Kangding, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kangding, China? If you're planning to go to Kangding, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kangding, China

Based on the climate and weather in Kangding, China, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kangding, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kangding, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kangding, China by month

January

If you go to Kangding in January, you will notice that it is very cold. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in this region is freezing. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March for Kangding can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

Traveling to Kangding in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you are traveling to Kangding in May, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Kangding in June, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in this region is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you go to Kangding in August, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Kangding can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost 5-10 days this month. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Kangding is cold. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Kangding in November, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in this region is freezing. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the month. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kangding. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the majestic Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Kangding tourism authority.

If you go to Paoma Mountain, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kangding, China

Kangding, located in Sichuan Province in China, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. However, it is a place that is full of culture, natural beauty, and historical significance. Kangding is situated in the Tibetan region of China and is home to a large number of ethnic Tibetans. The town is known for its hot springs, a vibrant Tibetan culture and the stunning views of Mount Gongga, also known as Minya Konka, making it a must-visit for travelers in China.

Here are some top tourist attractions that Kangding has to offer:

1. Mount Gongga: Mount Gongga, also known as Minya Konka, is the highest peak in Sichuan Province, with a height of 7,556 meters. It is located in the border between Sichuan and Tibet, and the highest peak of the Hengduan Mountains range. The majestic and awe-inspiring view of the snow-covered mountain range is something you must see when visiting Kangding. There are many trekking routes that lead to the mountain, and it is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers.

2. Mugecuo Scenic Area: Mugecuo Scenic Area is a beautiful nature reserve with a crystal-clear lake, set amidst the breathtaking backdrop of soaring mountains. The lake reflects the peaks of the surrounding mountains on its crystal clear waters. The area is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare bird species, and is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

3. Tagong Grassland: The Tagong Grassland, located about 110 km southwest of Kangding, is an expansive open landscape filled with wildflowers and livestock grazing. The impressive Tagong Monastery is situated on a hillside, with a spectacular Lhagang Mountain in full-view. The monastery is home to many Tibetan monks, and visitors can spend time learning about Tibetan Buddhism and history.

4. Hailuo Valley: The Hailuo Valley is a picturesque mountain valley located near Tagong. It is one of the most beautiful valleys in China, with its dramatic rock formations, serene river, and lush greenery. The valley is home to many Tibetan villages, where you can get a glimpse of their daily lives, culture, and traditions.

5. Luding Bridge: The Luding Bridge, located in the county of Luding, is a historic site significant to Chinese history. It was a vital factor during the Chinese Revolution, when the Red Army soldiers crossed its hanging steel chain to gain an important tactical advantage over government forces. Today, the bridge serves as a reminder of the remarkable ingenuity and bravery shown by the Red Army soldiers in their battles.

Kangding is a place of cultural significance, natural beauty, and historical importance. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking for a thrilling adventure, a nature lover, or a history buff, there is something for everyone in Kangding. The city has so much to offer that you might not be able to experience it all on a single trip. So, plan your visit and get ready to be amazed by the wonders of Kangding.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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