Gansu weather: best time to visit Gansu, temperature, what to bring

Overview

Gansu is located deep in the northwest interior of China, where moist air currents from the oceans rarely reach, resulting in low rainfall. The climate is strongly continental temperate monsoon, characterized by cold and long winters, with indistinct transitions between spring and summer. Summers are brief but hot, while autumn brings a quick drop in temperatures. The annual average temperature across the province ranges between 0°C and 16°C, varying significantly due to differences in elevation. Gansu enjoys abundant sunshine and experiences large daily temperature variations.

Annual precipitation across the province varies from 36.6 mm to 734.9 mm, generally decreasing from southeast to northwest. Influenced by the monsoon, most precipitation occurs between June and August, accounting for 50% to 70% of the yearly total. The frost-free period also varies greatly across the province: the river valley areas of Longnan typically enjoy around 280 frost-free days, while the Gannan Plateau has the shortest period, with only about 140 days.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Gansu

The best time to visit Gansu is spring and autumn. In spring, Gansu comes alive with the revival of nature, as lush greenery begins to spread across the land. While not the busiest season for tourism, it is in a peaceful atmosphere filled with charm of nature. Autumn in Gansu, with golden poplar trees and mountains blanketed with maple leaves, forms one and another breathtaking picture.

Gansu Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (March to May)

Spring is the flower season in Gansu, a perfect time for outdoor excursions and flower appreciation. During this period, the land awakens with vibrant life, especially in the hilly areas of eastern Gansu, where the beauty of spring brings joy to the heart. The Danxia landforms in Zhangye appear particularly stunning under the spring sun, while the banks of the Yellow River in Lanzhou are also enchanting like a picturesque scenery.

Summer (June to August)

In summer, although Gansu experiences higher temperatures, its location on the plateau makes it an ideal retreat from the heat. The weight of history in Dunhuang Mogao Caves appear more profound under the summer sun, while the desert landscapes of Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is also more captivating. The deep blue sky dotted with fluffy white clouds reflects the majestic peaks and verdant land, with cattle and sheep interspersed in the grass, painting a picture of natural beauty and ecological harmony.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Gansu is a golden season with pleasant weather and clear blue skies. Nature begins to display vibrant colors, that make the trees that seemed ordinary in spring and summer ushered in a gorgeous transformation. The autumn of Maiji Mountain appears shrouded in mist, while the autumn in Guan’e Valley transform its waterfalls and peaks into a dream. Along the road of Taizi Mountain, autumn unfolds in a continuous display of color, and autumn in Xinglong Mountain forest are ablaze with hues.

Winter (December to February)

In winter, Gansu's temperatures drop sharply, and most areas are blanketed in snow. Though the landscape may seem a bit desolate, it is filled with a unique charm. In places like Gannan and Dingxi, you can admire the snow-covered scenery with tranquility and mystery of winter. This season also offers the opportunity to indulge in hot springs, where you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of soaking in the midst of the cold.

Gansu Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Gansu, it is recommended to select the most suitable month based on your interests and preferences. If you don't have the flexibility to choose, it is advisable to understand the advantages and disadvantages of traveling to Gansu in each month. According to them, you can be better prepared in advance.

View your month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

January: is January a Good Time to Visit?

In January, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from -11°C to 1°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 2mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, with snow and occasional haze. January is the coldest season in Gansu, but most tourist attractions remain unaffected by the weather. The Qilian Mountains, covered in snow year-round, offer a distant and mysterious allure, which is rich in snow and ice tourism resources.

January is the low season for tourism in Gansu, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. However, apart from some winter activities, some tourism services and activities in Gansu are not complete during this time. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in January

In January, Gansu is extremely cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets, along with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from -7°C to 6°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 2mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, with snow and occasional haze. In February, Gansu remains cold, with a solemn atmosphere blanketing its cities. However, the arrival of the Spring Festival brings color to the region, as the cultural customs and traditions shine brightly during this festive time.

February is the low season for tourism in Gansu, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. However, apart from some winter activities, some tourism services and activities in Gansu are not complete during this time. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in February

In February, Gansu is also cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets, along with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 16°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 8mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, with occasional rain and haze. In March, Gansu begins to warm up as the land awakens to spring, when flowers bloom in vibrant colors as its arrival. Gentle spring rains fall like soft mist, and after a few showers, the mountain streams swell with water, and the green lakes come shimmering and rippling.

March is the common season for tourism in Gansu, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. And with the arrival of spring, tourism services and activities in Gansu have begun to increase. Therefore, careful planning can be useful for a more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in March

In March, Gansu is warm up, so it's advisable to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

In April, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 6°C to 19°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 17mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, with rain and occasional haze. April in Gansu is a wonderful time for traveling. The grass is lush, the sunlight is gentle, and a soft breeze keeps the atmosphere pleasantly cool. Walking along country paths, you can enjoy the aroma of the soil and breathe in the fresh air, or you can step into forest parks to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

April is the common season for tourism in Gansu, so there are moderate visitors, giving traveler convenient accommodation and transportation at relatively modest costs. And during the spring, tourism services and activities in Gansu increase. Therefore, careful planning can be useful for a more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in April

In April, Gansu is warm up, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as coats and jackets and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

In May, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 25°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 37mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy with some rainy days. In May, temperatures across Gansu continue to rise, the sky remains serene, and the plants thrive in their lush greenery. From the vast, desolate Gobi Desert to the picturesque oases, from the Silk Road to the Yellow River Iron Bridge, the fusion of history and nature brings Gansu to life with vibrant energy.

May is the peak season for tourism in Gansu, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternative in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time especially in the May Day Holiday, tourism services and activities are abundant. Therefore, careful planning or off-peak tour is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in May

In May, Gansu is warm, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as sportswear and jackets and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for warm water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall increase, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 28°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 41mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy with some rainy days. In June, Gansu is graced with blue skies and white clouds, and the mountains are lush and verdant, evoking a scene that rivals the beauty of the Jiangnan region. The normally dry Loess Plateau is now draped in a green cloak, with a vast expanse of greenery covering the mountains and fields.

June is the peak season for tourism in Gansu, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternative in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in June

In June, Gansu is hot yet pleasant, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as light shirts and thin jackets and pay attention to the cool night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall increase, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 29°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 61mm. The weather is mostly sunny or rainy with cloudy days. In July, Gansu is adorned with blooming flowers and lush willows, offering a pleasant climate. While much of the country enters a high-temperature phase, Gansu remains refreshingly cool. With its towering mountains, flowing rivers, boundless deserts, and lush grasslands, this summer retreat attracts visitors from all over the world.

July is the most peak season for tourism in Gansu for arrival of the summer holiday, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternative in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in July

In July, Gansu is hot, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing, such as light shirts and cotton T-shirts. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 28°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 78mm. The weather is sunny, rainy or cloudy. In August, Gansu’s grasslands offer sweeping vistas as far as the eye can see. They are extraordinarily beautiful, with vibrant greenery seemingly blending into the clouds. Popular summer resorts like Guan'e Valley and Zhagana are bustling with visitors, and the serene mountains and forests of Gansu are filled with sounds of leisurely admiration.

August is the peak season for tourism in Gansu because of the summer holiday, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternative in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in August

In August, Gansu is hot, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing, such as light shirts and cotton T-shirts. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

In September, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 23°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 45mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy with some rainy days. In September, the land of Gansu loses some of the vibrant hues of summer, yet the mountains remain lush, the waters pristine, and the grass still thick. The sky appears higher and bluer, with the air even more refreshing, making the scenery all the more enchanting. Walking through the countryside, every nook and valley offers picturesque scenes of natural harmony, like idyllic pastoral paintings come to life.

Though September is the peak season for tourism in Gansu, there are fewer visitors than August. However, the accommodation and transportation remain a high level. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in September

In September, Gansu is pleasant, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as sportswear and jackets and pay attention to the cool night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In October, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 17°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 24mm. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny with rainy days. As the autumn breeze gently sweeps across the land of Gansu, the poplar forests in Dunhuang don their golden attire, crafted by nature's masterful hands, dreamlike. In such a season, the urge to leave behind the bustle of the city grows stronger, seeking instead the majestic beauty of the mountains beyond the city and the tranquil serenity of the forests.

After the last high season during the National Day Holiday, October is the common season for tourism in Gansu, there are fewer visitors, giving traveler more alternative in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are modest. Therefore, careful planning is essential for a more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in October

In October, Gansu is cool, so it's advisable to wear warm clothing, such as coats and jackets. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 9°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 4mm. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny, with occasionally rainy and snowy days. November is the eve of winter in Gansu with cooler temperatures. In Longnan, the ginkgo trees shed their golden leaves, creating a carpet of gold on the ground, that the thick layer of fallen leaves adds a touch of romance to the scenery.

November is the low season for tourism in Gansu, so there are fewer visitors, giving traveler more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. During this time, tourism options and activities decrease and the services become uncomplete. Therefore, careful planning is essential for a more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in November

In November, Gansu is cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, Gansu experiences average temperatures ranging from -9°C to 3°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 1mm. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny, with occasionally snow and haze. Though December brings the chill of winter, Gansu also showcases its unique charm. The frost on the Loess Plateau creates a stunning scene of jade-like trees shimmering in the sunlight, while the snow-covered Gobi in Gansu reveals the shimmering lake reflecting the white of the snow.

December is the low season for tourism in Gansu, so there are fewer visitors, giving traveler more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. During this time, apart from some winter activities, some tourism services and activities in Gansu are not complete. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in December

In December, Gansu is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets, along with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

Customize Your Unique Gansu Silk Road Trip

If you are interested in one of the Gansu itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

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• Travel itineraries: itineraries for your reference
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• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Gansu
• Top attractions: sightseeings to watch in Gansu
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• Dunhuang Tours: customized Gansu tours for your reference