Tibet Winter Temperature in December 2025
Understanding the winter temperatures in Tibet in December 2024 is crucial for foreign tourists to decide what to pack. The right clothing and gear can make all the difference in enjoying the stunning winter landscapes of this unique region. This article will start by introducing the temperatures of the most popular attractions during winter.
Lhasa Urban Area
In December, Lhasa urban area, at 3,650m, has distinct day and night temperatures. During the day, the average temperature is around 10°C, thanks to the abundant sunshine that the "City of Sunshine" is famous for. However, at night, the temperature drops significantly, with an average of -5°C, and it can get as low as -8°C on particularly cold nights. The main reason for this temperature difference is the high altitude and dry air, which causes heat to dissipate quickly after sunset. The winter scenery in Lhasa is charming, with the Potala Palace covered in a thin layer of snow on some days, creating a magical sight against the clear blue sky.
Shigatse
Shigatse, located at a higher altitude than Lhasa, is colder in December. The average daytime temperature is about 6°C, while at night, it plummets to an average of -8°C, with the lowest temperature reaching -12°C. Winter in Shigatse offers a serene atmosphere, with the Tashilhunpo Monastery looking more solemn under the winter sun.
Namtso Lake
Namtso Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Tibet, has harsh winter temperatures in December. During the day, the average temperature is around 2°C, but at night, it drops sharply to an average of -15°C, and the lowest temperature can be as low as -20°C. The lake is located at a relatively high altitude, and the cold winds blowing across the lake surface make the temperature feel even lower. Part of the lake may freeze in December, and the snow-capped mountains surrounding the lake form a breathtaking winter picture.
Yamdrok Lake
Yamdrok Lake in December has relatively milder temperatures compared to Namtso. The average daytime temperature is about 5°C, and at night, it averages -10°C, with the lowest temperature reaching -14°C. The lake's location in a valley helps to moderate the temperature slightly.
Nyingchi Urban Area
Due to its relatively lower altitude and more humid climate, Nyingchi has the mildest temperatures in Tibet in December. During the day, the average temperature is around 12°C, and at night, it averages 2°C, with the lowest temperature rarely dropping below -2°C. The area's lush forests and proximity to lower-altitude regions contribute to the milder climate. In December, Nyingchi is still relatively green compared to other parts of Tibet, with some snow on the mountain tops adding to the beauty.
Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp in December is extremely cold and challenging. Daytime temperatures average around -10°C, and at night, they drop to an average of -25°C, with the lowest temperature reaching a frigid -30°C. Extreme weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy snowfall are common here, and sometimes the base camp is closed in winter due to these harsh conditions. The snow-covered Mount Everest stands tall against the sky, offering a majestic but harsh winter scene for those lucky enough to visit when it's open.
Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash is in its closed period in December. The area is inaccessible to tourists due to heavy snowfall and dangerous road conditions. Even if one could reach there, the temperatures would be extremely low, with daytime averages around -15°C and nighttime averages plummeting to -30°C, with the lowest temperature possibly hitting -35°C. The mountain is covered in thick snow, making it a sacred and mysterious sight from a distance.
Conclusion
Remember, the higher the altitude, the colder it gets, and nighttime temperatures can be extremely low everywhere. Tourists planning to visit Tibet in December must pack warm, waterproof, and windproof clothing, including down jackets, thermal underwear, gloves, hats, and thick boots. Happy and safe travels.
Related Articles & Posts
37 Comment ON "Tibet Winter Temperature in December 2025"
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
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