With China Tourist Visa Resumed,
Tibet Tours for All around the Globle are Available Right Now!

It is the best time to join our Tibet small group tour in 2024 at the best local price.
+ 86-28-81754631
TOP
theme

Our #1 Tibet Tour !

8 Days Overland Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp

In 2024, over 6,000 tourists fulfilled their lifetime Mt. Everest trip with us. We’re honored to be awarded as the #1 Best Mt. Everest Tour Organizer.

In 2025, we will work even harder to ensure the highest tour service quality in all of Tibetan tourism.

Book Early for Discounts: Best Mt. Everest Tour 2025 Awaits!

Top 12 Reasons Why to Visit Tibet in Winter (November to February)

November 05, 2024 BY Sonam Tenphel 0 COMMENTS

Speaking of the winter in Tibet, which lasts from November to February, most people will picture continuous snowy ranges, frozen lakes, and chilly wind. Indeed, it’s true, but to some extent, traveling to Tibet in winter is quite a wise choice. You may think it is crazy to recommend visiting the snowy plateau in winter, however, there are the top 12 reasons for taking a Tibet winter tour.

Reason #1: Tibet is NOT that Cold in Winter (Average Day temp around 7°C to 9°C)

Winter is a dry and sunny season in Tibet. Though most places in Tibet are chilly, Tibet is not as cold as you might expect during the winter season, especially in Lhasa. During winter, the average temperature in Lhasa is around 7°C to 9°C, which can be surprisingly even warmer than Beijing. It only snows occasionally, and there are more sunny days than at any other time of the year. During the daytime, the holy city is always bathed in warm sunlight. However, once the sun goes down, the temperature drops sharply, so whether you’re hanging out after dinner or heading back to your hotel, be sure to wrap up warm at night.

Reason #2: No Higher Risk of Altitude Sickness with Stable Oxygen Levels in Winter Tibet

Some people believe that Tibet's oxygen levels are very low in winter, making it susceptible to altitude sickness. However, this is not the case.

According to statistics, the oxygen levels in the Lhasa Valley are 62.7% of those at sea level in Qingdao (at 0 meters above sea level) in winter. In spring and autumn, it ranges between 63-64%. It is evident that oxygen levels in winter in Tibet do not decrease significantly and are similar to other seasons, with the difference being almost negligible.

So, you don’t need to worry. Traveling to Tibet in winter does not increase the risk of altitude sickness significantly, as it’s quite similar to visiting Tibet in other seasons.

Visit Potala Palace in winterEnjoy a pleasant visit to the Potala Palace in winter

Reason #3: Most Travel Destinations in Tibet Can be Visited During Winter Months

In winter, most tourist destinations remain accessible in Tibet, including Lhasa, Shigatse, Yamdrok Lake, and even the Everest Base Camp. You can experience the most popular Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour from November to February. Starting from Lhasa, this classic journey will take you southwest toward Mount Everest, passing through the scenic Yamdrok Lake and the bustling city of Shigatse. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Tibet.

Visit Tibet Everest Base Camp in winterVisit Tibet Everest Base Camp in winter

Unfortunately, Mount Kailash, the sacred mountain located in the far west of Tibet, can not be visited during winter months. With an average altitude of around 5,000 meters, the Kailash Kora route may be closed due to heavy snow at such a high altitude. Therefore, each year, from late October to early April, visiting Mount Kailash is not feasible. Similarly, Namtso Lake may also be inaccessible due to road closures caused by heavy snow in winter seasons.

Reason #4: Witness a Clearer View of Mount Everest in Winter Tibet

A visit to Tibet is not complete without a visit to Mount Everest! And the good news is that this premier mountain actually presents a much clearer visage in winter Tibet.

As the winter weather is dry and clear, the Everest peak is seldom shrouded by clouds and fog, as often occurs in the summer season. You can better witness the grandeur of the world's summit during this season. Furthermore, the Everest Base Camp, the ideal location for viewing Mount Everest, remains open, unlike many other high-elevation attractions in Tibet during winter. You’ll get a lifetime memory to visit Everest Base Camp in winter with the breathtaking views of the majestic peak under the winter sunshine.

Reason #5: Appreciate the Breathtaking Snowscape in Winter Tibet

The snowy landscape of winter Tibet is nothing short of enchanting. The snow in Tibet makes this already stunning region into a winter wonderland, offering captivating vistas of snow-capped mountains, including majestic peaks like Mount Everest in Shigatse and Mount Namjabarwa in Nyingchi.

Visit Mount Namjagbarwa in winterAppreciate the beautiful snow-capped Mount Namjagbarwa in winter

The serene, white-cloaked scenery under clear blue skies is a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise. Winter in Tibet lets you witness a unique, serene beauty, a true hidden gem for those seeking a picturesque snow-covered escape.

Reason #6: Enjoy a Tranquil Winter Travel Experience with Fewer Tourists in Tibet

One of the most appealing aspects of visiting Tibet in winter is the peace and tranquility that prevails. The number of tourists dwindles, allowing you to savor the cities and destinations at a leisurely pace, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the peak season.

This is the perfect moment to bask in the serene atmosphere of this highland, where you can relish the unspoiled beauty, connect with the local culture, and explore the pristine landscapes without the crowds. It’s an opportunity to be free from the usual tourist hustle and immerse yourself in the true essence of Tibet.

Reason #7: Encounter More Tibetan Pilgrims and Communicate with Locals

In winter, more Tibetan pilgrims swarmed into Lhasa for worship. Monasteries and religious activities can be found in every corner of Lhasa with numerous devout worshipers spinning prayer wheels, holding butter lamps, and burning incense. On the way to Lhasa, you can also see religious people devoutly prostrating themselves on the ground to show their deepest respect to the holy city.

Encounter local TibetansThere are more chances to encounter Tibetan locals in winter.

Furthermore, you can take your time to experience Tibetan life by visiting a local family and chatting with them to get a better understanding of Tibetan families. If you really wanna experience the Buddhist atmosphere of Tibet and know more about the Tibetan people, taking a Tibet winter tour will be your best choice.

Reason #8: Save More on Tibet Travel Expenses during the Winter Season

As winter is the ‘off-season’ of Tibet travel, the tour costs, such as those for accommodations, transportation, entrance fees of attractions, and guides are far more affordable in winter.

Many hotels and airlines will offer winter discounts to attract more tourists with no compromise to services. Also, the local government also held a winter promotion, and many famous Tibet attractions can be visited for free from November to February, including the famous Potala Palace. In general, you can save at least as much 50% on a Tibet tour in winter.

Reason #9: Easier to Book a Train or Flight Ticket to Tibet in Winter

With far fewer tourists heading to Tibet in winter, it’s easier to obtain your Tibet Travel Permit and enjoy hassle-free booking of Tibet train tickets or flights to Tibet. Transportation options remain available throughout the winter, and you may even benefit from discounted rates on your tickets, making it a convenient and budget-friendly time to embark on your Tibetan adventure.

Reason #10: Have more Opportunities to Experience Traditional Tibetan Festival

One of the most significant winter festivals in Tibet is the Tibetan New Year, also known as Losar, which falls on the 29th of December in the Tibetan calendar. It is a time when Tibetan families come together with hopes for a better year ahead.

Tibetan New Year in winterLocals are celebrating Tibetan New Year in winter.

In addition to Losar, there are several other famous Tibetan festivals to enjoy in winter. The Lamp Lighting Festival observed on the 25th of October in the Tibetan calendar, commemorates the great Tibetan reformer Zongkaba. Another notable event is the Ghee Lamp Festival, occurring on the 15th of January in the Tibetan calendar, featuring daytime monastery worship and the Barkhor Street lamp festival at night.

So, if you love to participate in local events to gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture and customs, you don’t miss a chance to visit Tibet in winter for a wonderful way to create lasting memories in this snowy wonderland.

Reason #11: Winter is the Best Time for Bird-watching in Tibet

Winter in Tibet offers a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts. In Lhasa, thousands of migratory birds flock to the Lhasa River wetlands to make the most of the region's ecologically rich environment, replete with wetlands, lakes, and pastures.

birds of Lhasa riverThousands of migratory birds fly to Lhasa River to overwinter.

Among these winter guests, you can spot fascinating species like the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, and yellow duck, adding a delightful dimension to your Tibetan winter experience through a unique Tibet birding tour.

Reason #12: Winter is Also the Perfect Time for a Photography Tour in Tibet

Tibetan people, villages, and natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for photography in Tibet. In winter, the sun is lower and the sky is clear, which casts beautiful light and illuminates the architecture and snow mountains perfectly.

In general, the visibility in winter is more brilliant compared to summer, as there is little rainfall and fog. Even if photography isn’t your cup of tea, just lay back in the sweet tea house and enjoy the cozy sunshine and pervasive Buddhist atmosphere in winter.

Conclusion

Winter in Tibet offers a unique and alluring experience. Contrary to expectations, it's not bitterly cold. With fewer tourists, you can explore Tibetan culture and landscapes in a peaceful, immersive way. Witness devout pilgrims, engage with locals, capture stunning photographs, and enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Everest, among other delights. Winter also brings lower travel costs and easier transportation booking.

Don't hesitate; a Tibet winter tour is a win-win, offering you the experience of a lifetime. Come and enjoy it to the fullest.

Sonam Tenphel

About the Author - Sonam Tenphel

With 20+ years of guide experience and tons of great reviews, Sonam Tenphel is one of the top-rated local Tibetan guides in our team. Polite, enthusiastic, and extremely attentive to every traveler’s needs, he is your best travel companion in Tibet and a walking dictionary of Tibetan culture and history.

Additionally, being a great photographer, Sonam helps you capture great Tibet travel moments and maximize your Tibet experiences like no other.

Have a Question?
Leave your question here or email our travel experts directly at inquiry@tibettravel.org

0 Comment ON "Top 12 Reasons Why to Visit Tibet in Winter (November to February)"

Check All Tibet Travel FAQs Here

content
Contents