Abstract: In this paper, we summarize the research progress on the influence of thermal conditions over the Tibetan Plateau and the Indian Ocean on the South Asian monsoon, water vapor transportation, and regional climate. This review focuses on the link between thermal conditions over the Tibetan Plateau and the Indian Ocean as well as Tibetan Plateau–Indian Ocean thermal differences with important climate indicators, such as monsoon activity, water vapor transport, and so on. Moreover, indicators and methods for measuring the climate prediction at subseasonal and seasonal time scales in the Indian Ocean and Tibetan Plateau regions are proposed based on the above aspects. It will be beneficial for understanding the impact of thermal conditions on the climate in the Tibetan Plateau and Indian Ocean regions, and improving the capability of regional climate prediction.