Short answer
April, October, and November are the best all-round months: dry, clear, and comfortable. Summer is green but wet and crowded; winter is cold and quiet with the sharpest mountain views.
The best months
April is warm, dry, and clear, before the summer monsoon. October and November are cool, dry, and sharp, with the best mountain visibility. March and December are also good if you can handle cold nights and wind.
Avoid the first week of May, the first week of October, and the Spring Festival if you dislike crowds. These are domestic travel peaks when prices and queues spike. The when to go section compares every month.
What to trade off
Summer (June to August) is green and cool but wet, with the mountain often clouded. Winter (December to February) is dry and clear but cold, with short days and possible cableway closures for wind. Spring and autumn are the compromise.
If the mountain is your priority, choose the dry season and keep a buffer day. If food and culture are the priority, summer's mushroom season is excellent. See the mountain light note for visibility patterns.
Related questions
Field desk / direct line
Still deciding?
If your question depends on dates, ages, or how much mountain time you want, send the details. The desk answers in plain English.
Independent advice. No bookings, no commissions, no visa service.