Shangri-La Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Shangri-La.

Climate overview of Shangri-La

Shangri-La, Yunnan, China, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 18°C (64°F) in June, while winters cool to 3°C (37°F) in January.

With around 1286 mm (51 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Shangri-La has a notably wet climate. However, this rain/snowfall is not evenly distributed, the city has a distinct dry season from November to December, with pleasant summers and cold winters. The wettest month is July.

Shangri-La Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Shangri-La - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Shangri-La

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from pleasant to chilly in Shangri-La. Average daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 18°C (64°F) in June. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 3°C (37°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 10°C (50°F) in June to -10°C (14°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Shangri-La

Shangri-La has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1286 mm (51 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Shangri-La can be quite wet during July, receiving approximately 249 mm (9.8 in) of precipitation over 24 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (December), you will experience much drier conditions, with 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation spread across 4 snowy/rainy days. For more details, please visit our Shangri-La Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Humidity in Shangri-La by Month

Best Time to Visit Shangri-La

Compared with the rest of the year, the most comfortable conditions in Shangri-La are usually found in June and October. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, July and August.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: June and October
  • Warmest weather: June, July, August and September
  • Fewest rainy days: January and December
  • Wettest months: June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from November to December, with pleasant summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -10°C (14°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Shangri-La

What is the best time to visit Shangri-La?

June and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Shangri-La. In contrast, January, February, March, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Shangri-La has a distinct dry season from November to December, with pleasant summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Shangri-La?

Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 18°C (64°F) in June. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 10°C (50°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Shangri-La get?

Annual rainfall is around 1286 mm (51 in). July is the wettest month with 249 mm (9.8 in), while December is the driest with 19 mm (0.7 in).

Shangri-La 3-Day Forecast

Shangri-La on the map

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