, August, generally records average temperatures ranging from a high of 25°C (77°F) to a low of 15.8°C (60.4°F).
What is the driest month in Thimphu?
The month with the least rainfall in Thimphu is November, when the rain falls for 1 days and typically collects 8mm (0.31") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Thimphu?
The month with the shortest days in Thimphu, Bhutan, is December, with an average of 10h and 24min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Thimphu?
Thimphu does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). +06 timezone is used over the entire year.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Thimphu?
The month with the lowest UV index in Thimphu is December, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
Average temperature
Thimphu, Bhutan
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (25°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (12.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (15.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-2.6°C).
Average rainfall
Thimphu, Bhutan
- Average rainfall in January:
25mm - Average rainfall in February:
33mm - Average rainfall in March:
31mm - Average rainfall in April:
58mm - Average rainfall in May:
122mm - Average rainfall in June:
246mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (373mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (8mm).
Average rainfall days
Thimphu, Bhutan
- Average rainfall days in January:
1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
20 days - Average rainfall days in August:
20 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14 days - Average rainfall days in October:
4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
0 days
The months with the highest number of rainy days are July and August (20 days).
The month with the least rainy days is December (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Thimphu, Bhutan
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 24min).
The months with the most sunshine are January, March, April and November (Average sunshine: 8h).
The months with the least sunshine are July, August and September (Average sunshine: 5h).
Average UV index
Thimphu, Bhutan
The months with the highest UV index are April, May, June, July, August and September (UV index 12).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 5).
Thimphu, Bhutan
Weather forecast for your location
1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location
2. Allow the app to use your location
