Geographical position and Climate of Gansu
Gansu Province is located in the north-central region of China, stretching from the Tibetan Plateau in the southwest to the Loess Plateau in the northeast. It lies between the latitudes 32° 31′ to 42° 57′ N and longitudes 92° 13′ to 108° 46′ E. The province shares its borders with Shaanxi to the east, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia to the north, Xinjiang to the west, Sichuan to the south, and Qinghai to the southeast.
Overall, Gansu’s climate can be harsh, with dry conditions prevailing throughout much of the province. The best time to visit Gansu generally depends on the specific region and what you plan to do.
Best time to visit Gansu
The best time to visit Gansu Province is from May to October when the weather is relatively mild and conducive for traveling and sightseeing. During this period, the temperature is comfortable, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant, especially in the regions with more vegetation.
- Spring (May to June): The weather starts to warm up, making it a good time for outdoor activities and visiting the cultural sites without the extreme heat of summer.
- Summer (July to August): This is when the province experiences its rainy season, which can bring about cooler temperatures and lush landscapes, but also potential travel disruptions due to rain.
- Autumn (September to October): The temperatures begin to cool down, and the autumn colors create picturesque landscapes. It’s an excellent time for hiking and exploring the diverse geography of the province.
It’s important to note that due to Gansu’s varied topography, weather conditions can differ significantly between regions. For instance, the Hexi Corridor can be visited earlier in the year as it warms up sooner than the mountainous areas. Conversely, the higher altitudes of southern Gansu, including parts of the Tibetan Plateau, have a much shorter summer season and can be quite cold even in early autumn.
Travelers should also consider avoiding national holidays such as the first week of October (National Day Golden Week) when tourist sites are particularly crowded and accommodation prices can rise significantly.
Travel to Gansu
Getting to Gansu Province in China can be done by air, train, or road, depending on your starting point and preferences:
By Air
- Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW): As the capital city of Gansu, Lanzhou is the main gateway to the province. The airport serves domestic flights from major Chinese cities and a limited number of international routes.
- Dunhuang Airport (DNH): For those interested in visiting the Mogao Caves and other attractions around Dunhuang, this regional airport offers flights mainly from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.
By Train
Gansu is well-connected by China’s extensive railway network, making it accessible from various parts of the country:
- High-Speed Rail: The Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway runs through Gansu, stopping at key cities such as Lanzhou, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye. It connects to major hubs like Urumqi in the west and Xining, Xi’an, and further eastward.
- Regular Trains: Slower trains are also available and can be a more economical option. Overnight sleeper trains from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu to Lanzhou are popular among travelers.
By Road
- Long-Distance Buses: There are long-distance bus services connecting Gansu with neighboring provinces. Buses can be a good choice for reaching destinations not served by rail or for those who prefer scenic road trips.
- Self-Drive: Renting a car and driving to Gansu is an option for those who prefer having their own vehicle. However, it’s important to be prepared for long distances and sometimes challenging driving conditions, especially in remote areas.
Travel Tips
- Plan Ahead: Due to the size of Gansu and the distance between attractions, it’s essential to plan your route and mode of transportation carefully.
- Check Timetables: Always check the latest flight and train schedules as they can change seasonally or due to other factors.
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons, it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance to secure your seat and avoid inconvenience.
- Local Transportation: Once in Gansu, you can use local buses, taxis, or hire private vehicles to get around the cities and to various tourist sites.
Whether you’re heading to Gansu to explore the Silk Road history, the stunning landscapes of the Zhangye Danxia Landform, or the Tibetan culture in the south, getting there is relatively straightforward with some planning.
Places to visit in Gansu
Important Information
Capital – Lanzhou
Largest City – Lanzhou
Territory – 453,700 km2
Population – 25,019,831
Time Zone – UTC+8 (CST)