Things to Do in Lhasa in June

June weather, activities, events & insider tips

June Weather in Lhasa

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Rainfall

% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

Dramatic monsoon landscapes with lush green valleys and powerful waterfalls at peak flow - the Tibetan plateau transforms completely
Fewer international tourists due to rainy season, meaning authentic interactions with locals and uncrowned temples during morning hours
Wildflower season peaks with alpine meadows in full bloom - over 2,000 species including blue poppies and primulas carpet the valleys
Clear morning skies offer stunning Himalayan views before afternoon clouds roll in - perfect for sunrise photography at Potala Palace

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms from 2pm-6pm occur 18 days of the month, limiting outdoor sightseeing and monastery visits during peak daylight hours
Unpaved roads to remote monasteries become muddy and sometimes impassable - expect delays and cancellations for day trips to Ganden or Samye
Extreme UV exposure at 3,650m (11,975 ft) altitude requires constant sun protection - UV index of 11 can cause burns in 10 minutes

Best Activities in June

Potala Palace Dawn Photography Tours

June mornings offer crystal-clear skies before afternoon storms arrive. The golden hour light (6:30-8:30am) illuminates the palace against dramatic cloud formations. Rain-washed air provides exceptional visibility for photography. Book advance tickets through official channels as daily visitor limits remain strict.

Booking Tip: Reserve palace entry permits 7-14 days ahead through authorized agencies. Photography tours typically cost ¥300-500 ($42-70). Morning slots (7:30-11:30am) are essential in June before afternoon weather changes.

Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Circuit Walking

Early morning pilgrimage walks (5:30-8:30am) avoid afternoon storms and offer authentic cultural immersion. June's cooler temperatures make the 1.2km (0.7 mile) circuit comfortable. Witness butter lamp lighting ceremonies in perfect weather conditions before tourist crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but guided cultural tours cost ¥200-400 ($28-56). Start by 7am to complete circuit before afternoon rains. Look for certified Tibetan cultural guides through licensed agencies.

Sera Monastery Monk Debates

Famous afternoon debates (3:00-5:00pm) continue rain or shine under covered courtyards. June's monsoon season actually enhances the acoustics in stone buildings. The 15km (9.3 mile) journey from central Lhasa takes 30-45 minutes, allowing flexible timing around weather.

Booking Tip: Entry costs ¥50 ($7) per person. Guided monastery tours range ¥250-450 ($35-63). Book half-day tours that include indoor backup options during heavy rain periods.

Norbulingka Summer Palace Gardens

June showcases the palace gardens in full bloom - exactly when Dalai Lamas historically resided here during summer months. Rain enhances the fragrance of traditional medicinal plants and keeps temperatures comfortable for the 36-hectare (89-acre) grounds exploration.

Booking Tip: Entry ¥60 ($8.50), guided botanical tours ¥180-320 ($25-45). Visit 10am-2pm between morning clarity and afternoon storms. Indoor palace exhibitions provide weather backup options.

Yamdrok Lake Day Trips

Sacred turquoise lake reaches peak beauty in June with snow-capped peaks reflected in crystal waters. The 110km (68 mile) journey crosses 4,794m (15,728 ft) Kamba La Pass. Morning departures (7am) ensure clear mountain views before afternoon cloud buildup obscures vistas.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost ¥600-900 ($84-126) including transport and permits. Book with agencies offering flexible return timing due to afternoon weather. Ensure vehicles have proper plateau driving certification.

Traditional Tibetan Medicine and Healing Workshops

June coincides with peak medicinal herb harvesting season. Authentic workshops teach identification of high-altitude plants used in traditional healing. Indoor activities provide perfect rainy afternoon options while connecting with 2,500-year-old medical traditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day workshops range ¥400-650 ($56-91). Book through certified Traditional Tibetan Medicine centers. Sessions run 2-4 hours and include herb garden visits when weather permits.

June Events & Festivals

Mid June (exact date follows lunar calendar)

Ganden Thangka Festival

Massive sacred scroll painting unveiled at Ganden Monastery during full moon. Pilgrims trek 45km (28 miles) from Lhasa for this rare display occurring once yearly. The ceremony begins at dawn with butter lamp offerings and chanting.

Throughout June

Medicinal Herb Gathering Ceremonies

Local communities conduct traditional blessing rituals before harvesting highland medicinal plants. Participate in morning ceremonies that combine spiritual practice with botanical education. Authentic cultural exchange rarely witnessed by tourists.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots rated for 2,000m+ (6,562 ft+) elevation - afternoon storms create muddy temple courtyards and slippery stone steps

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index 11 at 3,650m (11,975 ft) causes severe burns in 10 minutes even on cloudy days

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon thunderstorms last 2-4 hours but morning temple visits require mobility

Layered clothing system: base layer, fleece, rain shell - temperature swings 14°C (25°F) between dawn and afternoon

Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) - consult physician before travel, symptoms common first 48-72 hours above 3,500m (11,482 ft)

Portable oxygen canister - available in Lhasa but bring from sea level for immediate use upon arrival

Sunglasses with UV400 protection and side shields - snow glare and intense high-altitude sun cause painful eye strain

Electrolyte replacement packets - dehydration accelerates at altitude, especially during physical exertion in thin air

Waterproof day pack with rain cover - protect electronics, documents, and warm layers during sudden weather changes

Cash in small bills (¥10, ¥20 notes) - many monasteries and local vendors don't accept cards or large denominations

Insider Knowledge

Arrive in Lhasa 2-3 days before planned activities to acclimatize properly - most tourists underestimate altitude adjustment time and waste their first days feeling sick

Book morning activities between 7:30-11:30am when skies are clearest and before afternoon storms - locals structure their entire daily schedule around this weather pattern

Carry small denomination cash (¥5-20 notes) for monastery donations and butter lamp purchases - monks appreciate proper etiquette and small bills show cultural awareness

Download offline maps and translation apps before arriving - internet connectivity drops significantly during storms and many areas have limited cell coverage