Flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its serene lake views, classical gardens, and tree-lined hillsides, offering a calm contrast to China s larger megacities. You will find a blend of scenic beauty, tea culture, and modern urban life, all wrapped around the shores of West Lake.

What to expect
The city centres on West Lake, with walking paths, historic bridges, and leafy islands, while new districts feature contemporary architecture and tech hubs. Expect efficient public transport, well-planned green spaces, and a relaxed pace in older neighbourhoods filled with teahouses and traditional courtyards.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou is an ideal first stop in eastern China, with fast rail links to Shanghai and other major cities. You can spend a few days exploring the lake, tea villages, and riverfront, then use Hangzhou as a base to discover the wider Zhejiang region and its countryside.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around this UNESCO-listed lake, crossing stone bridges and causeways framed by trees and pavilions.

Leifeng Pagoda

Climb or take the lift up this historic tower for panoramic views over West Lake and the surrounding city skyline.

Lingyin Scenic Area

Explore forested hillsides, rock carvings, and atmospheric pathways in one of Hangzhou s most celebrated scenic zones.

Longjing Tea Village

Walk through terraced tea fields, learn about local tea traditions, and enjoy views over the rolling countryside.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Visit the historic canal waterfront, where renovated warehouses, museums, and promenades bring the waterway s story to life.

Hubin and Lakeside promenades

Wander along modern lakeside boulevards lined with shops, cafes, and evening light displays beside West Lake.

Qinghefang Historic Street

Step into a preserved old street with traditional facades, snack stalls, and specialty shops in the heart of the city.

Experience Hangzhou s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou s metro network is the most efficient way to move between the lake, railway stations, and newer districts. Buses and taxis fill the gaps, while shared bicycles offer a scenic way to circle West Lake. For short distances, walking is pleasant on the city s well-kept pavements.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Hangzhou often centres on tea, with locals meeting in teahouses or relaxing along the waterfront. You will notice a calm, outdoors-focused rhythm, from early-morning walkers around the lake to families enjoying parks and riversides. Creative districts and galleries reflect a growing contemporary arts scene.

Where to unwind
Green spaces are one of Hangzhou s highlights, from lakeside gardens to forested hills offering shaded trails. Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for quieter walks, while sunset brings soft light across the water. For a slower pace, choose a lakeside bench or garden pavilion and simply watch the city drift by.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou cuisine is known for its delicate flavours and fresh river and lake produce. Around Qinghefang Street and neighbourhood markets, you can look for local snacks, noodles, and classic Hangzhou dishes served in straightforward, welcoming settings.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping streets and malls around the lakeside and city centre offer convenient places to try regional Chinese cuisines and international favourites in one stop. Many venues serve smaller plates, so you can sample several dishes to share, whether you are dining with family or travelling alone.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, consider restaurants overlooking West Lake or located in renovated heritage buildings. Some venues offer dining rooms with large windows or terraces, allowing you to enjoy views of the water, gardens, and city lights as you eat.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Hangzhou offers modern malls and lifestyle centres with international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining floors. These complexes provide comfortable indoor spaces where you can shop, meet friends, and relax between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
For a more local feel, explore streets such as Qinghefang and nearby alleys, where you will find small shops selling crafts, textiles, and regional products. Neighbourhood markets in older districts are good places to browse everyday items and see another side of city life.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many shopping streets and lakeside areas are illuminated, creating an inviting atmosphere for an evening stroll. Some districts feature late-opening shops and snack stalls, so you can combine browsing with a light bite. Public transport and taxis make it simple to reach these areas at night.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with temperatures around 12–22°C (54–72°F) and fresh greenery around West Lake. Blossoms, gentle sunshine, and comfortable walking weather make it ideal for lakeside strolls and boat rides.

Summer lakeside (June to September, peak season)
Summer is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 24–33°C (75–91°F). Longer daylight hours and lively evenings around the lake create an energetic atmosphere, and you can take advantage of shaded gardens and indoor attractions during the hottest part of the day.

Autumn colours and winter calm (October to February, low season)
Autumn brings cooler, crisp days of about 10–22°C (50–72°F), with changing foliage around the hills. Winters can be chilly, sometimes dropping to 3–10°C (37–50°F), but the quieter paths, misty lake views, and peaceful tea villages offer a calm, reflective side of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions