When to Go

The best time to visit Jiuzhaihou Valley  is from September to October

Elevated at a height of about 3,000 meters (about 9843 feet), Jiuzhaigou is influenced by the typical highland humid climate. As a result, this area is frequented by mild temperatures and extremely variable weather all year round. Therefore, several warm outfits are necessary during your trip here. Although the temperature is not extreme, Jiuzhaigou still maintains four distinct seasons. Noted as a legendary 'Fairyland' and 'Earthly Paradise' with numerous charming mountains and lakes, Jiuzhaigou shows you a totally different but never-the-less amazing landscape at any time of the year.

Actually, with an average temperature of between 6C(42.8F) and 12C (53.6F), the spring of Jiuzhaigou is not as mild as most places in China. The temperature here also varies greatly between day and night although it enjoys plenty of sunshine during the day. Besides appropriate sun block and a thin T-shirt for the daytime, several warm overcoats are also necessary when you come here in spring.

The temperature rises again in summer with little diurnal variation between day and night. The temperature varies between 13C(55.4F) and 21C (69.8F) on average. Sun cream, a pair of sunglasses, a sun hat and a solar umbrella are all helpful for you to resist the strong ultraviolet rays effectively. Fortunately, the summer nights in Jiuzhaigou are comfortable, with cool temperatures.

Comparatively, Jiuzhaigou has the most enchanting landscapes in autumn. Frankly, it is the most colorful and vivid season in Jiuzhaigou. Every year, during the Golden Week (from 1st to 7th of October) a great number of visitors from home and abroad come to enjoy the natural scenic beauty, making this time the peak tourist season. However, during this season, the average temperature varies greatly between 4C(39.2F) and 13C, so some warm clothing and sun cream are also necessary at this time. On the other hand, the rainy season of this region also happens in autumn, especially in July and August. Therefore, please take an umbrella with you!

Distinctive from the colorful autumn, Jiuzhaigou will be covered by a thick layer of white snow in winter. The whole valley is so quiet that it has become another highlight of Jiuzhaigou. Although the temperature varies little in winter, the average temperature hovers between 0C (32F ) and 3C (37.4F). So, please keep yourself warm enough when you come here in winter.

Festival

Muti-Color Pond in winter

Although located in south China, Jiuzhaigou still has its own appearance in winter. Without too many visitors, you can enjoy the special site of Jiuzhaigou covered by white snow. Actually, ice and snow has become one of the tourist highlights of Jiuzhaigou in recent years. Three times previously, the Ice-waterfall Tourism Festival of Large Jiuzhai, Aba and the Southern Ice and Snow Festival of Sichuan, China have been successfully held here simultaneously. They are usually held when winter comes to Jiuzhaigou, lasting about two months. During this time, a series of activities related to the beautiful Jiuzhaigou Valley are held successively, such as a photographic competition, ice sports, concerts and the Tibetan celebrations for Spring Festival.

As mentioned, the local Tibetans will hold some celebrations during Chinese Spring Festival. The most important and largest one is the Mazi Fair held in Zharusi Temple, which is located in Shuzheng Valley. Held annually on May 15th of the Chinese lunar calendar, it is a vital religious event for Tibetans living in Jiuzhaigou. It is said that this fair is held to commemorate a brave deity of Benbo, which is one branch of Tibetan Buddhism. This deity is called Mazi, responsible for vanquishing demons and monsters. Three days before the festival, all of the monks in Zharusi Temple will be gathered together to celebrate being a reverent Buddhist and practicing vegetarianism. On the day, Tibetans will dress up and come here to participate in the celebration.

Fast Facts
Tourist Area: 50 square kilometers (about 123, 55 acres)
Residents: Tibetan, Qiang nationality and Han
Area Code: 0837
Zip Code: 624000
Useful Numbers:
Tourist Complaints: 0837-7739309
Tourist Inquiry Telephone: 0837-7739753
First Aid Telephone: 0837-7739818
Fire Alarm: 0837-7739909
Banks:
There is no Bank of China located around Jiuzhaigou Valley, so you have to exchange enough cash before coming here.

Communication
Usually, mobile phones can be used in the valley. On the other hand, you canuse the IC telephones near the entrance gate.