Got a winter trip planned to Bhutan? Bhutan can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 38°F (that's 3°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 winter—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 winter?
Bhutan in winter 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, jeans, long-sleeved shirts, heavy coat, and sweaters. 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 winter 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.
If you're stuck for ideas, here 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.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Long-sleeved shirts
Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Bhutan, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
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.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
Sweaters
Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Bhutan. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
What should men wear in Bhutan in winter?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: jeans or khakis, button-down shirts or polos, thermal baselayers, heavy coat, and cardigans. 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.
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.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
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.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
Thermal baselayers
As Bhutan in winter 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.
These are some of my favorites:
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:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Bhutan in winter. 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.
Any of these should work:
FAQs
Is winter a good time to go to Bhutan?
Winter can be a good time to go to Bhutan because of the clear skies and lack of tourists, but keep in mind that the weather can get very cold and the roads are sometimes blocked by snow.
How do people typically dress in Bhutan in winter?
Bhutanese people often dress in their traditional clothing, which is called the gho for men and the kira for women. The gho is a knee-length tunic, while the kira is an ankle-length dress. Both are usually made of wool and are worn with a belt.
What should you NOT wear in Bhutan in winter?
Bhutan is culturally conservative, so you'll want to dress modestly to stay respectful. This generally means you should avoid wearing anything too revealing, at least outside of tourist resorts. As a general rule, take your cue from the locals: if people around you are mostly covered, you should cover up too.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Bhutan will help make your winter 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!