Weather in Chamdo

Planning a trip to Chamdo? Get the latest weather updates, including current conditions and a detailed forecast, to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

The climate of Chamdo can be described as harsh and high-altitude, with low temperatures prevailing throughout the year. Even at the height of summer, it never gets hot here: the average temperature in July and August hovers around +11...+12°C, and maximum values rarely exceed +17°C. This destination is ideal for travellers seeking an escape from the heat and who are ready for the brisk mountain coolness.

Winters in the region are long and frosty, with temperatures often dropping to -16°C and below, although precipitation is minimal during this period. With the arrival of warmth, the character of the weather changes: a peculiar "rainy season" is observed from May to September. Although the total volume of rainfall remains insignificant, the number of overcast and damp days rises sharply. When planning a trip to Chamdo, be sure to bring warm clothing regardless of the season.

The climate in Chamdo is distinguished by its harsh high-altitude character, where winter occupies a significant part of the year. January is traditionally the coldest month, when the average temperature drops to -10.9°C, and night frosts can reach -18°C and lower. In the period from November to March, travellers should be prepared for severe cold: even during daylight hours, the air often does not warm up above freezing, which, combined with the dry winter air, requires thorough preparation and warm equipment.

The summer season here is surprisingly cool and fresh, making the region an excellent place to rest from the exhausting heat typical of other parts of China. The warmest months are July and August, yet even at this time, the average daytime temperature rarely exceeds +16°C, and average daily readings hover around +11.5°C... +11.7°C. Summer in Chamdo can be described as mild but quite damp due to frequent precipitation, so a waterproof windbreaker will not go amiss.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is significant diurnal temperature fluctuations. The difference between the daily maximum and nightly minimum is palpable in any season. For example, in spring and autumn, when it may be relatively comfortable during the day (around +6°C... +9°C), nights often bring frosts. Tourists are advised to dress according to the layering principle, to be able to remove or put on layers of clothing depending on the time of day and solar activity.

The climate in Chamdo is characterised by a clear division into dry and wet seasons, although the concept of "humidity" here is quite specific. Due to the high-altitude location, the total amount of precipitation in the region remains extremely low throughout the year, even when the sky is often overcast.

The winter period, from November to March, is the driest time of the year. Air temperatures during these months stay consistently below freezing, so rare precipitation falls exclusively as snow. In January and December, the probability of snowfall is minimal — on average, only 2–3 days with precipitation are recorded, and the volume is practically zero.

In summer, the situation with precipitation frequency changes radically. From June to August, the number of "wet" days increases sharply, peaking in July (about 25 days). Despite such high frequency, rains in Chamdo are generally very weak and short-lived. Most often it is a light drizzle, as the average monthly precipitation level even at the height of summer does not exceed 6 mm.

When packing for Chamdo, it is important to remember that the climate here is quite harsh, and warm items will be needed practically any time of the year. In winter, when night temperatures can drop to -18°C, the foundation of your wardrobe should be high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters, and a reliable windproof down jacket. Do not forget a warm hat, scarf, and gloves, as the cold air can be piercing despite the small amount of precipitation during this period.

Summer in this region is cool, with daytime temperatures rarely exceeding +16°C, so even in July and August, do not count on heat. The best approach to clothing is the principle of layering: a combination of a t-shirt, fleece jacket, and light jacket will allow you to quickly adapt to weather changes. Since the number of rainy days increases significantly in summer (up to 24–25 days per month), be sure to bring a waterproof windbreaker, a raincoat, and a sturdy umbrella.

For comfortable walks, choose comfortable, waterproof flat-soled shoes suitable for long walks. It is also worth packing sunglasses and high SPF cream in your suitcase: even in cloudy or cool weather, the sun here can be active. Moisturising cream and lip balm will help protect your skin from chapping, especially in the cold and windy months.