Dry and sunny across most of Yunnan, with cool nights at altitude. The south is warm and less humid. Excellent visibility.
- Temperatures
- Kunming 13–21°C · Shangri-La 1–15°C · Xishuangbanna 19–30°C
- Rainfall
- 90 mm
- Daylight
- About 11.5 hours
- Crowds
- The National Day holiday (early October) is extremely busy.
The best window
October is one of the best months to travel in Yunnan. The rains have largely ended, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable. Mountain views are reliable, trails are dry, and the light is excellent for photography. The northwest is at its most accessible.
The first week of October is the National Day holiday, one of China's busiest travel periods. Expect crowded transport, higher prices, and full hotels. If you can avoid that week, the rest of the month is superb.
Where to go
The classic northwest route is excellent: Dali, Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge, and Shangri-La. The gorge is usually dry and clear, though the exposed sections are hot in the afternoon. Yuanyang's terraces are transitioning toward their flooded season; check the timing.
The south is warm and less humid, a good time for Xishuangbanna. The east is mild and quiet. It is a month when almost every region works, which is why it is popular.
Practical notes
Book trains and hotels early, especially around the National Day holiday. Bring layers for cold nights at altitude and sun protection for bright days. If you are hiking, start early to avoid the afternoon heat. Carry cash for rural areas.
Good for
- + Clear mountain views
- + Comfortable hiking
- + Photography
Watch out
- − National Day holiday crowds and prices in the first week.
- − Nights are cold at altitude; bring warm layers.
Places for this month
Journeys in season