December, the last month of the year, is one of the coldest month in Tibet. But it is never too cold to visit Tibet as the daytime temperature can be around 10°C. With fewer tourists the low tourism season offers great discounts that could make you save up to 20% for visiting Tibet in December.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential weather details, the best travel routes, and useful tips to make the most of your Tibet travel in December.

Tibet Weather in December: Overall Climate & Temperature

Tibet in December begins to enter into the severe winter, with temperatures getting much colder all across the region. However, due to the high altitude with thin air, the bright sun and strong sunlight in the daytime can make it feel a lot warmer than it is.

The average temperatures in Tibet in December range from -6°C to around 9°C. During the day, temperatures are usually around 10°C, while early mornings and evenings can be close to freezing (around 0°C). At night, temperatures often drop below zero.

December is also completely devoid of rain, and across the entire region, the colder weather turns the possibility of rain into snow. So, it is a good time to see snow in Tibet if you visit Tibet in December.

The Magnificent Snow Scene of Potala Palace in December.

Detailed Temperatures and Climate of Major Tibet Attractions in December

The weather in Tibet may become harsher and severely colder in December, but that does not mean there is nothing to do for a winter tour in Tibet. Many attractions in Tibet can still be visited in December.

Lhasa and Around: In December, Lhasa has daytime temperatures around 8°C and drops to -8°C at night. The holy city is known as the ‘City of Sunlight,’ so even though it is cold in December, the sunshine makes the days feel warmer. If it snows in Lhasa, the Potala Palace and monasteries in the city look stunning against the snowy backdrop, adding to the unique charm of Lhasa.

Visit the majestic Potala Palace on a sunny day of December.

Namtso Lake: Located to the north of Lhasa, the holy Namtso Lake begins to freeze in December. Daytime temperatures at the lake are around 8°C, while they can drop as low as -20°C at night. Although heavy snowfall may close roads to the lake, Namtso Lake remains accessible in December. With the new road paved over the high pass, vehicles have a better chance of reaching the frozen lake for a visit.

The peaceful Namtso Lake with snow-capped mountains in December.

Yamdrok Lake: Unlike Namtso Lake, the Yamdrok Lake is much more accessible during the winter months. The average minimum temperature is -11°C, with a maximum of 8°C, and the region sees minimal rainfall, averaging just 2mm. Due to the low temperature, Yamdrok Lake will occasionally become frozen in December, you can also see attractive blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

A stunning sight of Yamdrok Lake in December.

Shigatse: While Shigatse does have lower temperatures at night, dropping to as low as -22°C, in the daytime, the temperatures can reach as high as 12°C, with frequent sunny days making it feel even warmer. Despite of the strong wind, the warm sunshine makes Shigatse a great place to visit in December. The city is a little warmer than Lhasa during the day and has some stunning attractions.

6 Days Central Tibet Culture Small Group Tour: Explore Tibet's religion, cultural gems, and captivating landscapes.

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse- Lhasa

Price from USD799 p.p

Mount Everest: When it comes to December in the mid-winter, the area around Mount Everest is also starting to get frigid and icy, with night temperature dropping to around -18°C at the Base Camp (5000 m), while daytime can still as high as 6°C, not such cold as many people assumed. However, due to the cold nights at the base camp, the tent hotels are closed from October to April. If you visit Everest Base Camp in winter, you can only stay in the guesthouse of Rongbuk Monastery or in Zhaxizong town at the foot of Mount Everest.

Visiting the Everest Base Camp in December and appreciating the clear view of Mount Everest.

Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar: Around Mount Kailash region, the snows are getting heavier, with daily average temperatures dropping to as low as -20°C. Even during the daytime, the temperatures will mostly reach below zero. Due to heavier snow and high passes, the roads to Mount Kailash will be closed in December, making the trek around the kora impossible until around March or April. If you want to experience the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, you can come here in late spring or autumn.

The Mount Kailash tour is unavailable from November to early April due to the extremely cold weather.

Nyingchi: Winter is really the off-season to visit Nyingchi in Eastern Tibet. In December, the average minimum temperature is -4.6°C, and the average maximum temperature is 9.6°C. Although it’s cold and snowy in most parts of Nyingchi, it’s a great time to witness the breathtaking snow-capped views of Namcha Barwa Mountain due to the dry conditions.

December is a good time to witness Namcha Barwa Mountai.

Top 4 Tour Routes for Visiting in Tibet in December

Since most attractions in Tibet can be visited in December, here we recommend the best 4 Tibet winter tour itineraries for you. With fewer tourists and lower tour prices, you can enjoy a more authentic Tibet travel following these routes.

No.1: 8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour

The Everest Base Camp in Tibet is still available to visit in December. With plenty of bright sunny days in the whole month, you have more chances to appreciate the clear view of Mount Everest up close.

The popular Lhasa to Everest Base Camp round trip takes 8 days, following the well-paved asphalt road from Lhasa via the stunning Yamdrok Lake, and Shigatse, and stretches right up to the Rongbuk Monastery near the base camp. So you can easily witness the peak of Mount Everest without any trekking or hiking.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: Marvel at Mt.Everest Real Close from 4 Different Viewing Platforms

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

Price from USD949 p.p

No.2: 7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Journey

December is an ideal time to take an overland trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu, as the Friendship Highway remains open and is rarely closed to heavy snow in winter. Unlike the rainy summer season with heavy cloud, you will have more chances to see a clearer view of the Himalaya ranges along the way during the dry season of winter months.

The epic overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu takes 7days, with a detour to the Everest Base Camp in Tibet. It is a lifetime journey to cross the Himalayas and explore the best of Mount Everest on both sides.

Insider Tips:
In December, the average temperature of Kathmandu can reach up to 21°C in the daytime. While taking the overland trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu, packing wisely for the different temperatures in Tibet and Nepal.

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tour: Traverse from the North Side to the South Side of Mt.Everest for the Best of the Himalayas

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

Price from USD989 p.p

No.3: 5 Days Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Tour

Located 110 kilometers from Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake is the most accessible holy lake during the winter months. During this time when fewer tourists visit the holy lake, you can take photos as you like in different shooting angles.

5 Days Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour: Take a 360° Tour and Visit the Loneliest Temple in the World

Tour Route: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa

Price from USD689 p.p

No.4: 4 to 6 Days Lhasa and Around Tour

The essential Lhasa City tour takes 4 days, covering two full days of sightseeing to explore the highlights of the holy city, like the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the Drepung Monastery.

With great winter discounts, you can stay in better hotels for the same budget as during peak season, so you can spend a few more days exploring Lhasa and its surroundings. This will give you the chance to soak up the winter sunshine and fully experience the unique Tibetan atmosphere in holy Lhasa.

4 Days Lhasa Impression Small Group Tour: Explore the Heart of Tibet and Mingle with the Locals

Tour Route: Lhasa

Price from USD509 p.p

The Best Time to Go Birdwatching in Tibet: December!

December is one of the best months for birdwatching in Tibet. As temperatures drop, many bird species migrate to lower altitudes around Lhasa, making them easier to spot. The crisp air and clear skies during this time also offer excellent visibility, providing optimal conditions for bird enthusiasts.

Some of the top birdwatching locations around Lhasa include Lula Wetland, Linzhou County, and the riverbanks along the Lhasa River. These areas attract a variety of bird species, offering a diverse range of sightings. With fewer tourists in the winter months, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy these serene spots in peace, enhancing your birdwatching experience.

If you're planning a Tibet birdwatching tour, December promises not only stunning wildlife encounters but also the chance to experience Tibet's tranquil winter beauty in its most pristine form.

December is one of the best months for birdwatching in Lhasa.

Tibetan Festivals and Events in December 2025

Also known as the Ganden Ngachen Chenmo Festival, the Tsongkhapa Butter Lamp Festival commemorates the death, or "Parinirvana," of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.

It falls on the 25th of the 10th month in the Tibetan calendar, which usually corresponds to December in the Gregorian calendar.

Tibet Tsongkhapa Butter Lamp Festival in December.

During the festival, Tibetans light large numbers of butter lamps on altars and outside the doors of monasteries and temples throughout the region. As night falls, local window sills are decorated with flickering lanterns, always in odd numbers.

When planning your Tibet tour in December, feel free to ask your travel consultant if you can experience this unique festival during your travel dates.

What is the cost of visiting Tibet in December?

December is the low tourism season in Tibet, which means it’s one of the best times for a budget visit to Tibet. With fewer tourists around, December offers significant discounts on many aspects of your trip, making it an affordable time to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Tibet. Not only do Tibet hotels and flights offer lower prices, but several popular attractions in Tibet are also free to visit in December, giving you more value for your travel budget.

For example, an 8-day Everest Base Camp tour starts at just USD 949 in December, compared to USD 1,169 during the peak season. This means you can save nearly 20% by booking a Tibet Small Group Tour in winter. These savings are depending on your choice of accommodation, transportation, and tour package.

If you’re flexible with your travel dates and looking for a budget-friendly trip, visiting Tibet in December can offer you both significant savings and a crowd-free travel experience.

Enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayas from Gawula Pass during a discounted Everest Base Camp tour in December.

What to Pack for visiting Tibet in December?

For a Tibet winter tour in December, you will need to pack those warm sweaters and thick down or fleece jackets. The colder weather of the plateau means that you will need to have good warm layers to stay warm in the cold, and long underwear can be a major advantage to keep out the intense chill of the Tibetan winter. Warm hats and gloves are necessary, and your socks need to be thick and woolen, to keep out the cold. Boots are the best at this time of year, and thicker pants to keep your legs warm.

Moreover, the sun in December is still as damaging as it is in summer, so you need to make sure that you have good UV-filtering sunglasses, a protective hat, and sunblock for all exposed skin. The biting cold winds of the plateau can also damage your face and lips, so lip balm and moisturizers are required to prevent chafing.

Always keep warm when visiting Tibet in December.

More Travel Tips for Visiting Tibet in December

Although December is the low tourism season in Tibet, you still need to make an early reservation for your trip to Tibet. Generally, it takes 8 to 9 days to get your Tibet Travel Permit issued. Without the permit, you can not board the train/flight to Tibet. So arrange your trip to Tibet in December in advance.

Staying hydrated is important for visiting Tibet in December. The dry air and cold temperatures can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water and consider carrying lip balm and moisturizer to protect your skin from the cold and dryness.

Prepare for shorter days and greater temperature changes between day and night. As the days shorten in December, temperatures drop quickly once the sun sets. Be sure to bring a warm coat to adjust to the temperature changes in the afternoon and evening.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: Marvel at Mt.Everest Real Close from 4 Different Viewing Platforms

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

Price from USD949 p.p

Conclusion

Although December is one of the coldest months in Tibet, the abundant sunshine during this month warms up the days, making it less cold than you might expect for outdoor sightseeing. With most attractions still open, you can enjoy popular Tibet tours at a discounted price during the low season.

End your year with an unforgettable Tibet tour in December, where you can experience its serene beauty and spiritual charm in the peaceful winter months!