UV Index in Punakha, Bhutan

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Punakha, Bhutan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking at an intense 15 around noon, understanding these fluctuations can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's Dwc climate means that while summers can be warm and sunny, the risk of UV exposure is significant, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Punakha while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Punakha

As the day unfolds, the UV Index makes a compelling ascent, starting from a modest 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 5, but the real surge occurs around 09:00, reaching 8 and heralding the sun's increasing intensity. The peak arrives at 12:00, where the index hits a sizzling 15, suggesting that sun protection is pivotal. A slight decline follows, with readings of 14 at 13:00 and 11 at 14:00, signaling a gradual retreat from the midday heat. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index drops significantly, hitting 8 at 15:00 and continuing downwards. By 18:00, it plummets to 1, and by 19:00, it rests comfortably at 0, marking the day’s end. It's a vivid reminder to stay vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	8	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Punakha

The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From March to October, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, with the highest value of 16 in July, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. January and February have very high levels of UV exposure, but burn times extend to 15 minutes. In contrast, November experiences a decline to a UV Index of 9, and December drops further to 6, with a safer burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March through October, taking protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours to avoid skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Punakha, Bhutan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Punakha. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Punakha, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Punakha UV Index with Other Bhutan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Punakha compares to other major locations across Bhutan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Punakha's solar exposure compared to other cities in Bhutan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Phuntsholing UVI	5	7	9	10	11	13	14	13	12	10	8	6
Pemagatshel UVI	6	8	10	13	13	14	15	14	13	11	8	6
Tsirang UVI	6	9	10	12	13	14	15	14	13	11	8	6
Punakha	8	10	12	14	15	15	16	15	14	11	9	6
Thimphu UVI	8	10	13	14	16	16	16	15	14	12	9	7