Tibet Weather in August

Season: Summer


August in Tibet features warm days and slightly cooler nights and mornings, accompanied by relatively abundant rainfall that is more prevalent in the southeast than the north and the west. Despite average 20 rainy days throughout the month, sunshine remains ample, with an average of seven hours of sunlight per day.
 

Averages for Tibet Weather in August

High Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
Low Temperature: 9°C / 48°F
Rainy Days: 20 days
Rainfall: 120mm
Sunrise: 7:15~7:32
Sunset: 20:18~20:48

 

Pros and Cons of Visiting Tibet in August

Yamdrok Yumtso Lake
Yamdrok Yumtso Lake

Pros

Ideal Climate: August climate in Tibet boasts sunshine-soaked days and crisp, refreshing evenings. Rainfall is mostly just a playful shower or a dramatic evening downpour, barely a hiccup in your travel plans.
 
Stunning Landscapes: August's increased rainfall turns the grasslands into a lush, vibrant carpet, and lakes like Namtso and Yamdrok Yumtso shimmer like diamonds with fuller water. It is also a lifesaver for the northern regions like Nagqu and Ngari, quenching their thirst and bringing life back to the land.
 
Rich Cultural Festivals: Get ready for Ganden Thangka Festival and the prestigious Shoton Festival in Lhasa in August, where you can enjoy the awe-inspiring Buddha Unfolding Ceremony, lively religious debates and Tibetan opera performances and more.
 

Cons

Peak Season Challenges: Expect higher lodging costs and scarce transportation tickets during peak season. Book in advance or visit towards the end of August when prices may drop slightly and availability improves when the summer holiday winds down.
 
Frequent Rainfall: In August, it rains more frequently in southeastern regions such as Nyingchi and Shannan, affecting road conditions and the viewing of some landscapes like peaks shrouded in clouds and mist.
 

Packing List for a Tibet Tour in August

 Clothing: Pack lightweight down jackets, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, or fleece jackets to keep you cozy in chilly nights and early mornings in August.
 
 Footwear: Waterproof, non-slip hiking boots to tackle Tibet's mountainous terrain and varying weather conditions.
 
 UV Protection Items: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-resistant clothing can shield you from intense August sunshine.
 
 Moisturizing Products: Rich moisturizing cream, SPF-infused lip balm, and body lotion are needed to combat Tibet's dry climate.
 
 Rain Gear: Prepare a lightweight foldable umbrella or compact raincoat for unexpected showers.
 
 Accessories: A warm hat, scarf, and gloves protect your head, neck, and hands from heat loss at higher elevations.
tibet-august-clothes1
tibet-august-clothes2
 

Top Things to Do in August

1. Experience Ganden Thangka Festival in Lhasa

At Ganden Thangka Festival, Ganden Monastery in Lhasa unveils colossal Buddhist Thangka paintings, each a masterpiece of intricate artistry and vibrant hues, weaving tales of Tibetan Buddhism for all to marvel at!
 
After that, experience the lively academic spirit at the festival, where Tibetan monks exchange ideas with fervor, enriching the monastery's soul with their wisdom and devotion.
 
As the religious festivities fade, wander to the monastery's gate and frame the moment with your camera or simply unwind, taking in the serene sweep of rivers, villages, and Lhasa Valley's fertile fields.
 
In 2025, Ganden Thangka Festival will take place on August 9th.
Buddhist Thangka Unveiling in Danden Monastery
Buddhist Thangka Unveiling in Ganden Monastery
 

2. Partake in Shoton Festival in Lhasa

Tibetan Opera
Tibetan Opera
Shoton Festival, the Tibetan "Yogurt Bash", starts with a Buddha-unveiling ceremony, even more dazzling than that of Ganden Thangka Festival. Imagine standing amidst Drepung or Sera Monasteries as colossal Thangkas gracefully unfurl before your eyes. It's a sight to behold!
 
After soaking in the artistry, head over to Norbulingka and Zongjiao Lukang Park performers bring Tibetan history and culture to Tibetan Opera stage, and you'll feel like you've stepped right into a living storybook.
 
And let's not forget the star of the feast –authentic Tibetan yogurt! Every corner of Lhasa is buzzing with the tangy, creamy goodness, and you'll find yourself indulging in it at every turn.
 
Moreover, get ready to feel the adrenaline pumping as you watch exhilarating horse races unfold at the arena in Lhasa's northern outskirts. It's a thrill ride you won't soon forget!
 
In 2025, Shoton Festival falls on August 23rd.

See more about Tibetan Festivals.
 
August rolls in like a carefree breeze, painting Ngari with its most charming hues. It's the perfect time to uncover the enigmatic secrets of Guge Kingdom – a dynasty that vanished in a blink of an eye, leaving behind a trail of awe-inspiring ruins.
 
Mount Kailash, the holy mountain that dominates the skyline, is calling your name. Follow the devoted believers’ prayer wheels around Kailash-It's a pilgrimage like no other, with every step feeling like a journey towards enlightenment.
 
But don't forget to take a dip in Manasarovar, the serene holy lake in harmony with Mount Kailash. It's the perfect spot to cool off and reflect on all the wonders you've seen as you gaze into the crystal-clear waters in August.
- Last updated on Nov. 04, 2024 by Jally Zhang -
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