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Basically, the Tibetan
climate is not as harsh as many people imagine it to be. The
best time of year to be in Tibet is from April to the
beginning of November, after which temperatures start to
plummet. The central Tibet, including Lhasa, Gyantse,
Shigatse and Tsedang, generally has very mild weather from
April to November, though July and August can be rainy -
these two months usually see around half of Tibet's annual
rainfall. October and November often bring some dazzling
clear weather and daytime temperatures can be quite
comfortable at Tibet's lower altitude.
The coldest months are from December to February. It is not
impossible to visit Tibet in winter. The low altitude
valleys of Tibet (around Lhasa, Shigatse and Tsedang) see
very little snow. Spring does not really get under way until
April, though March can have warm
sunny days and is not necessarily a bad month to be in
Tibet. More specific information in different areas :
Lhasa - the border of Nepal/China:
The Friendship highway is basically in good conditions year
around. But from December to February, the thawed road could
make some trouble Besides, try to avoid August - landslide
could happen in the rainy season.
Mt. Everest Region:
Early May and early October are the best time to visit Mt.
Everest. Due to the clear weather, you have great chance to
see Mt. Everest's true face. From December to February, it's
too cold to go to this region. But the magnetism of Mt.
Everest always attracts people anytime of the year.
Ali (Mt.Kailash):
Even without climate restrictions, this area is already
inhospitable. Big rain and snow could make the journey
worse. However, for those determined tourists, the
appropriate time is May, June, July, September and
October.Eastern Tibet: Don't touch this area in July or
August, the rain could ruin the road, and make terrible
landslides. While in winter, the road could be frozen.
Northern Tibet:
With the average altitude of 4,500m, this area offers very
limited time for tourists. Summer is the prime time to enjoy
the great plain in northern Tibet. |