BACK
Songpan is cooler than many other destinations in Sichuan because Songpan Ancient Town sits at around 2,850 meters above sea level. Summer days are generally mild, but rain is more frequent and temperatures drop after sunset. Winter is much colder and drier, with possible snow and icy conditions.
The best time to visit Songpan is generally from May to October. If you prefer comfortable weather for sightseeing, visit in May or June. For green valleys and grasslands, choose July or August. September to early October is better for hiking and autumn scenery. Whatever the season, pack in layers, as mornings and evenings are often much cooler than the daytime.
This guide compares Songpan weather by month, including temperatures, rainfall, travel conditions, and what to wear, so you can choose the best time for your trip.
What Is the Weather Like in Songpan?
Songpan’s climate is strongly influenced by its altitude. At around 2,880 meters above sea level, the ancient town has cool temperatures, strong sunlight, and noticeably thinner air. The weather may feel mild during the day, but temperatures often drop quickly after sunset.
Summers are cool, with daytime highs generally in the low to mid-20s°C during July and August, the warmest months of the year. Winters are cold, and nighttime temperatures can fall well below freezing from December to February. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can feel chilly.
Most rain falls from May to October, with late spring and summer receiving the most rainfall. From November to March, the weather is generally cold and dry, although occasional snow is possible.
UV exposure is strong throughout the year, including on cool or cloudy days. Conditions also become colder at higher nearby destinations, so bring sun protection and warm layers when traveling beyond Songpan Ancient Town.
Bring warm layers and sun protection when visiting Songpan.Songpan Weather by Month
Songpan has four distinct seasons. July and August are the warmest months, with average daytime highs of around 22°C and nighttime lows of about 9–10°C. December and January are the coldest months, when average nighttime temperatures fall to around -10°C.
Most of Songpan’s precipitation falls between May and September, accounting for more than two-thirds of the annual total. May, June, and September are particularly wet, while December and January receive very little precipitation.
The table below shows the monthly average high and low temperatures, precipitation, and typical weather conditions in Songpan. Daytime and nighttime temperatures can differ by around 12–17°C. Bring warm layers, even if you visit during summer.
| Month | Average High / Low | Average Precipitation | Typical Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7°C / -10°C | 6.5 mm | Cold and dry, with sunny days and freezing nights |
| February | 9°C / -7°C | 11.7 mm | Still cold but gradually becoming milder |
| March | 12°C / -3°C | 33.7 mm | Cold mornings, milder afternoons, and changeable weather |
| April | 15°C / 1°C | 62.7 mm | Warmer, with occasional rain |
| May | 18°C / 5°C | 107.7 mm | Greener scenery and increasingly frequent rain |
| June | 20°C / 8°C | 123.1 mm | Mild days and frequent rain |
| July | 22°C / 9°C | 101.2 mm | Warmest period, with frequent rain and green mountain scenery |
| August | 22°C / 10°C | 84 mm | Mild and rainy, with green valleys and grasslands |
| September | 19°C / 7°C | 115.5 mm | Cooler and often rainy, with early autumn scenery |
| October | 15°C / 2°C | 70.4 mm | Cool, with less rain and autumn scenery |
| November | 11°C / -5°C | 11.9 mm | Cold mornings and evenings, with mostly dry weather |
| December | 7°C / -10°C | 4.2 mm | Very cold and dry, with possible snow and ice |
Note: These figures are long-term monthly averages from the Songpan weather station, not weather forecasts. Actual conditions may vary by year, elevation, and location.
4 Days & 3 Nights
Chengdu - Songpan Ancient Town (1N) - Huanglong National Park - Jiuzhaigou Valley (2N) - Mounigou Valley - Chengdu
Price From: USD 509
Songpan Weather by Season
The experience of visiting Songpan changes with the season. Spring becomes milder but wetter, summer brings green landscapes, autumn is known for colorful scenery, and winter is cold and quiet.
Spring: March to May
Spring in Songpan begins cold and gradually becomes milder. March mornings can still feel wintry, while April brings warmer afternoons and more rainfall.
By May, the weather is generally more comfortable for sightseeing and hiking. Snow may still remain at higher elevations even when Songpan Ancient Town feels mild.
Summer: June to August
Summer is the warmest season in Songpan, with average daytime highs of around 20–22°C. It remains considerably cooler than lower-altitude cities such as Chengdu, and evenings can still feel chilly.
Frequent rain keeps the surrounding valleys and grasslands lush and green. Heavy showers
can leave roads wet and hiking trails muddy, particularly in June and July.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn begins relatively mild and rainy in September. October becomes cooler and less wet, while November is cold and mostly dry.
Autumn colors usually appear between late September and October. The timing and intensity vary by elevation and year, with higher areas often changing earlier than lower valleys. September and October are generally suitable for sightseeing and hiking.
Winter: December to February
Winter in Songpan is cold and dry. Average daytime highs are around 7–9°C, while nighttime temperatures regularly fall below freezing. December and January have average lows of around -10°C.
Snow is possible, and roads at higher elevations may become icy.Songpan Ancient Town is quieter during winter, but weather conditions may affect access to mountain attractions and other high-altitude activities.
Autumn colors around Songpan Ancient Town.When Is the Best Time to Visit Songpan?
May to October is generally the best time to visit Songpan. Temperatures are milder during these months, but the best choice depends on the scenery and activities you prefer.
Visit between June and August for green valleys and grasslands. These are the warmest months, although frequent rain is common.
Late September to October is a good time for hiking and autumn scenery. The weather becomes cooler, and rainfall generally decreases in October.
Winter is suitable if you prefer quiet sightseeing and do not mind the cold. Songpan Ancient Town receives fewer visitors, but snow, icy roads, and changes to mountain activities are possible.
May to October is generally the best time for hiking near Songpan.What to Wear in Songpan
Layered clothing is the most practical choice for Songpan. Temperatures can change considerably between daytime and nighttime, making it useful to add or remove clothing throughout the day. A base layer, a fleece, and a windproof or waterproof outer layer will work in most conditions.
Clothing that feels comfortable in Songpan Ancient Town may not be warm enough at higher destinations. High-altitude sites such as Huanglong are often colder and windier, even on the same day. Carry an extra warm layer if your itinerary includes these areas.
Sun protection is useful throughout the year. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat even on cool or cloudy days. From May to October, pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella for frequent rain.
Seasonal Clothing for Songpan
| Season | What to Wear |
|---|---|
| Spring | Long-sleeved tops, fleece, windproof or waterproof jacket, long trousers, and walking shoes |
| Summer | Light daytime clothing, a light fleece or jacket, rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes |
| Autumn | Long-sleeved tops, warm jacket, long trousers, and walking shoes |
| Winter | Thermal clothing, fleece, down jacket, gloves, warm hat, and insulated footwear |
Layered clothing is the most practical choice for visiting Songpan.FAQs about Songpan Weather
Is summer or autumn better for visiting Songpan?
Choose summer for green valleys and grasslands, but expect more frequent rain. Choose late September or October for hiking and autumn colors. The exact timing of the autumn foliage varies by elevation and year.
Is Songpan still worth visiting during the rainy season?
Yes. Rain does not necessarily continue throughout the day, and the surrounding valleys and grasslands are especially green from June to August. Bring waterproof clothing and allow some flexibility for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Can Rain or Snow Affect Travel between Chengdu and Songpan?
Yes. Heavy rain, snow, and ice can sometimes delay road travel through mountainous areas. Check the latest weather and road conditions before departure, especially when traveling by car.
Is Songpan colder than Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong?
Songpan Ancient Town is generally colder than the lower areas of Jiuzhaigou. However, Huanglong’s upper scenic areas are higher and usually colder than Songpan Ancient Town. Temperatures can vary noticeably during a trip that includes all three destinations.
6 Days & 5 Nights
Chengdu - Songpan (1N) - Kakagou Valley - Changhai Lake (1N) - Yuhaizi Lake (2N) - Awenggou Valley - Songpan (1N) - Chengdu
Conclusion: Plan Your Songpan Trip Around the Weather
Songpan’s weather rewards a little planning. May to October is suitable for most trips, but the right month depends on the scenery and weather conditions you prefer. Summer brings green valleys and grasslands, while late September and October are better for hiking and autumn colors.
When planning your Songpan tour, pack layers, prepare for strong high-altitude sunlight, and check the latest forecast before departure. Allow some flexibility if you plan to visit Huanglong or other higher areas, where weather conditions can change quickly.
Ask A Quick Question
Get some travel ideas from our professional travel consultants FOR FREE. All of our sample itineraries can be customized to fit your needs.
0 Comments ON “Songpan Weather by Month: Climate, Best Time to Visit & What to Wear”