Xinjiang Climate & Weather

Briefing

Xinjiang is far away from the ocean with the mountains all around that forms the temperate continental climate.

Generally speaking, the south is warmer than the north in winter and hotter than the north in summer. Most of the areas feature a big temperature difference of days and nights in spring and summer and the alternation of fall and winter. In the coldest month January, the average temperature in the Dzungarian Basin is 20ºC below freezing point.

The Fuyun County on the northern edge of the Basin made a national record and had the lowest temperature once amounted to 50.15ºC below freezing point, claimed one of the coldest areas in the nation. The hottest month July, Turpan known as "the Fire Continent", the average temperature is above 33 ºC. The highest temperature once reached to 49.6ºC that comes first of the nation.

Tips for Xinjiang Weather

•Best season to visit Xinjiang:
The best time to travel in Xinjiang is in autumn, especially the August, September and October. In spring, due to the invasion of the cold air, there often appear high winds. Summer (June to August) is considered peak season and hottest season. The autumn months between September and November have the best weather and fewer tourists. In winter, Xinjiang has a high quality of snow and a long snowy period. 

•Clothes for travelling:
Spring in Xinjiang is dry and strong wind weather with strong ultraviolet ray, you'd better put on thin sweater or coat. Summer is too hot in Xinjiang, just take your T-shirt with you. Xinjiang is too cold in winter, so tourists need to wear sweatet or thick coat. 

•Avoid Peak Holidays:
It is not a good idea to travel in China during Chinese holidays when huge numbers of Chinese people are travelling around. The busiest three national holidays in China are Chinese Spring Festival (usually in late Jan or early Feb.), International Labor Day (May 01 to 03) and National Day (Oct 01-07).. Spring Festival is an especially crowded time to travel. The advantage of being in China at this time is that you will get the opportunity to experience "first hand" the significance of these celebrations in Chinese culture. 

•Other Tips: 
Because of the less rainfall and the dry air, travelers must pay special attention to moisture supplement while traveling in Xinjiang.

Temperature difference is great in most regions of Xinjiang, please bring enough clothes with you.