Visiting Bhutan in August
Visiting Bhutan in August. Bhutan formally opened its doors to tourists in 1974. More than three decades later, the Kingdom is still a luxury attraction, hailed as one of the world’s best and last remaining authentic travel destinations. The Government policy to regulate the flow of visitors through the “High value, Low volume” principle has had a massive impact even in the light of the obvious temptation that neighbouring countries have fallen into.
Is August a Good time to Visit Bhutan?
Visiting Bhutan in August. August is the best month to visit Bhutan if you are a lover of flowers. Bhutan’s altitude variation from 100M to 7000m above sea level gives an immense opportunity for flower treks. Flowers bloom throughout the year and itineraries can be designed in regards to what flowers you want to see. There are many varieties of Rhododendrons blooming even in August but you need to explore different altitudes. Likewise, the orchids bloom during various months. The blue poppy family normally blooms from May to June. For those who want to see more varieties of alpine flowers then be prepared to brave the rain and trek above 3500M till 5000M in July and August. Many of the alpine flowers are medical herbs and a tour with experts from the indigenous hospitals would be worth a try.
Bhutan Weather, Rainfall and Temperature in August
Bhutan weather remains cloudy during August as it is monsoon season throughout Bhutan. August in Bhutan is the monsoon season, and while the southern parts of the kingdom get heavily drenched with torrential rains, the northern receives average rainfall making the travel comfortable.
Festival in August
Festivals are the most important part of Bhutanese people. Tshechu are celebrated to commemorate different events in the life of Guru Rinpoche. Attending festival dance, being a religious festival, is said to bestow merit. Deities are invoked during the dance. Their powers are such that misfortunes can be eliminated, luck increased and wishes realised. This is why we witness a huge mass of locals attending the festival in their best attire.
One of the festivals happening in August 2024 is the Mushroom Festival from the 15th to 16th of August 2024 in Genekha Thimphu. The varieties of mushrooms are displayed for visitors.
Best Places to Visit Bhutan in August
The best places to visit in August are Western Bhutan which includes Haa, Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, and Phobjikha. Places like Phobjikha are beautiful during August. Some of the most touristic places in Bhutan you shouldn’t miss:
- Tiger Nest Temple: A visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan is never complete without a trip to Paro Tiger Nest temple. Guru Brought Buddhism to Bhutan in 746AD and flew to this monastery on the back of a winged tigress. A beautiful hike up to the monastery delivers you to a jaw-dropping view of this magnificent structure clinging onto a craggy cliff, 2500 feet above the valley base.
- Dochula Pass: Dochula Pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan Range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquillity of 108 chortens gracing the mountain tops.
Things to do while Visiting Bhutan in August
Kayaking and Rafting: The glacier-fed rivers of Bhutan originating in the eastern Himalayas and gushing down to the southern foothills provide an ideal challenge for water sports, like kayaking and rafting. The pristine natural settings and the sheer variety of the courses of the rivers provide a unique opportunity to explore Bhutan’s beautiful wilderness.
Shopping: A rich display of traditional handicrafts is on show at the craft bazaar in Thimphu and also at the Institute of Thirteen Arts and Crafts School at Kawajangsa where a student of the institute creates intricate pieces of traditional Bhutanese handicrafts. From bamboo baskets to traditional wooden bowls, you will find your perfect goods.
Get on the Trekking Trail: Hop off your tourist bus and take a hike through some of Bhutan’s most beautiful hiking trails. Though trekking is not possible during August due to monsoon rain many day hikes like trails to Wangditse and to Phajoding are equally exhilarating
Dining out in Bhutan: While there are numerous places to eat in Bhutan, here’s a list of the 10 best restaurants where you would want to dine time and again.
- Bukhari at Uma by COMO.
- Sonam Trophel Restaurant.
- Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant in Thimphu
- Babesa Village Restaurant in Thimphu.
- San Maru Restaurant in Thimphu.
- Champaca Cafe.
- Zombala.
- Taktsang Cafeteria
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