Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Shangri-La, China, is crucial for both residents and visitors who want to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this region while safeguarding their skin from harmful effects of the sun. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 16 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations can help prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. The climate in Shangri-La, categorized as Cwc, exposes individuals to varying UV risks throughout the day, particularly during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM. Stay informed and protect yourself as you explore this stunning destination!
Throughout the day, the UV Index experienced a notable rise, reaching its peak at 1 PM with an impressive 16. The morning started off gently, with UV readings of just 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, before escalating to 3 by 9 AM. As the sun rose higher, the Index surged dramatically, hitting a striking 14 by noon. The early afternoon brought the most intense sunlight exposure with a high of 16 at 1 PM, so caution was advised for outdoor activities. In the late afternoon, the index gradually declined, falling to 6 by 5 PM, before easing into the evening with diminishing levels of 3 at 6 PM and eventually back to 1 by 7 PM. Remember to protect your skin during those prime sun hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV index reveals notable fluctuations throughout the year, with peak levels occurring from March to October, where the index remains consistently in the extreme category (11-16) and requires a burn time of just 10 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. January and November present very high exposure levels, while December offers a high level with a burn time of 25 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore from February to October, particularly from April to August, when protective measures are essential. Visitors and residents are advised to take adequate precautions, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize skin damage and ensure safety during these high-risk periods.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Chengdu UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Shanghai UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Guangzhou UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Shenzhen UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
| Shangri-La | 9 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 |