Close your eyes and think of China. What is the first thing that comes on your mind? Beyond the busy streets of Shanghai and the ancient temples of Beijing, one landmark that stands out above all is the majestic Great Wall of China. Stretching over misty mountains – this ancient wonder is more than just a tourist spot. It is a big part of China’s identity. Let me put it this way – visiting China without seeing the Great Wall is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower.

It’s more than just a wall – it is a sneak peek into history, where each stone has a story, and every watchtower offers stunning views. However, planning a trip to this wonder can be challenging, especially when deciding which section to visit and how to make the most of your experience. While many China tour packages offer standard visits, planning your trip lets you enjoy this amazing place.

Ready to stand on this ancient wonder? Let’s make your trip to the Great Wall of China happen.

Why you should visit the Great Wall of China?

Before we delve further into how to plan your trip to the Great Wall of China – let me share a few reasons why you should do so.
 

• It is the largest man-made structure in the world. 
• The Great Wall of China is not just a landmark; it’s a trip into the past.
• Built more than two thousand years ago, it shows China’s creativity, defense, and hard work, making it a unique place to visit.
• It results from many workers over 2,000 years and is an amazing engineering feat.
• The Great Wall is not just one wall – it includes beacon towers, barriers, barracks, guard stations, and fortresses. Together, these parts create a complete defense system.
• Approximately around 10 million visitors visit this UNESCO site.
• It offers a unique trekking experience with beautiful views and a chance to delve into its ancient history up close.

When is the right time to visit the Great Wall of China?

The time you pick to explore the Great Wall of China will make or break your experience. 

Ideally, you should visit the Great Wall of China during the autumn and spring seasons to avoid tourist crowds, summer heat, and freezing temperatures during the winter season. During the spring season, from April to May, there are clear skies, blooming flowers, and green hills, creating a beautiful backdrop for photos. The fall season is from September to November, transforms the landscape into a sea of reds, yellows, and oranges. You can visit the Great Wall in the summer or winter if that works better for you. 

Summer features warm weather and large tourist crowds. Winter season features a snowy landscape, but it may be difficult to access some parts of the wall due to icy conditions. Also, visit the wall during the weekdays compared to weekends. Similarly, visit during the early morning hours before the crowds arrive and enjoy the place with soothing temperatures. Plan for 4-6 hours at the wall. 

Planning based on your favourite season and checking the weather will help you have a more enjoyable and memorable time at the Great Wall of China.