The rainy season in other places is often associated with mud, heavy rains, and humidity. However, Tibet’s rainy season tells a different story. With cool temperatures, longer days, and increased oxygen in the air, this time offers an excellent opportunity to explore Tibet.

Moreover, the rain typically falling only in the late afternoon or at night, ensuring that your day tour remains unaffected. Let’s explore the details and unique experiences that Tibet’s rainy season offers, along with expert tips and top tours to help you make the most of your journey.

What’s the Weather Like in Tibet During the Rainy Season (from July to August)?

Temperature: Tibet's rainy season lasts from July to August, which is also the summer time. Due to the plateau’s high elevation, Tibet's summer is not as hot as other areas, with the maximum temperature reaching only around 23℃ and this cool temperature attracts numerous tourist who want to enjoy a cool and comfortable summer escape.

Rainfall: Rainfall in Tibet varies by region, with the southeast receiving more rain than the northwest. On average, the entire region experiences about 120mm of rain in July and 90mm in August. In Lhasa, rainfall averages around 120mm per month in July and August, while other places like Shigatse and Nyingchi records slightly more, averaging 130mm per month.

In contrast, Mount Kailash in Ngari and Namtso Lake in the west and north receive as little as 25mm of rain per month. With just 23-25mm of rainfall a month, that’s less than 1mm per day, which has minimal impact on trekking the Kailash Kora or visiting Namtso. So, you can rest assured that travel to Ngari and Namtso Lake is still possible during the rainy season.

Clear days: The average number of clear days in rainy season is around 27 every per month. This is largely due to an advantage of Tibet’s rainy season: it rarely rains all day. Most of the rainfall occurs in the late afternoon and evening, leaving the days typically clear and sunny. This unique pattern sets Tibet’s rainy season apart from others around the world.

Is Visiting Tibet During the Rainy Season Worth It, and What Makes It Unique?

Visiting Tibet during the rainy season is definitely worth it. Compared to other regions during the rainy season, Tibet has several unique characteristics: less rainfall than its neighbors, cool temperatures, and oxygen-rich forests. Additionally, the longer daylight hours add to its charm, making it an even more enriching travel experience.

Less Rainfall: Unlike other areas in the Himalayan region, Tibet experiences less rainfall during its rainy season. On average, Tibet receives only about 120mm of rain in July and around 90mm in August. This is just one-third of the rainfall seen in neighboring Nepal at the same period. The Himalayas act as a barrier and causes most of the rain fall on the Nepal and Bhutan side.

Longer Daytime: As the Northern Hemisphere enters summer in July and August, the days grow longer, with especially long days on the Tibetan Plateau. In lower-elevation areas like Lhasa and Nyingchi, the sun rises around 7:00 AM and. In higher locations like Mt. Everest, sunrise occurs around 6:00 AM, and sunset is at 9:30 PM, providing enough daylight for exploration.

Moisture air rich in Oxygen: Summer not only brings rainfall but also increases the moisture in the air, which is particularly beneficial for the Tibetan Plateau, a region known for its dry, crisp air. Additionally, the lush forests and green grass, raising the oxygen levels and making both overland tours and trekking more comfortable, while also helping to alleviate altitude sickness in Tibet.

Our beloved guests can enjoy a refreshing summer visit to Mt. Everest, with stunning clear views.

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Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa

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Visiting Tibet During the Rainy Season: Two Things to Keep in Mind

There are two things to keep in mind during the rainy season. While Tibet receives less rainfall compared to other regions, the rainy season can still bring clouds, especially in July and August. This may result in cloud cover that obscures the peak of Mt. Everest, meaning you might not be able to enjoy a clear view of the mountain when you reach Everest Base Camp.

Additionally, heavy rainfall can lead to mudslides in certain areas. In Nyingchi, the rains can trigger mudslides, while Gyirong, being at a lower altitude, receives more rain, which can also cause mudslides along the road to Gyirong Port. However, with Tibet Vista, your safety is our top priority. We adjust itineraries based on weather conditions and keep you informed in advance.

Expert Tips for Traveling to Tibet in the Rainy Season

During this period, Tibet’s high altitude and clear skies result in intense UV radiation, especially on cloudless days. With minimal atmospheric filtering, the sun’s rays are much stronger than at lower altitudes. It is advisable to prepare high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses in advance, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Be aware of the significant temperature difference between day and night, which can reach up to 15°C. While summer days are bright and warm, it's best to wear layers and bring enough clothing for comfort, as temperatures can drop sharply at night, especially when trekking in Tibet. A waterproof jacket and quick-dry clothes are also recommended.

July and August are the best months to experience stunning landscapes and wildlife. The plains are lush with green, and the Changtang and Ngari Grasslands in the north provide abundant grazing for animals. Tibetan antelope, wild donkeys, and yaks roam freely, while summer also marks the most active period for the Tibetan fox, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts.

The summer months are the ideal time to experience vibrant Tibetan festivals, including Saga Dawa festival (11 June 2025), the Shoton Festival, the Ganden Thangka Festival, and the Nagqu Horse Racing Festival, which is held in summer for the grass and ground conditions. If you are interested in any of them, please plan your itinerary based on the date of the festival.

Mt. Kailash sees thousands of tourists and locals come together during the Saga Dawa festival.

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Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - EBC - Saga - Darchen - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Lhasa

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This 16-day Kailash tour from Lhasa during the Saga Dawa festival offers not only a unique festival experience but also the chance to touch the sacred mountain.

Our Top-Recommended Tibet Tours for the Rainy Season

Among all the classic itineraries in Tibet, two are especially ideal for the rainy season: the 8-day Lhasa to Mt. Everest, and the 15-day Mt. Kailash. These two tours are perfectly aligned with the timing and weather conditions of the rainy season.

8-day Lhasa to Mt. Everest tour takes you from Lhasa to Mount Everest Base Camp. This westward journey provides the most breathtaking views of Tibet, with lush greenery stretching along the route. While Mt. Everest can occasionally be hidden by clouds, four strategically placed viewpoints in the itinerary greatly enhance your chances of seeing the mountain in its full glory.

Trekking around Mt. Kailash during the rainy season offers a truly unique experience. This itinerary blends iconic attractions, pilgrimage, and trekking. If you visit during Saga Dawa, it will be the cherry on top. You’ll join thousands of locals in the Kora. The rainy season has little effect on Ngari Prefecture, bringing just enough moisture to enhance trekking conditions.

Trekking and meditating in front of Mt. Kailash offers travelers both a spiritual and physical feast.

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This is the epic journey to Mount Kailash with a classic 3-day trek around the sacred mountain.

Conclusion

Tibet’s rainy season offers a unique experience with manageable rainfall, clear days, and lush landscapes. It’s a good time for trekking, overland tours, and vibrant festivals. While occasional rain and other challenges may arise, with careful planning and expert guidance from Tibet Vista, we ensure you can fully enjoy Tibet’s beauty and culture during this period.

Ready to explore Tibet’s beauty during the rainy season? Contact us today and let us help you plan an extraordinary adventure!