Dali is located in a plateau with low latitude. The low latitude and high altitude form a kind of climate that has four non-distinctive seasons. It is neither too hot nor too cold in Dali all the year round.

The best time to visit Dali is from March to June when springtime is in full swing and all of nature seems to be in the process of rebirth. Climbing Cangshan Mountain and visiting Erhai Lake in spring are quite enjoyable.

The rainy season of Dali is from May to October, and the temperature drops dramatically after the rain at the end of summer, so there is a saying among local people: a sudden shower turns the lingering heat into the briskly cool air of autumn. Accordingly, tourists who come to Dali at that time are recommended to bring several autumn clothes in case of catching a cold.