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

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Ready to pack for Urumqi, China? If you're planning to go to Urumqi, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Urumqi, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Urumqi, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you go to Urumqi in January, you will notice that it is beyond freezing and very snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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 additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

February

In February, Urumqi is beyond freezing and very snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Urumqi, with of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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 added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

March

If you go to Urumqi in March, you will notice that it is very cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

April

Traveling to Urumqi in April, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

May

May in Urumqi is mild, somewhat rainy and very dry. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

June

June here is warm, somewhat rainy and very dry. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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 more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

July

If you are traveling to Urumqi in July, you will notice that it is hot, somewhat rainy and very dry. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

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 repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

August

If you are traveling to Urumqi in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm, somewhat rainy and very dry. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

September

September here is balmy, somewhat rainy and very dry. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days 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 Urumqi. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

October

If you go to Urumqi in October, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

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 Urumqi. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

November

November in this region is frigid and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Urumqi. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts 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

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

December

December in Urumqi is beyond freezing and very snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). It snows about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

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 Urumqi. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • 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. Take care to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Confucian Temple, wear:

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

What to do in Urumqi, China

Urumqi, a sprawling metropolis located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is a hub of cultural and historical significance. Besides its bustling markets, the city boasts of several must-visit tourist attractions guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. From exquisite mosques to serene parks and fascinating bazaars, here are the top tourist attractions in Urumqi, China.

1. Xinjiang Regional Museum- the museum is a must-visit for history buffs, boasting of over 50,000 pieces of art, fossils, and archaeological finds on display. The museum exhibits the culture and history of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, providing insights into the region's various ethnic groups over the centuries.

2. Erdaoqiao Bazaar- This massive market, a center for the province's commerce, is a combination of traditional bazaar and modern commercial center. The market is teeming with exotic handcrafted goods, exotic silks, handicrafts, and a wide range of local delicacies. The Mongolian yurts, Uyghur dance performances, and traditional musical performances are entirely entertaining, and the bazaar's atmosphere is unbeatable.

3. Hongshan Park- The park features stunning natural landscapes, including undulating hills, winding paths, lakes, and gardens. The majestic scenery coupled with a serene and tranquil environment makes it a great place for relaxation and leisurely walks.

4. Xinjiang International Bazaar- the bazaar is a haven for souvenir and handicraft enthusiasts. From antique Chinese instruments and traditional outfits to mesmerizing carpets, jewelry, and accessories, the bazaar is a testament to Xinjiang's diverse ethnic cultures.

5. Xinjiang Autonomous Region Museum- another museum exhibiting the region’s rich history and development over the centuries. The museum has several sections, including the ethnic affairs, natural history, Xinjiang Ancient City, and minority statues. The museum's highlights include fascinating exhibits of bronze vessels, Tang dynasty ceramics, jade jewelry, and textiles.

6. Grand Bazaar- This bustling market is an Urumqi highlight, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local cultures and practices. The Grand Bazaar features labyrinthine alleyways crammed with an astounding range of goods comprising clothes, toys, crafts, spices, and various culinary options.

7. Tianshan Mountains - The mountains are a must-see destination, with spectacular natural wonders such as glacier-carved valleys, towering peaks, and a wide range of flora and fauna.

In conclusion, Urumqi's abundance in cultural heritage, history, and natural attractions all blend to provide a pleasant and memorable tourist experience. The above-listed attractions offer enriching and diverse insights into the Xinjiang region's traditions and culture, making them the most notable tourist destination in the city.

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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