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Contents
- The climate of Shangri-La
- The best time to visit Shangri-La
- The worst time to visit Shangri-La
- Spring weather in Shangri-La
- Summer weather in Shangri-La
- Autumn weather in Shangri-La
- Winter weather in Shangri-La
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Shangri-La
Enveloped in the majestic mountain ranges and sitting at an altitude of over 3000 meters above sea level, Shangri-La predominantly follows a Cwc climate classification according to Köppen system. This translates to a temperate highland tropical climate with relatively dry winters, explaining the wide temperature ranges from winter's -11.2°C (11.8°F) to a balmy 19.3°C (66.7°F) in the summer.
Throughout the year the weather exhibits significant variance. Daylight duration ranges from the shortest 10.4 hours in December to the longest 13.9 hours during June, providing plentiful sunshine hours. However, sunshine hours remain relatively consistent around seven hours per day, indicating overcast conditions, especially during summer months.
Precipitation patterns show a well-defined seasonality. The wettest season extends from June to August, with rainfall spiking at 80mm (3.15") in June, reaching an extreme high of 157mm (6.18") in July, and staying high at 151mm (5.94") in August. Conversely, the driest conditions with minimal rainfall are seen during the winter months, December receiving as little as 5mm (0.2") of rainfall.
The UV index is high from March to September, reaching a maximum of 12, suggesting strong sunlight exposure during these months and a potential risk of sunburn.
Throughout the year the weather exhibits significant variance. Daylight duration ranges from the shortest 10.4 hours in December to the longest 13.9 hours during June, providing plentiful sunshine hours. However, sunshine hours remain relatively consistent around seven hours per day, indicating overcast conditions, especially during summer months.
Precipitation patterns show a well-defined seasonality. The wettest season extends from June to August, with rainfall spiking at 80mm (3.15") in June, reaching an extreme high of 157mm (6.18") in July, and staying high at 151mm (5.94") in August. Conversely, the driest conditions with minimal rainfall are seen during the winter months, December receiving as little as 5mm (0.2") of rainfall.
The UV index is high from March to September, reaching a maximum of 12, suggesting strong sunlight exposure during these months and a potential risk of sunburn.
The best time to visit Shangri-La
Bearing in mind the unique climate characteristics, the most agreeable period to visit Shangri-La is usually from April to June. During these months, the weather becomes more favorable with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 9.2°C (48.6°F) to 19.2°C (66.6°F). Rainfall is modest, ranging from 26mm (1.02") in May to 80mm (3.15") in June, and thus does not significantly disrupt outdoor activities. The daylight hours extend to a pleasant 13.5 hours in June accompanied by seven sunshine hours, providing ample daylight for sightseeing or hiking adventures in the beautiful outdoors.
The worst time to visit Shangri-La
Weather conditions turn harsh from December to February, making these months the least preferred time to visit Shangri-La. The temperatures plunge to a chilling low between -11.2°C (11.8°F) to 6.3°C (43.3°F). Rainfall is at the lowest with minimal precipitation of 5mm (0.2") in December and 8mm (0.31") in January. Indeed, the bitter cold coupled with little to no rainfall characteristic of these winter months results in somewhat severe conditions.
Spring weather in Shangri-La
Spring in Shangri-La, from March to May, sees a gradual rise in temperatures. March starts with a cooler 9.2°C (48.6°F), progressing to 12.5°C (54.5°F) in April and reaching a pleasant 17°C (62.6°F) by May. March sees rainfall of 35mm (1.38"), gradually decreasing to 32mm (1.26") in April and 26mm (1.02") in May. Daylight hours increase during this period, from 12 hours in March to 13.5 hours in May along with consistent seven sunshine hours. The UV index dramatically increases during Spring, starting at 11 in March and reaching 12 by May.
Summer weather in Shangri-La
June ushers in the summer season with average highs hovering around 19.2°C (66.6°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F) and low temperatures rising to 8.4°C (47.1°F) to 9.8°C (49.6°F). Heavy rainfall is a hallmark of Shangri-La's summer, especially between June and August, as the monsoon brings a high level of precipitation reaching 157mm (6.18") in July and 151mm (5.94") in August. Despite this, the city sees a consistent period of daylight from 13.5 hours in June to 13.1 hours in August with an average of five sunshine hours ensuring the days are not completely gloomy.
Autumn weather in Shangri-La
During the fall season from September to November, temperatures begin to drop ranging from a mild 17.4°C (63.3°F) in September to a colder 8.2°C (46.8°F) by November. Rainfall also declines drastically from 81mm (3.19") in September to 13mm (0.51") in November with a marked decrease in the number of rainy days. Days become shorter eventually with daylight hours decreasing from 12.3 hours in September to 10.8 hours in November. Consequently, UV index lowers from 12 in September to 7 by November signaling less intense sunlight.
Winter weather in Shangri-La
Winter months from December to February are marked by freezing temperatures which fall sharply from an average high of 8.2°C (46.8°F) in November to a low of -11.2°C (11.8°F) in January before slightly improving to -10.6°C (12.9°F) in February. Rainfall is minimal with December having the least amount at 5mm (0.2"). Daylight hours hover around 10.4 hours in December and 10.6 hours in January. Despite the cold, there are about seven sunny hours per day creating a perfect setting for winter pictures under the cold winter sun.
Weather in January
In Shangri-La, January is the coldest month with temperatures dropping to as low as -11.2°C (11.8°F). During this time, the city is shrouded in a chilly environment. Here, January experiences a fair amount of sunlight with a UV index of 6, providing relatively comfortable conditions for outdoor activities despite the cold. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Shangri-La weather in February marks a departure from the frigid January temperatures. The thermal conditions remain cold, but there is a visible increase in temperatures. The UV index leaps from January’s level to 8 indicating slightly enhanced sun exposure. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The arrival of March brings noticeable changes in the weather pattern of Shangri-La. The city sheds its cold winter skin and transitions into warmer conditions. Interestingly, the UV index skyrockets to its highest level of the year, reaching 11. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Shangri-La city in April experiences conditions reflecting the onset of spring. The environment gradually warms up and rainfall exhibits a slight decrease. The availability of daylight prolongs up to 12.8 hours per day, as an indication of the oncoming longer days. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In May, the city of Shangri-la sees a further escalation in temperatures as the year progresses towards the hot season. The city becomes livelier with longer day hours and substantial sunlight. However, UV index remains consistent with April's reading, suggesting a balance between heat and comfort. Weather in May »
Weather in June
As the first rumbles of monsoon arrive, Shangri-La’s June weather adapts to a more humid and wet ecosystem. The increased temperatures and moisture foster the growth of flora, transforming the surroundings into a green paradise. Weather in June »
Weather in July
The month of July in Shangri-La is characterized by the full bloom of the monsoon season. Escalated rainfall becomes a common occurrence and enthusiasts of the rainy season thrive. The temperatures plateau during July providing a relatively stable and high temperature throughout the month, made comfortable by frequent showers. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Shangri-La in August witnesses a deluge, with rainfall reaching its peak at a hefty 151mm (5.94"), an annual high. Despite the city being in the throes of the monsoon season, daylight and sunshine persist, affording a beautiful contrast of sunshine and showers. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September signifies a transition in Shangri-La’s weather as rainfall quantities drop to 81mm (3.19"). The marked decrease intimates the gradual retreat of the monsoon season. However, verdant landscapes, cultivated by the prior rainfall, make for a captivating view. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the beginning of a drying period for Shangri-La. The rainfall diminishes noticeably, paving the way for a clearer sky and more outdoor possibilities. The blend of warmth from the receding monsoon season and coolness from the approaching winters creates a unique harmony. Weather in October »
Weather in November
The last month of the autumn, November, is also a fresh month in Shangri-La, China, with temperature in the range of an average high of 11°C (51.8°F) and an average low of -5.8°C (21.6°F). With the arrival of November, Shangri-La experiences a modest decline in average high-temperatures, transitioning from a refreshing 14.7°C (58.5°F) in October to a cool 11°C (51.8°F). Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Shangri-La heralds the onset of deep winter, with plummeting temperatures reaching lows of -10.6°C (12.9°F). The chill is accompanied by a sharp curtailment in rainfall, reducing to a mere 5mm (0.2"). Nevertheless, despite the winter gusts and minimal rains, daylight continues to be accessible for approximately 10.4 hours. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 16, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month?
The lowest temperatures are recorded in January, with averages reaching a high of 6.3°C (43.3°F) and a low of -11.2°C (11.8°F).
How many days does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 142.4 rainfall days, and 647mm (25.47") of precipitation is accumulated.
What is the month with the most sunshine?
The months with the most sunshine are January through April, November and December, with an average of 7h of sunshine.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are April through September, with an average maximum UV index of 12.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 13h and 54min of daylight.
What are the months with the least sunshine?
The months with the least sunshine are June through October, with an average of 5h of sunshine.
What part of the year is the hottest?
With average high and low temperatures of 19.3°C (66.7°F) and 9.8°C (49.6°F) respectively, July is Shangri-La's warmest month.
What is the wettest month?
July is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 23.2 days and accumulates 157mm (6.18") of precipitation.
What is the driest month?
December is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 2.1 days and accumulates 5mm (0.2") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year in Shangri-La, with an average of 10h and 24min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
Shangri-La does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). CST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
When is the lowest UV index?
With an average maximum UV index of 5, December is the month with the lowest UV index.
Average temperature
Shangri-La, China
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (19.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (6.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (9.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-11.2°C).
Average rainfall
Shangri-La, China
- Average rainfall in January:
7.8mm - Average rainfall in February:
14.4mm - Average rainfall in March:
34.8mm - Average rainfall in April:
32.4mm - Average rainfall in May:
25.9mm - Average rainfall in June:
80.2mm
- Average rainfall in July:
157.4mm - Average rainfall in August:
151.3mm - Average rainfall in September:
80.6mm - Average rainfall in October:
44.5mm - Average rainfall in November:
12.7mm - Average rainfall in December:
4.9mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (157.4mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is December (4.9mm).
Average rainfall days
Shangri-La, China
- Average rainfall days in January:
4.2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
6.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
23.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
23.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
19.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (23.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is December (2.1 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Shangri-La, China
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 24min).
The months with the most sunshine are January, February, March, April, November and December (Average sunshine: 7h).
The months with the least sunshine are June, July, August, September and October (Average sunshine: 5h).
Average UV index
Shangri-La, China
The months with the highest UV index are April, May, June, July, August and September (UV index 12).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 5).
