Best Time to Visit Sichuan

Sichuan is known for its diverse geography and varied climate. The eastern region experiences four distinct seasons, while the western region alternates between dry and rainy seasons. Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) are the best times to visit Sichuan. During these periods, the weather is mild, with neither the scorching heat of summer nor the severe cold of winter, making it very suitable for travel. Sichuan’s terrain spans plateaus, mountains, and plains, featuring multiple climate types, such as subtropical humid and alpine climates. Each season offers unique charm—from seas of flowers to colorful forests—ensuring unforgettable experiences year-round.

The best tourist attractions in Sichuan are mainly distributed in nearby areas around Chengdu in the center of Sichuan basin, the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the west, the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in the north and the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in the south.

Chengdu and Surrounding Areas

The Chengdu area and surrounding areas are in the center of the Sichuan Basin, with a subtropical humid climate characterized by warm and moist weather year-round, small diurnal temperature differences, and significant inter-annual variations. Summers are humid and hot, with average temperatures between 25-30°C, while winters are relatively cold but mostly above 0°C. The annual average temperature ranges from 16°C to 18°C, with most rainfall occurring in summer. Chengdu and surrounding areas can be visited all year round, but spring and autumn are the best seasons to recommend.

Major attractions include Mount Emei, Leshan Giant Buddha, Panda Base, Wuhou Temple, Kuanzhai Alley, Dujiangyan, and Qingcheng Mountain.

Ganzi

Ganzi is located in western Sichuan. The climate of Ganzi Prefecture belongs to the humid climate of the plateau subarctic zone and has the characteristics of vertical distribution, with abundant sunshine. The higher the altitude, the lower the temperature and the greater the precipitation. The climate in the state has four distinct seasons, with cool spring and autumn, short summer and cold winter. The average annual temperature is from 6 to 14℃, and the average annual precipitation is 600-1100 mm. Ganzi can be visited all year round, and June to October is the best time to go.

Major attractions include Gongga Mountain, Xinduqiao, Tagong Grassland, Hailuogou Glacier Park, and Sertar (Larung Gar Buddhist Academy).

Aba

Aba is located on the southeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, at the junction of the northern end of the Hengduan Mountains and the alpine valleys of northwest Sichuan. The climate of Aba Prefecture is diverse due to its complex topography. Mainly cold temperate climate. Its general characteristics include the southeastern alpine valley area with a warm and humid climate and abundant precipitation, the central mountain plateau area with a mild climate and distinct four seasons, and the northwest plateau area with a cold climate and long and cold winters. Aba can be visited all year round, and April to October are the best times to go.

Major attractions include Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong Scenic Area, Wolong Nature Reserve, Siguniang Mountain, Dagu Glacier, and Ruoergai Grassland.

Liangshan

Liangshan has a subtropical monsoon climate, with large diurnal temperature ranges and small annual temperature ranges. There is no severe cold in winter, no scorching heat in summer, distinct dry and wet seasons, and the climate is distinctly seasonal. Most parts of the state have no distinct four seasons, with warm winters and cool summers and long sunshine hours in the dry season. Liangshan can be visited all year round, and April to October are the best times to go.

The major attractions are Lugu Lake, Luoji Mount, and Huili Ancient City.