When to visit - Tibet

The best time to visit Tibet is in the months of May and October when you have the optimum chance of dry and clear weather. These periods escape the worst of the summer rains, and the air temperatures in Tibet are relatively warm. These are the optimum conditions for viewing the Himalayan vistas, and getting the most out of your visit to Tibet. The Chinese Holidays in the first weeks of May and October are worth avoiding however, as the numbers of visitors swell during these times.

The months of April, June and September are a good time to visit Tibet. June and September are warm and relatively dry, but perhaps a little more cloudy than the best times to visit. Although temperatures are still fairly cool in April, temperatures are on the rise as you go through the month, and the average amount of rainfall in Tibet is very low. If you’re looking to explore Tibet at a quieter, less touristy time of year, then perhaps April is the time for you.

Although Tibet does not receive a huge amount of rain the months of July and August do receive the most and would therefore be considered the green season. But don’t let the idea of the green season put you off, as the warm temperatures and fewer tourists mean this period has quite a lot to offer. Rainfall will be in short sharp dowpours, so as long as you don’t mind getting a bit wet, July and August are good months to visit Tibet.

November to February is relatively cold time to visit Tibet, with temperatures plunging well below zero at night. Despite the cool air, the skies tend to be very clear, and far fewer tourists visit during this time, so it is not a bad time to visit Lhasa and the surrounding area if you are prepared with warm clothes. Tibet is closed to visitors in March for their New Year celebrations.