Climate
of Tibet
Trekkers must be prepared for extremes in climate
even in the middle of summer. A hot sunny day can
turn cold and miserable in a matter of minutes,
especially at higher elevations. Night temperatures
at 4500m and above routinely fall below freezing
even in July and August! At other times if the year
it gets colder. In midwinter in north-western Tibet,
minimum temperatures reach minus 40oC. Yet Tibet
is a study in contrasts, and in the summer months
a scorching sun and hot blustery winds can make
even the hardiest walker scurry for any available
shade. Between the two extremes the Tibetan climate
is ideal for walking - cool and dry - but always
be prepared for the worst.
WEATHER IN LHASA
Month |
Average
Temp (Celsius) |
Rainfall
(mm) |
Sunshine
(Hrs) |
January |
2.3 |
0.2 |
251.4 |
February |
1.1 |
0.5 |
226.4 |
March |
4.5 |
1.5 |
241.8 |
April |
8.3 |
5.4 |
244.1 |
May |
12.3 |
25.4 |
284.5 |
June |
15.4 |
77.1 |
227.2 |
July |
15.1 |
129.1 |
224.8 |
August |
14.3 |
138.7 |
221.4 |
September |
12.7 |
56.3 |
238.3 |
October |
8.2 |
7.9 |
285.9 |
November |
2.3 |
1.6 |
271.0 |
December |
-1.7 |
0.5 |
261.0 |
Annual |
7.5 |
446.6 |
3007.8 |
IMPORTANT NOTE:
We would like to inform you that the journey to
Tibet could be fairly rough and tough one. Due high
altitude, the travelers with pre-existing problems
of the heart, lungs or anemia should definitely
consult their doctor before this trip. The travelers
should have clothing consisting of layers which
can be added or removed as the temperature varies
during the day. One should carry a warm windbreak,
slacks and sweater with stout comfortable shoes,
sun screen lotion, sun glasses, a salve for the
lips, a hat, tissue papers, flashlights, can opener,
personal medicines including Aspirin/Diamox, some
eatables/Cookies etc. On this trip, over exertion
is to be avoided and drinking plenty of fluids is
recommendable. During winter, heavy warm clothing
is a must.