The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Lanzhou Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Lanzhou.
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Climate overview of Lanzhou
Temperatures in Lanzhou, Gansu, China, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 29°C (84°F), while January is the coldest at 2°C (36°F).
The city tends toward dry conditions, with around 478 mm (19 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It does, however, have a distinct dry season from November to April, with warm summers and cold winters. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 8.2 hours of daily sunshine.
Lanzhou Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lanzhou - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Lanzhou
The climate in Lanzhou is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July to a chilly 2°C (36°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 16°C (61°F) in July to around -10°C (14°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Lanzhou
Lanzhou maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, recording average annual precipitation of 478 mm (19 in). The climate in Lanzhou shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in August, the wettest month, with an average of 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month December offers drier and sunnier days, with around 4.1 mm (0.2 in) of snowfall over 2 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Lanzhou 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 Lanzhou
For those who appreciate different seasons, Lanzhou serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 8.2 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 5.0 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Lanzhou by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Lanzhou.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 69%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 44%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Lanzhou
Conditions in Lanzhou are generally most comfortable in April, May, June, July, August and September. They are typically least comfortable in January 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
mixed
Mar
good
Apr
excellent
May
excellent
Jun
excellent
Jul
excellent
Aug
excellent
Sep
excellent
Oct
good
Nov
mixed
Dec
cold
- Best overall: April, May, June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June, July and August
- Fewest rainy days: January, February and December
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from November to April, with warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -10°C (14°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lanzhou
What is the best time to visit Lanzhou?
April, May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Lanzhou. In contrast, January and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Lanzhou has a distinct dry season from November to April, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Lanzhou?
Daytime highs range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 16°C (61°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Lanzhou get?
Annual rainfall is around 478 mm (19 in). August is the wettest month with 99 mm (3.9 in), while December is the driest with 4.1 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Lanzhou?
Lanzhou receives around 2,428 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 246 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 150 hours. Overall, Lanzhou enjoys abundant sunshine.
Lanzhou 3-Day Forecast
Lanzhou on the map
Lanzhou 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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Go to Xinjiang in China
In Xinjiang you get to see a mix of East and Central Asia. An experience that you might want to add to your bucket list. You can travel through the province as if you are following an ancient silk route.
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The best time for a Kailash tour/trekking is from mid-May to mid-October when the temperature is most pleasant. It is warm, dry and sunny in that period.