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Tibet Weather in January

Season: Winter

In Tibet, January boasts an average high temperature of 2.53°C (36.55°F), sharply contrasting with an average low of -12.39°C (9.69°F), creating a pronounced diurnal temperature variation that can make even midday sun feel chilly and necessitates extra warmth during the frigid nights.

The month is also marked by negligible precipitation, fostering a predominantly sunny and dry climate that intensifies the vivid blue hues of the sky. With long hours of sunshine, the plateau is bathed in vibrant light, making every photo a masterpiece.

Jan.

Averages for Tibet Weather in January

High Temperature: 3°C / 37°F

Low Temperature: -12°C / 10°F

Rainy Days: 2 days

Rainfall: 1mm

Sunrise: 8:45~8:51

Sunset: 19:07~19:31

Pro and Cons of Traveling to Tibet in January

Tibet Mountains in January

Considering potential challenges such as low temperatures, challenging road conditions, and the risk of altitude sickness, January is only an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who have taken the necessary precautions.

Pro: Significant Savings on Travel Expenses

Tibet implements preferential tourism policies during the winter months. The most notable benefit is the free or heavily discounted entrance fees to attractions. For instance, iconic sites like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple may offer free admission.

In the meantime, hotel prices drop significantly, often by 30% to 50% compared to peak season rates.

Furthermore, airfare prices tend to be lower, with some routes even offering special discounted ticket.

Cons:

Cold Climate: The plateau's thin air permits intense solar radiation yet lacks ground insulation, compounded by strong winds, yielding a perceived chill beyond the actual air temperatures. Tourists must thus take meticulous precautions to maintain warmth.

Challenging Road Conditions: In winter, roads in Tibet may become impassable due to snow and ice. Some attractions may become inaccessible or require additional transportation costs and time to reach.

Elevated Risk of Altitude Sickness: January's climate, with low temperature and drastic shifts, poses a challenge to the body, boosting risks of oxygen deficiency and discomfort. The dry and windy conditions also promote dehydration, exacerbating altitude sickness risks.

What to Pack for a Tibet January Trip

Clothing: Pack fleece-lined, detachable windbreakers for versatility, along with sturdy down jackets for ultimate warmth. Additionally, opt for insulating undergarments such as woolen sweaters and fleece-lined trousers to maintain body heat.

Footwear: For safe traversal on wet or icy terrain, opt for waterproof and non-slip shoes like hiking boots or snow boots. Don't forget to pack a few pairs of cozy, non-slip socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable throughout your journey.

Warm Accessories: Accessorize with warm hats, scarves, gloves, masks and glasses that offer wind protection to shield you from the plateau's chilly gusts.

UV Protection Items: Tibet's intense UV rays require sun protection year-round. Bring high SPF sunscreen and sunblock spray and reapply frequently.

When engaging in activities on snowy terrain, the intense glare reflected by snow can harm your eyes. To reduce irritation, wear protective goggles or sunglasses with UV protection.

Moisturizing Products: The dry plateau climate can cause chapped lips and dry hands, so apply lip balm and hand cream regularly.

Top Things to Do in January

1. City Tours to Lhasa & Nyingchi

Potala Palace in Tibet

Lhasa, the political, economic, and cultural epicenter of Tibet, boasts iconic landmarks such as Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. In January, at a lower altitude, it basks in relatively warmer midday sunshine that gently touches your cheeks. Embrace this golden hour and wander through Barkhor Street, where every step echoes with the rhythm of Tibetan life. Or, visit Jokhang Temple, where the devout chanting of monks fills the air, bringing inner peace.

Nyingchi, with its mild winter and ample humidity, stands out as a rare oasis in Tibet. It's the perfect escape for travelers averse to cold or embarking on their first Tibet journey. Its natural wonders, including verdant Lulang Forest Sea and majestic Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, are all the more enchanting under a blanket of winter snow, offering a breathtaking spectacle that is truly unforgettable.

2. Admire Blue Ice in Lake Puma Yumco & Leigu Glacier

Lake Puma Yumco，hailed as the "Tibetan Baikal," embarks on its "Blue Ice Season" in late January, where the lake solidifies into a thick sheet of ice adorned with intricate cracks and frozen bubbles, granting visitors a magnificent scene.

Leigu Glacier ranks among the world's three largest marine glaciers outside the polar regions. In mid-to-late January, it boasts colossal fractured blue ice blocks and shimmering blue ice caves, transporting visitors to a realm reminiscent of a sci-fi film.

Glacier in Tibet

3. Partake in Tibetan New Year in Tsang in Shigatse

In January, locals in Shigatse celebrates Tibetan New Year in Tsang. During this festival, visitors can venture to the bustling New Year goods market on North Heilongjiang Road in Xangzhu District, where they can indulge in and purchase a variety of local delicacies and specialties. Among these, "Gutu" stands out as a must-try dish. These dumplings are crafted from a hearty stew and consist of dough balls, vegetables, radishes, yogurt curds, and yak meat broth, all simmered to perfection to create a mouthwatering experience.

In 2026, Tibetan New Year in Tsang is on January 19th. For more about Shigatse weather, see Shigatse Weather.

Dancing in Tibetan Costume

- Last updated on Feb. 13, 2025 by Jally Zhang -