Xining Weather: the Best Time & Seasons to Visit or Travel

Overview

Xining City is located in the northeastern part of Qinghai Province, on the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, at the confluence of the Huangshui River and its three tributaries. The city stretches in an east-west belt, with higher terrain in the southwest and lower in the northeast, surrounded by mountains on all sides.

Xining has a continental plateau semi-arid climate, with an average annual sunshine duration of 1,939.7 hours and an average annual temperature of 7.6°C. The highest recorded temperature is 34.6°C, while the lowest is -18.9°C, characteristic of a cold temperate alpine climate. During summer, the average temperature ranges between 17°C and 19°C, making it a pleasant and ideal destination for escaping the heat.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Xining

Best Time in Xining

In terms of climate, the best time to travel to Xining is from June to September. This period marks the most comfortable temperatures and the rainiest season in Xining, as well as the busiest time for its tourist attractions. During these months, the grasslands of Xining turn lush green, the lakes shimmer with sparkling waves, and the blue skies and white clouds complement the verdant mountains, creating a picturesque landscape.

Xining Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (April to June)

Spring in Xining always arrives late. Even after the Qingming Festival, traces of chill still linger in the air. However, nothing can hold back the resilient and tenacious life yearning for spring. The wild peach blossoms on the streets of Xining can no longer restrain themselves, quietly blooming under the azure sky, their delicate petals unfolding like a dream. As the breeze passes by, the petals sway gently, pink or white, gracing the branches and dancing in the wind, captivating all who behold them.

Summer (July)

When most cities in China are engulfed in scorching summer heat, this ancient highland city, with its comfortably mild average summer temperature of 20°C, undoubtedly becomes an ideal natural retreat from the sweltering weather. In the height of summer, Xining oscillates between bright sunshine and gentle rain, exuding a refreshing and soothing atmosphere. The delicate fragrance of flowers and trees hidden in the breeze, subtly infuses the mountains and fields. The clear sky drifts with flowing clouds, summer flowers bloom nourished by the rain, the sunset glows magnificently, and the vast night sky stretches endlessly.

Autumn (August to October)

In autumn, Xining is a canvas of vibrant colors, with layers of forests dyed in shades of crimson and gold, and parks and streets bursting with color. The infinite charm of autumn embraces the northern and southern mountains of Xining, ushering in yet another peak of breathtaking beauty. As the autumn breeze sweeps through, leaves drift gently to the ground one by one, adorning the earth with a golden hue unique to the season. The crisp air, the golden foliage—this is the distinctive scenery of autumn.

Winter (November to March)

In winter, Xining is blanketed in pristine white snow, with a silvery sheen covering the landscape. Everywhere you look, the world is transformed into a vast expanse of pure, snow-covered beauty. Strolling through the snowy scenery of Xining is a unique sense of romance. The winter season here is exceptionally long, even surpassing that of "Ice City" Harbin, lasting for nearly three-quarters of the year. As all things gradually quiet down, nature embraces a period of dormancy, savoring the tranquility of winter. The world becomes vast, with trees standing still and rivers flowing gently.

Xining Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Beijing, 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 Xining 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, As the first rays of sunlight of the year crest over Laji Mountain, golden hues illuminate a brand-new day, bringing with them boundless hope for the year ahead. The blue ice of Qinghai Lake in winter spreads out like a poetic masterpiece, resembling a dream where time stands still. Every breeze carries ancient and sacred whispers, allowing the soul to find solace in the tranquility.

In January, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -17°C to -2°C, with the lowest at -21°C and the highest at 11°C. The average monthly precipitation is 1.8mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, occasional overcast conditions, and frequent winds accompanied by occasional haze and snowfall, not good for travel.

January is the off season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors, lower prices, and more flexible travel arrangements, making it a cost-effective time to visit. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is necessary.

What to Wear/Bring in January

• Xining in January is cold and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets, and bring gloves and scarves.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, Qinghai offers not only stunning natural scenery but also the Xining Wildlife Park, waiting to be explored. Snow leopards, Tibetan foxes, and Pallas's cats each showcase their unique charm, captivating visitors with their adorable appearances and healing hearts. As night falls, the ancient town of Dangar lights up, weaving a warm and inviting atmosphere. Amid the glow of countless lights, it eagerly awaits to welcome you into a wonderful Chinese new year.

In February, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -11°C to 5°C, with the lowest at -22°C and the highest at 15°C. The average monthly precipitation is 2.1mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, partly overcast conditions, and frequent winds and haze accompanied by occasional snowfall and rainfall, not good for travel.

February is the off season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors, lower prices, and more flexible travel arrangements, making it a cost-effective time to visit. During the Spring Festival, some attractions will launch a series of activities, which is a chance to experience the festive atmosphere. However, some attractions may still be closed, so careful itinerary planning is necessary.

What to Wear/Bring in February

• Xining in February is cold and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets, and bring gloves and scarves.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, Xining is still slowly awakening to spring. A sudden spring snow blankets this ancient plateau city in pristine white. The plateau's March still feels like winter, with bare trees yet to bud or bloom. Though the ice on the Huangshui River has melted and the earth is warming, the breath of spring always arrives a little later here.

In March, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -6°C to 12°C, with the lowest at -15°C and the highest at 22°C. The average monthly precipitation is 8.8mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, partly overcast conditions, and frequent winds and haze accompanied by occasional snowfall and rainfall, not good for travel.

March is the off season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors, lower prices, and more flexible travel arrangements, making it a cost-effective time to visit. However, some attractions may still be closed, so careful itinerary planning is necessary.

What to Wear/Bring in March

• Xining in March is cold and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets, and bring gloves and scarves.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

In April, Xining awakens as the spring breeze sweeps across the land, and flowers bloom in abundance, painting the plateau in a picturesque scene. The mountain peach blossoms at Xinghai Bridge take the lead, their pink petals resembling clouds or rosy mist, stretching along the riverbank like a floral corridor. Strolling through this enchanting space, with the gentle breeze carrying falling petals, feels like stepping into a dreamy pink wonderland.

In April, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -1°C to 17°C, with the lowest at -9°C and the highest at 27°C. The average monthly precipitation is 21.1mm, with mostly cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, and frequent winds and haze, accompanied by rainfall and snowfall, not good for travel.

April is the shoulder season for tourism in Xining, with moderate visitors and prices, and relatively flexible travel arrangements. As Qingming Festival begins, spring outing activities are launched, and attractions used to be closed successively open, making it a good time to enjoy the sight of spring.

What to Wear/Bring in April

• Xining in April is chill and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

May in Xining is the season of flowers, with vibrant blooms adorning every corner of the city. Lilacs, crape myrtles, and peach blossoms line the streets, as if sprinkled with colorful sugar, brightening every nook of this charming city. The remaining ice on Qinghai Lake has melted, and the lake now shimmers with golden ripples, as beautiful as a picture.

In May, the average temperature in Xining ranges from 3°C to 21°C, with the lowest at 4°C and the highest at 32°C. The average monthly precipitation is 51.9mm, with mostly cloudy and rainy, partly sunny and overcast days, and frequent winds and haze, accompanied by occasional snowfall, relatively good for travel.

May is the peak season for tourism in Xining, with more visitors and higher prices, and more limited travel arrangements. As May Day holidays begins, many activities are launched, and after that, there will be fewer tourists, making it a good time for staggered travel.

What to Wear/Bring in May

• Xining in May is cool and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and cotton-padded coats.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining’s rainfall increases, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, Xining is lush with greenery and brimming with vitality. The city is shaded by trees, adorned with blooming flowers, and filled with the songs of birds and the fragrance of blossoms. Walking through the streets, the blue skies and white clouds above are a constant sight, offering picturesque views at every turn—no need to search far for beauty, as every snapshot captures a beautiful scene.

In June, the average temperature in Xining ranges from 7°C to 25°C, with the lowest at 3°C and the highest at 32°C. The average monthly precipitation is 64mm, with mostly cloudy and rainy, partly sunny and overcast days, accompanied by occasional haze, which is the best time for travel.

June is the shoulder season for tourism in Xining, with moderate visitors yet higher prices. Though the peak season in May comes to an end and tourists decrease, the prices and costs still remain at that level, so if you can accept the tourism cost, you can enjoy a more flexible itinerary in the best travel time.

What to Wear/Bring in June

• Xining in June is warm, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as jackets, coats, and windbreakers, and be careful to the cold night.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining’s rainfall increases, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a kettle for a steady supply of hydration is recommended.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, as the rest of the country swelters in the summer heat, Xining, known as the "Cool Summer City", extends a refreshing invitation to visitors from all directions. In Datong County, endless fields of rapeseed flowers stretch from the foot of the mountains to their peaks, resembling a golden tapestry and heralding the romantic arrival of summer. Roaming through the flower sea and enjoying camping, every corner of Qinghai Plateau is a beautiful sight.

In July, the average temperature in Xining ranges from 9°C to 27°C, with the lowest at 5°C and the highest at 35°C. The average monthly precipitation is 81mm, with mostly rainy and sunny, partly cloudy and overcast days, which is the best time for travel.

July is the peak season for tourism in Xining, with more visitors and higher prices. As the summer holiday begins, the amount of tourists reach its peak, with many travel activities launched, so if you can accept the tourism cost and carefully plan your itinerary, you can enjoy Xining in the best travel time.

What to Wear/Bring in July

• Xining in July is pleasant, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as jackets, sweatshirts, and sweaters, and be careful to the cold night.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining’s rainfall increases, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a kettle for a steady supply of hydration is recommended.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, Xining is as cool as autumn, and Qinghai Lake is at its most picturesque. The lake's shimmering waters, framed by golden shores and majestic mountains, it is the time for the annual Qinghai Lake Cycling Race. As far as the eye can see: with bright yellow rapeseed flowers, shimmering blue lake waters, and the interplay of blue skies and white clouds, cyclists circle the lake, making it resemble a beautiful oil painting that captivates every visitor.

In August, the average temperature in Xining ranges from 11°C to 24°C, with the lowest at 5°C and the highest at 33°C. The average monthly precipitation is 80.9mm, with mostly rainy and cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, which is the best time for travel.

August is the peak season for tourism in Xining, with more visitors and higher prices. During the summer holiday, the amount of tourists reach its peak, with many travel activities launched, so if you can accept the tourism cost and carefully plan your itinerary, you can enjoy Xining in the best travel time.

What to Wear/Bring in August

• Xining in August is warm, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as jackets, sweatshirts, and sweaters, and be careful to the cold night.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining’s rainfall is frequent, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a kettle for a steady supply of hydration is recommended.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

As autumn deepens in Xining, the lush greenery gradually shifts its hues, like a vibrant tapestry when viewed from above—serene and dazzling, captivating all who behold it. After a few autumn rains, the lotus flowers in the wetland parks bloom even more radiantly, swaying gracefully in the cool breeze, a sight that enchants the soul.

In September, the average temperature in Xining ranges from 4°C to 18°C, with the lowest at 0°C and the highest at 30°C. The average monthly precipitation is 61mm, with mostly rainy and cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, which is the best time for travel.

September is the shoulder season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors and more flexible travel arrangements than those in August. The prices and costs still remain at that level, so if you can accept the tourism cost, you can enjoy Xining in the best travel time.

What to Wear/Bring in September

• Xining in September is cool, so it is necessary to wear warm clothing, such as jackets and coats, and be careful to the cold night.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining’s rainfall is frequent, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and a kettle for a steady supply of hydration is recommended.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In October, Xining is immersed in the full splendor of autumn, as if the city has been meticulously painted by nature's palette. The North and South Mountains are ablaze with vibrant colors, while the city parks are adorned with shades of red, orange, yellow, and green. Along the banks of the Huangshui River, a kaleidoscope of colors unfolds, and the streets are lined with crabapples, hawthorns, and other fruit-bearing plants, their branches heavy with bright red autumn fruits, dazzling, bringing joy to all who witness it.

In October, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -1°C to 14°C, with the lowest at -6°C and the highest at 25°C. The average monthly precipitation is 21mm, with rainy, cloudy, sunny and overcast days, relatively good for travel.

October is the peak season for tourism in Xining, with more visitors and higher costs. But after the National Day holiday, tourists and prices decrease gradually, leading to more flexible travel arrangements, making it a good time for staggered travel.

What to Wear/Bring in October

• Xining in October is chill, so it is necessary to wear warm clothing, such as down jackets and cotton-padded coats.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, as the chill deepens and autumn fades, Xining dons a golden new attire. After a heavy snowfall, the city is blanketed in silver under the blue sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle. In Nanshan Park, the snow-covered scenery resembles a painting, where red and yellow crabapples meet the pristine snow in a beautiful encounter.

In November, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -7°C to 10°C, with the lowest at -17°C and the highest at 20°C. The average monthly precipitation is 3.6mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, occasional overcast conditions, and frequent winds and haze accompanied by occasional rainfall and snowfall, not good for travel.

November is the off season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors, lower prices, and more flexible travel arrangements, making it a cost-effective time to visit. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is necessary.

What to Wear/Bring in November

• Xining in November is cold and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets, and bring gloves and scarves.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, the biting cold wind cuts through every corner of Xining like a blade, yet beneath the plateau sky, a gentle warmth persists. The sky, like a meticulously polished sapphire, is clear and transparent, free of any blemish. The sun, a guardian angel of winter, hangs high above, casting a soft yet steadfast glow, as if nature itself is offering its most tender comfort to this land.

In December, the average temperature in Xining ranges from -16°C to 2°C, with the lowest at -22°C and the highest at 13°C. The average monthly precipitation is 1.6mm, with mostly cloudy, partly sunny days, occasional overcast conditions, and frequent winds and haze accompanied by occasional and snowfall, not good for travel.

December is the off season for tourism in Xining, with fewer visitors, lower prices, and more flexible travel arrangements, making it a cost-effective time to visit. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is necessary.

What to Wear/Bring in December

• Xining in December is cold and windy, so it is necessary to wear warm and windproof clothing, such as windbreakers and down jackets, and bring gloves and scarves.
• Xining has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Xining is great for snow activities, but wearing sunglasses is recommended to prevent snow blindness.
• Xining has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• Xining’s sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Xining is at a high altitude, it is sure to carry altitude sickness medication and a portable oxygen bottle.
• Xining’s air is dry, so carrying moisturizing products and thermos for a steady supply of hot water is recommended.

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