Shigatse Weather in December
Season: Winter
In December, Shigatse features a predominately cold and dry climate. While the abundant sunshine offers warmth during the day, thick clothing remains necessary to combat the chill. Once the sun sets or after occasional snowfall, the temperature drops rapidly, and strong winds intensify the biting cold, making it even more challenging to endure.
Averages for Shigatse Weather in December
High Temperature: 8°C / 46°F
Low Temperature: -12°C / 10°F
Rainy Days: 0 day
Rainfall: 0mm
Sunrise: 8:41~8:58
Sunset: 19:05~19:16
Pros & Cons of Visiting Shigatse in December
Pros
Cost Savings: December, still in Shigatse’s off season, offers significant discounts on hotels, air tickets, and even half-price or free entry to attractions, making it an economically advantageous time to visit.
Scenic Beauty: With most clear days, snow-capped mountains are highly visible throughout December. Moreover, glaciers expand due to snow and coldness this month, particularly ideal for witnessing rare blue glaciers in sunshine.
Cons
Cold Climate: December climate in Shigatse can be freezing cold, so it is recommended to engage in outdoor activities between 12:00 and 19:00 on sunny days to avoid snow, ice or winds if you have been well prepared for the coldness.
Potential Closure of Attractions: For possible snow and ice on roads, Mount Everest scenic area may be temporarily closed in December, making it important to monitor weather forecasts and updates from the scenic area to avoid disruptions to your travel plans.
December Packing Guide for Shigatse
Clothing: Pack warm essentials like down jackets, thick sweaters, and thermal underwear for December’s chilly weather. Layering allows you to adjust easily as temperatures fluctuate.
Accessories: With frequent chilly winds in Shigatse in December, don't forget knit or cotton hats, cozy scarves, and gloves.
Footwear: Bring waterproof, non-slip shoes to ensure safe walking and avoid slips since occasional snow or ice can occur in December.
Sun Protection: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to shield yourself from harsh UV rays and prevent sunburn while enjoying the sun's warmth in December, 2025.
Moisturizing Products: Bring moisturizing facial cream and lip balm to keep your skin soft and supple due to the dry climate in Shigatse, especially in December.
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Top Attractions to Visit in November
1. Palcho Monastery
Ascending the stairs at Palcho Monastery, you will find 77 Buddha halls, all adorned with lively murals dating back thousands of years. Confronted with Buddha's contemplative eyes and Bodhisattvas' compassionate downward glances, even unfamiliar with Tibetan Buddhism, you will be deeply moved by their inner peace.
At the summit of the stupa, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Gyangtse. In the distance, Tibetan-style houses are neatly arrange, and following a snowfall in December, a thin haze softly drifts across the mountains, while the forests and barley fields are draped in a layer of snow, unfolding a vivid Chinese ink painting scroll before your eyes.
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| Murals in Palcho Monastery |
2. Kanola Glacier
Kanola Glacier cascades its creamy ice from misty peaks and suspends halfway the mountain. Under December's intense sun, the ice gleams like a giant jade, radiating a slight blue hue.
Even hundreds of meters away, you can still feel its chill breeze and hear the gentle murmur of streams formed by melting ice. While standing beneath, you'll be overshadowed by the vast ice and sense its subtle yet powerful pressure.
However, global warming is gradually eroding Kanola Glacier, urging glacier enthusiasts to cherish and appreciate its beauty while they still can.
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| Kanola Glacier, Shigatse |
Step away from the icy chill of Kanola Glacier and embrace the coolness of Yadong at a lower altitude. Here, Dochentso Lake reflects the majestic Jomolhari Mountain, with a sacred white pagoda and fluttering prayer flags adding a touch of mystery to the blue sky.
In December, Pali Grassland transforms into a golden wonderland. Wander through this fertile landscape and witness black Pali yaks pacing slowly, creating a timeless atmosphere.
And don't miss the exquisite Yadong salmon in 2025, which is plump, delicate, and incredibly delicious. The warm salmon soup and the delicate texture of the salmon sashimi will leave you with a lasting impression.
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| Pari Grassland, Yadong County |
- Last updated on Nov. 22, 2024 by Jally Zhang -