Dali, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Dali, China? If you're planning to go to Dali, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dali, China

Based on the climate and weather in Dali, China, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Dali, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dali, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Dali, China by month

January

If you visit Dali during January, you are likely to find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you vacation in Dali during February, you might notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, Dali is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Dali, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

Traveling to Dali in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Dali is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you visit Dali during June, you may notice that it is warm and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Dali in July, you will notice that it is warm and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Dali is a perfect temperature and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Dali is warm and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Dali is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Dali is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

Traveling to Dali in December, you will notice that it is cool. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dali. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Dali, China

Dali, a beautiful city located in Yunnan Province of China, is a top tourist destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city is widely known for its breathtaking natural scenery, rich history, and diverse ethnic culture. From ancient temples to beautiful lakes, from colorful markets to stunning mountain ranges, Dali has everything to capture the hearts of travelers. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Dali that you should visit.

1. Erhai Lake: This beautiful lake is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Dali. The lake is a perfect spot for a boat ride, and tourists can enjoy the beautiful sunset view over the lake. Many restaurants and cafes are also located near the lake where tourists can sample local cuisine.

2. Three Pagodas: The Three Pagodas, situated at the foothills of the Cangshan Mountains, are a must-visit tourist attraction in Dali. The pagodas are an excellent example of ancient Chinese architecture and are considered as a symbol of the city.

3. Dali Ancient Town: Dali Ancient Town is another popular tourist attraction in Dali. The town is situated at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and is full of traditional Chinese architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful courtyards. Tourists can stroll around the town and experience the unique ethnic culture of the Bai people.

4. Butterfly Spring: The Butterfly Spring in Dali is a natural spring that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is home to hundreds of butterflies. Tourists can enjoy the serene environment and take pictures with the butterflies.

5. Yan's Compound: Yan's Compound is a well-preserved architecture that was built by a wealthy merchant during the Ming Dynasty. The compound is now converted into a museum, and tourists can visit and explore the history and culture of the Bai people.

6. Xizhou Ancient Town: Xizhou Ancient Town is another beautiful town that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The town is famous for its traditional Bai-style architecture and is a popular tourist destination.

7. Cangshan Mountain: The Cangshan Mountain range is a popular hiking destination for tourists visiting Dali. The mountain range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and tourists can enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

In conclusion, Dali is a beautiful city with rich history and culture that offers a remarkable experience for tourists. From natural wonders to ancient architecture, Dali has something to offer for everyone. These top tourist attractions are just a glimpse of what Dali has in store for travelers, and visitors are sure to make unforgettable memories during their stay in this charming city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Yerakini, Greece, Tombstone, Arizona, United States of America, Manning Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada, Eastern El Salvador, El Salvador, Woodstock, Vermont, United States of America, Gabes, Tunisia, Jelling, Denmark, Capitola, California, United States of America, Gulgong, New South Wales, Australia, Arch Cape, Oregon, United States of America, and Bideford, Wales, United Kingdom.