If you dream of a journey filled with culture, nature, and authenticity, there is no better time to explore Bhutan than September and October. It aligns perfectly with the Australian school holidays!
1. Festival Season – Thimphu Tsechu
This is the time of Bhutan’s most iconic and vibrant celebration, the Thimphu Tsechu. Held in the capital city, it features sacred masked dances, spiritual rituals, and a joyful atmosphere as locals gather in traditional dress. It’s a rich cultural experience for travellers of all ages.
2. Harvest Season in Full Swing
These months also coincide with Bhutan’s rice harvest. You’ll see golden fields stretching across the valleys, farmers at work, and traditional rural life in motion, a rare and enriching experience, especially for families and photographers.
3. Post-Monsoon Beauty & Clear Skies
The monsoon rains have ended, leaving lush green landscapes, clean air, and crystal-clear Himalayan views. It’s the best time for hiking, exploring dzongs (fortresses), and visiting highland villages in ideal weather conditions.
4. Perfect Timing for Australian School Holidays
Whether you are from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, or anywhere across Australia, the September–October school holiday period makes it easy for families to travel without disrupting the school term. It’s also a great time for couples, solo travellers, and small groups looking for meaningful cultural exploration.
5. Royal Highland Festival, Laya.
The Royal Highland Festival in Bhutan is a spectacular cultural event that celebrates the rich traditions, lifestyle, and hospitality of Bhutan’s highland communities. It usually takes place in the northern regions, like Laya or Gasa, where visitors can experience the authentic high-altitude way of life.
