Autumn in Bhutan is cold but winter in Bhutan from November to February can be chilly, so warm jackets and woolen pullovers are highly recommended. You may also experience snowfall and proper protection is necessary, especially for children. You will have to walk a lot in Bhutan, so make sure that your walking shoes are very comfortable. In summers, you will need light cotton clothes and you may like to wear jeans for trekking. Do not forget to pack strong and good-quality hiking shoes complete with water protection for trekking in summer season. Pack at least one formal set of clothes for visiting Dzongs and other sacred sites, meeting government officials and participate in festivals.
Though you can wear jeans, Bhutanese people will really appreciate it if you do not wear jeans to a Dzong, where you are expected to dress formally and properly. Remember that while visiting a dzong, you should take off your shoes or boots. Do not wear your jacket on waist and button or zip it up properly. Traditionally and legally, Bhutanese citizens are required to wear their national dresses in public. Men wear gho and women wear kiras. Bhutanese men often wear long white scarf from one shoulder to one waist while Bhutanese women wear colorful scarf on one shoulder.
For sightseeing, semi-formal dress code works very well and you may visit temples and monasteries in such an outfit too. Bhutan has a changeable climate so it is best to pack a layered wardrobe and an assortment of clothes that includes rain gear too. The high altitude in Bhutan makes it necessary to wear sun protection gear such as a hat or cap, sunglasses and sun block. In the evening, you may need to wear warm clothes. It is best to have your first-aid box with you too including a few medicines such as those for stomach upset. Also pack a good flashlight or torch, a water bottle and polarizing filter for your camera as distances between Bhutan’s villages and cities are great and you may not get everything so easily while traveling.
