Shangri-La Weather in December
Season: Winter
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| Songzanlin Monastery |
Entering December, Shangri-La is very cold with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). There is a huge temperature difference between day and night, up to about 15°C (59°F). In a single day, the highest temperature can reach nearly 10°C (50°F), while the lowest temperature is only about -10°C (14°F). Precipitation is very low, totaling less than 10 mm on average, but possibly in form of snow. The low rainfall combined with the high altitude lead to dry air, so you are advised to drink water more frequently. In December, the average daylight time is only 10.2 hours, but sunshine hours can be up to 7 hours each day thanks to low rainfall.
Due to the very cold weather of Shangri-La, December is the slack season. Besides, there are no long public holidays in general this month. As a result, Shangri-La is less crowded throughout the month, perfect for those who want to enjoy a quiet trip.
See more about Yunnan Weather in December.
Averages for Shangri-La Weather in December
High Temperature: 8°C (46°F)
Low Temperature: -8°C (18°F)
Precipitation: 7 mm in 4 days
Humidity: 58%
Sunrise: 07:54 ~ 08:11
Sunset: 18:24 ~ 18:35
Daylight Hours: 10.23 ~ 10.29 h
Sunshine Hours: 7 h
What to Bring to Visit Shangri-La in December
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Upper Clothes: Since Shangri-La climate varies a lot from daytime to nighttime, you are advised to wear several layers, so as to easily and timely adjust the thickness according to the temperature change. For example, you can wear thermal shirts as the first layer, thick knitwear or sweater as the second layer, and downcoat or padded jacket as the outer layer. Or you can wear thermal shirts and thick shirts as the base, and put on a 3-in-1 jacket with a windproof shell and a downy liner as the outer layer. Bottoms: You can wear one pair of downy outdoor pants, or choose thermal pants plus thick jeans or sweatpants. Shoes: Snow boots and winter hiking boots that are warm, non-slip, and waterproof are perfect for your Shangri-La trip in December. Moreover, you are advised to pack thick stocks. Others: (1) Hats, scarves, and gloves are necessary in chilly December, especially if you plan to go to visit snow mountains and vast alpine meadows.
(2) Remember to wear sunglasses, which can effectively protect your eyes from the strong UV rays.
(3) Moisturizing skin care products are musts to keep your skin in a good state in dry Shangri-La.
Top Places to Visit in Shangri-La in December
Travel Recommendation Rate: 
In December, Shangri-La is sunny most of the time. Under the sunny and blue sky, you will take in peace and blue lakes, vast and splendid yellow meadows with yaks, and mountains covered with yellowish-green trees. Walking on the tracks, you will also meet lovely and lively squalls. On snowy days, when the Park is covered by white snow, you will see different but more splendid views. Moreover, there will be some outdoor winter snow games and activities for you to participate in.
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| Potatso National Park |
2. Dukezong Ancient Town
Whether you want to feel the charm of Tibetan Buddhism or experience Tibetan customs, Dokuzong Ancient Town is a perfect destination. To learn about Tibetan Buddhism, you can visit Guishan Park in the ancient city. There is a Buddha Monastery, which is home to statues of Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism and the world’s largest prayer wheel. In the Town, there is also an experience center where you can experience thangka painting for free. If you want to experience Tibetan customs, walk around to admire the architecture, taste the local food, and go to the central square to watch Tibetan dance at night.
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| World’s Largest Prayer Wheel |
In December, Shika Snow Mountain is gradually covered by snow and is well worth seeing. You can take the cable car to the viewing platform at the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy the beautiful sea of clouds and overlook the whole Shangri-La. Moreover, it is the only place where you can see Meili Snow Mountain, Biluo Snow Mountain, Three Sacred Mountains of Yading, Baima Snow Mountain, Haba Snow Mountain, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain all at once. Alternatively, if you like hiking, you can take the cable car first and then hike to the top.
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| Shika Snow Mountain |
Other Recommendation
If you go to Shika Snow Mountain and have enough time, it is also advised to visit the nearby Napahai Natural Reserve. At this time, the Reserve will be full of migratory birds.
Tips:
1. If you are planning a trip to Shangri-La in December 2025, it is recommended to book a hotel with humidifiers, especially if you have rhinitis.
2. Shangri-La is at a high altitude, so try not to exercise strenuously to avoid altitude sickness. Besides, you’d better always bring foods like chocolates that can replenish energy quickly.
7-Day Shangri-La Weather Forecast
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- Last updated on Dec. 23, 2024 by Demi Li -