Tibet Weather in December: What to Do and Travel Tips

December is a great time to visit Tibet that many people may overlook. Some may think it's cold in Tibet, but actually, the ample sunlight (especially in Lhasa) in December keeps daytime temperatures comfortable for sightseeing. You may feel warmer than the thermometer suggests. 

Nights drop well below freezing, but most visitors stay in hotels after dark, so the cold rarely spoils the trip. 

Another good reason is that December is a low season. Fewer tourists and lower prices mean a quieter, more relaxed visit.

Weather Averages in December:

• Temperature range: −13 to 15°C (9–59°F)
• Rainfall: 1 mm/ 0.1"
• Clear days: 28
• UV index: Relatively moderate

Climate Overview of Major Destinations

Winter in Tibet is cold, but it doesn't snow everywhere. Main urban areas like Lhasa, Shigatse and Nyingchi usually stay dry with clear blue skies, while higher-altitude regions see more snowfall. Most places remain accessible in December.

Ngari is the main exception, as the area will be closed for extremely cold. Roads around Lake Namtso normally stays open in December but may be shut down by snow from January to February when temperatures drop further.

Everest Base Camp is also accessible in December. Although it becomes very cold, the weather is remarkably clear. Daytime temperatures rise just above freezing, and the sunlight takes the edge off the chill. What makes December special is visibility. You often get long stretches of blue sky and a perfect, unobstructed view of Mount Everest. 

Best Things to Do in December

Explore the Blue Ice at Laigu Glacier

From December to February, Laigu Glacier in Nyingchi reveals one of Tibet's most magical winter scenes — shimmering blue ice caves. The ice here is so clear and pure that it glows like crystal and sapphire under the light. 

With a local guide, you can get close to the glacier and even step inside the caves when conditions allow. It feels unreal, like you've been dropped into Antarctica for a moment.

Laigu Glacier

Soak in hot springs at Yangbajain

Yangbajain sits in Damxung County, about 1.5–2 hours' drive from Lhasa. The springs here are famous among locals, and they are the worlds highest geothermal springs. 

Yangbajain

In winter, you can warm up in outdoor thermal pools, while breathing the cold air and watching the sun hits the snow peaks. The most famous pool is the "Blue Heaven" hot spring, where pale blue-green water sends up gentle mist against the distant mountains. 

You can also combine the visit with Lake Namtso. By December, parts of the lake will freeze. You'll see white ice blends with deep blue water on the lake, it's a striking winter scene.

Watch Rare Winter Birds

December is a surprisingly great month for bird-watching in Tibet because winter migrants arrive, such as black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese and ruddy shelducks.

Head to the Lhasa River in the early morning or late afternoon. You'll likely see ducks diving for food and geese resting by the shore. Another easy spot is Zongjiao Lukang Park, right behind the Potala Palace. Stroll slowly, watch the grand Potala Palace reflecting on the water, and keep an eye out for seagulls and Tibetan partridges gliding around. 

Zongjiao Lukang Park

Crowds and Costs

December is part of Tibet's low travel season. The cold and lack of public holidays keep the Chinese tourists away, so the city is free of large crowds of tourists. The people around you may be mainly Tibetan, so you'll have the opportunity for a more authentic Tibetan experience. 

Another benefit of low season is that the prices for hotels and flight tickets are relatively low. Train tickets are also easier to get. Let us help you arrange these using our experience.

What to Wear

December in Tibet is cold, so dressing warmly is essential. Layering is key: start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a sweater or fleece for insulation, and top it with a thick down jacket or windproof coat. For lower-body warmth, wear thermal or fleece-lined pants. Sturdy boots, preferably insulated or waterproof, are a must for walking on cold or snowy ground.

Accessories make a big difference: bring a warm hat, gloves, a scarf, and thick socks to protect against wind and low temperatures. Sunglasses and a sun hat are useful for daytime sun, even in winter. In addition, sunglasses can also prevent snow blindness.

Most hotels and restaurants have heating, so layers make it easy to adjust indoors. However, avoid older-style Tibetan boutique hotels in winter—they often lack central heating and air conditioning, the rooms will be very cold.

Altitude Sickness Risk

In December, the cold weather and thin air make high-altitude travel more challenging. It's best to avoid remote or extremely high places this month, especially if you're new to Tibet. If you are visiting in December and afraid of altitude sickness, stay in Lhasa is a rather safe option.

The cold can put extra strain on your heart and lungs, and altitude sickness is more common. Seek health advice before going, and acclimate appropriately before exertion or going higher than Lhasa.

Tibet Weather by Month

For a summary, see The Best Times to Visit Tibet.