September sees the monsoon retreat and increasingly clear skies, especially later in the month. This begins one of the best periods for trekking and cultural visits with lower humidity and improved mountain views. Visitor numbers rise again for autumn festival season.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Bhutan in September.
Samtse, Sarpang, Phuentsholing
October brings crisp mornings and much less rain; the plains feel almost cool compared with the summer, with daytime highs in the low 20s°C and comfortable evenings. Local festivals inland draw visitors through the southern crossings, so transport demand can rise; this is a good month to plan onward travel when roads are stable. Lightweight layers and a light rain jacket are usually enough for excursions and market visits.
Paro, Thimphu, Haa
September brings a marked improvement: rain eases and the skies clear into crisp, luminous days-an excellent moment for valley trekking and to catch Thimphu Tshechu later in the autumn. Day temperatures settle pleasantly between 10-20°C and trails dry quickly, restoring good access to hilltop monasteries. This month starts the high-season return of international visitors, so expect more crowds at popular sites.
Punakha, Wangdue, Trongsa, Bumthang
October is excellent in the central highlands: crisp air, clear skies and gentle daytime warmth make this prime time for cultural travel and multi-day treks in Bumthang. Festivals and harvest celebrations often swell local towns with color, so expect lively accommodation demand. Nights are cold enough for a good campfire or a warm dhindo meal, so bring insulating layers for evenings and early mornings.
Trashigang, Mongar, Trashiyangtse
October delivers crisp, cool weather with excellent visibility from ridges and valleys-one of the best months for long drives between Trashigang, Mongar and the more remote cultural stops. Daytime highs generally sit around 12-18°C, with nights getting quite cold at altitude. Tourist facilities begin to receive more visitors, so book accommodation earlier if your trip coincides with festivals.
Gasa, Laya, Lunana, high passes
October continues the high-country prime season: crisp air, stable trails and very low rainfall make extended alpine treks feasible and spectacular, though nights are cold, especially above 3,000 m. High passes are generally clear and yak caravans cross valleys; accommodation is basic but functional in organized routes. This is a demanding but rewarding time for serious trekkers-carry warm sleeping gear and plan conservative daily distances for safe acclimatization.
A major religious festival in the capital featuring masked dances and large public gatherings; exact dates follow the lunar calendar.
See how September compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.