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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Zhangye, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Zhangye, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Zhangye is freezing. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day.

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 frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in this region can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day.

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Zhangye is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you vacation in Zhangye during April, you may notice that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. 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 visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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 Zhangye. 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 things these days, 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. Make sure to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you visit Zhangye during June, you are likely to notice that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 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.

  • 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 Zhangye. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for 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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Zhangye in July, you will notice that it is hot. 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.

  • 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 Zhangye. 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 things.

  • 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 neck pillow

    What we like 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Zhangye during August, you will probably notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 frequently losing things 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Zhangye is warm. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s 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

    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 Zhangye. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Zhangye is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Zhangye is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers 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 countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Zhangye can be extremely cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero 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

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Zhangye. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit a temple, such as Mati Si Temple & mountain scenery, wear:

If you go to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Qicai Danxia), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Zhangye, China

Zhangye is a beautiful city located in the northwest of China, in the Gansu province. It is a destination that boasts ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local traditions. This city has a fascinating history that dates back to the Silk Road era and today it is one of China's most visited tourist destinations. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you must visit when in Zhangye.

The Danxia Geological Park

The Danxia Geological Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Zhangye. It is located in the northwestern Gansu province and covers an area of 510 square kilometers. The park is famous for its colorful rock formations that resemble rainbow-colored mountains. These vibrant and unique geological formations were formed over millions of years due to the deposition of different layers of sandstone and minerals. The park is divided into four scenic areas, all of which offer incredible views and photo opportunities.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church is a beautiful and historic church that was built by the Christian missionaries who came to this region during the Qing dynasty. It is an architectural masterpiece that features a white facade and a beautifully decorated interior. The church survived the Cultural Revolution and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Zhangye.

The Giant Buddha Temple

The Giant Buddha Temple is another must-visit attraction in Zhangye. This ancient temple is home to the largest reclining Buddha statue in China. The giant Buddha statue measures 34 meters in length and 7.5 meters in width. It is carved out of a single piece of clay and is said to date back to the Western Xia dynasty. The temple is located in the northern part of Zhangye city and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

The Zhangye National Wetland Park

The Zhangye National Wetland Park is a beautiful natural park located in the northeast of Zhangye city. It covers an area of 142 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is a popular destination for bird watching, photography, and hiking. Visitors can also take a boat ride through the park's wetlands and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Zhangye Grand Mosque

The Zhangye Grand Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in China. It was built during the Ming dynasty and has a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. The mosque is located in the heart of Zhangye city and is a popular destination for tourists and local Muslims alike. The interior of the mosque is beautifully decorated and features intricate carvings and colorful patterns.

In conclusion, Zhangye is a destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The city's diverse range of tourist attractions will leave you mesmerized and eager to explore more. Whether you are interested in historic landmarks or natural wonders, Zhangye has something for everyone. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to China.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Port au Port Peninsula, Newfoundland, Canada, Shibayama, Japan, Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, Randolph, Massachusetts, United States of America, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Cotati, California, United States of America, Cazenovia, New York, United States of America, Schiermonnikoog, Netherlands, Saharan Mauritania, Mauritania, Faya, Chad, and San Ignacio, Belize.