With warm weather and higher oxygen content, summer is a perfect time to visit Tibet. During this time, the landscape is also at its most vibrant, and you can travel to almost everywhere on the plateau, including the remote Mount Kailash.

Although summer is the rainy season, the rains rarely influence your daytime activities, as they often come at nights. It is also one of the busiest seasons for Tibet tours, so be prepared for higher travel costs.

To make the most of your summer trip, read this ultimate guide on visiting Tibet in summer. Get local knowledge and expert tips on the Tibet weather in summer, recommended itineraries, what to wear, and more!

When is Summer in Tibet? How is the Weather?

The summer season in Tibet runs from June to August, and is the hottest and most vibrant time of the year. However, temperatures in summer in Tibet are actually not very high, rarely getting above 30℃, thanks to the high altitude environment of the plateau.

Daytime temperatures usually range from 15℃ to 26℃, depending on different regions. Nights remain cool, dropping to 5℃ to 10℃, and in higher-altitude regions like Everest Base Camp, temperatures can fall below below freezing.

Summer is also the monsoon season on the Tibetan Plateau. Especially in July and August, the rainfall can reach the maximum of the year. But rain showers are always brief and occur in the late afternoon or evening.

Despite the rain, most days are still bright and clear, perfect for travel and sightseeing. On sunny days, the skies are blue and the landscapes are vivid, making it ideal for photography. Only in some mountain areas, there may be occasional cloud cover after rainfall.

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Is Tibet Crowded or Expensive in Summer?

Summer is one of the peak travel seasons in Tibet, particularly in July and August, when the school holidays begin. Many tourists from mainland China travel to Tibet to escape from the heat. Therefore, there may be large crowds at some popular attractions like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Everest Base Camp.

As a result, the travel cost for a Tibet tour in summer can also be much higher. Hotels and flights are more expensive, and can be booked out quickly owing to the increasing tourists. To secure a better price or your preferred seats or rooms, it is suggested to make bookings in advance.

What are the Benefits of Visiting Tibet in Summer?

One of the main benefits of visiting Tibet in summer is the mild weather. While other lower-altitude areas are extremely hot and humid, the plateau offers cool temperatures, allowing you to explore the outdoors comfortably. You can trek, cycle, or overland as you like.

Also, many remote and higher-altitude attractions in Tibet, which are often closed in winter, become accessible during the summer months. These include the famous Mount Kailash in Ngari and Namtso Lake near Lhasa.

Besides, the natural scenery turns to vivid in summer Tibet. There are vibrant green grasslands dotted with colorful wildflowers, crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped mountains, pure blue skies and white clouds, etc. It is the perfect time for photography.

If you are interested in Tibetan culture, you should also not miss the summertime. Many important Tibetan festivals fall in these months, including the Shoton Festival, Tashilhunpo Thangka Festival, and Nagqu Horse Racing Festival, etc.

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What are the Recommended Tour Itineraries for Summer Travel in Tibet?

During the summer months from June to August, you can visit almost everywhere across Tibet. To help you make the best of your travel experience, here are the most recommended itineraries as follows:

1. 8-Day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour

Summer is a great time to visit Mount Everest, as the bright sunshine offers the best views of the summit of this huge peak. Although the higher rainfall in July and August sometimes blocks the view of Mount Everest, you can choose to visit Everest Base Camp on clear days after checking the weather in advance.

Traveling overland from Lhasa also allows for a gradual ascent to EBC. Along the way, you will also visit other iconic attractions, like Yamdrok Lake, Gawula Pass, Tashilhunpo Monastery and more.

2. 10 Days Lhasa to EBC and Namtso Lake Tour

Located about 100 km to the north of Lhasa, Lake Namtso comes into its own in summer. The lake water is at its bluest, and the surrounding landscape is lush and verdant, being perfect for photography.

It is a good idea to travel northward to visit Namtso Lake after you explore Everest Base Camp and return to Lhasa. You can explore the newly opened Elephant Gate and trek to Tashi Dor Island for different views of the lake.

3. 15 Days Lhasa to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar Tour

Mount Kailash is a good destination for visiting in summer. While other parts of Tibet are already experiencing the first glimmers of the monsoon, Mount Kailash barely even has a mist over the mountain, and the weather here is ideal for trekking.

Warmer temperatures prevail, reaching up to around 19 degrees on warm days. And the clear skies make views of the mountain’s summit even more spectacular. Without extreme weather and severe cold, the summer season is one of the best times of the year to attempt Mount Kailash Kora trekking.

4. 5 Days Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Tour

For those with limited time, a good option for your Tibet summer vacation is the Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake tour. After an excellent cultural exploration of Lhasa city, you can take a short day trip to Yamdrok Lake for the breathtaking natural views.

Lying around 110 kilometers to the southwest of Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake is one of the three sacred lakes in Tibet. Here, you can appreciate the beautiful jade-like lake water and towering snow-capped peaks surrounding the lake. You can also visit the Rutok temple in the center of the lake.

What to Wear When Traveling to Tibet in Summer

Although Tibet in summer is warm, there is a big temperature change from day to night. So you need to prepare a warm coat or fleece jacket for cooler nights or higher-altitude areas. During the daytime, T-shirts and light long sleeves are basically enough.

Also, to protect yourself from the strong sunshine on the plateau, you need to wear sunglasses, hat, and high-SPF sunscreen, even on cloudy days. A waterproof jacket is recommended in case there are sudden rainfall.

Comfortable shoes like lightweight trekking shoes, and sturdy walking shoes are suggested, especially if you plan to do trekking or long walks in the city. Besides, don’t forget lip balm, moisturizer, and other extras for daily use.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Summer Trip in Tibet

1. Plan your trip as early as possible when visiting Tibet in summer. Contact us at least 20 days in advance for the Tibet Travel Permit application. Book your flight or train ticket at least one month in advance.

2. Spend at least two days in Lhasa to adjust the high altitude before you travel to higher places, like Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash. Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and avoid over-exercise to avoid altitude sickness.

3. Have a good mindset and be flexible with your itinerary. The summer rain may sometimes lead to road delays, or unclear views of mountains or lakes. Tell your guide to adjust plans if needed, or learn to appreciate a different view of the attractions.

4. Respect local customs and religious traditions when in Tibet. Always walk clockwise around Jokhang Temple and other monasteries, and ask for permission before you take photos of local Tibetans.

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Conclusion

Tibet in summer is full of wonders: warm weather, vivid landscape, and access to almost every attraction of the plateau. While it is also the peak travel season, with higher costs and more crowded groups. Thus, planning your trip in advance is necessary.

As the leading Tibet tour operator with years of experience, we can help you realize your dream trip to the plateau. Even in the summer peak months, we can handle well all the details for your smooth and hassle-free journey. Just contact us or book your tour with us today!