Dali Old City in Spring

Without clear distinction between the four seasons, Dali's weather fluctuates each season but with an annual mean temperature ranging from 12 C  (54 F) to 19 C  (66 F). Its rainy season begins in June and last till October. The hottest days are in July with an average temperature of 22 C  (72 F), while the coldest January is at around of 8 C  (46 F ).  There are local songs eulogizing 'the scenery of Dali in March is good', so spring is, of course, the best season to visit Dali Old Town, climb Mt. Cangshan or tour Erhai Lake.

Introduction to Dali Climate
Fames as ‘Oriental Switzerland’, Dali has around 126 days of a year with the temperature at 18 C  (54 F) to 21 C  (66 F) which is the most appropriate temperature for recuperating in the world. In addition, Dali enjoys abundant sunshine which is most welcome during the winter months thanks to its high altitude. In other words, Dali is a year-round travel destination, with colorful flowers blossoming everywhere.

Although the temperature difference is not great throughout the year, but it varies a lot from day to night in winter, accompanied with big wind. There are over 10 days in December, January and February with wind above force 8. ‘Xiaguan Wind’ is an unusual experience in Dali. If you go there around the Chinese Spring Festival, remember to bring fur coats or warm wind coats for night use and in case it rains.

After the cold winter, it comes to the warm spring starting from March and lasting until late September, since there is no hot summer in Dali. Most of the Bai minority’s festivals fall in March and April when you can enjoy both the beautiful natural landscape and the deep ethnic flavors. T-shirts, shorts and a light over coat are enough for this time. Rain gear is also advisable from May to September when it is the rainy season.

Around the National Day Holiday, the temperature falls dramatically, especially if it rains. Soon, the autumn comes. Warmer clothing like sweater and jackets are required during that period.