Tibet Temperature by Month
Tibet's temperature varies drastically with the seasons and between day and night due to its high-altitude climate. Here is a general overview of the average temperatures in Tibet by month: (The following data is sourced from Tianqi.com(Weather Website), and the units are in degrees Celsius.)
Lhasa | Shigatse | EBC | Mt. Kailash | Nyingchi | Shannan | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jan | -8 - 8 | -12 - 7 | -17 - 3 | -15 - 0 | -5 - 9 | -8 - 9 |
Feb | -4 - 11 | -9 - 9 | -15 - 5 | -13 - 0 | -2 - 11 | -5 - 12 |
Mar | -1 - 13 | -5 - 12 | -11 - 7 | -9 - 4 | 1 - 14 | -1 - 14 |
Apr | 3 - 17 | 1 - 16 | -5 - 12 | -3 - 11 | 4 - 17 | 2 - 17 |
May | 7 - 21 | 5 - 20 | 0 - 16 | 1 - 15 | 8 - 20 | 6 - 21 |
Jun | 12 - 25 | 10 - 24 | 6 - 21 | 7 - 19 | 12 - 23 | 11 - 25 |
Jul | 12 - 24 | 11 - 23 | 8 - 20 | 10 - 22 | 13 - 23 | 12 - 24 |
Aug | 12 - 23 | 10 - 22 | 7 - 19 | 10 - 21 | 12 - 24 | 11 - 24 |
Sep | 10 - 22 | 7 - 21 | 4 - 19 | 6 - 19 | 11 - 22 | 9 - 22 |
Oct | 4 - 18 | 0 - 16 | -6 - 13 | -2 - 13 | 6 - 18 | 3 - 18 |
Nov | -3 - 13 | -8 - 12 | -11 - 9 | -7 - 9 | -1 - 15 | -3 - 14 |
Dec | -7 - 10 | -12 - 9 | -15 - 6 | -11 - 5 | -4 - 11 | -7 - 11 |
Tibet Weather in January
Weather and Climate in January
January is among Tibet's coldest months. In Lhasa, temperatures average from -10°C (14°F) at night to 7°C (45°F) during the day. Higher altitudes like Everest Base Camp can see temperatures below -20°C (-4°F). Days are often sunny despite the cold, and snowfall is common.
Clothing in January in Tibet
Pack thermal underwear, layered clothing including a fleece and a down jacket, winter accessories like a hat, gloves, scarf, sunglasses, sunscreen, and waterproof, insulated shoes.
Tibet Activities in January
Sightseeing in Lhasa: Visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. These attractions are less crowded in January.
Celebrate Tibetan New Year: Depending on the lunar calendar, you might have the chance to join in the Tibetan New Year (Losar) celebrations, which can start as early as January.
Tibet Weather in February
Weather and Climate
February in Tibet still experiences winter weather. Lhasa's temperatures range from -7°C (19°F) at night to 9°C (48°F) during the day. Higher regions can see temperatures well below freezing. While it remains cold, February sees increased sunshine hours and less snowfall compared to January.
Clothing in February in Tibet
Winter clothing is critical. Pack thermal underwear, layered outfits including a fleece and down jacket, winter accessories like a hat, gloves, scarf, sunglasses, sunscreen, and waterproof, insulated shoes.
Tibet Activities in February
Bird Watching in Lhasa Suburbs: Enjoy the serenity of nature by bird watching in the suburbs of Lhasa. Despite the cold, some species can be spotted during this period.
Temple Visits: Visit local temples to pray and pay respects. This can be a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Losar and Spring Festival Celebrations: Depending on the lunar calendar, the Tibetan New Year (Losar) often falls in February, offering unique cultural experiences. Additionally, the Chinese Spring Festival may also be celebrated during this month.
Tibet Weather in March
Weather and Climate
March in Tibet sees spring's arrival, with Lhasa temperatures from -3°C (27°F) at night to 12°C (54°F) during the day. Higher regions remain colder, and snowfall can still occur, despite the general warming trend.
Clothing in March in Tibet
For March, pack layered clothing (long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, lighter jacket), winter accessories (hat, gloves, scarf), sunglasses, sunscreen, and waterproof boots for possible hiking or trekking on snowy trails.
Tibet Activities in March
Peach Blossom Festival in Nyingchi: Experience the annual Peach Blossom Festival in Nyingchi (also known as Linzhi) where vast peach orchards burst into bloom, creating a stunning sea of pink and white.
Enjoy Spring in Lhasa: Visit the parks and gardens in Lhasa to enjoy the spring season, where you can witness the city in bloom and enjoy a picnic in the pleasant weather.
Tibet Weather in April
Weather and Climate
April is springtime in Tibet, and the weather continues to warm up. Lhasa sees temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) at night to 16°C (61°F) during the day. Higher altitudes remain colder, but the severe winter cold starts to ease. The weather is usually clear, and the chances of precipitation are relatively low.
Clothing in April in Tibet
For April, pack layered clothing (long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, a lighter jacket), winter accessories (hat, gloves, scarf) for colder mornings and evenings, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Tibet Activities in April
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse: Visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery to appreciate the arrival of spring in Shigatse. The monastery, surrounded by blooming flowers and greenery, presents a beautiful and peaceful scene.
Experience Lulang Forest in Nyingchi: Known as the "Eastern Switzerland," the Lulang Forest in Nyingchi offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and blooming rhododendrons.
Tibet Weather in May
Weather and Climate
May in Tibet offers warmer temperatures, with Lhasa ranging from 5°C (41°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day. Higher regions remain cooler. Clear skies and low rainfall make it ideal for outdoor activities.
Clothing in May in Tibet
Pack layered clothing (t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, lightweight jacket), a few warm items for cooler times, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in May
Cycling to Everest: Take advantage of the warmer weather and clearer skies by embarking on a cycling adventure to Everest Base Camp.
Trek from Ganden to Samye Monastery: May's more temperate conditions make it an ideal time for this popular trek, which spans beautiful landscapes and two important Tibetan monasteries.
Explore Shannan: Visit Shannan, known for its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the Yarlung Valley, often referred to as the cradle of Tibetan civilization.
Tibet Weather in June
Weather and Climate
June in Tibet begins summer, with Lhasa temperatures from 9°C (48°F) at night to 22°C (72°F) during the day. Higher regions remain cooler, and while June starts the rainy season, most precipitation occurs at night.
Clothing in June in Tibet
For June, pack summer clothing (t-shirts, shorts, light trousers), lightweight layers for cooler times, rain gear (waterproof jacket, umbrella), sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable, possibly waterproof, walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in June
Saga Dawa Festival and Kailash Kora: Participate in the Saga Dawa Festival, one of the most important religious festivals in Tibet. During this festival, take part in the holy Kailash Kora, a pilgrimage involving circumambulating Mount Kailash (also known as Gang Rinpoche). This activity holds immense spiritual significance for Tibetan Buddhists.
Experience Sunrise, Sunset, and Starry Sky at Everest: With the clearer weather in June, don't miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing views of sunrise, sunset, and the starry sky at the Everest Base Camp.
Tibet Weather in July
Weather and Climate
July in Tibet is mid-summer, with Lhasa temperatures from 10°C (50°F) at night to 22°C (72°F) during the day. Higher regions are cooler. July is also part of the rainy season, with most rain falling at night.
Clothing in July in Tibet
For July, pack summer clothes (t-shirts, shorts, light trousers), light layers for cooler times, rain gear (waterproof jacket, umbrella), sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable, possibly waterproof, walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in July
Ali Great Loop Tour: Experience the Ali Great Loop Tour, which takes you through some of Tibet's stunning high-altitude lakes and offers opportunities to observe the region's unique wildlife. The landscape is particularly beautiful in July, with lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife activity.
Visit the Ruins of Guge Kingdom: Explore the ancient ruins of the Guge Kingdom, a significant archaeological site reflecting the historical and cultural heritage of Tibet. The site includes old monasteries, palaces, and caves adorned with impressive murals and sculptures.
Tibet Weather in August
Weather and Climate
August in Tibet is late summer with Lhasa temperatures from 9°C (48°F) at night to 21°C (70°F) during the day. Higher areas remain cooler. August is also in the rainy season, with most rain usually falling at night.
Clothing in August in Tibet
For August, pack summer clothes (t-shirts, shorts, light trousers), light layers for cool times, rain gear (waterproof jacket, umbrella), sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable, possibly waterproof, walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in August
Celebrate the Shoton Festival: Also known as the Yogurt Festival. The festival includes opera performances, Buddhist ceremonies, and the unveiling of a giant thangka.
Zanda Clay Forest: Visit the Zanda Clay Forest in Ngari Prefecture, an incredible natural landscape sculpted by wind and water erosion over millennia. This geological wonder is known for its unique clay pillars and canyons, offering a truly otherworldly sight.
Tibet Weather in September
Weather and Climate
September in Tibet is early autumn. Lhasa temperatures range from 7°C (45°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day. Higher areas are cooler. The rainy season begins to taper off, with clearer skies returning.
Clothing in September in Tibet
In September, pack autumn clothes (long-sleeved shirts, light trousers), a jacket for cooler times, possibly a rain jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in September
Visit Yamdrok Lake: With its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains, it offers breathtaking views, especially in the clear weather of September.
Mount Everest: Venture to the Everest Base Camp for a close-up view of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. September's clear skies and moderate weather provide an excellent opportunity for this adventure.
Tibet Weather in October
Weather and Climate
October in Tibet is mid-autumn. Lhasa temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) at night to 16°C (61°F) during the day. Higher areas are cooler. The weather is dry and skies are typically clear.
Clothing in October in Tibet
For October, pack warmer clothes (long-sleeved shirts, trousers), a warm jacket for cooler times, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in October
Experience Autumn in Nyingchi: Visit Nyingchi to witness the beautiful autumn hues. The region is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, which are particularly striking in October when the leaves change color.
Visit Namtso Lake: The lake's crystal-clear blue waters set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain range offer a mesmerizing sight, especially in the clear, cool weather of October.
Tibet Weather in November
Weather and Climate
November in Tibet is late autumn. Lhasa temperatures range from -3°C (27°F) at night to 12°C (54°F) during the day. Higher areas are cooler. The weather is dry with mostly clear skies.
Clothing in November in Tibet
For November, pack winter clothes (long-sleeved shirts, trousers), a warm jacket or coat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking or hiking shoes. Gloves and a hat may also be necessary as the temperatures begin to drop significantly.
Tibet Activities in November
Mount Everest: Visit the Everest Base Camp for unforgettable views of Mount Everest. November, being part of the dry season, typically offers clear skies and excellent visibility, making it a great time for photography.
Appreciate Namjagbarwa Peak at Sejila Pass: Namjagbarwa Peak, is one of the most beautiful snow-capped mountains in Tibet. Despite the cold, the clear winter air often provides exceptional visibility, making it a worthwhile visit for those adequately prepared for the low temperatures.
Tibet Weather in December
Weather and Climate
December in Tibet marks the beginning of winter. Lhasa temperatures range from -5°C (23°F) at night to 8°C (46°F) during the day. Higher areas are colder. The weather is dry with predominantly clear skies.
Clothing in December in Tibet
For December, pack winter clothes (long-sleeved shirts, warm trousers), a thick jacket or coat, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable, warm walking or hiking shoes.
Tibet Activities in December
Visit Karola Glacier: Despite the cold weather in December, it's a great time to visit the Karola Glacier. This impressive glacier is a stunning sight with its towering ice formations against the clear winter sky. It's a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Sunbathing in Lhasa City: Enjoy the winter sun in Lhasa City. Despite being winter, Lhasa often enjoys bright and sunny days due to its high altitude. You can stroll around the city, visit landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, or simply relax and soak up the sun at a local tea house.
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