Weather in Kangding

Planning a trip to Kangding? To ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible, check out the current weather forecast and climate data in this section.

Kangding's climate is largely determined by its high-altitude location, making it cool and fresh throughout the year. You shouldn't expect exhausting heat here: even at the height of summer, the weather remains moderate and invigorating. This is a region with a rugged character, where nature creates a unique atmosphere that requires appropriate preparation from travellers.

Seasonal temperature fluctuations are quite pronounced here, but within a specific mountain range. Winter is cold and frosty: from December to February, the thermometer averages -6°C to -7°C, while night frosts often reach -13°C. Summer is the most comfortable period, yet even in July and August, the average temperature is only around +11°C, reaching a maximum of just +14°C to +15°C.

An important feature of the local climate is the distribution of precipitation. While the winter months are relatively dry, the period from May to September is characterised by a very high frequency of rain. During this time, the number of days with precipitation can reach 26–29 per month, creating frequent fogs and high humidity. Therefore, when setting off for Kangding, be sure to take warm clothes and reliable rain protection with you, regardless of the season.

The climate in Kangding is distinguished by a harsh high-altitude character, so there is practically never any real heat here. The annual temperature range is shifted towards lower values: even in the height of summer, the weather resembles a cool autumn. The coldest month is traditionally January with an average temperature of about -6.9°C, while July and August can be called the "warmest", when average figures barely exceed +10°C.

The summer period in this region of China is characterised by amazing freshness. In July and August, daily highs reach only +14.6°C, making the summer mild, but quite cool for an unprepared tourist. You will not encounter sweltering heat here; on the contrary, even on sunny days, the air remains invigorating. This is the ideal time for those who do not tolerate high temperatures well, however, a warm jacket in your suitcase will be a mandatory attribute of the trip.

Winter in Kangding is frosty and long. From December to February, night temperatures regularly drop to -13°C, and during the day, the thermometer often remains below freezing. It is also worth considering the daily temperature fluctuations characteristic of mountainous terrain: even in relatively warm months, such as May or September, the difference between the daytime maximum and nighttime minimum can be around 8–10 degrees, forcing travellers to bundle up immediately after sunset.

Precipitation in Kangding has a distinct seasonal character, yet the overall climate picture here is quite unique. Despite the fact that the total volume of falling moisture in millimetres remains low even in peak months, the number of days with precipitation in the warm season can be surprisingly high. This creates a specific atmosphere of high humidity without heavy flooding.

The wettest period is summer and early autumn. From May to September, it rains almost daily: statistics show from 26 to 29 rainy days per month, peaking in July. However, travellers should not be afraid of tropical downpours — most often precipitation falls in the form of light drizzle, fog, or short-term rains, which is typical for mountainous terrain.

In winter, the situation changes radically, and the dry season begins. From November to March, when average temperatures drop below freezing (down to -13°C at night in January), precipitation falls as snow. January is considered the driest month, when the probability of precipitation is minimal. Snowfalls at this time are usually not heavy, but due to persistent frosts, the snow cover can remain, creating picturesque winter landscapes.

When packing for Kangding, it is important to remember that the city is located in a mountainous area, so the weather here remains cool practically all year round. Even in the height of summer, in July and August, the average temperature rarely exceeds 11–14°C, and nights can be truly cold. The main principle of your wardrobe here is layering. This will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day, removing or putting on items as necessary. Be sure to take warm sweaters, fleece jackets, and a thick windproof jacket regardless of the season.

If your trip is planned for the period from May to September, be prepared for high humidity and frequent precipitation: statistics show up to 29 rainy days per month in summer. Therefore, a high-quality raincoat, a sturdy umbrella, and waterproof shoes will become your best friends. In winter, when the thermometer drops to -13°C, a full arsenal of warm clothes is necessary: a reliable down jacket, hat, scarf, warm gloves, and high-quality thermal underwear.

Do not forget about important accessories for high altitudes. Due to the elevation, the sun here is very active, so sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+) and sunglasses will be useful to you even in cloudy or winter weather. For long walks around the city and surrounding trails, choose comfortable trekking shoes with non-slip soles, which will ensure comfort and safety on the rugged terrain.