Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Punakha, Bhutan, experiences a cool to cold climate marked by a maximum temperature averaging 18°C (64°F), while lows can dip to an icy -11°C (13°F). The average temperature sits around a brisk 5°C (42°F), making it essential for visitors to dress warmly. Expect substantial precipitation, with around 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain spread over 20 days, contributing to a humidity level of 75%. This combination of cold temperatures and frequent rainfall creates a unique atmosphere, ideal for those seeking to experience the serene beauty of Punakha's winter landscape.
As December rolls into Punakha, Bhutan, temperatures take a noticeable dip, with average daily highs reaching 18°C (64°F) while the nights can plunge to a brisk -11°C (13°F). This chilly month marks a transitional phase, following a gradual cooling trend from the warmer conditions of autumn. The average temperature settles at 5°C (42°F), which is a moderate drop from November's 9°C (48°F). As winter fully embraces the valley, the weather becomes ideal for cozying up by the fire while still offering opportunities to explore the stunning surroundings, making it a unique time to experience the serene beauty of the region.
In December, Punakha, Bhutan experiences a notable shift in its precipitation patterns as the monsoon season recedes. The month sees an average rainfall of 114 mm (4.5 in), culminating from approximately 20 days of precipitation. This marks a drop from the significantly wetter months, such as July and August, which boast over 800 mm of rain and nearly 31 days of rainfall. With precipitation starting to taper off, December serves as a bridge between the intense monsoon months and the drier season ahead. The charming landscapes, still refreshed from the monsoon's abundance, exhibit a serene beauty that is characteristic of this transitional time.
In Punakha, Bhutan, December brings a moderate drop in humidity, settling at 75%. This marks a significant change from the highs of summer, where humidity levels soared above 90% in July and August, creating a lush, humid landscape. As the year progresses, a gradual decline begins in the fall, culminating in December's moisture which is still relatively high compared to the earlier months. Notably, January and February witness the least humidity, recording 59% and 61%, respectively, providing a refreshing contrast to the heavier, wetter months that precede them. This seasonal ebb and flow of humidity highlights Punakha's unique climatic character, transitioning from a lush, green oasis in the summer to a drier, more temperate setting by year's end.
As the year draws to a close, December in Punakha, Bhutan presents a notable drop in UV intensity, with a UV Index of 6 categorized as high. This is a refreshing change compared to the extreme levels experienced in the preceding months, where the UV Index peaked at 16 in July, demanding a swift 10-minute response time for sun protection. In contrast, December's 25-minute burn time offers a more forgiving environment for outdoor activities, making it an opportune moment for sun enthusiasts to explore the region while still exercising caution. The overall trend reveals a gradual decline in UV exposure from the scorching summer months to the milder winter, offering clearer guidance on how to enjoy the sun safely. For more detailed insights, check out the Punakha UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Punakha, Bhutan, is a time of glorious sunlight that bathes the landscape in warmth, boasting 272 hours of sunshine. As the year draws to a close, the sun shines brightly, contributing to a trend of generally generous daylight hours that peak in spring and early summer. After a dazzling 321 hours in May, the hours of sunshine gradually decrease, but December still offers a vibrant atmosphere, making it a delightful time for visitors. Following a slight dip in July, the sun returns with vigor in the cooler months, ensuring that even in winter, Punakha remains a luminous sanctuary amidst the snow-capped Himalayan backdrop. This rich tapestry of sunlight throughout the year enhances both the beauty of the region and the experience of those who venture here during December's enchanting days.
In Punakha, Bhutan, December presents a 30% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight improvement compared to the preceding months of November and October, where the probabilities were 24% and 32%, respectively. As the year progresses towards winter, the likelihood of sunshine fluctuates, with the highest chances occurring in the spring months, particularly February at 32%. December tends to hover between the more sun-drenched months and the notoriously cloudy summer, suggesting that while visitors may find themselves graced by the sun's warmth, there remains a significant chance of overcast skies. Overall, December offers a decent opportunity for those seeking clear weather in this picturesque region.
In Punakha, Bhutan, the rhythm of daylight unveils a captivating seasonal trend. Starting the year with 10 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen, peaking at 13 hours from May to August, inviting vibrant outdoor activities and the lush beauty of the region. As summer wanes, daylight begins to recede, with 12 hours in September and falling back to 10 hours in both November and December. This consistent ebb and flow mirrors the natural cycles of the region, revealing how the length of daylight shapes life in this serene valley, fostering a deep connection between the environment and its inhabitants.
In Punakha, Bhutan, the December winds bring a gentle embrace, with an average speed of 1.0 m/s (2 mph), echoing the serene calm that characterizes the region during this month. Remarkably consistent throughout the year, the wind speed hovers around this mark, ranging from the slightly breezier months of January and February to the more subdued breaths of spring and summer. The trend shows a subtle dip in wind activity from March through August, with speeds sometimes reaching as low as 0.8 m/s. However, as the years turn towards winter, the winds pick up again, delivering refreshing gusts that underline the tranquil beauty of Punakha's landscape. This gentle and predictable pattern invites visitors to revel in the scenic wonders as they enjoy the mild December climate.
Weather in Punakha varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Punakha, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January present distinct weather patterns, with January generally being colder than December. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 20 days, with a relatively high humidity level of 75%. In contrast, January features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), yielding an average temperature of 3°C (37°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 122 mm (4.8 in) over 17 days, the humidity drops to 59%, suggesting a drier feel despite the increase in rainfall. For more detailed weather information, you can visit Punakha weather in January.
December and February offer distinct weather experiences, with both months showing a similar range of maximum temperatures, peaking at 18°C (64°F). However, December is generally colder, with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F) compared to February's 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is notably higher in February, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) over 22 days, while December sees 114 mm (4.5 in) across 20 days. Additionally, February boasts lower humidity levels at 61%, in contrast to December's higher humidity at 75%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can visit Punakha weather in February.
December and March exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures vary from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a mild maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average around 5°C (42°F). The month contributes 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 20 days and carries a relatively high humidity level of 75%. Conversely, March sees slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around -9°C (16°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), yielding an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). However, March is significantly wetter, accumulating 317 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation over 29 days, but with much lower humidity at 38%. For more details, you can check Punakha weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences emerge. December sees colder temperatures with a range from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 5°C (42°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 75% and significant precipitation spread over 20 days, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in). In contrast, April experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). However, it also brings a higher amount of rainfall, accumulating to 248 mm (9.8 in) over 28 days, but with a much lower humidity level of 34%. For more specific details on Punakha weather in April, you can check this link: Punakha weather in April.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a mild 18°C (64°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). This month sees considerable rainfall, with 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation spread over 20 days and a high humidity level of 75%. In contrast, May boasts milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and reaching up to 24°C (75°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). However, May is considerably wetter, with a substantial 339 mm (13.3 in) of precipitation over 30 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 60%. For a detailed look at Punakha's climate during this time, you can check out Punakha weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a milder 18°C (64°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) across 20 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%.
In comparison, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and highs reaching 26°C (78°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). This month sees considerably higher rainfall, accumulating 496 mm (19.5 in) over 29 days, and the humidity rises to 83%. For more specific insights on June weather, you can explore Punakha weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -11°C (13°F) at night to a mild 18°C (64°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation of 114 mm (4.5 in) spread over about 20 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, July is much warmer, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) to a maximum of 25°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F). This summer month is significantly wetter, receiving a staggering 835 mm (32.9 in) of rainfall across 31 days and higher humidity at 93%. For more details on the conditions in July, check out Punakha weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. December features a colder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) and an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). It experiences about 114 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation spread over 20 days, coupled with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, August is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). This month sees a substantial increase in precipitation, totaling 674 mm (26.5 in) over 31 days, alongside a higher humidity level of 93%. For more detailed insights into August weather, you can check Punakha weather in August.
In December, temperatures are significantly cooler, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), compared to the milder September, where temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to an average of 16°C (61°F). December experiences more moderate precipitation levels with 114 mm (4.5 in) over about 20 days, while September sees a substantial amount of rain, totaling 515 mm (20.3 in) across 29 days. Additionally, humidity in December is notably lower at 75% compared to the higher 93% in September. For more details on September weather, you can check this link: Punakha weather in September.
December's weather is notably colder than October's, with average temperatures dropping from 13°C (56°F) in October to just 5°C (42°F) in December. While December can see a maximum of 18°C (64°F), October typically enjoys much warmer days, peaking at 23°C (74°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; October experiences more rainfall (202 mm or 8.0 in) over a greater number of days (23), compared to December's 114 mm (4.5 in) over 20 days. Additionally, humidity levels are somewhat higher in October at 88%, compared to 75% in December, creating a distinctly different feel between the two months. For a detailed look at October's weather patterns, you can explore Punakha weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). In contrast, November has milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 20 days, compared to November's 102 mm (4.0 in) over 17 days, indicating that December experiences more rainy days. Humidity is also higher in November at 80%, compared to December's 75%. For more detailed information about November's weather, you can visit Punakha weather in November.
As December settles over Punakha, the weather takes on a distinctively chilly character compared to the warmer months. With average temperatures dropping significantly, the days are crisp and cool, offering a refreshing contrast to the temperate climate experienced earlier in the year. This month also marks a noticeable increase in precipitation, bringing about a refreshing charm, although it may dampen outdoor plans. The humidity remains high, giving way to a brisk atmosphere that invigorates the senses. If you're curious about how these weather patterns evolve throughout the year, check out Punakha Climate for a more detailed overview.