Kunming Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kunming.
Climate overview of Kunming
Kunming Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kunming - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Kunming
In Kunming, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in May. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a moderate 16°C (61°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) in May to 5°C (41°F) in December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kunming
Kunming has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1505 mm (59 in) of rainfall annually. Kunming can be quite wet during June, receiving approximately 287 mm (11 in) of precipitation over 19 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (December), you will experience much drier conditions, with 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread across 11 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Kunming Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
Sunshine Hours in Kunming
Kunming can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of March under a blue sky, with approximately 8.5 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in September, with only 4.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Kunming by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Kunming.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 81%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 56%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Kunming
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: March and April
- Warmest weather: April, May, June, July and August
- Most sunshine: March and April
- Fewest rainy days: February, March and April
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (November to February) and wet (June to September) seasons
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kunming
What is the best time to visit Kunming?
March and April typically offer the most optimal weather in Kunming. In contrast, June and July tend to have less optimal conditions. Kunming has distinct dry (November to February) and wet (June to September) seasons.
What temperatures can I expect in Kunming?
Daytime highs range from 16°C (61°F) in December to 26°C (79°F) in May. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 18°C (64°F).
How much rain does Kunming get?
Annual rainfall is around 1505 mm (59 in). June is the wettest month with 287 mm (11 in), while December is the driest with 28 mm (1.1 in).
How sunny is Kunming?
Kunming receives around 2,191 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 255 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 123 hours. Overall, Kunming enjoys abundant sunshine.
Kunming 3-Day Forecast
Kunming 3-Day Forecast
Kunming on the map
Kunming is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
Explore the Li River, China's breathtaking landscape with majestic mountains, serene waters, and picturesque views. A must-see for every traveler.
Go to China's Zhangjiajie National Park with the highest, the fastest, largest-loaded outdoor elevator in the world
You won't find this unique landscape anywhere else in the world. Thousands of floating mountains overgrown with trees at the top dominate this fairy tale landscape.
Go to Xinjiang in China
In Xinjiang you get to see a mix of East and Central Asia. An experience that you might want to add to your bucket list. You can travel through the province as if you are following an ancient silk route.
Mount Kailash
The best time for a Kailash tour/trekking is from mid-May to mid-October when the temperature is most pleasant. It is warm, dry and sunny in that period.