Although there is practically no bad time to explore this tiny, alpine country, we recommend a trip between October and December when the skies are piercingly clear. The hiking is incredible and in November, rare black-necked cranes arrive in Phobjikha Valley where they remain until Winter ends in February. With the advent of Spring, the temperatures are glorious and Rhododendrons start to bloom in the valleys. By May, the humidity rises but there are fewer visitors, which is a definite plus. Monsoon season begins in June and although the rain doesn't always spoil daytime activities, the conditions aren't ideal for trekking and you should always have a raincoat on hand. Hiking becomes popular again in September with temperatures reaching 25°C (the mountains are always cooler though) and the fabulous Thimphu Tshechu festival lights up the otherwise quaint capital.