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

Overview

Dunhuang has a typical warm temperate arid climate, characterized by dry weather, low rainfall, high evaporation rates, significant temperature variations between day and night, and long sunshine hours. It receives an average of 3,246.7 hours of sunshine per year, with an average annual precipitation of 42.2 mm and an evaporation rate of 2,505 mm.

The average annual temperature is 9.9°C, with slightly lower temperatures (1°C to 2°C) in the northern and southern mountainous areas. The highest average temperature in July reaches 32.8°C, while the lowest in January can drop to -15.6°C. The region experiences four distinct seasons, and east winds prevail in spring, summer, and autumn, while winter often brings westerly winds. The average frost-free period is 152 days.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Dunhuang

The best time to visit Dunhuang is from September to October. At this time, Dunhuang is in the autumn season, with dry weather and pleasant temperatures. The deep blue sky contrasts beautifully with the golden poplar trees, creating an especially picturesque landscape. This season allows visitors to avoid the crowds of peak tourist times while enjoying the sweet, seasonal fruits available.

Dunhuang Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (March to May)

In spring, Dunhuang may occasionally disturbed by sandstorms, but it is this rough season yet full of vitality, that make people feel the power of nature's revival. The city gradually awakens from winter's slumber, with rising temperatures and willows along the Dang River sprouting tender green buds, adding a touch of softness to the ancient city.

Summer (June to August)

As summer arrives, Dunhuang experiences its hottest season, yet this is also when the scenery is most spectacular. Despite the high temperatures, the golden sand sea of the Mingsha Mountain shines brilliantly under the blazing sun. Riding a camel across the vast sands, with the melodic sound of the camel bells, feels like a journey back in time to the flourishing days of the ancient Silk Road.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the most pleasant season in Dunhuang and one of the best times to visit. As temperatures gradually drop, the air is crisp and refreshing, with stunning and beautiful landscape. Visiting Dunhuang during this time can escape the summer heat and winter chill. Under the autumn sun, the Mogao Caves exude an even more ancient and solemn beauty, while the unique landforms of the Yardang landform take on even more fascinating shapes as the autumn winds sweep through.

Winter (December to February)

Although winter in Dunhuang brings lower temperatures, dropping to as low as -20℃, this cold also imparts a unique charm to the city. After a snowfall, Dunhuang transforms into a landscape of silver and especially enchanting. This tranquility and purity make Dunhuang appear even more mysterious and captivating. For those who enjoy photography and seek a serene travel experience, winter in Dunhuang is undoubtedly an excellent choice.

Dunhuang Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Dunhuang, 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 Dunhuang 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, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from -15°C to 1°C, with the highest of 10°C and the lowest of -24°C. The monthly precipitation is about 1mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, as well as some overcast and occasional snowfall. In the cold winter, you can appreciate the desolate beauty of Dunhuang, which accentuates its historical heaviness. If it snows, the breathtaking winter landscape where the desert and sky blend into one is truly remarkable.

January is the low season for tourism in Dunhuang, with fewer visitors, offering more flexibility in accommodation and transportation options, as well as lower prices, which reduces travel costs. However, tourism services and activities may not be fully operational, with some attractions closed and some hotels not in service, so it's important to plan your itinerary.

What to Wear/Bring in January

In January, Dunhuang is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jackets, as well as gloves, scarves, and warm hats, with snow boots while viewing snow. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from -10°C to 5°C, with the highest of 14°C and the lowest of -20°C. The monthly precipitation is about 1mm, with sunny, cloudy and overcast days, as well as occasional snowfall. In early spring, February brings rising temperatures to the Dunhuang desert, with weather that fluctuates between sunny and cloudy, feeling both warm and chilly. On sunny days, the sand dunes are bathed in golden light, and you can feel a gentle spring breeze on your face.

February is the low season for tourism in Dunhuang, with fewer visitors, offering more flexibility in accommodation and transportation options, as well as lower prices, but the tourists may increase relatively during the Spring Festival. Tourism services and activities may not be fully operational, with some attractions closed and some hotels not in service, so it's important to plan your itinerary.

What to Wear/Bring in February

In February, Dunhuang is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jackets, as well as gloves, scarves, and warm hats, with snow boots while viewing snow. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from -1°C to 15°C, with the highest of 27°C and the lowest of -10°C. The monthly precipitation is about 2mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days. In March, the Dunhuang desert is infused with the gentle breath of spring. As temperatures gradually rise, the ice and snow around Crescent Spring melt, revealing clear, refreshing waters. The spring sunlight casts a beautiful glow over the landscape, making the desert's stunning scenery even more captivating.

March is the low season for tourism in Dunhuang, with fewer visitors, offering more flexibility in accommodation and transportation options, as well as lower prices, which reduces travel costs. However, tourism services and activities may not be fully operational, with some attractions closed and some hotels not in service, so it's important to plan your itinerary.

What to Wear/Bring in March

In March, Dunhuang is cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as trench coats and down jackets, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

In April, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 3°C to 21°C, with the highest of 30°C and the lowest of -10°C. The monthly precipitation is about 3mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In April, a gentle breeze stirs the air, and the warmth of spring envelops Dunhuang. The city eagerly anticipates a spring rain to nourish the earth, making the blossoming Liguang apricot flowers even more delicate and charming. From above, the undulating Mingsha Mountain is framed by the pink and white hues of the apricot orchards at its base, resembling a beautiful sea of clouds.

April is the also low season for tourism in Dunhuang, but visitors increase, and tourism services and activities are mainly operational, with most of attractions opened, leading to higher prices and fewer accommodation and transportation options, which raises travel costs. Therefore it's important to plan your itinerary in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in April

In April, Dunhuang is cool, so it's recommended to wear warm clothing such as trench coats and sports jackets and pay attention to cold night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

In May, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 9°C to 28°C, with the highest of 39°C and the lowest of -1°C. The monthly precipitation is about 3mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In May, Dunhuang is alive with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers. Spring is in full swing, and everything is flourishing, creating a vibrant and colorful scene. Beneath Mingsha Mountain, green trees make shade, while the banks of the Dang River are adorned with a riot of blooming flowers. The willow trees along the welcoming avenue sway gracefully in the breeze, greeting all who pass by.

May is the high season for tourism in Dunhuang, but except for the May Day Holiday, the amount of visitors just increases slightly. Tourism services and activities are fully operational, leading to higher prices and fewer accommodation and transportation options, which raises travel costs. Therefore it's important to plan your itinerary in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in May

In May, Dunhuang is warm, so it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as shirts and jackets and pay attention to cool night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 14°C to 32°C, with the highest of 38°C and the lowest of 4°C. The monthly precipitation is about 7mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In June, Dunhuang enjoys beautiful weather with clear blue skies and fluffy white clouds, contrasting with the golden sands of the desert. Tourists from all over the country flock to Dunhuang to immerse themselves in the unique desert culture and scenery.

June is the high season for tourism in Dunhuang, with more visitors, and tourism services and activities are fully operational, leading to higher prices and fewer accommodation and transportation options, which raises travel costs. Therefore it's important to plan your itinerary in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in June

In June, Dunhuang is relatively hot, so it's recommended to wear breathable clothing such as T-shirts and blouses and pay attention to cool night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 15°C to 34°C, with the highest of 41°C and the lowest of 8°C. The monthly precipitation is about 12mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In July, the scorching sun heats the sands of Mingsha Mountain, making them intensely hot. The gentle ringing of camel bells echoes across the desert, telling stories of the Western Regions to every visitor who arrives.

July is the peak season for tourism in Dunhuang as the summer holiday coming, with more visitors, and tourism services and activities are fully operational, leading to higher prices and fewer accommodation and transportation options, which raises travel costs. Therefore it's important to plan your itinerary in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in July

In July, Dunhuang is hot, so it's recommended to wear breathable clothing such as T-shirts and blouses and pay attention to cool night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 15°C to 32°C, with the highest of 41°C and the lowest of 4°C. The monthly precipitation is about 22mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In early August, the heat of summer in the desert city of Dunhuang gradually fades, giving way to cool breezes and plenty of sunny days. The oases of Dunhuang are filled with the fragrant scent of melons and fruits, as flowers bloom, heralding the arrival of the annual harvest season.

August is the peak season for tourism in Dunhuang, with the most visitors until the late August when most of people turn back for rests, and tourism services and activities are fully operational, leading to higher prices and fewer accommodation and transportation options, which raises travel costs. Therefore it's important to plan your itinerary in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in August

In August, Dunhuang is hot, so it's recommended to wear breathable clothing such as T-shirts and blouses and pay attention to cool night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

In September, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 9°C to 27°C, with the highest of 37°C and the lowest of 0°C. The monthly precipitation is about 2mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as some occasionally rainfall. In autumn, the trees along the Dang River Line put on their golden attire, with leaves turning vibrant shades of yellow and orange. From a distance, it resembles a stunning painting. The willows by the river, with their leaves shifting from green to yellow, sway gently in the breeze, beautifully complementing the surrounding scenery.

September is also the peak season for tourism in Dunhuang, but the amount of visitors decreases as the summer holiday ending. Tourism services and activities are still operational, leading to higher prices but more accommodation and transportation options. The travel costs can be high, but it is the best time to explore the charm of Dunhuang.

What to Wear/Bring in September

In September, Dunhuang is cool down, so it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as shirts and jackets and pay attention to cool night, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In October, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from 3°C to 20°C, with the highest of 27°C and the lowest of -4°C. The monthly precipitation is about 1mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days. As the autumn breeze gently caresses the land of Dunhuang, the poplar forest covers with its golden coat, a breathtaking masterpiece crafted by nature that feels dreamlike. Under the sunlight, the dazzling gold contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and the Gobi Desert.

October is also the peak season for tourism in Dunhuang, but the amount of visitors decreases. Tourism services and activities are still operational, leading to higher prices but more accommodation and transportation options. The travel costs can be high, but it is the best time to explore the charm of Dunhuang.

What to Wear/Bring in October

In October, Dunhuang is cool, so it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as trench coats and sports jackets, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from -7°C to 8°C, with the highest of 18°C and the lowest of -18°C. The monthly precipitation is about 1mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as occasionally snowfall. In November, as autumn transitions into winter, the leaves of the trees lining the paths into the caves have turned a crisp yellow. Under the sunlight, they shimmer with a brilliant golden hue. When a gentle breeze blows, the leaves dance in the wind, a dazzling display of light and shadow that captivates the senses.

November is the low season for tourism in Dunhuang, with fewer visitors, offering more flexibility in accommodation and transportation options, as well as lower prices, which reduces travel costs. Tourism services and activities are still operational though the attraction may be not so perfect. Therefore if you well plan your trip, you can still enjoy a pleasant journey.

What to Wear/Bring in November

In November, Dunhuang is cold, so it's recommended to wear warm clothing such as trench coats and down jackets, with mask to prevent from the sand blown by the wind. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, the average temperature in Dunhuang ranges from -13°C to 1°C, with the highest of 11°C and the lowest of -23°C. The monthly precipitation is about 1mm, with sunny, cloudy and some overcast days, as well as occasionally snowfall. The winter winds sweep away the heat of summer and the melancholy of autumn, and the sound of camel bells rings clearer in the air. After a heavy snowfall, the landscape transforms into a scene of golden sand and silver snow, with distinct contrasts of light and shadow.

December is the low season for tourism in Dunhuang, with fewer visitors, offering more flexibility in accommodation and transportation options, as well as lower prices, which reduces travel costs. However, tourism services and activities may not be fully operational, with some attractions closed and some hotels not in service, so it's important to plan your itinerary.

What to Wear/Bring in December

In December, Dunhuang is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jackets, as well as gloves, scarves, and warm hats, with snow boots while viewing snow. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to bring lip balm and moisturizer to prevent dry skin, along with a thermos for hot water. Dunhuang enjoys plenty of sunshine, so sunglasses and a sun hat to block UV rays can be very helpful.

Customize Your Unique Dunhuang Silk Road Trip

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

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Dunhuang Tour, please visit our Dunhuang Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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