Lanzhou Weather in October

Season: autumn
In short: cool, sunny, great temperature change within a day; low rainfall, moderate daylight length
Average temperature: 5 - 17℃ (41 - 63℉)

Lanzhou has cool weather during the day in October, with the high temperature fluctuating between 14 - 21 degrees Celsius (57.2 - 69.8 degrees Fahrenheit). In the early morning and late evening, it’s a little cold as the low value is about 4 - 11℃ (39.2 - 51.8℉). Obviously, the temperature changes greatly within a day, and the difference can reach 16℃ (28.8℉) sometimes. 

Also, there exists a large difference between sunny and rainy days. The high value drops to around 10℃ (50℉) when rainfall occurs, giving people the illusion that winter has arrived. But when it turns sunny after rain, the temperature rises again.
 It hardly rains in Lanzhou in October. The total precipitation is about 21 mm (0.83 in) from around 6 rainy days. It often appears in the form of showers at the beginning of the month or when cold waves pass and occur in 2 consecutive days at most. 

The climate is a bit humid, with an average humidity of 66%. It sometimes causes fog in the early morning. By then, the perceived temperature is a little lower than the weather forecast tells.
 The daytime begins at 6:59 - 7:26 and ends at 18:09 - 18:48, with a total duration of about 11 hours. Although not long enough, it’s sufficient for a day tour.

Lanzhou bathes in rich sunshine in October thanks to its sunny climate. The sunlight duration is about 6 hours a day. The UV index is relatively high.
 Up: Wearing layers is the key to dealing with changeable temperatures. When going out in the early morning, wear a shirt or hoodie with a 3-in-1 windbreaker. In the afternoon and evening, choose to wear its interlining, outer shell, or both according to your actual feelings. If it rains, put on all the above to resist the cold. 

Bottom: Jeans or sweatpants are needed. People sensitive to temperature change should better pack long johns, particularly on rainy days. For the same reason, women in long dresses are advised to wear leggings.

Shoes: A pair of sneakers is a good option for walking around.

Accessories: Add a cap when you stroll along the Yellow River at dusk, where it’s windy and a bit cold. Besides, apply some sunscreen on sunny days.
  October 1 - 7 is the National Day holiday in 2026, which will be a short tourist peak season in Lanzhou. Actually, you are advised to avoid this period, considering the crowds everywhere. 

If you have to, remember to buy flight tickets and book hotels as early as possible in case you fail to get one or its price climbs incredibly high. 

To avoid the main crowds at hot attractions such as White Pagoda Park, Waterwheel Garden, Bingling Temple, and Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street, you can pay a visit before 10 am and after 4 pm. For Gansu Provincial Museum, the best time is before 9 am, and remember to make a reservation early in advance. If you plan to admire the night view near the Yellow River at Zhongshan Bridge, go after 19:30 when tourists gradually disperse. 

Besides, leave more time for transferring between destinations. 
 1. If you are the one afraid of coldness, there is no need to set off too early, as it’s cold in the early morning. 
2. Some attractions shorten their opening hours after the National Day holiday, especially in late month when the sun sets earlier, so you should better check in advance.
3. To experience sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River, put a water proof bag on your seat cushion or wear a raincoat in advance, as the river water may splash up to your clothes in this high flow period. Carry spare pants just in case.