Kunming - When to Visit

When to Kunming

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Kunming Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -1°C 6°C 14°C 22°C 30°C Rainfall (mm) 0 107 215 Jan Jan: 16.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 23mm rain Feb Feb: 18.0°C high, 5.0°C low, 13mm rain Mar Mar: 21.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 20mm rain Apr Apr: 24.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 25mm rain May May: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 81mm rain Jun Jun: 25.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 173mm rain Jul Jul: 24.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 216mm rain Aug Aug: 25.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 196mm rain Sep Sep: 23.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 119mm rain Oct Oct: 21.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 81mm rain Nov Nov: 18.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 30mm rain Dec Dec: 16.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 13mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Kunming, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' enjoys a remarkably stable subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. The city experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the dry season running from November through April (receiving only 0.5-1.2 inches of rainfall monthly) and the wet season from May through October (with peak rainfall of 8.5 inches in July). Temperatures remain pleasantly consistent, rarely dropping below 39°F or exceeding 77°F, making Kunming one of China's most comfortable climate destinations. The monsoon season brings the majority of annual precipitation between June and August, while winter months are characterized by sunny, dry conditions with cool nights and warm days. This unique climate pattern, combined with the city's high altitude location, creates ideal conditions for year-round travel, though visitors should plan around the wet season depending on their preferred activities.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
March through May offers the perfect balance of warm temperatures (71-77°F) and minimal rainfall before the wet season begins.
Cultural Exploration
October through April provides dry, comfortable conditions (60-75°F) ideal for sightseeing with minimal rain disruption.
Adventure & Hiking
March through May and September through November offer the best combination of moderate temperatures and manageable rainfall for outdoor activities.
Budget Travel
June through August during the wet season offers lower prices despite the rain, with temperatures still comfortable at 76-77°F.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January brings the coolest temperatures of the year with crisp, dry conditions perfect for exploring. Clear skies dominate with minimal rainfall, though nights can be quite cool requiring warm layers. This is peak tourist season due to the pleasant daytime weather.

61°F High
39°F Low
0.9 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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February

February continues the dry season with gradually warming temperatures and excellent weather conditions. The minimal rainfall and comfortable days make this ideal for outdoor activities. Tourist numbers remain high during this pleasant period.

65°F High
42°F Low
0.5 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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March

March marks the beginning of spring with warming temperatures and continued dry conditions. The weather becomes increasingly pleasant as flowers begin to bloom throughout the city. This represents one of the most comfortable months to visit.

71°F High
48°F Low
0.8 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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April

April offers some of the year's most ideal weather with warm days, cool nights, and minimal rainfall. Spring is in full swing with comfortable temperatures perfect for all activities. Tourist season remains strong with excellent conditions.

75°F High
53°F Low
1.0 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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May

May brings the transition toward the wet season with the first significant increase in rainfall. Temperatures reach their near-peak levels while still maintaining comfortable conditions. This marks the beginning of the shoulder season.

77°F High
58°F Low
3.2 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

June ushers in the wet season with significantly increased rainfall and higher humidity. Despite the rain, temperatures remain pleasant and comfortable. Tourist numbers begin to decline due to the frequent precipitation.

77°F High
63°F Low
6.8 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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July

July represents the peak of the wet season with the heaviest rainfall of the year. Despite frequent showers, temperatures remain mild and comfortable throughout the month. This is considered low season for tourism due to the persistent rain.

76°F High
63°F Low
8.5 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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August

August continues the wet season with heavy rainfall but maintains the pleasant temperature range. The frequent rain can limit outdoor activities but provides relief from any heat. Tourist numbers remain low during this rainy period.

77°F High
62°F Low
7.7 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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September

September begins the transition out of the wet season with decreasing rainfall but still significant precipitation. Temperatures remain very comfortable as the weather gradually improves. This marks the beginning of the shoulder season recovery.

74°F High
60°F Low
4.7 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

October offers a return to more favorable conditions with reduced rainfall and pleasant temperatures. The weather becomes increasingly reliable as the wet season winds down. Tourist numbers begin to increase as conditions improve.

69°F High
55°F Low
3.2 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

November marks the return to the dry season with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Clear skies become more frequent as the pleasant dry weather returns. This begins another peak period for tourism.

65°F High
46°F Low
1.2 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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December

December brings the return of the dry season with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures. Clear, crisp days with cool nights characterize this month. Tourist season is in full swing with excellent weather conditions.

60°F High
40°F Low
0.5 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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Activities in Kunming