Xiahe Weather: the Best Time & Seasons to Visit or Travel
Overview
Xiahe is located in the southwest of Gansu Province, in the northwest of the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, and belongs to an arid and semi-arid climate zone. The climate is cold and humid, with frequent winds in winter and spring, and more rainfall in summer and autumn. The annual average precipitation is 516 mm, with the total annual sunshine duration is 2,296 hours. The annual average temperature is 2.6°C, with the extreme lowest temperature reaching -26.7°C and the extreme highest temperature reaching 28.4°C. The temperature difference between day and night is significant.
The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Xiahe
The best time to visit Xiahe is July and August in summer. The summer in Xiahe is pleasant, with the grasslands blooming in a riot of colors, making the scenery particularly enchanting. During this time, various traditional festivals are also held, allowing visitors to enjoy both the beautiful landscapes and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Xiahe Weather in Four Seasons
Spring (March to May)
Springtime is vibrant and full of life, with everything receiving the blessings of the season. As the snow begins to melt, the air still carries a hint of coolness. The rumble of thunder brings the long-awaited spring rain, which nourishes the land. The breath hiding warm spring breeze gently sweeps through, painting Xiahe with a lively and flourishing spring scene. The spring days, with their vivid and captivating colors, bloom with poetry and tenderness in the lives of the people of Xiahe.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the most beautiful season in Xiahe. The grasslands spread out like a green carpet, with cows and sheep scattered across the land, wildflowers dotting the landscape, and the forests lush and vibrant. During this time, the place is far from the noise and heat, with a cool and comfortable climate. Dozens of white tents are scattered across the green meadows, by the streams, and near the bushes, with people leisurely sipping butter tea and chatting, where everything feels so delightful and harmonious.
Autumn (September to November)
Although autumn is relatively short, it has its own unique charm. After the rainy season, the weather becomes mild, and the grasslands transition from green to yellow. The deep blue lakes and the clear blue sky complement each other, while the unmelted snow on the distant mountains come into the eyes, evoking the beauty of snow-capped peaks and sacred lakes. The golden top of Labrang Monastery shines in the sunlight, much like the warm rays of the autumn sun, gentle and comforting.
Winter (December to February)
In winter, Xiahe fades the dust of the world. Temples and mountains in the snow stand in harmonious contrast, and the pristine white snow and the deep red robes of the monks interleaves. The vast grasslands are blanketed in silver, with the snow forming a soft carpet, while the clear lakes are covered with a reflective sheet of ice, mirroring the snow-capped mountains and sky. The entire grassland is a piece of white, blending seamlessly with the distant mountain ranges.
Xiahe Weather by Month/Year Round
If you can freely choose when to travel to Xiahe, 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 Xiahe 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 Xiahe ranges from -17°C to 3°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 8.63mm. The weather is mainly sunny and cloudy, with overcast days and occasional snowfall.
In the ethereal and tranquil winter days of Xiahe, the vast and beautiful grasslands stretch endlessly, while the Tibetan villages remain secluded and peaceful. The monasteries stand pure and solemn, adorned in silver snow. The landscape is captivating in its uniqueness, and the cultural allure is irresistibly enchanting.
January is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. However, apart from snow-related activities, some attractions may be closed, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in January
In January, Xiahe is very cold, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats, down jackets, and accessories like gloves and scarves, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask. Additionally, if needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
February: is February a Good Time to Visit?
In February, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -14°C to 4°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 17.33mm. The weather is sunny and cloudy, with overcast days and snowfall.
In February, a snowfall blankets the land in a coat of silver. As the Chinese New Year approaches, the streets and alleys of Labrang come alive with the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. The celebrations of the Spring Festival and the Sunning Buddha Festival unfold one after another, showcasing the dazzling richness of local folk culture.
February is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. During this month, many festival activities will be celebrated. However, apart from those and snow-related activities, some attractions may be closed, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in February
In February, Xiahe is very cold, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats, down jackets, and accessories like gloves and scarves, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask. Additionally, if needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
March: is March a Good Time to Visit?
In March, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -7°C to 11°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 11.5mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and overcast, with sunny days and snowfall, as well as occasional rainfall.
In March, the weather in Xiahe is in alternating warmth and coldness. As the spring breeze sweeps across, the grasslands ripple like waves. In the shallow lakes, a few remnants of snow, barely holding on, slowly melt away. Waterfowl, sensing the warmth of the season, stretch their wings freely, basking in the endless springtime.
March is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. However, some attractions may be closed during this month, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in March
In March, Xiahe warm up yet cold, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats, down jackets, and accessories like gloves and scarves, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask. Additionally, if needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
April: is April a Good Time to Visit?
In April, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -2°C to 13°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 38.97mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and overcast, with some sunny days, as well as occasional snowfall and rainfall.
Although April on the plateau is still marked by a lingering chill, a clap of thunder brings the much-awaited spring rain to the land. Xiahe is bathed in a soft apricot hue as apricot blossoms bloom one after another, fresh and beautiful. Under the warm sunlight, the Sangke Grassland is adorned in a new coat of green.
Except for the Qingming Festival, April is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. During this month, those attractions used to be closed will successively open, but some views might be not so beautiful, so it’s important for your itinerary to decide whether to visit or not to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in April
In April, Xiahe is cool, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jackets, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. Additionally, if needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
May: is May a Good Time to Visit?
In May, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from 2°C to 16°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 105.27mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and rainy, with some overcast and sunny days, as well as occasional snowfall.
In May, Xiahe shakes off the dullness of winter, as wild flowers, tender buds, gentle breezes, and warm sunshine breathe new life into the land. This hidden gem on the plateau, with scenery that rivals Tibet's, awaits your exploration.
May Day holiday is the peak season for tourism in Xiahe, with more visitors and higher travel costs, so an off-season tour beyond May Day holiday may be a good idea. During this month, attractions are fully opened, and many activities and policies are introduced, so it’s a good time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in May
In May, Xiahe is mild, so it’s recommended to wear warm clothing such as thermal wear and windbreaker, and pay attention to the temperature variation. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. Additionally, if needed, be sure to take measures for sun protection.
June: is June a Good Time to Visit?
In June, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from 5°C to 19°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 52.9mm. The weather is mostly rainy and cloudy, with some overcast and sunny days.
In June, the Ganjia Grassland is a lush green expanse, like a natural carpet of emerald. Wildflowers bloom in vibrant profusion, creating a sea of colors. The blue sky, white clouds, and green grass blend seamlessly, while the meandering river flows gently, resembling a pure white khata drifting across the prairie.
June is the common season for tourism in Xiahe, with more visitors and higher travel costs. During this month, attractions are fully opened, and many activities and policies are introduced, so it’s a good time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in June
In June, Xiahe is mild, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as jacket and sweatshirt, and pay attention to the temperature variation. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. If needed, be sure to take measures for mosquito and sun protection.
July: is July a Good Time to Visit?
In July, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from 8°C to 22°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 77.73mm. The weather is mostly rainy, with some cloudy, overcast and sunny days.
In the summer of July, the Sangke Grassland is intoxicatingly beautiful, with colorful flowers blooming across the prairie, where the blue sky and white clouds complement each other. Even in the peak of summer, Xiahe enjoys a cool climate, making it a natural summer retreat.
July is the peak season for tourism in Xiahe due to the summer holiday, with more visitors and higher travel costs. During this month, many activities and policies are introduced, so if you can accept the high prices and well plan your itinerary, it’s the best time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in July
In July, Xiahe is warm, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as thin jacket and sweatshirt, and pay attention to the temperature variation. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. If needed, be sure to take measures for mosquito and sun protection.
August: is August a Good Time to Visit?
In August, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from 9°C to 23°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 103.73mm. The weather is mostly rainy, with some cloudy, sunny and occasional overcast days.
By August, the lingering atmosphere of late summer continues to weave its way through the days. Why not chase the footsteps of time and head to distant places to witness the exclusive beauty of midsummer in Xiahe? The Arrows Festival and Xianglang Festival are also about to begin, ushering in a series of unique celebrations of the grassland.
August is the peak season for tourism in Xiahe due to the summer holiday, with more visitors and higher travel costs, so an off-season tour in the late August may be a good idea. Therefore if you can accept the high prices and well plan your itinerary, it’s the best time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in August
In August, Xiahe is warm, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as thin jacket and sweatshirt, and pay attention to the temperature variation. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. If needed, be sure to take measures for mosquito and sun protection.
September: is September a Good Time to Visit?
In September, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from 5°C to 19°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 179mm. The weather is mostly rainy, with some cloudy, sunny and overcast days.
The autumn in Xiahe arrives quietly, yet it is so beautiful that it captivates the heart. Unlike the vibrant greenery of summer, the landscape is now filled with a golden hue melt into the air. If you missed the summer beauty of Xiahe, then don’t let the autumn pass by without experiencing its charm.
September is the common season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors than August but the travel costs may still be high and some activities are over. Therefore if you can accept the high prices and well plan your itinerary, it’s a good time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in September
In September, Xiahe is cool down, so it’s recommended to wear warm clothing such as jacket and windbreaker, and pay attention to the temperature variation. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall increases. If needed, be sure to take measures for mosquito and sun protection.
October: is October a Good Time to Visit?
In October, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -1°C to 13°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 45.6mm. The weather is mostly rainy and cloudy, with some sunny and overcast days, as well as occasional snowfall.
Autumn in Xiahe transitions gently from the soft hues of early September to the vibrant golden splendor of October. The grasslands are golden, the canyons are deep, the wetlands remain serene, and the Tibetan villages retain their ancient charm. Everywhere you look, whether it’s a temple or a rural road that suddenly catches your eye, every spot is a picture, and each step you take is filled with poetry.
October is the last peak season for tourism in Xiahe due to the National Day holiday, with more visitors and higher travel costs, but after that, the visitors will decrease quickly, so an off-season tour may be a good idea. Therefore if you can accept the high prices and well plan your itinerary, it’s a good time to visit Xiahe.
What to Wear/Bring in October
In October, Xiahe is cool, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jacket, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask, and rain equipment can be carried as the rainfall comes. If needed, be sure to take measures for sun protection.
November: is November a Good Time to Visit?
In November, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -8°C to 9°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 0.63mm. The weather is mostly sunny and cloudy, with some overcast days and snowfall, as well as occasional rainfall.
In Xiahe’s November, even the temples seem to settle into peaceful silence, and the snowy landscapes of the plateau blend harmoniously with the blue skies and white clouds. Even as the harsh winter approaches, you can still feel the purity of the azure sky, and hear the gentle chants of sutras echoing through the air.
November is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. During this month, some attractions may be closed successively, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in November
In November, Xiahe is cold, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jacket, and accessories like gloves and scarves, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask. If needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
December: is December a Good Time to Visit?
In December, the average temperature in Xiahe ranges from -15°C to 4°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 0.63mm. The weather is mostly sunny and cloudy, with some overcast days and occasional snowfall.
In December, after a heavy snowfall, the majestic mountains draped in snow stand even more towering, illuminated by the sunlight, sparkling brilliantly. The vast grasslands are wrapped in a silver coat, and the clear lakes turn into icy mirrors, reflecting the snow peaks and the vast sky. The deep canyons, with icicles hanging from their cliffs, austere and mysterious.
December is the off-season for tourism in Xiahe, with fewer visitors and lower travel costs. During this month, except for some snow-related activities, some attractions may be closed successively, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to avoid disappointments.
What to Wear/Bring in December
In December, Xiahe is very cold, so it’s essential to wear warm clothing such as cotton coats and down jacket, and accessories like gloves and scarves, and bring a thermos for hot water. For mountain hikes, it's recommended to wear hiking boots. Given the high altitude of Xiahe, you should carry altitude sickness medication or an oxygen mask. If needed, be sure to take measures for moisturizing and sun protection.
Customize Your Unique Xiahe Labrang Trip
If you are interested in one of the Xiahe 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 Xiahe Tour, please visit our Xiahe Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.
Informative Articles for Xiahe
the Lamas of Labrang
the Lamas of Labrang
GREAT FAMILY CHINA TOUR
JULY 2024 We wanted to thank Grace at China Culture tour for organizing a great tour of China. We enjoyed our Beijing - Xian-Chengdu -Guilin -Yangshuo - Shanghai trip. Our local guides Bruce in Beijing, Susan in Xian, Jane in Chengdu, Mike in Guilin and Mary in Shanghai took care of us…read more details »
Teng Han L from SINGAPORE
Ready to Create a Unique Dream Travel?
