Weather in Gelephu

Are you planning your visit to Gelephu? Explore the detailed forecast and up-to-date meteorological data in this section to prepare for your trip in the best possible way.

Situated in the southern part of the country, Gelephu welcomes guests with a mild and pleasantly warm climate. Unlike the high-altitude regions of the State of Bhutan, there are no severe frosts here, and the weather is more predictable. This allows you to plan a trip at any time of the year, although it is important to consider the seasonal features of the region.

The temperature regime here changes smoothly and remains comfortable for travellers. In winter, from December to February, the air warms up to an average of 11–13°C. With the arrival of spring, it becomes warmer, reaching average values of 21°C by May. Summer in the city is warm, but not oppressively hot: the temperature usually hovers around 23–24°C, creating pleasant conditions for staying outdoors.

When planning a visit, it is worth paying attention to precipitation. In summer, from June to August, the rainy season begins, with rainfall occurring almost daily. Spring is also characterised by high humidity: in March and April, a significant number of rainy days are recorded (more than 20 per month), although the showers themselves are often short-lived. In early autumn, rains are still frequent, and a noticeable improvement in the weather occurs only by November, when the amount of precipitation decreases sharply, giving way to a dry and clear winter period.

The climate in Gelephu is distinguished by its mildness and lack of extreme fluctuations, making this city in Bhutan comfortable to visit in any season. The coolest month is traditionally January with an average temperature of about 11.7°C. Winters here are not harsh at all: even on the coldest nights, the temperature rarely drops below 6.7°C, and during the day the air warms up to a pleasant 16-17°C.

The summer season brings moderate warmth, but without exhausting heat. The hottest period is usually August, when average figures reach 23.8°C, and daytime highs stay at the level of 26.4°C. During the summer months, especially in June and July, the temperature background is most stable: the difference between daytime warmth and night-time coolness is minimal, amounting to just 3-5 degrees.

In transitional seasons, such as spring and late autumn, travellers should take into account more noticeable daily temperature fluctuations. For example, in November or March, the difference between the daily maximum and the nightly minimum can reach 10 degrees. While the air warms up to a comfortable 23.6°C during the day in April, the temperature may drop to 15°C by night, so having layered clothing will be an advantage.

Precipitation in Gelephu is distributed unevenly throughout the year, forming distinct wet and dry seasons. Since the city is located in the southern part of the country, a warm climate prevails here, and even in the coolest months, precipitation falls exclusively in the form of rain, rather than snow.

The rainiest period falls in summer. From June to August, it rains almost daily: statistics record from 30 to 31 rainy days per month. This is a time of high humidity, when the average monthly rainfall reaches its peak of 30 mm. Travellers planning a trip during this season should be prepared for regular rainfall and must take a reliable raincoat with them.

Conversely, winter and late autumn are the driest times of the year. In November, December, and January, the amount of precipitation becomes minimal, averaging just 1 mm. During this period, the number of rainy days ranges from 5 to 9, which creates excellent conditions for walking and exploring the sights under clear skies.

When preparing for a journey to Gelephu, it is worth considering its location in the south of the country, where the climate is significantly milder and warmer than in the high mountain areas. For a trip in the winter months (from December to February), when night temperatures can drop to +6…+8°C, be sure to bring a light jacket, windbreaker, or warm jumper. During the day, the air warms up to a comfortable +16…+18°C, so the ideal solution is the principle of layering: wear a t-shirt under a sweater to easily adjust your comfort depending on the time of day.

The summer period, especially from June to August, is characterised by high humidity and frequent precipitation — it can rain almost every day. At this time, waterproof clothing becomes a necessity: a high-quality raincoat, waterproof shoes, and a sturdy umbrella should be the first items on your list. Since the average temperature in summer holds around +23…+26°C, choose clothes made of light, breathable, and quick-drying fabrics to better tolerate the humid warmth.

Regardless of the season, for excursions you will need comfortable flat shoes suitable for long walks. Do not forget sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be active even with variable cloudiness. Also, remember the cultural traditions of Bhutan: for visiting temples and official places, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended, so light trousers and long-sleeved shirts will be useful at any time of the year.