Flights from Chennai (MAA) to Hangzhou (HGH)

About Hangzhou

Discover Hangzhou

Why visit Hangzhou?
Hangzhou is known for its poetic landscapes, centred on the serene West Lake and framed by rolling tea-covered hills. The city blends historic waterways and classical gardens with a fast-growing modern skyline, offering a calm yet dynamic setting for both short breaks and longer stays.

What to expect
You can expect leafy boulevards, scenic lakeside promenades, and well-planned urban districts with cafés, galleries, and tech campuses. Traditional neighbourhoods sit close to contemporary shopping streets, while the city’s green spaces and water views give it a slower, more reflective pace than many major Chinese cities.

Plan your trip
Hangzhou is an excellent base for exploring the Yangtze River Delta region, thanks to high-speed rail links and efficient local transport. Whether you focus on the lake and hills or combine your stay with nearby cities, the city’s compact core and clear seasons make planning straightforward year-round.

Top sights in Hangzhou

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around this UNESCO-listed lake, dotted with causeways, islands, and classical pavilions framed by distant hills.

Leifeng Pagoda

Take the lift or stairs to the upper levels of this famous pagoda for sweeping views over West Lake and the city skyline.

Lingyin Temple Scenic Area

Explore one of Hangzhou’s most historic scenic zones, known for its dramatic rock carvings, halls, and forested surroundings.

Xixi National Wetland Park

Glide along quiet waterways by boat and walk wooden boardwalks through this tranquil, eco-focused wetland reserve.

Hefang Street

Wander along this restored historic street lined with traditional façades, snack stalls, and shops selling local products and souvenirs.

Longjing Tea Plantations

Visit the hills above the city to walk through terraced tea fields and learn about Hangzhou’s famous Dragon Well tea heritage.

Grand Canal Hangzhou section

Discover canal-side paths, museums, and warehouses along the southern end of the historic Grand Canal, now a lively urban district.

Qianjiang New Town

See Hangzhou’s modern face with riverside promenades, striking architecture, and an impressive evening light display along the Qiantang River.

Experience Hangzhou’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Hangzhou’s metro network is the fastest way to move between the lake, business districts, and railway stations, with clear signage and frequent services. Public buses and taxis cover most neighbourhoods, while shared bikes are ideal for lakeside paths and short inner-city trips.

Local life & culture
Around West Lake and in older streets such as Hefang, you will see a relaxed daily rhythm of walking, socialising, and enjoying the waterfront. Creative districts feature galleries, design shops, and intimate performance venues, reflecting the city’s mix of tradition, innovation, and a strong appreciation for landscape.

Where to unwind
Lakeside parks, riverside promenades, and the tea-growing hills offer easy escapes from the urban core. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times for walks, boat rides, or quiet moments on benches, when the light softens and the city feels especially calm.

A taste of Hangzhou

Street food & local specialties
Hangzhou is known for delicately seasoned local dishes you can find in lanes around West Lake and in traditional streets such as Hefang. Small eateries and snack shops are ideal for trying a variety of flavours in one relaxed stroll through the city.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping areas and newer districts offer many casual restaurants and cafés, with menus ranging from regional Chinese cuisine to international favourites. Food courts in major malls make it easy to sample several dishes in one meal, with portions that are often designed for sharing.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant overlooking West Lake, the Qiantang River, or the surrounding hills. Many dining rooms feature wide windows or terraces, allowing you to enjoy city lights or reflections on the water as part of the experience.

Retail therapy in Hangzhou

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Hangzhou bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and family-friendly attractions under one roof. These lifestyle hubs are popular meeting spots, with comfortable public areas and plenty of cafés for a break between stores.

Markets & local crafts
Historic streets and smaller commercial lanes are good places to look for locally made items, tea, and handicrafts. Neighbourhoods around Hefang Street, Wushan Square, and the Grand Canal area each offer a slightly different mix of traditional shops and contemporary boutiques.

Evening retail scene
After sunset, illuminated streets and open-late malls create a lively yet relaxed shopping atmosphere. Some districts pair night-time browsing with riverside or lakeside walks, and you can usually reach these areas easily using the metro or a short taxi ride.

Best time to visit Hangzhou

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Hangzhou is mild, with temperatures around 12–22°C (54–72°F) and fresh greenery appearing around West Lake and the tea plantations. Light layers are usually enough, and the city feels pleasantly active as outdoor events and sightseeing pick up.

Summer (xia) – June to August, peak season
Summer brings warm to hot weather, typically 24–33°C (75–91°F), with lush hillsides and long daylight hours for exploring the lake and evening riverfront walks. Occasional showers keep the landscape vibrant, while indoor attractions and malls offer a cool break during the hottest hours.

Autumn and winter (qiu/dong) – September to February, low season
Autumn is comfortably cool, around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with clear days and colourful foliage around the hills, making it popular with photographers. Winter is colder, about 3–10°C (37–50°F), creating a quieter, atmospheric time to appreciate misty lake views and uncrowded city sights.

Frequently Asked Questions