January Weather in Gilgit, Pakistan

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In January, Gilgit, Pakistan experiences a bitterly cold climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -29°C (-21°F) to a maximum of -4°C (25°F). The average temperature hovers around -15°C (5°F), creating a chilling backdrop for the month. With 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days, residents can expect snow and rain, contributing to a humidity level of 79%. This combination of low temperatures and high humidity fosters a wintry landscape, making January a significant month in Gilgit's climatic cycle.

January Temperature in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit, Pakistan experiences a stark winter chill, with temperatures dipping to a bone-rattling minimum of -29°C (-21°F) and averaging around -15°C (5°F). At the peak of the month, highs only manage to reach -4°C (25°F), painting a picture of icy landscapes that can deter even the hardiest adventurers. As the months progress into February and March, the bitter cold persists, with February even recording a chilling low of -30°C (-23°F), although average temperatures begin to show signs of slight improvement. This gradual rise continues into April and May, where a notable shift occurs, showcasing warmer temperatures that move from -19°C (-1°F) in early spring to a more welcoming 2°C (35°F) by May. This discernible trend of rising temperatures highlights the transition from the harsh winter grip to a more temperate spring, inviting both nature and travelers to awaken from their winter slumber.

January Weather in Gilgit: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Gilgit, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Gilgit, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5111926354859605332155
Data source: Temperature data for Gilgit generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit experiences 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, marking the beginning of a wet season that builds momentum as winter transitions into spring. This month serves as a prelude to the increasing rainfall that will follow; for instance, February sees a rise to 109 mm and continues to escalate through the spring months, peaking in June with 134 mm (5.3 in) spread over 18 days. As the year progresses, although precipitation starts to taper off in late summer and fall, Gilgit remains under the spell of moisture-laden clouds, offering a fascinating contrast between the winter's subdued charms and the vibrant, rain-soaked months that follow.

January Precipitation Trends in Gilgit

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Gilgit, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Gilgit, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8310912412889134121100971049055
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit experiences a humidity level of 79%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by moist conditions. This slight dip in humidity from December's 79% reflects the overall trend for the month, as February sees an increase to 80%, before temperatures gradually rise in March, where humidity stabilizes at 77%. As spring approaches, the humidity continues to decrease, reaching 70% in both April and May, hinting at a gradual transition towards drier months. By June, this downward trend continues as humidity levels dip to 61%, indicating a shift towards the summer season. Following this low, humidity remains fairly consistent throughout the summer, fluctuating between 61% and 64%, before climbing back up to 77% in October and November, and returning to 79% in December, marking the year's end. Overall, the humidity in Gilgit paints a vivid picture of seasonal change, with a distinct pattern of increased moisture in winter and a gradual transition towards drier conditions in the warmer months.

January Average Humidity in Gilgit

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Gilgit, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Gilgit is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%80%78%70%70%61%62%61%64%77%77%79%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit experiences a UV Index of 6, placing it in the high exposure category with a burn time of just 25 minutes. This marks a noticeable dip from the extreme indices that the region will face in the coming months, particularly from March to July, where UV levels soar to a staggering 15 and the burn time dramatically decreases to just 10 minutes. As winter slowly transitions into spring and summer, the intensity of UV radiation escalates, warning residents and visitors alike to take precautions. By autumn, the index begins to decline, falling to 9 in October and then returning to 6 by November. For anyone planning to spend time outdoors in Gilgit, staying informed about these trends is crucial for skin safety. For more detailed information, visit Gilgit UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Gilgit for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Gilgit in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Gilgit typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6714151515141312964
Data source: Gilgit January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit basks in a modest 202 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of a gradual increase that paves the way for the vibrant spring months ahead. As the days lengthen, February sees a jump to 261 hours, followed by a remarkable surge to 311 hours in March. The warmth intensifies through April and May, where residents enjoy 338 and 388 hours of glorious sunlight, respectively. The peak arrives in July, with a dazzling 404 hours, a time when Gilgit’s landscape is awash in sunlight, perfect for outdoor adventures. However, as summer fades, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with August still generous at 383 hours but gradually dwindling to 317 hours by October. By the end of the year, November and December return to more subdued sunlight levels of 263 and 268 hours, wrapping up the year in a gentle glow. This seasonal ebb and flow not only highlights Gilgit's stunning natural beauty but also creates a rhythm that locals and visitors come to cherish.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Gilgit: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Gilgit experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec202h261h311h338h388h389h404h383h340h317h263h268h
Data source: Gilgit January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Gilgit During January

In Gilgit, Pakistan, January boasts a 60% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year. This optimism for clear skies contrasts sharply with the following months, where February dips to 47%, and March sees a further decline to 28%. As spring approaches, sunshine begins to see a modest rebound, peaking again in April at 53% before elements of summer further stabilize the sunny outlook with percentages hovering around the mid-50s through June and July. Interestingly, January remains one of the stronger contenders for sunshine, especially when compared to the less favorable months that follow. By September, the trend shifts dramatically, reaching a high of 77%, showcasing that sunny weather is often imminent as summer transitions into autumn. Thus, while January holds its own with a solid chance of sun, it is just a prelude to the more radiant days to come later in the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Gilgit

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Gilgit throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Gilgit experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec60%47%28%53%48%57%55%58%77%50%63%48%
Data source: Gilgit January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Gilgit in January

In Gilgit, Pakistan, January heralds the beginning of a gradual transition in daylight duration, offering 10 hours of sunshine that sets the stage for the upcoming months. As winter gives way to spring, February retains this daylight consistency before March brings a slight increase to 11 hours. The true transformation begins in April, where the days extend to 13 hours, marking the onset of longer, sunnier days. This trend continues into May and June, with daylight peaking at 14 hours, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor adventures. However, as summer fades, the daylight gradually diminishes, falling to 13 hours in August, then tapering off to 10 hours by November. Finally, December caps the year with the shortest day at just 9 hours, reminiscent of the cycle's seasonal ebb and flow, illustrating nature's rhythm and the shifting lengths of daylight in this beautiful region.

Average Daylight Hours in Gilgit for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Gilgit throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h10h 52m11h 58m13h 6m14h 3m14h 32m14h 17m13h 27m12h 22m11h 14m10h 15m9h 45m
Data source: Gilgit daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Gilgit

In January, Gilgit experiences its highest average wind speed of the year at a gentle 0.9 m/s (2 mph), weaving through the valleys with a refreshing chill that complements the winter landscape. As the month transitions into February, this breeze softens slightly, averaging 0.7 m/s, setting a trend of decreasing wind speeds that continues into the spring months. March and April see the winds calm to around 0.6 to 0.7 m/s, while May and June maintain this tranquil atmosphere, with wind speeds lingering at 0.5 to 0.6 m/s. This gentle wind pattern is consistent for the summer months, before a slight uptick in November and December brings back winds of 0.8 m/s, creating a perfect backdrop for the crisp winter air. Overall, the wind in Gilgit illustrates a marked transition from a brisk winter breeze to a serene spring and summer calm, before reviving as the year ends.

Average January Wind Speed in Gilgit

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Gilgit, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec0.9 m/s0.70.60.70.60.60.50.50.60.60.80.8
Data source: Gilgit January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Gilgit Compares to Other Months

Weather in Gilgit varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Gilgit, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with an average temperature of -15°C (5°F), while February sees a slight improvement with an average of -11°C (12°F). Despite February's milder conditions, it experiences more precipitation, totaling 109 mm (4.3 in) compared to January's 83 mm (3.3 in), and both months have precipitation on 13 days. Humidity levels remain steady between the two months, hovering around 79% in January and slightly increasing to 80% in February. For detailed weather information for February, you can check Gilgit weather in February.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of only -4°C (25°F), while March sees a notable rise in temperature to an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum reaching 5°C (40°F). January experiences less precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, compared to March which has 124 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation spread across 16 days. Despite having slightly lower humidity levels in March at 77%, the conditions are generally milder and more conducive for outdoor activities. For a closer look at the changing weather patterns, you can refer to Gilgit weather in March.

January and April present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-21°F), with an average of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of -4°C (25°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation of 83 mm (3.3 in) spread over 13 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 79%. In comparison, April experiences a milder climate with minimum temperatures of -19°C (-1°F) and an average temperature of -3°C (26°F), leading to a maximum of 8°C (47°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days, while humidity decreases to 70%. Overall, April heralds the transition to warmer weather, making it noticeably more pleasant than the bitter cold of January. For more detailed information, you can check Gilgit weather in April.

January and May exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-21°F) and average around -15°C (5°F), while they rise significantly in May, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average temperature of 2°C (35°F). Although precipitation levels are slightly higher in May at 89 mm (3.5 in) compared to January's 83 mm (3.3 in), both months experience a similar number of rainy days, with 12 days in May and 13 in January. Additionally, humidity is notably higher in January at 79%, while it drops to 70% in May. For more detailed information, visit Gilgit weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with averages around -15°C (5°F) and maximums peaking at -4°C (25°F). The month sees substantial snowfall, with precipitation reaching 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days and relative humidity remaining high at 79%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of -9°C (16°F) and maximums around 21°C (71°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). However, it is also wetter, with precipitation totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 18 days and lower humidity at 61%. For a more detailed overview of June's weather, you can explore Gilgit weather in June.

In January, the weather is decidedly frigid, with temperatures plummeting as low as -29°C (-21°F) and averaging around -15°C (5°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 79%. In stark contrast, July experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm average of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F) during the day. The precipitation increases to 121 mm (4.8 in), spread over 20 days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 62%. For a closer look at Gilgit's weather in July, visit Gilgit weather in July.

January and August present strikingly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with averages around -15°C (5°F) and a chilling minimum of -29°C (-21°F), while precipitation occurs on about 13 days, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in). The air remains quite humid at 79%, adding to the bone-chilling cold. Conversely, August brings a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). It also experiences more precipitation, at 100 mm (4.0 in), though spread across 21 days, and the humidity decreases to a more comfortable 61%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Gilgit weather in August.

In January, temperatures in Gilgit can be quite frigid, with minimums plunging to -29°C (-21°F) and average temperatures hovering around -15°C (5°F), making it a frigid month with a significant chill in the air. The area experiences around 83 mm of precipitation, spread over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). The month sees slightly increased precipitation at 97 mm but is distributed over more days (19), resulting in a more comfortable humidity level of 64%. For more details on Gilgit's September weather, visit Gilgit weather in September.

In comparing the weather of January and October, we can observe some notable differences. January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-21°F) and an average of -15°C (5°F), contrasted by October's milder range, where temperatures can reach a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October, with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 18 days, compared to January's 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days. Despite the increased rainfall in October, the humidity remains relatively similar, with January at 79% and October at 77%. For more detailed information on October weather, you can check Gilgit weather in October.

In January, the weather is significantly colder with an average temperature of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum reaching only -4°C (25°F), while November offers slightly milder conditions with an average of -9°C (16°F) and daytime highs of up to 10°C (51°F). Precipitation levels are comparable between the two months, with January receiving 83 mm (3.3 in) and November slightly higher at 90 mm (3.5 in), both experiencing precipitation on approximately 13 days. The humidity is relatively consistent, hovering around 79% in January and dropping to 77% in November. For an in-depth look at the climate in November, you can check Gilgit weather in November.

When comparing the weather in January and December, both months experience frigid temperatures, with January exhibiting slightly colder conditions. January's average temperature mirrors December's at -15°C (5°F), but it reaches a slightly lower minimum of -29°C (-21°F), compared to December's -28°C (-18°F). Furthermore, January sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, whereas December has 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. Interestingly, humidity remains consistent at 79% for both months. For more details on December's weather, you can check Gilgit weather in December.

Compare Gilgit's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Gilgit

As January unfolds in Gilgit, it sets itself apart from the other months with its crisp, biting cold and a stark increase in precipitation. While temperatures plunge to their lowest points of the year, averaging -15°C (5°F), the region experiences significant moisture, with numerous snowy days contributing to a unique winter landscape. This month’s high humidity level also adds to the chill, creating a blend of beauty and harshness that is characteristic of winter in this mountainous region. For more on Gilgit's climatic tendencies throughout the year, explore Gilgit Climate.