Got a Fall Trip Planned to Bhutan? Here’s What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to Bhutan? Bhutan can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 48°F (that's 9°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Bhutan in fall—whether you're hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery, visiting the Punakha Dzong, exploring the Paro Taktsang, or touring the National Museum of Bhutan.

🔗 What should women wear in Bhutan in fall?

Bhutan in fall is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: thermal baselayers, hat and scarf, cardigans, warm coat, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Bhutan has to offer. Keep in mind that Bhutan is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Bhutan in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Bhutan trip despite the cold weather.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Hat and scarf

A trip to Bhutan in fall can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Bhutan in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Bhutan, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 What should men wear in Bhutan in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: thermal baselayers, heavy coat, button-down shirts or polos, cardigans, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Bhutan in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Bhutan in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Bhutan trip despite the cold weather.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Bhutan, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Bhutan in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Bhutan will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Bhutan has to offer!