Known as the “City of Sunshine”, Lhasa enjoys a milder climate compared to other higher Tibetan places, making it suitable for travel year-round. The best time to visit is generally from April to October, but you can expect different unique experiences in each season.

Here in this article, we will walk you through the details of Lhasa weather, break down the weather and travel guide for each of the four seasons, and providing useful clothing tips. Read to find your best time to visit Lhasa and prepare for a worry-free journey to this holy city.

Lhasa is a Year-round Destination with a Milder Climate than Other Tibetan Places

Compared to other higher Tibetan cities such as Shigatse and Ngari, Lhasa has a unique advantage when it comes to climate. Owing to its lower altitude of 3656 meters, Lhasa enjoys a moderate climate, with an annual temperature between 5℃ and 15℃, although there is a significant difference in temperature between day and night.

What makes Lhasa more attractive is its abundant sunshine throughout the year. Even in the cold winter, the sunshine makes the daytime feel much warmer. This also bring clear skies and sunny days for most of the year, suitable for sightseeing and photography.

Monthly Weather in Lhasa

month	Max Temperature (°C)	Min Temperature (°C)	Average Clear Days	Average Rainfall (mm)
January	7	-9	20	0
February	8	-8	20	1
March	10	-6	23	2
April	12	-2	25	3
May	16	2	26	8
June	20	6	27	10
July	22	9	26	17
August	21	9	25	16
September	18	6	25	10
October	14	1	23	4
November	9	-4	20	1
December	7	-8	20	0

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The Best Time to Visit Lhasa is Generally from April to October

While Lhasa is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is generally from April to October, covering the spring, summer and autumn seasons. During these months, you can enjoy the most comfortable weather, and enjoy various activities, such as sightseeing, trekking, and visiting monasteries.

In spring from April to May, the climate is mild, and the city warms up from winter chill, offering a refreshing escape for tourists. In summer, Lhasa experiences the warmest temperature, but it is not hot. While autumn is the ideal time for trekking and photography, with cool but not cold weather and clear skies.

Visiting Lhasa in Spring (April to May): Pleasant Climate and Clear Skies

In spring, the temperature in Lhasa begins to warm up, with daytime temperature rising to 12 ℃ to 16 ℃ on average. Although the nights can still be a little cold, dropping as low as freezing point. This is one of the most comfortable times to visit Lhasa, as you won’t have to bear the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

This time of year also brings fresh air, bright sunshine and clear blue skies, suitable for sightseeing and photography. The rain in Lhasa in spring is quite light and you can only see snow in mountainous regions. With everything coming back to life, various flowers begin to bloom around Lhasa.

Spring is also relatively quiet season, with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. You can explore the popular landmarks of Lhasa, like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, at a more leisurely pace.

For natural lovers, spring in Lhasa is also an ideal time for trekking around the city. You can go to explore some lesser-known monasteries in the surroundings, like Drak Yerpa and Ganden Monastery, while enjoying short treks for both stunning views and fresh air.

Enjoy the best of Lhasa in spring with our well-designed tour.

Visiting Lhasa in Summer (June to August): Best for Experiencing Tibetan Culture and Festivals

The temperature in summer ranges from cool to warm, but it is not too hot compared to other lower-altitude regions. The average temperature is about 10℃ to 22℃. Although Lhasa experience more rainfall due to the arrival of the monsoon season, it usually rains at night and become sunny again during the daytime, so it may not greatly hinder your travel plan.

Since this is the warmest time of the year, it is ideal for visiting all the tourist sites in and around Lhasa as you like. Besides exploring the highlights in the downtown, it is also a great idea to extend your Lhasa tour to Lake Namtso, which begins to showcases its supreme natural beauty during this season.

Summer is also the season for Tibetan festivals. If you are lucky, you may take part in the notable Shoton Festival (Aug 23, 2025), and witness the grand unveiling of Giant Thangka or unique opera performances. Other famous festivals, such as the Sawa Dawa Festival and Nagqu Horse Racing Festival, also usually fall on these months.

One thing to note is that in summer Lhasa enters peak season with both domestic and international tourists flocking to the city. The hotels and flights can be more expensive, so it is recommended to book your trip well in advance to secure better prices and dates.

Visiting Lhasa in Autumn (September to November): Ideal for Trekking and Photography

When autumn arrives in Lhasa, the weather becomes cool and pleasant. The temperature is not as low as winter or spring, ranging from 17℃ to 20℃ during the time. With crisp air and clear skies, it is the perfect time for trekking and outdoor photography.

During this season, you can enjoy the golden-brown tree leaves and golden forests, stunning views of mountain peaks, and turquoise lakes. Whether you are seeking scenic photo opportunities or cultural sights, you’re sure to capture impressive pictures. The cool weather is especially beneficial for trekking around Lhasa, exploring its scenic trails.

Compared to the summer months, there are fewer tourists in autumn, but it is still a popular time for tourists. If you plan to visit Lhasa in autumn, you’d better book your tickets, hotel room and other arrangements in advance, for the overall prices tend to remain high during the season.

Enjoy a seamless autumn visit to Lhasa with us.

Visiting Lhasa in Winter (December to March): Budget Price with Fewer Tourists

Most people might think the winter of Lhasa is too cold and unbearable for tourists. However, this is not true. With daytime temperature ranging between 8℃ and 10 ℃, winter is also a great time to visit Lhasa. And plenty of sunshine during the day will make you feel much warmer, despite it will become super cold at night.

The blue sky and bright sun offer you fantastic views of Lhasa city. It is the best time to see the snow-covered mountains, which is a unique sight in winter season. What’s more, for bird lovers, you can have the rare chance to enjoy bird watching at popular sites like Lalu Wetland.

One of the biggest advantages for a winter tour in Lhasa is the lower cost and fewer tourists. Accommodation and tickets are much cheaper than other months, and you won’t have to worry about the typical tourist crowds filling the streets.

Recommended Clothing for Visiting Lhasa in Tibet

When visiting Lhasa, you need to pack appropriate clothing to deal with the changing temperatures and high altitude here. It is a good idea to dress in layers to stay comfortable and be prepared for the varying weather. Here are some suggestions for different seasons:

Spring and autumn: It is advisable to bring long-sleeve shirts, light jackets and sweaters for the daytime. You should also pack a warmer thick jacket or coat for the cooler nights. For the windy weather especially in autumn, it is recommended to bring a windproof jacket.

Summer: Wear light and breathable clothing like short-sleeved shirts or light-weight long sleeves for the warmer daytime. A lightweight jacket or sweater will suffice for the nighttime.

Winter: Bring windproof and waterproof thick down jackets, thermal layers, and thick sweaters to keep yourself warm. Gloves, hats, and scarfs are also helpful to deal with the cold wind. Besides, a good pair of shoes is recommended for snow or ice.

Besides, no matter when you visit Lhasa, due to the ultraviolet radiation, you need to take some necessary measures to protect your skin, such as wearing sunglasses, using sun cream and wearing a hat. The weather is generally dry on the plateau, so be sure to bring lipstick and moisturizing items.

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Conclusion

Lhasa is suitable for visiting throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. Whether you are looking for a rich cultural experience, or want to appreciate the stunning natural scenery, a journey to Lhasa can meet you needs. Based on your time and interests, you can find the best time for yourself to explore this amazing city.

If you still have any questions about Lhasa travel, feel free to contact us for any inquiries or book your tour with us today. As the leading Tibet tour operator with years of experiences, we are here to help you enjoy a worry-free and pleasant journey to Lhasa!