How to Prepare for the Coldest Months in Tibet
Tibet's coldest months (December to February) bring extreme conditions: average temperatures range from -20°C to 10°C, oxygen levels are 15% to 20% lower than summer, and strong winds often amplify the cold. Below is a focused guide covering essential tips.
Understand Tibet's Winter Climate: Don't Underestimate the Cold
Winter in Tibet isn't just about low temperatures—it's the combination of cold, wind, and dryness that catches travelers off guard. In Lhasa, daily highs reach 10°C but drop to -5°C at night, with a 15–20°C temperature swing. In harsher areas like Ngari, nighttime temps can plummet to -30°C. Strong winds create a "wind chill effect," making it feel 5–10°C colder. Also, the dry air and intense UV rays increase risks of dehydration, sunburn, and nosebleeds. Many remote roads (e.g., Ngari's Northern Route) close due to heavy snow, so check road statuses beforehand.

Health Protection: Alleviate Altitude Sickness and Frostbite
Altitude sickness is more risky in winter due to lower oxygen.Consider taking Rhodiola rosea 2–3 days before arrival to boost acclimatization. Once in Tibet, avoid strenuous activities for the first 2–3 days—no hiking, running, or even hot showers (they cause oxygen loss and colds). Rent a portable oxygen canister for emergencies. Pack high-moisture lotion, lip balm with SPF, and saline nasal spray to fight dryness. Eat calorie-dense foods like yak meat hot pot and butter tea (warm, energizing, and easier to adapt to than salty butter tea for first-timers) and drink 2L of warm water daily.

Essential Gear: Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Inner layers: moisture-wicking thermal underwear (avoid cotton—it stays wet). Middle layers: a lightweight down jacket or fleece (easy to remove indoors). Outer layer: a waterproof, windproof parka with 80% down filling (to handle -10°C+). For accessories, bring waterproof gloves (touchscreen-friendly), a wool hat covering ears, a face mask, and thick wool socks (2 extra pairs). Footwear: high-top, anti-slip hiking boots with Vibram soles for icy paths. Electronics need protection too—carry a 20,000mAh power bank (batteries die fast in cold) and a camera warmer (tape hand warmers to batteries if needed).
Local Life Tips: Travel and Stay Comfortably
Book flights early—Lhasa Gonggar Airport often has delays due to winter winds, so choose morning flights (6–8 AM) for more stable weather. For intercity travel, book a private car 1 month in advance (fewer drivers work in winter) and confirm it has heating. In Lhasa, stay in hotels with central heating and oxygen supply. Avoid unheated hostels—nighttime cold can worsen AMS.

Conclusion
Tibet's winter cold is real, but with the right preparation—understanding the climate, protecting your health, packing wisely, and planning your trip—it becomes a magical time. You'll avoid crowds, enjoy lower prices, and witness breathtaking sights like blue ice and snow-capped peaks. Winter in Tibet isn't just about surviving the cold; it's about discovering a quieter, more authentic side of this incredible region.


35 Comment ON "How to Prepare for the Coldest Months in Tibet"
Asked by Liliana Me** from N/A
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash