Weather in Taxkorgan

Stay informed about weather conditions in the city of Taxkorgan before starting your journey. Here you will find up-to-date forecasts and useful charts to help you plan your day correctly.

Taxkorgan is distinguished by a harsh high-altitude climate, characterized by very low temperatures year-round. Located in a mountainous area, this city welcomes travellers with cold and thin air. There is practically no familiar summer heat here: even in the warmest months, the weather remains cool, reminiscent rather of late autumn in temperate latitudes.

Seasonal fluctuations are expressed primarily in the degree of cold. Winters here are long and severe, with average temperatures around -20°C, and at night the thermometer can drop to -27°C. Summer in the region (China) is very short and restrained: in July and August, the air warms up on average only to +7...+8°C, and maximum daytime temperatures rarely exceed +13°C. Therefore, warm clothing and thermal underwear are mandatory luggage attributes regardless of the time of travel.

Precipitation in the region is extremely low, making the local climate arid. Remarkably, even in the summer months, when the number of "wet" days reaches a maximum (up to 16 days per month), the total volume of precipitation remains negligible — only about 2 mm. This means that tourists should expect piercing wind and light drizzle or snow rather than pouring rains.

Climatic conditions in this region are characterized by severity typical of high-altitude terrain. Taxkorgan is known for its long and frosty winters. The coldest months are January and December, when the average temperature drops to -20.5°C, and night readings can reach extreme marks of -27.5°C. Even during the day in winter, the air rarely warms above -13°C, so travellers should prepare for serious cold.

The summer season here is completely unlike the usual hot time of year. July and August are considered the warmest months, however, the average temperature during this period is only about +7.5°C. During the day, the air can warm up to +13°C, which gives a feeling of coolness, but certainly not summer heat, and nights remain cold with temperatures just above zero. Summer can be described as fresh and invigorating.

Transitional seasons pass quickly, while the cold retreats reluctantly: even in May, the average temperature remains negative (-2.0°C), and frosts return as early as October. Throughout the year, noticeable fluctuations between day and night temperatures are observed; the difference can be more than 10 degrees. When setting off for China and planning a visit to this county, be sure to take warm clothes for any season.

The climate in the city of Taxkorgan is characterized by an extremely small amount of precipitation, which is typical for high-altitude arid areas. The total volume of moisture here is minimal throughout the year and rarely exceeds 2 mm per month. Due to low temperatures prevailing for most of the year, a significant proportion of precipitation falls as snow, especially from October to May.

An interesting feature of the local climate is the summer period (from June to August). Although the volume of precipitation remains insignificant, the frequency of inclement days increases sharply, reaching an average of 16 days per month. At this time, light rains or drizzle are possible, and due to the cool weather, even in summer, precipitation can mix with wet snow.

The driest time of the year is considered winter, especially December and January, when the precipitation level tends to zero. In these months, the probability of snowfall is minimal: only 1 to 3 days with precipitation are recorded. Travellers should consider that, despite the dryness of the air, severe frosts require serious preparation for the trip.

A trip to Taxkorgan requires careful wardrobe preparation, as this high-altitude region is distinguished by a very harsh climate. Even if you are planning a trip in the "warmest" months — July or August — do not count on heat: the average temperature in summer here stays around +7…+8°C. The basis of your luggage should be warm, windproof clothing, and the principle of layering will be the main rule of comfort. High-quality thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a reliable wind-resistant jacket are mandatory at any time of the year.

In winter, when the thermometer can drop below -27°C, you will need serious gear: a thick down jacket, insulated trousers, a woollen hat, a scarf, and gloves. In summer, the weather is milder, but nights remain cold, so a light jacket or sweater will be indispensable. Precipitation in the region is extremely low, so an umbrella will likely remain unused, however, a water-repellent windbreaker will come in handy for protection against sudden bad weather in the summer period.

Pay special attention to footwear: it must be warm, comfortable, and have a non-slip sole to feel comfortable on mountain walks. In addition, do not forget about accessories for protection from the high-altitude sun. Active ultraviolet radiation is dangerous even in frosty weather, so be sure to take sunglasses and cream with high SPF with you. Also, due to the dry air in the mountains, tourists are recommended to carry moisturising cream and lip balm.