Shigatse has a semi-arid, plateau temperate, monsoon climate. Temperatures range from a high of 23C (73.4F) to a low of -25C (-13F) with an annual average temperature of 6.3C (43.34F). From November to April, the temperature is quite low and thus it is not a recommended time to visit. June to July is considered the temperate rainy season. During this period, it rains much at night. If you plan to visit Shigatse specifically to see Mount Everest, April through June is the best time to visit.

Due to its high elevation, the climate of Shigatse is quite hard. It is often very dry, due in part to the long hours of sunshine. The ultraviolet radiation is quite strong and visitors should be prepared with a variety of sunscreens, sunglasses and lip-balms to protect them from the rays. Thus, the sunburn prevention lotions, sun blinkers (which are better if they can prevent the snow-blind) and lipsticks are quite necessary. The temperature difference between the daytime and nighttime is extreme. During the day, especially at noon, the high temperature may cause sunstroke while the low temperature at night may contribute to people catching colds. Accordingly, warm and windproof clothes are highly recommended. Visitors should take the climate and location into consideration prior to traveling to Shigatse and medications for altitude sickness and cold remedies should be included in any travel kit.

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