Some of the Kingdom’s valleys, such as Punakha, Wangdue, Mongar, Trashigang and Lhuntsi, are characterized by a semi-tropical climate with very cool winters. Others, like Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang, and Haa, have a harsher climate with heavy snowfall that sometimes blocks the passes leading into the Central and Eastern valleys during winters. Monsoon rains in summer are heavy. Eastern Bhutan is generally warmer than the western region, and Southern Bhutan enjoys a tropical climate.

Mid-March to May is spring in the higher valleys, with warm days and cool nights. The summer rainy season starts from July and continues till mid-September, and day temperatures can reach 27 to 29o C. (approximately 80 to 84 F). Clear skies and mild weather accompany the autumn months of September to November. Winter lasts from mid- November until mid-March and day temperatures can vary between 16 and 18o C (60-64 F) on sunny days, while night temperatures can fall below freezing.

:: accomodations
Hotels, lodges and guest houses are fairly comfortable at tourist destinations. Hotels in Western Bhutan are better than those in the central and eastern parts of the country, where accommodations are simple and offer minimum facilities.

:: food
Bhutanese food is a tantalizing blend of hot Himalayan flavours. North Indian cuisine mixes with the chillis of the Tibetan plateau and traditional recipes from Bhutan’s villages to create sizzling and memorable tastes. Mushroom, apricots, asparagus, a wide variety of chillis and a host of spices grow in abundance in Bhutan’s valleys. These spices, fruits and vegetable are prepared with beef, chicken, pork, dried yak or with each other, to make dishes that resemble elements of both Chinese and Indian cuisine. Bhutanese dishes are traditionally served with ample portions of indigenous red rice. The food prepared for tourists is tempered to western taste.

:: language
Dzongkha is the national language. English is widely spoken in the main towns, and it is the medium of education in all schools.

:: electricity
Electricity in Bhutan is reasonably reliable and runs 220/240 volts. An international converter kit with a set adapter plugs is recommended if travelers bring electrical appliances into the Kingdom. Batteries are available.