Mount Kailash Weather: Seasonal Guide for Travelers

Don't let unexpected snow, rain, or cold ruin your adventure! I'm breaking down what to expect each season. The short answer? The best time for your journey is from May to early October. Now, let's dive into the details!

Spring (April to May): Quiet Beauty with a Chill

Spring in Mount Kailash is like nature waking up slowly. The snow starts melting, but the air still carries a sharp, crisp cold—think daytime highs around 5–10°C and nighttime drops to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Winds can be strong, especially at higher passes like Drolma La, and some trails might still have patchy snow. But here's the upside: you'll share the mountain with far fewer people than in summer. Who's this season for? Photographers who love quiet landscapes, or travelers who hate crowds. Just be ready to bundle up!

Summer (June to August): The Peak Season

Summer is when Mount Kailash feels most accessible. Days are mild (15–20°C), the grasslands turn bright green, and wildflowers dot the hillsides. Oxygen levels are higher too—great news if you're worried about altitude sickness! But it's also the rainy season. Afternoon showers are common, and sometimes they can turn into longer downpours. Trails get muddy, and clouds might hide the mountain's peak for hours. Oh, and yes—this is when most travelers come, so teahouses and campsites can get busy. Still, summer is perfect for first-time trekkers or families.

Autumn (September to Early October): Clear Skies, Golden Views

If you ask locals and seasoned travelers, autumn is the best time for Mount Kailash. The rain stops, the sky turns a deep, unclouded blue, and the grasslands shift to warm golden hues—perfect for photos of the mountain's full, majestic shape. Days are still pleasant (10–18°C), but nights get cold fast (-3 to -8°C), so you'll need that warm jacket again. The air is dry, which means less chance of altitude sickness (but still, take it slow!). This season is a dream for anyone chasing the "perfect" Mount Kailash experience—no crowds, no rain, just you and the mountain.

Winter (November to March): For the Experienced Only

Winter in Mount Kailash is not for the faint of heart. Temperatures plummet to -15°C on average, and can drop to -30°C on freezing nights. Heavy snow blocks most trails, including parts of the classic circumambulation route, and roads to the area are often closed. Most teahouses and guesthouses shut down, which can be quite inconvenient. But let's be clear: ordinary travelers should skip winter here. This is only for experienced high-altitude adventurers with cold-weather gear. If you're set on a winter spiritual journey, our agency can connect you with specialized teams—but we always prioritize safety first, so we'll only recommend this if you have the right experience.

Conclusion

Our Tibet travel agency has been helping travelers plan safe, meaningful trips here for years—we handle all the tricky parts including essential permits. Safe travels, and may your Mount Kailash journey be everything you hope for!