February is still winter in Tibet. It is windy and dry, but it is not as cold as Beijing or Harbin, or many European cities in winter. The dry air makes the cold easier to bear than the numbers suggest.
Climate in Lhasa — February
Average high (day)
about 10°C (50°F)
Average low (night)
about −5°C (23°F)
Sunshine
about 8 hours a day
Rain or snow
almost none
UV
high at midday
Roads from Lhasa to Gyantse, Shigatse, Tsedang and Nyingchi are usually open. Roads to Namtso and Everest Base Camp can be blocked by snow in February.
Special Highlight: Tibetan New Year (Losar)
Losar, the Tibetan New Year, often falls in February. It lasts about two weeks, with prayers, family visits, butter lamps and pilgrims at the Jokhang Temple. The date changes every year. Note that Tibet is often closed to foreign visitors around Losar.
What to Visit in February
Lhasa (3,650m)
The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung, Sera and the Norbulingka are open. The pilgrim atmosphere in winter is remarkable.
Shigatse (3,840m)
Tashilhunpo Monastery and Pala Manor. A little colder than Lhasa: days of about 8°C, nights about −10°C.
What to Wear in February
Dress in layers for the big change between day and night: a warm coat, trousers and thermal underwear. The sun is very strong, so wear a hat and sunglasses. Many hotels and restaurants have little heating, so keep your coat with you. Bring heavier winter gear and gloves for higher places.
February closure: Tibet is usually closed to foreign visitors for some weeks every year, often from around Losar in February to the end of March. Permits are not issued during this time, and travel usually starts again in April. If you plan to travel in February, ask us early about the dates for your year.
