The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Xining Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Xining.
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Climate overview of Xining
The climate in Xining, Qinghai, China, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 22°C (72°F) in July to 0°C (32°F) in January.
With around 631 mm (25 in) of annual rain/snowfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. September is the wettest month and December the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from November to March, with warm summers and very cold winters. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 8.2 hours of daily sunshine.
Xining Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Xining - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Xining
In Xining, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 22°C (72°F) in July to a very cold 0°C (32°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 10°C (50°F) in July to around -17°C (1°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Xining
On average, Xining receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 631 mm (25 in). The climate in Xining shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in September, the wettest month, with an average of 110 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month December offers drier and sunnier days, with around 5.2 mm (0.2 in) of snowfall over 2 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Xining Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Xining
Xining offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between May (8.2 hours daily) and September (6.3 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Xining by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Xining.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 68%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 46%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Xining
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 1 m/s (2 knots) to 2 m/s (4 knots). It is lower in January, July, August, September, October, November and December and higher in February, March, April, May and June. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Xining
For comfortable weather, consider visiting Xining in June. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
cold
Feb
cold
Mar
mixed
Apr
good
May
very good
Jun
excellent
Jul
very good
Aug
very good
Sep
good
Oct
mixed
Nov
mixed
Dec
cold
- Best overall: June
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June and July
- Fewest rainy days: January, February, November and December
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from November to March, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -17°C (1°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Xining
What is the best time to visit Xining?
June typically offers the most optimal weather in Xining. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Xining has a distinct dry season from November to March, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Xining?
Daytime highs range from 0°C (32°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -17°C (1°F) to 10°C (50°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Xining get?
Annual rainfall is around 631 mm (25 in). September is the wettest month with 110 mm (4.3 in), while December is the driest with 5.2 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Xining?
Xining receives around 2,619 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 246 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 188 hours. Overall, Xining enjoys abundant sunshine.
Xining 3-Day Forecast
Xining on the map
Xining is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in October
Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Guangzhou
30°C (86°F) Shenzhen29°C (84°F) Hangzhou25°C (77°F) Shanghai24°C (75°F) Chengdu
22°C (72°F) Xi'an21°C (70°F) Beijing
21°C (70°F) Qingdao21°C (70°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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