Having a plateau monsoon climate at low latitudes, Dali's weather fluctuates each season but with an annual mean temperature ranging from 12C to 19 C (54F-66F). As such, Dali is a favorite tourist destination all year round. Due to its higher altitude, Dali is slightly colder than Kunming. Its rainy season begins in June and last till October. The hottest days are in July with average temperature of 22C (72F) while the coldest in January at 8C (46F). Thanks to its higher altitude, Dali enjoys bright sunshine which is most welcome during the winter months.

Although the difference in temperature is not great throughout the year but spring is usually deemed as the best season to visit Dali. There are local songs eulogizing the scenic beauty of Dali's spring. Wherever one goes at this time of the year, one can enjoy the most beautiful sceneries of Dali. When summer turns into autumn, the temperature falls dramatically, especially if it rains. Hence, warmer clothing is required during that period.

There are many ethnic minorities in Dali. Consequently, many festivals and celebrations of each of these minorities follow. For instance, the Bai minority group holds their celebration in March and if one visits Dali during that month, one will be able to witness the joyous mood all around. People are friendly and hospitable but visitors must be aware and thus avoid ethnic taboos.

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