Karakorum Weather in January

In January, the center month of winter, Karakorum experiences the lowest temperature and least precipitation of the year, but vast snow-covered land and frozen rivers are available for sightseeing. Though Karakorum weather in January is mostly sunny, it enjoys comparatively short daytime and sunshine hours. Considering the terrible weather conditions, visitors are not suggested to travel to Karakorum in January.  

Coldest Month 

Karakorum climate in January is freezing cold no matter during daytime or night time, even to the unbearable degree. The diurnal high temperature normally fluctuates between -20 and -9 degrees Celsius (-20 - 25 degrees Fahrenheit), while the night low value further drops to the range of -32 - -22℃ (-26 - -8℉). Under extreme situations, the daily highs swing only around -27℃ (-17℉) and the lows around -38℃ (-36℉). It is such a big challenge for visitors to conduct outdoor visits even during daytime and fully armed from foot to head. 

Lowest Precipitation of the Year

January sees the lowest precipitation of the whole year with the average total of 1mm (0.04 in) from 3 days, which can be ignored to certain extent. It is usually presented as snow drizzles and showers, seldom leading to road closure. But thanks to the accumulated snow from previous months, you can appreciate the vast white landscape, but remember to wear glasses to protect your eyes. However, when snow encounters strong winds, the transportation might be largely influenced by the low visibility. Luckily, heavy wind is very occasional and predictable.

Short Sunshine Duration

In Karakorum during January, the sun rises at 08:32 - 08:52 and sets at 17:30 - 18:09, thus bringing the increasing daytime which grows from 8h37m to 9h36m. Even though, it remains insufficient for visitors to make thorough exploration of Karakorum. As the weather of Karakorum in January is mostly sunny, there are 6 sunshine hours per day on average. 

Is January a Good time to Visit Karakorum?

To be honest, it’s an awful choice to visit Karakorum in January, the coldest month of the year. In terms of weather, the extremely low temperature is the largest shortcoming and it leads to unpleasant feelings even cold injury when travelling out. Besides, it also makes the already short daylength less available since visitors may need to go back in cars or get indoors after staying outside for a while. 

However, the snow scenery is magnificent and travel costs is much lower. If you can overcome the severe coldness and have no other time to visit Karakorum except January 2027, then please read the following tips which might help to give you a more satisfactory trip.

Tips for Dressing in January in Karakorum

Multiple layers of clothes should be prepared. 

Upper body: The thermal underwear for inner layer must be quick-dry. Then, wear heavy woolen sweaters or thin down coats for the second layer. The outer one should be wind-proof and long enough to cover your knees even lower legs, such as long heavy down coats or mink coats.

Lower body: Thick long johns are the must to keep warm under such low temperatures though you may be not used to them. For the outer layer, you are most recommended to wear wind-protective jacket trousers made of down and make sure that the bottoms are tight to stop cold air creeping in.

Shoes: Waterproof high-top snow boots with anti-slip soles are the best choice to walk on snow without worrying snow getting into your shoes or making them wet. It is also suggested to prepare thick socks and woolen insoles. 

Others: Scarves, gloves and hats with thick fleeced lined are so necessary that they can prevent almost 40% heat loss. If your hats fail to fully cover your ears, then prepare thick earmuffs. Masks are also very useful to keep warm and protect you from possible low-quality air. Besides, remember to bring moisturizers to protect your skin and pack some warm pastes which can be sticked at anywhere you feel cold.

Tips for Visiting Karakorum in January

1. There are two main indoor scenic spots, Erdene Zuu Monastery and Kharrakhorum Museum, and the museum is the only one with heating supplied. You can arrange them between outdoor attractions so as to warm up timely.
2. The snow-covered grassland and roads are quite slippery, so you had better choose experienced local drivers. Also, you should wear non-slippery shoes and mind your steps when appreciate fascinating snow views. 

3. In January, the Orkhon rivers have frozen thick enough to walk and play on. Meanwhile, the frozen Orkhon Waterfall has its unique charm, though a little far.