Bhutan in January | What to Pack, Weather & Best Things to Do
Tour
Tours

Things to Do in Bhutan in January

Bhutan in January becomes a picture-perfect winter paradise when a magical layer of snow covers the entire country. The weather is colder and clearer at this time of year, presenting you with picture-perfect vistas of peaceful valleys and snow-capped mountains. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, you can enjoy sports like skiing, snowboarding, and trekking amid the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.

In addition, Bhutan celebrates several cultural festivals, including Punakha Dromchoe and Punakha Tshechu featuring traditional dances, music, and rituals. Thus, you can be a part of these colorful celebrations that offer a genuine window into Bhutanese culture and spirituality. 

Thrillophilia offers customisable Bhutan travel packages that suit a variety of interests and tastes for those who are considering a trip to Bhutan in January. You can choose a package that fits your needs, whether you want to see old monasteries or enjoy  Bhutanese cuisine. Our all-inclusive packages take care of everything, from housing to transportation to guided excursions, so you can relax. Thus, why wait? Come enjoy the winter panoramas of Bhutan in January alone, with your spouse, or with your family.
Image description
Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
Connect with a group tour expert
Full Name
Email
Phone number
Travel Date
Traveller Count
Message
Best Selling Bhutan Tours Explore All (106)
Explore All (106)

Essential Information About Bhutan in January

01

Weather Conditions Of Bhutan In January

Bhutan greets you in January with a calm winter atmosphere and a crisp mountain breeze. It's a perfect time to explore "the land of the thunder dragon" because it's manageably cold. The weather is dry and clear in the lower sections, providing beautiful views of the surrounding terrain and mountains.

The temperature ranges from -3 to 12 degrees Celsius, and higher elevations may get snowfall. At higher levels, you can snowboard and ski, while in the valleys, you can enjoy clear blue skies, lush forests, and wildflowers. Attend celebrations like Punakha Tshechu to immerse yourself in Bhutan's diverse culture. In Bhutan, January is a time to celebrate the glories of nature and culture.
02

What to Pack for Bhutan Trip

When you pack for a trip to Bhutan, you need to think about the changing weather and the country's customs. Temperatures can change throughout the day, so bring layers of clothes that are both warm and light.

To visit Bhutan's rough terrain and old monasteries, you can wear shoes that are easy on your feet. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle that you can use more than once to stay hydrated at high elevations. Remember to pack toiletries and any prescriptions you may need, as some supplies might not be easily found in Bhutan.

You Can Also Check: Bhutan Family Tour Packages

Things to Do in Bhutan in January

03

Hike up to Paro Taktsang

When visiting Bhutan in January, visit the breathtaking Paro Taktsang, situated precariously on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley is one of the best. Witness the spirituality and beauty of this sacred location, which draws pilgrims and tourists and enjoy the stunning overhead view of the monastery's four main temples and eight caves.

Also, See the terrifying entrance to the monastery by narrow bridges and steep stairs carved out of rock and explore the monastery's magical cave where the Guru meditated for a long time.

Location: 
Located on the cliffside of the upper Paro Valley in Bhutan

Timings: Open daily 8 AM - 1 PM, 2 PM- 6 PM

Entry Fee: Nu 500 (INR 499.5 approx)

You can also Checkout: Bhutan Group Tour Packages
04

Soak in Bhutan’s beauty from Chele La Pass

Ascend to an altitude of more than 3,988 meters (13,084 feet) above sea level to experience the most breathtaking motorable pass. When visiting Bhutan during January, take a leisurely drive through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests.

Also Spot the Kila Nunnery and prayer flags along the walking path and encounter yaks grazing in the alpine meadows. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Jomolhari and other Himalayan giants.

Location: Located between the Haa and Paro valleys

Timings: March to June and then again from September to November

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Also Check: Bhutan Luxury Tour Packages
05

Explore Gangtey Monastery

Exploring the beautiful Gangtey Monastery, which is a four-storey structure surrounded by five churches, is one of the best things to do in Bhutan in January. Marvel at the tshokhang, or main hall, which is constructed in the manner of traditional Tibetan architecture.

Admire the hall's eight enormous wooden pillars, which are the biggest in the country. When visiting Bhutan in January, witness the holiness of about a hundred gomchen, or lay monks, who look after the monastery. Also, Explore the calm interior, embellished with exquisite statues of esteemed deities such as Guru Rinpoche.

Location: F5M7+WV9 Phobjikha Valley, Nubding, Bhutan

Timings: 
Open daily 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: 
Free entry

Checkout & Book: Bhutan Honeymoon Packages
06

Check out the Gigantic Statue at Kuenselphodrang

Climb up the hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park in Bhutan in January to be astounded by the sight of a 169-foot-tall golden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Observe the huge Buddha statue atop a grand meditation hall to learn about Bhutan's spiritual history.

Uncover the statue’s unique quality that holds 125,000 miniature gold and bronze Buddha figurines and learn how the statue's presence has fulfilled a prophecy from the eighth century A.D. Take in the peaceful, happy vibe that comes from this sacred site discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa.

Location: 
Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu, Bhutan

Timings: Open daily 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free entry

Read More: Places To Visit In Paro
07

Cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge

When visiting Bhutan in January, view the 520-foot-long Punakha Suspension Bridge, which is one of the longest suspension bridges in the country. The bridge is made of solid wood planks and cables that are attached to big cement blocks. You can absorb the cool mountain air and positive energy from the prayer flags as you cross the swaying bridge.

Also appreciate the Punakha Suspension Bridge's stunning mountain backdrop while crossing it for an adrenaline rush and stop to see the famous Punakha Dzong, which is only a half mile away.

Location: HVQ9+HXR, Punakha, Bhutan

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry Fee: Nu 300.28 (approx INR 300)

Also Read: Things to do in Thimphu
08

Marvel at Tiger Nest Monastery

One of the best things to do in Bhutan in January is visit the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, situated atop Paro Valley. Learn about Bhutanese history and culture at the museum housed in the old watchtower. Also witness the traditional Bhutanese style architecture, with detailed woodwork, bright murals, and golden roofs with elaborate carvings.

Admire the picturesque residences and four main temples of the monastery complex linked by winding walkways and steps. Spot musk deer and blue poppies on the hillsides while taking in the breathtaking panorama of Paro Valley from the serene monastery.

Location: On the cliffside of the upper valley in Bhutan

Timings: Open daily 8 AM- 1 PM, 2 PM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: 
Free entry

Checkout & Read More: Places To Visit in Thimphu
09

See Artifacts at National Museum

Enter the National Museum in Bhutan in January, located inside the Paro Ta Dzong, only to be transported back in time and eplore the galleries to come across displays such as the Natural History Gallery and Ritual Objects. Marvel at the musical instruments, headdresses, and daggers that are utilized in Buddhist rites.

Also Admire the beautiful paintings made with natural mineral colors in the Chapel of Wealth Deity and Thangkas and snap a gorgeous picture of the museum’s conch shell-inspired architecture while capturing the grandeur of the Ta Dzong and its surroundings.

Location: CCHG+F5G, Paro, Bhutan

Timings: Open daily 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Nu 300 (INR 300 approx)
10

Marvel at the architecture of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

One of the best things to do in Bhutan in January is visit the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which stands at the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers meet and witness Bhutanese artistry in the stunning architecture, which features elaborate paintings and sculptures.

Take a look at the corten's whitewashed façade and conical shape, which gives off an ethereal vibe and learn about the Buddhist tradition through the murals that create a serene space for prayer and meditation.
Also, marvel at the 30-meter-tall holy stupa, built in 2004, which shows how deeply religious and dedicated the Bhutanese people are.

Location: 27.637361,89.816500,, Thimphu-Punakha Hwy, Bhutan

Timings: Open daily 9?am–12?pm, 1:30–5?pm

Entry Fee: Free entry
11

Try Whitewater Rafting

Experience the exhilaration of whitewater rafting in Bhutan in January against the snow-capped mountains as you speed down thrilling rapids and explore the thrilling rapids as you soak in the gorgeous surroundings, which include luscious forests and tumbling waterfalls.

Also spot Bhutan's riverbank wildlife, including colourful birds and elusive otters, from your paddle boat and enjoy the warm hospitality of Bhutanese people as they lead you on the adventure and share their stories along the way.

Location: Punakha, Bhutan
12

Go on a Druk Path Trek

Embark on the Druk Path hike in Bhutan in January, following the historic road between Paro and Thimpu. Hike past secluded lakes, beginning with a trip to the abandoned Jeli Dzong, which offers breathtaking views of Chomolhari.

Feel the exhilaration of rising above the treeline, passing 4210-meter Phume La, and camping near glittering mountain lakes and wonder at the breathtaking views of the Tibetan border peaks, such as Gangkar Puensum and Jitchu Drake. Also enjoy the chance to walk to Taktsang Monastery in the Paro Valley, an unforgettable dimension to your Bhutanese journey.

Location: 
Lies in both Paro and Thimphu Districts, in the northwestern region of the kingdom

People Also Ask About Bhutan

  1. What are the best things to do in Bhutan In January?

    Some of the best things to do in Bhutan In January are:
    • Trekking to Tiger's Nest Monastery to enjoy pleasant weather and stunning Himalayan views is one of the best things to do in Bhutan in January.
    • Experience vibrant Winter Festivals like Punakha Drubchen and Trongsa Tshechu, immersing in Bhutanese traditions.
    • Explore Thimphu's cultural gems, including Tashichho Dzong and the Folk Heritage Museum, in mild January weather.
  2. Is January a good time to visit Bhutan?

    Yes, January is a great time to visit Bhutan. The lower sections typically see a clear, sunny sky, but the upper altitudes can be particularly chilly. Therefore, it is perfect for outdoor pursuits like hiking and sightseeing. Also, you can take part in lively winter events like Punakha Drubchen and Trongsa Tshechu, which will make your trip more culturally rich.
  3. Why is Bhutan so famous?

    Bhutan is well-known for its magnificent vistas and famous sites like Punakha Dzong and Tiger's Nest Monastery. Delicious dishes from the nation, such as Ema Datshi and Momos, entice diners. The country is also famous for its colorful face masks, raw silk and cotton textiles, and elfin Dzi beads. Moreover, the country is also popular for its handmade paper, cane and bamboo crafts, and complex wood carvings.
  4. How many days are enough to explore Bhutan?

    At least 7 to 10 days are needed to see everything Bhutan has to offer. Thus, you can visit important sights and places like Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Thimphu, Punakha, and Bumthang. You can also learn about Bhutanese culture through events, hikes, and talking to locals. Bhutan has a lot of different scenery and cultures, so shorter trips may feel rushed.
  5. How to reach Bhutan?

    To reach Bhutan, you can board direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai to Paro International Airport. Airlines such as Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate these flights, taking 2 to 3 hours to cover 1395 kilometres. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Indian cities like Siliguri to Bhutan's Phuentsholing border, which takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Newly Added Bhutan Experience

Bhutan Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Bhutan

More Bhutan Attractions

Chele La, paro Tashichho Dzong, thimphu city The National Memorial Chorten, thimphu city Rinpung Dzong Monastery, paro National Museum, Paro Jigme Dorji National Park, punakha Dochula Pass, bhutan Gangtey Monastery, paro Phobjikha Valley, paro Chimi L Hakhang Temple, punakha Royal Manas National Park, bhutan Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, punakha Drukgyel Dzong, paro National Folk Heritage Museum, thimphu city Motithang Takin Preserve, thimphu city Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek, paro Simply Bhutan, thimphu city Haa Valley, paro Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple, paro Tango Goemba, thimphu city Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, bhutan Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag Weekend Market, thimphu city National Library, thimphu city Clock Tower Square, thimphu city Namgay Artisanal Brewery, paro Changangkha Lhakhang, thimphu city Wangchu River, paro Choki Traditional Art School, thimphu city Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, thimphu city Druk Path Trek, paro Bumdrak Monastery, paro Zuri Dzong Fort, paro Bumthang Valley Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, punakha Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, trashigang National Institute For Zorig Chusum, thimphu city Handicrafts Market, thimphu city Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, bhutan Wangchuck Wildlife Sanctuary, trongsa Nyamai Zam, paro Ugyen Pelri Palace , paro Kila Goemba , paro Ura Yakchoe Festival, bumthang Salt Trek Route, trashigang Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, bhutan Lhuntse Tshechu, bhutan Trashi Yangtse, bhutan Gangtey Valley, bhutan Zuri Dzong, bhutan Phajoding Temple, bhutan Mongar And Lhuntse, bhutan
18 November 2015
Excellent
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek was a great experience. It passes by picturesque lakes, Alpine meadows and villages set to a backdrop of magnificent mountainous landscapes. The experience was amazing and brilliant. We had a really great trek. It was sheer brilliance.
16 August 2015
Excellent
The trekking experience was great. I had a really nice trek here. It was an inexpensive and a really nice trek. I had a great time.
10 October 2015
Excellent
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is something that every trekker must take in his life. It is so poignant and brilliant. I totally loved this. WOW can be an understatement. The crystal clear, poignant lakes just give me goosebumps. The pristine lakes are so beautiful that you will forget yourself here. The trek is difficult, but nevertheless it is an amazing and a beautiful experience to say the least. I totally loved this trek and I just still can’t get enough of this trek. The experience would not have been this nice if the planning was bad. Special cheers to the team for handling the organization and planning of this tour in such a beautiful manner. If you are planning to have heartfelt trek, then look no further than here.
Excellent
I had been always thinking to make a trip to Bhutan with my friends for a long time but we could not make it. because we didn't find any best trip planner sometimes we are okay with the plan but the price was too way expensive which is why our trip is pending... But we are so lucky enough that this time we found it with Thrillophilia we go through the website and even call the company and we get the full info about the tour with details...The price they offer too was affordable and the itinerary is very satisfying... The booking was easy, mode of payment was secure, and instantly shared the voucher and with important details in it about the operator contact number, locations, and all...We are a party of 4 adults who went on this trip and really we are so impressed by the way they organized, it is exactly as in the itinerary...The place was very rich with culture, heritage, architecture, and art, all over it surrounded by beautiful sceneries...good photograph we took at each...Excellent accommodations, on-time picked-up, and dropped-off, very welcoming, friendly, and well-spoken English guide... Overall we had the most brilliant tour with Thrillophilia.
Excellent
A well-organized trip from start to finish...The entire Thrillophilia team was helpful and always available at any time we need any help or queries, the arrangement of accommodations was great along with nice service and also they served good breakfast during our stay. The private cab was well-maintained, spacious, and clean along with an experienced and well-behaved driver who took us to all the popular places and even shared the history, stories, and religion of the place we visited. The main hightlight of our trip was the 5-hours trekking we had a team-leader with us who was kind and helpful with good knowledge about the place...Easy trek but yes tiring once reach the top we were impressed by the breathtaking views of the place...Overall the team made a great effort to ensure that we managed to experience everything we wanted to and what we supposed to get from the itinerary.
Excellent
I booked this tour package all inclusive from our arrival till our departure, the hotels, the transportation and everything. In love with the way you work would definitely plan again.
Excellent
I booked this tour to Bhutan from Delhi. The places we covered were pious and had attractive and eye-catching Buddha statues. Also we gained a whole new experience by exploring through the markets on our own like locals. was exceptionally well planned and executed, right from our timely pick-up from the airport till drop, the driver was friendly and supportive and the breakfast served was delicious. Thanks team.
Excellent
We booked this trip to Bhutan as a family trip. And it was amazing and exciting to get to know their culture and traditions in a completely understandable manner. The people were welcoming and loving. Enjoyed the trip.
Excellent
I booked this tour for a solo trip from Ahmedabad to Bhutan and everything was up to the mark and as expected. Brilliant team and execution of the plan.
Excellent
We booked this complete pre-planned tour to Bhutan, and it was exactly how it was described. Being it all the visiting or the services and facilities provided were all good. Loved it.

Popular Nearby Places Around Bhutan

Popular Related Destinations

Places to Visit in India

Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
Currency Picker
Commonly Used Currencies
INR -
Indian Rupee
USD - $
United States Dollar
EUR -
Euro
SGD - $
Singapore Dollar
AUD - $
Australian Dollar
GBP - £
British Pound
AED - د.إ
United Arab Emirates Dirham
All Other Currencies
ALL - L
Albanian Lek
AMD - դր.
Armenian Dram
ARS - $
Argentine Peso
AWG - ƒ
Aruban Florin
BBD - $
Barbadian Dollar
BDT -
Bangladeshi Taka
BMD - $
Bermudian Dollar
BND - $
Brunei Dollar
BOB - Bs.
Bolivian Boliviano
BSD - $
Bahamian Dollar
BWP - P
Botswana Pula
BZD - $
Belize Dollar
CAD - $
Canadian Dollar
CHF - CHF
Swiss Franc
CNY - ¥
Chinese Renminbi Yuan
COP - $
Colombian Peso
CRC -
Costa Rican Colón
CZK -
Czech Koruna
DKK - kr.
Danish Krone
DOP - $
Dominican Peso
DZD - د.ج
Algerian Dinar
EGP - ج.م
Egyptian Pound
ETB - Br
Ethiopian Birr
FJD - $
Fijian Dollar
GHS -
Ghanaian Cedi
GIP - £
Gibraltar Pound
GMD - D
Gambian Dalasi
GTQ - Q
Guatemalan Quetzal
GYD - $
Guyanese Dollar
HKD - $
Hong Kong Dollar
HNL - L
Honduran Lempira
HRK - kn
Croatian Kuna
HTG - G
Haitian Gourde
HUF - Ft
Hungarian Forint
IDR - Rp
Indonesian Rupiah
ILS -
Israeli New Sheqel
JMD - $
Jamaican Dollar
KES - KSh
Kenyan Shilling
KGS - som
Kyrgyzstani Som
KHR -
Cambodian Riel
KYD - $
Cayman Islands Dollar
KZT -
Kazakhstani Tenge
LAK -
Lao Kip
LBP - ل.ل
Lebanese Pound
LKR -
Sri Lankan Rupee
LRD - $
Liberian Dollar
LSL - L
Lesotho Loti
MAD - د.م.
Moroccan Dirham
MDL - L
Moldovan Leu
MKD - ден
Macedonian Denar
MMK - K
Myanmar Kyat
MNT -
Mongolian Tögrög
MOP - P
Macanese Pataca
MUR -
Mauritian Rupee
MVR - MVR
Maldivian Rufiyaa
MWK - MK
Malawian Kwacha
MXN - $
Mexican Peso
MYR - RM
Malaysian Ringgit
NAD - $
Namibian Dollar
NIO - C$
Nicaraguan Córdoba
NOK - kr
Norwegian Krone
NPR - Rs.
Nepalese Rupee
NZD - $
New Zealand Dollar
PEN - S/
Peruvian Sol
PGK - K
Papua New Guinean Kina
PHP -
Philippine Peso
PKR -
Pakistani Rupee
QAR - ر.ق
Qatari Riyal
RUB -
Russian Ruble
SAR - ر.س
Saudi Riyal
SCR -
Seychellois Rupee
SEK - kr
Swedish Krona
SLL - Le
Sierra Leonean Leone
SOS - Sh
Somali Shilling
SVC -
Salvadoran Colón
SZL - E
Swazi Lilangeni
THB - ฿
Thai Baht
TTD - $
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
TZS - Sh
Tanzanian Shilling
UYU - $U
Uruguayan Peso
UZS - so'm
Uzbekistan Som
YER -
Yemeni Rial
ZAR - R
South African Rand
JPY - ¥
Japanese Yen
VND -
Vietnamese dong