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

Overview

Qinghai Province is deeply inland, far from the ocean, and situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, characterized by a plateau continental climate. It experiences long hours of sunlight and strong solar radiation, with prolonged winters and cool summers. The temperature varies significantly between day and night but less so throughout the year. Precipitation is low and more rainfall in the east, while the west is dry, windy, oxygen-deficient, and cold.

With its vast territory, Qinghai exhibits significant regional climate differences. In the eastern Huangshui Valley, the annual average temperature ranges from 2 to 9°C, with a frost-free period of 100 to 200 days and annual precipitation of 250 to 550 mm. The Qaidam Basin has an annual average temperature of 2 to 5°C, with nearly 200 mm of annual precipitation and over 3,000 hours of sunshine. The northeastern high mountains and the southern Qinghai Plateau have lower temperatures, and apart from the mountainous areas, annual precipitation generally ranges from 100 to 500 mm.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Qinghai

In terms of climate, the best time to travel to Qinghai is from May to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable. Between May and June, Bird Island is covered with bird eggs, followed by flocks of young chicks. Even from miles away, the chorus of bird calls can be heard. As summer arrives, vast fields of rapeseed flowers bloom along the northern shore of Qinghai Lake; the golden sea of flowers contrasts beautifully with the endless blue waters. At the same time, the annual Qinghai Lake Cycling Race takes place as scheduled.

However, due to the unique terrain of Qinghai leading to significant climate variations, the best travel time may in different areas differ accordingly.

What is the best time to visit northeastern Qinghai?

Northeastern Qinghai includes areas surrounding Qinghai Lake and Huangshui Valley, such as Hainan, Haibei and east of Xining. The best time to visit the northeastern Qinghai is from May to October. During this period, the weather there is the most comfortable, and the natural landscapes such as sky, lake and grassland are in the most beautiful state, making people linger.

What is the best time to visit northwestern Qinghai?

Northwestern Qinghai includes Qaidam Basin in Haixi Prefecture. The best time to visit the northwestern Qinghai is from June to September. During this period, the water level of the salt lake is moderate, preventing large-scale drying. The climate is pleasant, making it the best season to witness the stunning beauty of the "Mirror of the Sky".

What is the best time to visit southern Qinghai?

Southern Qinghai includes Qinghai plateau, such as Yushu and Golog. The best time to visit the southern Qinghai is from June to October. Qinghai plateau has a higher altitude, so this period is the best time to travel. During this time, the temperature is at its highest, the sky is clear, the oxygen levels are higher, and the scenery is exceptionally beautiful.

Qinghai Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (March to May)

In spring, Qinghai awakens as nature gradually comes to life. As temperatures rise, the frozen surface of Qinghai Lake begins to thaw, and the grasslands slowly don their green attire. One of the most captivating sights is the bustling activity of birds on Qinghai Lake. From April to May, Bird Island welcomes a multitude of migratory birds, which gather here to breed and thrive, creating a spectacular scene. Strolling along the lakeshore, breathing in the crisp air, and gazing at the shimmering blue waters under a sky dotted with white clouds, framed by distant rolling mountains, feels like stepping into a moving painting.

Summer (June to August)

If spring at Qinghai Lake is a season of vibrant vitality, then summer transforms it into a fairy-tale realm of blooming flowers and lush greenery. During this time, the rapeseed fields along the lakeshore burst into full bloom, their golden hues dazzling against the deep blue waters. On the alpine pastures, wildflowers carpet the ground, and herds of cattle and sheep roam freely, painting a vivid pastoral scene. While the rest of China swelters in the summer heat, Qinghai’s cool breezes offer a refreshing escape, captivating every visitor and making them fall in love with this enchanting land.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn on the plateau is nature's most magnificent masterpiece, where every hue speaks of the profound romance and depth of time. As temperatures gradually drop, the vegetation around Qinghai Lake begins to turn golden and red, strikingly contrasting against the blue skies and white clouds. On the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, autumn unfolds like a richly colored scroll. Beneath a sapphire-blue sky, seas of clouds embrace the mountain ridges, while the vast grasslands shift from emerald green to shimmering gold. In the distance, the mountains are ablaze with fiery reds and golden yellows, and a stream winds its way through the valleys. Mountains, lakes, and towns seem draped in a delicate veil, weaving together a dreamlike landscape.

Winter (December to February)

Although winter in Qinghai brings frigid temperatures, it offers a charm all its own. As the sun rises, the winter scenery unfolds like a series of captivating paintings. From the snow-draped peaks of Laji Mountain to Gang Ziska Peak, and on to the snow-covered forests of Menyuan, each location radiates its own unique allure. At this time, Qinghai Lake transforms into a serene, icy wonderland. The air is crisp, the skies are crystal clear, and at night, the heavens come alive with a dazzling display of stars, leaving one spellbound.

Qinghai 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 Qinghai 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 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.

January in Qinghai sees an average temperature of -11.5°C to -2.7°C, with lows reaching -25°C and highs up to 7°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.26mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy days, some overcast skies, frequent winds, and occasional haze and snowfall.

January is the low season for tourism in Qinghai, with fewer visitors, offering a more flexible travel route at a lower cost. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is essential.

What to Wear/Bring in January

• Qinghai in January is cold and windy, requiring warm, windproof clothing such as padded coats, windbreakers and down jackets, along with gloves and scarves.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, Qinghai Lake, cloaked in ice, speaks of winter's resilience and purity. Its mirror-like surface reflects the grandeur of snow mountains, awaiting the gentle touch of spring's breeze. As night falls, the ancient town of Dangar comes alive with radiant lights, immersing you in the vibrant spirit of the Lunar New Year.

February in Qinghai sees an average temperature of -7.5°C to 2°C, with lows reaching -22°C and highs up to 12°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.28mm, with mostly sunny, overcast and cloudy days, frequent winds, and occasional haze and snowfall.

February is the low season for tourism in Qinghai, with fewer visitors, offering a more flexible travel route at a lower cost, while tourists will increase during the Spring Festival. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is essential.

What to Wear/Bring in February

• Qinghai in February is cold and windy, requiring warm, windproof clothing such as padded coats, windbreakers and down jackets, along with gloves and scarves.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In the still-chilly March, the spring snow breaks free from winter’s shackles, arriving gently as a parting gift from winter to spring. Since mid-March, the melting ice surface resembles a glistening jade, serene and pure, while the distant mountains and grasslands unfold like a warm-toned painting, soft and elegant. The door of Qinghai tourism is officially opened.

March in Qinghai sees an average temperature of -2.1°C to 7.2°C, with lows reaching -13°C and highs up to 22°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.69mm, with mostly cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, frequent winds, and occasional rainfall, snowfall and haze.

March is the shoulder season for tourism in Qinghai, with moderate visitors, offering a relatively flexible travel route at a lower cost. Attractions used to be closed successively open, so careful itinerary planning is important.

What to Wear/Bring in March

• Qinghai in March is cold and windy, requiring warm, windproof clothing such as padded coats, windbreakers and down jackets, along with gloves and scarves.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

The unique charm of early spring in the highlands unfolds as Qinghai dresses up for its rendezvous with the season, amidst seas of pear blossoms, peach blossoms, and lilacs. The spring waters begin to flow, and the forests awaken in lush greenery. As the ice gradually melts, lakes whisper the prelude to its defrosting. All of nature comes to life, as if composing the most delicate poem.

April in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 4.3°C to 13.5°C, with lows reaching -6°C and highs up to 24°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.77mm, with mostly cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, frequent winds, and occasional rainfall, snowfall and haze.

April is the shoulder season for tourism in Qinghai, with moderate visitors, offering a relatively flexible travel route at a lower cost. Attractions used to be closed successively open, so careful itinerary planning is important.

What to Wear/Bring in April

• Qinghai in April is cold and windy, requiring warm, windproof clothing such as padded coats, windbreakers and down jackets, along with gloves and scarves.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

On a May morning, prayer flags rise, lifting a gentle halo of light for Qinghai from the veil of dawn’s soft glow. The grass grows, orioles sing, horses neigh, and wind whispers—the awaken land of Qinghai renews splendor. The spirits of Qinghai Lake return home one after another, bringing with them the breath of spring. Tiny birds hatch from their shells, marking the most vibrant and life-filled moment on Bird Island in Qinghai Lake.

May in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 9.6°C to 17.9°C, with lows reaching 0°C and highs up to 26°C. The average monthly precipitation is 2.86mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days, frequent winds, and occasional snowfall and haze.

May is the shoulder season for tourism in Qinghai, with moderate visitors, offering a relatively flexible travel route at a moderate cost. Since the May Day holiday begins, almost all attractions open, more and more tourists swarm into Qinghai, so careful itinerary planning or off-peak tourism is a wise decision.

What to Wear/Bring in May

• Qinghai in May is cool and windy, requiring warm, windproof clothing such as padded coats, windbreakers and down jackets.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, Qinghai tells the story of another plateau landscape at the transition between spring and summer. The forests of the Huangshui Valley grow lush and verdant, while the emerald waters and crimson mountains of Kanbula show a dreamlike paradise. The earth and forests blend to form a fragrant highland oxygen bar. Kunlun Mountain and Yuzhu Peak stand tall in sacred majesty, their snow-covered peaks remaining unmelted.

June in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 14.2°C to 22°C, with lows reaching 7°C and highs up to 30°C. The average monthly precipitation is 4.05mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days, frequent winds, and occasional haze.

June is the high season for tourism in Qinghai, with more visitors, offering a limited travel route at a higher cost. As the high season is coming, everywhere is beautiful, tourists swarm into Qinghai leading to various activities, so it is the best time to visit Qinghai.

What to Wear/Bring in June

• Qinghai in June is cool and windy, requiring comfortable and windproof clothing such as sweatshirts windbreakers and jackets.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so it is better to bring moisturizers and a kettle to ensure water supply.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, Qinghai becomes a mesmerizing blend of flower fields and shimmering lake views. The golden sea of rapeseed flowers stretches across the land like a magnificent golden tapestry, perfectly complementing the serene lake. Everywhere you look, vibrant colors fill the horizon, making Qinghai shine like a radiant pearl, illuminating the entire summer.

July in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 16.7°C to 24.8°C, with lows reaching 11°C and highs up to 34°C. The average monthly precipitation is 6.56mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days.

July is the high season for tourism in Qinghai, with more visitors, offering a limited travel route at a higher cost. Summer holiday begins, the amount of tourists sees its peak, leading to various and abundant activities, so it is the best time to visit Qinghai.

What to Wear/Bring in July

• Qinghai in July is pleasant, requiring comfortable clothing such as thin sweatshirts and T-shirts, with jackets for cool night.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so it is better to bring moisturizers and a kettle to ensure water supply.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In summer, while most inland cities suffer from heat, Qinghai remains a paradise of breathtaking scenery and cool, pleasant weather—its most delightful season. Visiting the plateau’s lakes in midsummer and cup a handful of heaven’s tears, losing yourself in their mesmerizing blue. The vast grasslands stretch endlessly, dotted with horses, cattle, and sheep. A gentle breeze sweeps through, evoking a sense of returning to nature’s purest embrace.

August in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 16.6°C to 24.4°C, with lows reaching 8°C and highs up to 33°C. The average monthly precipitation is 4.4mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days.

August is the high season for tourism in Qinghai, with more visitors, offering a limited travel route at a higher cost. During the summer holiday, the amount of tourists sees its peak and will reduce in the late August, leading to various and abundant activities, so it is the best time to visit Qinghai.

What to Wear/Bring in August

• Qinghai in August is pleasant, requiring comfortable clothing such as thin sweatshirts and T-shirts, with jackets for cool night.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so it is better to bring moisturizers and a kettle to ensure water supply.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

As September arrives, Qinghai’s sky becomes even clearer and bluer, and Amidoṅso Mountain and Zhuo'er Mountain appears even more majestic under the white clouds. Under the autumn sunlight, the waters of Emerald Lake shimmer in shades of green and deep blue, radiating a dazzling beauty whether viewed from afar or up close, just like a piece of precious jade.

September in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 11.4°C to 19.1°C, with lows reaching 3°C and highs up to 30°C. The average monthly precipitation is 3.35mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days.

September is the high season for tourism in Qinghai, with more visitors, offering a limited travel route at a higher cost. Though it is still the high season, the amount of tourists reduces for the end of the summer holiday, so it is the best time to visit Qinghai.

What to Wear/Bring in September

• Qinghai in September is cool and windy, requiring comfortable and windproof clothing such as jackets, windbreakers and sweatshirts.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so it is better to bring moisturizers and a kettle to ensure water supply.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

October is the perfect time to admire autumn, as Qinghai transforms into a vibrant oil painting of rich hues. Maixiu Forest Park is a place of tranquility, free from haste and noise. Perhaps few have stopped to appreciate its beauty, but in autumn, its scenery becomes truly captivating. Being here feels like stepping into a Monet painting, where the swaying tree shadows cast a mesmerizing charm over the Maixiu landscape.

October in Qinghai sees an average temperature of 3.3°C to 11.9°C, with lows reaching -8°C and highs up to 23°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.9mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly rainy and overcast days, and frequent wind.

October is the high season for tourism in Qinghai, with more visitors, offering a limited travel route at a higher cost. The amount of tourists sees its last peak during the National Day holiday, and then reduces after then, so it is the best time to visit Qinghai in late October.

What to Wear/Bring in October

• Qinghai in October is chill and windy, requiring warm and windproof clothing such as down jackets, windbreakers and trench coats.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The weather is changeable and rain is erratic, so bringing an umbrella may be useful.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, Qinghai Lake embraces winter once again as snow falls. Each snowflake is like a stroke of time, delicately painting the serenity and solemnity of the season, evoking a sense of reverence. Migratory swans, wintering here, bask in the warm sunlight—sometimes gliding gracefully across the water, sometimes soaring with outstretched wings—bringing vitality to the tranquil landscape.

November in Qinghai sees an average temperature of -4.7°C to 4.3°C, with lows reaching -14°C and highs up to 17°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.29mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny, partly overcast days, frequent wind, and occasional snowfall and haze.

November is the low season for tourism in Qinghai, with fewer visitors, offering a more flexible travel route at a lower cost. Due to the decrease of tourists, activities reduce yet prices cut down either, so careful itinerary planning is important.

What to Wear/Bring in November

• Qinghai in November is cold and windy, requiring warm and windproof clothing such as down jackets, windbreakers and trench coats.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

A light layer of snow gently blankets the mountains, adding a touch of austerity and mystery to their once-majestic presence. The snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains glisten under the sunlight, bringing a sense of tranquility and enigma to the land. Towering with grandeur, the Amne Machin Snow Mountain stands proudly, its snowy summits set against the vast, pristine blue sky.

December in Qinghai sees an average temperature of -10.4°C to -2.2°C, with lows reaching -31°C and highs up to 6°C. The average monthly precipitation is 0.29mm, with mostly cloudy, partly sunny and overcast days, frequent wind, and occasional snowfall and haze.

December is the low season for tourism in Qinghai, with fewer visitors, offering a more flexible travel route at a lower cost. However, some attractions may be closed, so careful itinerary planning is essential.

What to Wear/Bring in December

• Qinghai in December is cold and windy, requiring warm and windproof clothing such as down jackets, windbreakers and padded coats, along with scarves and gloves.
• Qinghai is perfect for snow activities, so bringing sunglasses is necessary to prevent snow blindness.
• Qinghai has many mountainous areas, so it is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes when climbing.
• Qinghai has occasional dust weather, it is best to prepare masks in case.
• The sunlight is strong, so consider bringing a sun hat and sunscreen if needed.
• Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry medication for altitude sickness.
• The air is dry, so bringing moisturizers and a thermos to ensure a supply of hot water is recommended.

Customize Your Unique Qinghai Plateau Tour

If you are interested in the Qinghai 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 Qinghai Tour, please visit our Qinghai Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Qinghai Trip

Qinghai Wetland

• Travel Guide: attractions, weather, hotels, food, etc.
• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Qinghai
• Top attractions: sightseeings to watch in Qinghai
• Local culture: brief history, folk culture, festivals, etc.
• Top destinations: best places to visit in Qinghai
• Travel itineraries: itineraries for your reference
• Abundant activities: Qinghai cultural immersions
• Unique perspective: top interesting things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Qinghai
• Luxury hotels: accommodation to stay in Qinghai
• Qinghai Tours: customized tours for your reference