May marks the late spring in Bhutan, bringing increasing humidity that hints at the upcoming monsoon and often limits mountain visibility. Despite this, temperatures remain warm, making it a good time for cultural sightseeing. Here are some essential details about traveling to Bhutan in May:
Weather
May is a transitional month between the pleasant spring and the approaching monsoon, exhibiting features of both. The temperatures are generally warm, becoming increasingly humid and dusty as the month progresses. Mountain views might be obscured by clouds and humidity, especially towards the end of May when you'll likely need an umbrella or raincoat.
Weather varies significantly with altitude across Bhutan. The southern regions, bordering India, are subtropical and can become very hot in May. This area might be uncomfortable for most travelers. For instance, Gelephu, near the Royal Manas National Park, experiences average temperatures between 72 and 90°F (22 and 32°C) in May, sometimes getting even hotter.
Mid-hill regions offer more pleasant conditions. Punakha, at an altitude of 4250 feet (1300 meters), has temperatures ranging from 63 to 81°F (17 to 27°C). The capital, Thimphu, located at 7200 feet (2200 meters), is cooler, with May temperatures between 55 and 73°F (13 and 23°C). Your comfort with these temperatures will depend on personal preferences, but higher elevations in Bhutan are unlikely to be unbearably hot in May.
Crowds & Costs
March and April are peak tourism months in Bhutan, but May sees fewer visitors as the weather is not as ideal. You won't find many crowded places, but it's still advisable to book tours and accommodations in advance, especially if you have specific preferences.
Where to Go
If time and budget permit, explore central and eastern Bhutan. These remote regions are still accessible in May, particularly earlier in the month, before monsoon rains complicate overland travel and cause flight cancellations. The Bumthang Valley, a cultural and religious hub, and eastern Bhutan, less developed than the west, offer unique experiences. However, reaching eastern Bhutan may require domestic flights and you are unlikely to encounter many other tourists.
For those with limited time or who are interested in Bhutan's iconic sights, stick to Western Bhutan. Thimphu, Paro, the Punakha Valley/Wangdue, and the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery are popular destinations on most Bhutan itineraries for good reasons.
What to Do
May still offers suitable conditions for trekking, although you should prepare for rain and expect some cloud-covered mountain views. This month can be a good time for trekking as overnight camping at higher altitudes is not as cold as in other seasons. Bhutan offers a range of trekking options, from the challenging Snowman Trek and the moderately difficult Jomolhari Trek to gentle day hikes through rural areas where you can retreat to comfortable hotels overnight.
Events in May
One notable event is the monk processions. On the first day of the fourth lunar month, monks from Punakha move to their summer residence in Thimphu, at a higher and cooler altitude. The procession is a significant event, and locals line up to receive blessings from the monks.
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