Qilian Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Qilian.
Climate overview of Qilian
The climate in Qilian, China, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 15°C (59°F) in July to -8°C (18°F) in January.
The city receives around 786 mm (31 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from October to March, with mild summers and very cold winters. July is the wettest month and December the driest.
Qilian Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Qilian - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Qilian
In Qilian, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a moderate 15°C (59°F) in July to a very cold -8°C (18°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 4°C (39°F) in July to -25°C (-13°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Qilian
On average, Qilian receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 786 mm (31 in). The seasons in Qilian bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, July, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 161 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, December, experiences much less snowfall, totaling 5 mm (0.2 in) over 2 snowy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Qilian Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Best Time to Visit Qilian
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- 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 October to March, with mild summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -25°C (-13°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Qilian
What is the best time to visit Qilian?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Qilian. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Qilian has a distinct dry season from October to March, with mild summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Qilian?
Daytime highs range from -8°C (18°F) in January to 15°C (59°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -25°C (-13°F) to 4°C (39°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Qilian get?
Annual rainfall is around 786 mm (31 in). July is the wettest month with 161 mm (6.3 in), while December is the driest with 5 mm (0.2 in).
Qilian 3-Day Forecast
Qilian on the map
Qilian is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Hangzhou
34°C (93°F) Guangzhou34°C (93°F) Shanghai32°C (90°F) Xi'an
33°C (91°F) Beijing32°C (90°F) Shenzhen32°C (90°F) Chengdu31°C (88°F) Qingdao29°C (84°F) 
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