Best Time to Visit Liupanshui

Dry and cool: November to March

Liupanshui sits high up, at about 1,800 metres, so it never gets properly hot. It's also known in China as the "Cool City" for its mild summers. Winter is the driest stretch. Days are mild and the nights are cold, dropping to around freezing in December and January. Skies are often grey, though, so don't expect a lot of sun.

February and March score best for comfort. February is the driest month, with rain on only 3 days. March warms up nicely and still stays fairly dry. November is also excellent, with crisp air and little rain.

If you want skiing, head to Yushe National Forest Park. Its Jiucaiping (Leek Meadow) area has a ski resort. The season depends on snowfall, so check conditions first. Winter is also the time for hearty local food. Try Liupanshui's mutton noodles, or a hot pot in the evening, when you'll want something warm.

Spring: April and May

April still rates Excellent. Days reach the mid-20s and the nights are mild. Rain shows up on about 13 days, though, so carry a small umbrella. Hillsides turn green. This is a good time for the Jiucaiping grasslands and for walking around Yushe.

May is where it turns. Rain falls on 19 days and the sun is scarce. You can still travel, but plan indoor backups. Early May includes China's Labour Day holiday, so expect more domestic visitors at the main sights.

Summer: June to September

This is the wet season, and June is the wettest month, with 256 mm over 24 days. It's also the cloudiest. July and August stay damp and humid, with rain on 20 days each.

So why would anyone come? Heat. While much of China swelters, Liupanshui stays in the mid-20s. That's why summer is the busy season here. Visitors from hotter cities like Chongqing and Guangzhou come to escape. Travelling with kids during school holidays in July and August? Book your stay ahead for popular spots like Jiucaiping, and expect crowds on weekends.

If you can handle drizzle, the mist can look lovely over the mountains. Just don't plan long views.

Autumn: October

October is grey and damp, with rain on 18 days and the highest humidity of the year. It's rated Fair. Early October also brings the National Day holiday, when travel across China peaks. By November the skies clear and the rain drops off, making that month the better pick.