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Gansu

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Travel guide
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Travel guide

Top 10 things to do in Gansu

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Best time to visit Gansu

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Gansu throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): Average 5.1–20.3°C, dry climate, large temperature difference, little rainfall. Common activities: Spring outings, flower viewing (if local flora allows). Suggested clothing: Warm jacket, long-sleeved clothing, extra layer for significant temperature differences between day and night.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 22–23.7°C, dry and hot climate, little rainfall. Common activities: Summer resort travel (if applicable), night sky viewing. Suggested clothing: Light and breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 16.5–3.4°C, dry climate, large temperature difference between day and night, gradually decreasing temperatures. Common activities: Enjoying autumn scenery (if local views allow). Suggested clothing: Warm jacket, long-sleeved clothing, layering is recommended.
  • Winter (December–February): Average -7.1–-4.2°C, dry and cold climate, very little rainfall. Common activities: Skiing (if local ski resorts exist). Suggested clothing: Heavy down jacket, warm hat, gloves, scarf.

Weather in Gansu

Annual average temperature: approx. 10.2°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 8 mm / Summer humidity: 20%–30% / Rainiest month: September

Gansu weather by month

Month
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
January
-4.8°C
0
February
-4.2°C
0.4
March
5.1°C
0.1
April
12.9°C
0.6
May
20.3°C
0.5
June
22°C
1.1
July
23.7°C
1
August
23.3°C
1.2
September
16.5°C
2.7
October
11.1°C
0.6
November
3.4°C
0.2
December
-7.1°C
0.1

7-day weather forecast for Gansu

10/30
Friday
Sunny
17.5°C/2°C
10/31
Saturday
Overcast
11.9°C/2.3°C
11/1
Sunday
Sunny
11.1°C/-0.6°C
11/2
Monday
Sunny
13.6°C/-0.1°C
11/3
Tuesday
Overcast
13°C/0.6°C
11/4
Wednesday
Sunny
12.8°C/1.9°C
11/5
Thursday
Sunny
13°C/0°C

Gansu travel FAQs and useful info

How long should I spend exploring Gansu?

For a comprehensive experience of Gansu's highlights like Dunhuang, Zhangye, and Jiayuguan, approximately one week is ideal. If you have more time, consider extending your trip to 8-10 days to include Lanzhou, Xiahe, and the Badain Jaran Desert.

What are the best ways to travel to Gansu?

You can fly into Lanzhou and then use bus services for convenient travel. Alternatively, you can fly into Jiayuguan Airport or Gannan Xiahe Airport, utilizing taxis and buses from there. Another option is to fly into Xi'An Xianyang International Airport and then take a train.

What is Gansu renowned for?

Gansu is famous for its unique hand-pulled noodles, often called "dragon whiskers" due to their extreme thinness. You'll also find other celebrated starchy foods like steamed buns, dumplings, and pancakes that are characteristic of the region's cuisine.

What are the must-visit attractions in Gansu?

Key attractions in Gansu include the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, known for their ancient Buddhist art, the colorful Zhangye Danxia Landform, and the historic Jiayuguan Pass, the western end of the Great Wall. The Yellow River Iron Bridge in Lanzhou is also a significant landmark.

What kind of food should I try in Gansu?

Gansu cuisine is a culinary adventure. Don't miss the signature 'dragon whisker' noodles, Lanzhou beef noodles, and various delicious steamed buns, dumplings, and pancakes. The region's food reflects its rich Silk Road heritage.