UV Index in Punakha, Bhutan

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Punakha, Bhutan, where the picturesque landscapes often hide significant sun exposure risks. With the climate classified as Dwc, Punakha enjoys sunny days that can lead to elevated UV levels, especially from mid-morning to early afternoon. Monitoring UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburns, but also plays a vital role in maintaining overall skin health. For instance, between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index spikes to a striking 15, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying aware of these fluctuations can help you enjoy Punakha while protecting your skin from the sun's rays.

Hourly UV Index in Punakha

The UV Index starts off mild at 2 by 07:00, but as the day progresses, it quickly ramps up. By 09:00, it reaches a notable 8, moving to a peak of 15 by 11:00 and maintaining that intensity until 12:00. This is the perfect time for sun protection, as the UV rays are at their most intense. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to drop, swiftly falling to 10 at 14:00 and then diminishing further to 4 by 16:00. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV Index sinks to 1 by 18:00, and finishes the day at 0 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder of how crucial it is to safeguard your skin during 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	15	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 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