Daocheng Weather and Climate in January
Temperature in January
The average temperature in Daocheng in January is around -8°C. Daocheng has a plateau monsoon climate, with most of the year characterized by sunny and clear weather. Rain and snow tend to fall mainly at night. In the plateau region, the coldest month averages below -5°C, while the hottest month sees temperatures ranging from 10°C to 12.1°C. January is the coldest month of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as -27°C.
What to Wear in Daocheng in January
During the day, the average temperature is about 8°C, so it’s advisable to wear warm clothing such as suits, light jackets, windbreakers, casual wear, or thin sweaters. At night, the temperature drops to around -8°C, necessitating heavier attire like cotton jackets, winter coats, leather jackets, thick woolen overcoats, wool hats, gloves, down jackets, and fur coats. January is part of the dry season in Daocheng, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
January in Daocheng may not have the dazzling colors of autumn or the lush greenery of summer, but beneath the blue sky and on the snow-covered ground, it exudes a unique winter charm. Does this align with your impression of Daocheng?
Coldest Month of the Year
January is the coldest time of the year in Daocheng Yading. During the night and early morning, temperatures can drop below -10°C, while in the Yading mountains, it may reach below -15°C. The wind can make it feel even colder.
Sunny Weather
Similar to December, January typically features a high chance of sunny weather, with clear blue skies being the norm. This makes for stunning views of the landscape, perfect for photography.
Holiday Considerations
However, it’s important to note that from the second half of January, both the Tibetan New Year and the Chinese New Year occur. Many local service providers may reduce their operations during this time, leading to hotel and restaurant closures due to the holiday and a decrease in visitors.
Travel Arrangements
If you plan to travel in January, be sure to make arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
The Sacred Beauty of Daocheng
In Ganzi, there exists a sacred place that captivates at first glance—snowy mountains, blue skies, and holy lakes. It is often described as the last Shangri-La on Earth, a destination to be visited at least once in a lifetime. Three towering sacred mountains await your presence!
Daocheng, aside from its magical skies, features enchanting scenery. After a fresh snowfall, the Norong Cattle Farm might still be covered in white, leading one to question whether this is still the beauty of the scenic area.
After the winter’s thick accumulation, the lush greenery of the coming year awaits. Daocheng in winter seems to want to prove that it can showcase its charm in every season, always offering blue skies, white clouds, and vibrant colors.
Scenic Highlights
The shimmering Five-Color Lake lies quietly nestled between the snowy peaks of Yangmaiyong and Xianuoduoji, often surrounded by a thin layer of ice. Here, you can enjoy a close encounter with this colorful holy lake.
In winter, Daocheng takes on an ethereal beauty. The distant clouds gently touch the snow-capped mountains, inviting you to leave behind cherished memories amidst such captivating scenery—making your trip to Daocheng truly worthwhile.
The surface of Milk Lake may be coated with thin ice, revealing a crystal-clear yet sharp quality, almost dreamlike. This pristine area retains a unique natural beauty, making Daocheng one of the last pure lands on our blue planet.
Snow peaks, meadows, temples, and lakes—these elements of highland beauty can all be found in Daocheng. As you travel along the winding mountain roads, the three sacred snow-capped mountains reveal their divine essence, embodying the beauty of the Tibetan region that I long for.
Feel the majesty and sanctity of Yangmaiyong Snow Mountain up close at Norong Cattle Farm. The ever-changing blue skies will leave you enchanted, prompting you to fold your hands in prayer and quietly listen to the sounds of nature. This, perhaps, is the true essence of travel.
Additional Tips
- Late January is typically the coldest period in Daocheng, perfect for enjoying the snow scenery.
- January is considered the off-peak season in Daocheng, with discounted ticket prices.
- If you encounter snowy weather, the scenic area may temporarily close, so it’s advisable to check the official Daocheng website or WeChat account before traveling.
- It’s recommended to bring hiking poles and crampons, and to wear well-fitted hiking shoes.
Transportation and Accommodation
Daocheng is about 80 kilometers from the county seat and requires over an hour’s drive. There are no direct buses; you will need to share a ride from Daocheng County, with shared transport typically costing around 50 yuan to Shangri-La Town. From the town to the Daocheng ticket office is another 5-6 kilometers, where shuttle buses are available for 5 yuan.
The ticket office to Chonggu Temple is 40 kilometers away, requiring a sightseeing bus. Entrance tickets for Daocheng cost 150 yuan, while the sightseeing bus ticket is 120 yuan. You can stay in either Daocheng Village or Shangri-La Town, with tickets valid for two days (during peak season, the bus ticket is only valid for one day, and a half-price ticket must be purchased for re-entry).
Daocheng Village has six stations (Station 1, Station 2, etc.), each with guesthouses. Station 1 is located at a higher elevation and is further from Chonggu Temple, while Station 6 is closer—approximately 5 kilometers from the temple at a lower altitude. Choose based on your preferences!
