Shigatse Travel Weather and Climate in May

Shigatse Weather and Climate in May

Average Minimum Temperature (℃): 3
Average Maximum Temperature (℃): 17
Average Precipitation/Rainfall (mm): 15

When you travel to Shigatse in May, May is the last part of spring heads towards summer, Shigatse gets a little warmer, with daily temperatures that average around 12 degrees, and nights that are now normally above freezing. A little more rain begins, though the area still sees more than 27 days of sunshine throughout the month.

What to Wear for a May Shigatse Travel

May is warmer than the rest of the spring in Shigatse, and you can almost forego those thick heavy sweaters and jackets in most of the region. However, you will need to keep one or two if you are traveling west towards Everest and Kailash, as the temperatures can still get quite cold at night. The landscape is mostly dry, and in rougher patches, you will be thankful for having some good hiking boots to wear, as well as strong shoes for the less rocky areas. Thinner layers are better now, and having a few for when it is not as warm is useful. May also sees the sun’s rays getting stronger, and there is a definite need to cover up to prevent sunburn and sunstroke. Use a good sun block while out in the heat of the day, and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight.

Useful Travel Tips for your Shigatse Travel in May

  • There are some medications for altitude sickness available, but you should consult your own doctor before you take them, and it is not recommended.
  • Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is required for all international travelers heading for Tibet. You need to apply for this permit one month prior to your arrival in Tibet as this permit takes some time to get ready and you need to produce the original copy of this permit at the Airport before you board the flight. 
  • For a good visit to Tibet you need to pack carefully, as it can be cold there at any time of the year. Make sure that you have your valid passport and Chinese Entry Visa with you at all times, and that it is kept secure or on your person at all times.
  • No matter which season you go to Tibet, you should bring sunglasses and sun protection equipment, including sun hats, sunscreens etc.

Things to see and do at Shigatse in May

  • The most famous of Natang Monastery are the workshops for printing Buddhist sutras. In 1730, the local government of Tibet started the creation of the printing house in order to save and carry on the Tibet ancient books and scriptures. It took more than 20 years to complete this huge scripture printing house. 
  • Tashilhunpo Monastery: This large ancient monastery in Shigatse was founded in 1447. It sits with a rugged grey mountain at the edge of town. Photographers can get beautiful photographs against a blue and white sky. It was a town for 5,000 monks.
  • Pelkor Chode Monastery means “Auspicious Wheel Joy Monastery” in Tibetan language. It lies at the foot of the Dzong Hill to the west of Gyangze Town. Encircled by mountains on 3 sides, the monastery is composed of 4 major parts: Buddhist halls, tower, Zhacang and surrounding wall. It is an important cultural relic protection unit on the level of the Tibet.
  • Gyantse Dzong or Gyantse Fortress in one of the best preserved dzongs (one kind of fortress) in Tibet. It stands high above the Gyantse City on a huge spur of grey brown rock.
  • Pala Manor
    The well protected manor is located at the Banjorlhunbo Village on the southern bank of the Nagchu River at about 4 km to the south of the Gyantse County.
  • The Summer Palace of Panchen Lamas is situated far below Tashilhunpo Monastery, about 1km south of Tashilhunpo Monastery. You can follow the road till the end and turn right into the compound. After your visit in Shigatse, you may pay a visit there if you have extra time.

 Shigatse Weather and Climate by Month

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