dali travel

Dali Old Town (大理古城, Dàlǐ Gǔchéng), the original backpacker hang-out in Yunnan, was once the place to chill, with its stunning location sandwiched between mountains and Erhai Lake. Loafing here for a couple of weeks was once an essential part of the Yunnan experience.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Three Pagodas

Absolutely the symbol of the town and region, these pagodas, a 2km walk north of the north gate, are among the oldest standing structures in southwestern…

Dali Catholic Church

It's worth checking out Dali’s Catholic Church. Dating back to 1927, it's a beautiful blend of Bai-style architecture and classic Christian theology and…

Dali Confucian Temple

Dali's attractive Confucian Temple is a 2014 reconstruction on the site of the original Qing dynasty structure, but the grounds are peaceful and there are…

Dali Municipal Museum

The museum houses a small collection of archaeological pieces relating to Bai history, including some fine figurines. English descriptions are lacking,…

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Dali Travel Guide: Top 22 Things to Do in Dali, China

Welcome to Dali! A city where ancient history whispers among mist-shrouded mountains and the calm waters of Erhai Lake reflect the slow-paced lifestyle of its inhabitants. Nestled in China’s Yunnan Province, Dali is a haven for those seeking tranquility, cultural richness, and a deep connection with nature. This travel guide invites you on a journey through a city that has managed to retain its charm and traditions amidst the ever-changing tides of time.

A City Steeped in History

Dali’s story is as captivating as the landscapes that surround it. Once the heart of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, this city is a living museum, with its ancient city gates, traditional Bai architecture, and the majestic Three Pagodas standing as silent witnesses to a bygone era. Exploring Dali’s cobbled streets and ancient structures is like stepping into a painting, where every corner tells a tale of dynasties, battles, and a rich cultural heritage that has survived the test of time.

Nature’s Masterpiece

Surrounded by the Cangshan Mountains and overlooking the vast Erhai Lake, Dali offers natural beauty that can soothe the weariest of souls. Whether you’re hiking the mountain trails, cycling around the lake, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in one of its many hidden gardens, Dali’s landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for adventure and introspection.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Dali is home to the Bai people, known for their vibrant traditions, exquisite handicrafts, and warm hospitality. The city’s markets and festivals are a riot of colors, flavors, and sounds, offering a glimpse into the lives of its indigenous communities. From the daily morning markets to the grand celebrations of the Bai’s March Street Festival, Dali’s cultural tapestry is as intricate as it is fascinating.

Culinary Delights

The cuisine in Dali is as diverse as its culture. Local dishes are a blend of fresh ingredients from the mountains and lake, offering flavors that are both bold and comforting. Don’t miss out on trying the local cheese, “rushan,” or the savory “xiangyun” ham, and let your taste buds embark on a journey of their own.

The Artistic Soul

Art and creativity flow through Dali’s veins, with numerous galleries, craft workshops, and music venues scattered across the city. The vibrant art scene is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit of expression and innovation. In Dali, art is not just observed; it’s lived and breathed, inviting visitors to not only see but also partake in its creation.

So pack your bags and get ready to discover the wonders of Dali.

Dali City Guide: A Brief History Of Dali, China

Dali, with its laid-back vibe and stunning vistas, carries stories that stretch back into the mists of ancient history. It’s a place where every alleyway and breeze from Erhai Lake seems to whisper tales from the past. Dive into Dali’s history, and you’re in for tales of kingdoms, conquests, and a cultural tapestry that’s as vibrant as the local tie-dye.

Way Back When

Long before Dali became the poster child for serene getaways, it was home to the Bai people, who’ve been around for more than a millennium. Picture this: ancient tribes settling by the bountiful Erhai Lake, carving out a living and setting the stage for a rich cultural legacy. Fast forward a bit, and you’ve got the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms turning the place into a buzzing hub that attracted traders, artists, and monks like bees to honey.

Dynasty Drama

Imagine Dali as the backdrop for a historical epic, its streets bustling with traders from distant lands and scholars debating in the courtyards of majestic temples. The city was a beacon of culture and Buddhism during the Nanzhao and later Dali Kingdoms, kind of like the ancient world’s trendsetter. But as with all epic tales, the plot twists with the arrival of the Mongols, who added their own chapters to Dali’s story, blending cultures in ways that changed the city’s course.

The Mongol Makeover

When the Mongols rolled in during the 13th century, Dali’s days of independence were put on pause, but that didn’t dampen the city’s spirit. Dali adapted, absorbed new influences, and kept its cultural flame burning bright. It’s this blend of the old and new, the indigenous and the foreign, that gives Dali its unique character today.

A Modern-Day Muse

Fast forward to modern times, and Dali has become a haven for the creative soul, attracting a new wave of artists, writers, and dreamers drawn to its beauty and tranquility. The city’s history and natural landscapes provide endless inspiration, making it a place where past and present coexist in harmony.

Dali Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in China

A long-time backpacker haunt for its authentic Chinese atmosphere and the mountains which surround it, Dali is equally as popular among domestic tourists today . In short, it is a popular place on the travel trail in China , but for good reason.

With much to see and do, you could easily spend a week here, so be sure to get this region plenty of time.

Start your time in this popular destination in Yunnan by exploring the Ancient City of Dali . Located thirteen kilometres away from the centre of the modern city of Dali, this well-preserved collection of buildings date from the Ming Dynasty.

Once an important trading and military post situated on a gateway to the Silk Road , it still contains temples, intact city walls, and folk-style homes which were once part of a vibrant community which held a great deal of importance in the region.

Fascinating Attractions

After you have gotten your fill of Dali’s Ancient City, make sure that Chongsheng Temple is next on your to-see list. Better known as the Three Pagodas after its primary attraction, these spires have been around for over 1,800 years and marked the time when Buddhism first arrived in the region.

Standing over 220 feet tall, these multi-tiered pagodas have a commanding presence on the skyline in the surrounding area, but that isn’t all there is to the temple complex; the main building itself is a serene place, and with an attractive bell tower and lush gardens, this place is well worth a visit.

Dali isn’t the only place in this part of Yunnan Province which has ancient buildings that have stood the test of time. After experiencing everything the city has to offer, plan a day trip out to the Ancient Town of Shaxi .

Once an important waypoint on what was known as the Yunnan-Tibet Tea Horse Road, Shaxi is an island of authenticity in a sea of sanitized reproductions of China’s past. Things may not be 100% squeaky clean here, but it is what it is – a place where real human beings still live, even after thousands of years of history.

More Attractions

Here, the same old temples, shops, markets, bridges, and other infrastructures serve the same purpose they have for many centuries – the more you walk around, the more you will realize this place is the real thing.

Whether you walk amidst its rice paddies or walk through the market when locals are buying everyday essentials from merchants who can trace their lineage back countless generations, you will find the off the beaten track experience you are desperately seeking in this time-tested town.

Nature lovers will enjoy their time in the Dali area, as it is situated close by to some of China’s most beautiful alpine scenery. If you don’t have time to wander this region’s high country at your leisure, at least make time in your schedule to see the Cangshan Mountains .

A mountain range with a peak elevation of over 13,000 feet, the views over the valley from the tops of these peaks are awe-inspiring. Active travellers will love the hiking opportunities they will find here, while those who sweat at the thought of exercise will be happy to learn there is a cable car available to allow them to enjoy the view from high above the valley that is home to the city of Dali.

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Dali, China

Do you still have an appetite for ancient towns after visiting the ones mentioned above? Xizhou Town is another old settlement you should see while in the Dali area. A relatively short day trip from Dali, this place was a thriving centre of commerce all the way up to 1949, the year when the Communist Party of China emerged victorious over the KMT.

While its buildings have deteriorated somewhat since that time, many feel that it lends an air of authenticity to this ancient town that the Dali Ancient City lacks. When you aren’t walking through the narrow streets of this atmospheric place, check out the local market – mostly free of the trinket stalls which plague much of Dali’s market, you’ll find wandering here to be a far more pleasant experience.

Other Attractions

Xizhou is situated on the shores of Erhai Lake , a body of water considered to be one of the most picturesque in China . Start your time here by having a coffee with breakfast overlooking its misty surface. Once you have finished up, check out the sightseeing boat cruise, as it will allow you to get out onto the water and experience the peacefulness of this lake up close.

Back in Dali, the Dali Foreigner Street is where you’ll want to go if you are looking for the greatest range of souvenirs from your time in this corner of Yunnan. Yes, there is some dinky plastic crap – but there are also exquisite wood carvings, silverware, and other fine local crafts.

Look carefully, and you’ll find something unforgettable to bring home with you.

Top 22 Things To Do in Dali, China For Visitors

Here are the top 22 things to do in Dali:

1. Explore the Ancient City of Dali

The Ancient City of Dali, also known as Dali Old Town, is a beautifully preserved area with traditional Bai architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant markets. Walk through the ancient city gates and explore the bustling streets filled with artisan shops, cafes, and tea houses. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local snacks from street vendors. The area comes alive at night with lanterns illuminating the streets, offering a charming atmosphere.

2. Visit the Three Pagodas

The Three Pagodas, located northwest of Dali Old Town, are an iconic symbol of the city’s history and religious significance. These structures have withstood earthquakes and wars, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. The reflection of the pagodas on the nearby pond offers a spectacular photo opportunity. Visitors can also explore the Chongsheng Temple complex behind the pagodas, which provides panoramic views of Dali and its surroundings.

3. Cruise on Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake, meaning “Ear-shaped Sea,” is the second largest freshwater lake in Yunnan and offers stunning natural scenery. Take a boat cruise to explore the lake’s islands, each with its own unique charm and temples. Cycling around Erhai Lake is also a popular way to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and visit nearby fishing villages. Sunset by the lake is particularly mesmerizing and not to be missed.

4. Hike Cangshan Mountain

Cangshan Mountain, with its towering peaks and verdant forests, offers numerous hiking trails for all levels. The chairlift to the Zhonghe Temple provides easy access to spectacular views and the starting point for several trails. The Jade Belt Road is a gentle path that runs along the mountain, offering stunning views of Erhai Lake. Keep an eye out for the marble stones and streams that Cangshan is famous for.

5. Wander Through Xizhou Town

Xizhou is a charming town near Dali, known for its well-preserved Bai architecture and vibrant daily market. Visit the historic Yan family compound to see traditional Bai homes and courtyards. Try the local specialty, Xizhou baba, a savory or sweet stuffed pancake. The town is also a great place to observe local life and interact with the friendly Bai people.

6. Relax in Shuanglang Village

Shuanglang Village, situated on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, has become a haven for artists and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning lake views. Wander through the narrow lanes lined with boutique hotels, galleries, and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely meal by the lake, offering fresh seafood and local dishes. The village is an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the slower pace of life.

7. Visit the Dali Museum

The Dali Museum, located in Dali Old Town, offers insights into the history, culture, and art of the Dali region. The museum houses artifacts from the ancient Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, traditional Bai clothing, and local crafts. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s rich heritage before exploring the city. The museum’s architecture itself is a blend of traditional Bai style and modern design.

8. Explore Butterfly Spring Park

Butterfly Spring Park is a tranquil spot at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, famous for the thousands of butterflies that gather here in spring. The clear spring and lush surroundings make it a picturesque place for a stroll. Legend has it that the spring is a symbol of eternal love, attracting couples and visitors. The park also features a museum dedicated to butterflies, showcasing various species and their importance to the local ecosystem.

9. Attend the Dali International Photography Exhibition

Held annually, the Dali International Photography Exhibition attracts photographers and artists from around the world. The event showcases a wide range of photographic works, from traditional landscapes to contemporary art. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see creative works and meet artists in the beautiful setting of Dali. The exhibition highlights the city’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.

10. Visit Zhoucheng Village

Zhoucheng Village is the largest Bai community in Dali, known for its traditional tie-dyeing techniques. Visitors can participate in tie-dye workshops to learn about the process and create their own fabric designs. The village is also home to several ancient temples and traditional Bai houses, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. It’s a great place to purchase authentic handcrafted souvenirs.

11. Explore Weishan Old Town

Though a bit further afield, Weishan Old Town is worth the visit for its well-preserved architecture and slower pace of life compared to Dali Old Town. This hidden gem is the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom and is rich in history and culture. The town’s traditional market is a bustling place where visitors can sample local foods and observe daily life. Weishan’s serene atmosphere and historic significance make it a fascinating day trip.

12. Climb Weibao Mountain

Weibao Mountain, near Weishan, is considered sacred and offers several Taoist temples and pavilions along its hiking trails. The climb provides not only spiritual enrichment but also stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a place of pilgrimage for Taoists and those interested in Taoism. The tranquility and natural beauty of Weibao Mountain make it a refreshing retreat.

13. Taste Dali’s Local Cuisine

Dali’s cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity, offering a variety of Bai, Tibetan, and Yunnanese dishes. Must-try dishes include “crossing-the-bridge” noodles, Dali-style claypot fish, and grilled cheese (rubing). Local markets and street food vendors are the best places to sample these delicacies. Don’t forget to pair your meal with some locally produced Dali beer.

14. Enjoy Tea at a Traditional Tea House

Dali is surrounded by tea plantations, and visiting a traditional tea house to sample local teas is a must-do activity. Experience a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the different types of tea produced in the region, including the famous Pu’er tea. Many tea houses are located in beautifully restored buildings, offering a peaceful setting to enjoy your tea. It’s a great way to relax and immerse yourself in local culture.

15. Participate in the Torch Festival

The Torch Festival is celebrated by the Bai and other ethnic minorities in Yunnan, marking one of the most important and colorful events in Dali. The festival includes traditional sports, folk dances, and, of course, the lighting of torches. It’s a unique experience that allows visitors to witness local traditions and join in the festivities. The festival takes place annually in late June or early July.

16. Take a Cooking Class

Joining a cooking class in Dali is an excellent way to learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques. Classes often include a market visit to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on instruction in preparing traditional dishes. It’s a fun and interactive way to delve into Yunnan’s culinary traditions. Plus, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the class.

17. Shop for Local Crafts

Dali is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, with local artisans producing everything from pottery and textiles to silver jewelry and traditional paintings. The best places to shop for these handmade items are in Dali Old Town and Xizhou Town. Purchasing these crafts not only provides you with a unique souvenir but also supports the local artisan community. Be sure to visit the workshops where you can see artists at work.

18. Visit Bai Traditional Houses in Xizhou

Xizhou is renowned for its well-preserved Bai traditional houses, which feature intricate wood carvings, colorful wall paintings, and beautiful courtyards. Visitors can tour some of these historic homes to learn about Bai architecture and culture. Many houses also host cultural performances and offer traditional Bai snacks. It’s an immersive way to experience the heritage of the Bai people.

19. Hike to Hidden Waterfalls

The mountains and valleys around Dali hide numerous waterfalls and streams, offering refreshing hikes away from the city. Guides can take you to some of the less-known waterfalls where you can enjoy a picnic and a swim in natural pools. These hikes often pass through small villages and terraced fields, providing insights into rural life in Yunnan. It’s an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural discovery.

20. Explore Dali’s Night Market

Dali’s night market is a lively place where you can find a wide range of street food, crafts, and entertainment. It’s an ideal spot to try local snacks, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. The market is also a great place to observe local life and interact with residents. Be sure to try the local barbecue and sweet treats.

21. Attend the San Yue Jie Festival

The San Yue Jie Festival, held in the third lunar month, is one of the largest traditional markets and cultural festivals in Dali. It attracts people from various ethnic groups who come to trade goods, socialize, and celebrate. The festival features horse racing, traditional music and dance, and lots of local food. It’s a vibrant display of Yunnan’s diverse cultures and a fantastic opportunity for cultural immersion.

22. Relax at Cangshan’s Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, unwind at one of Cangshan Mountain’s natural hot springs. These thermal waters are believed to have healing properties and offer a serene setting surrounded by nature. There are several hot spring resorts where you can enjoy a variety of pools and spa treatments. It’s the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate in Dali’s beautiful mountain landscape.

These activities provide a comprehensive experience of Dali’s history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique charm of this enchanting destination.

What To Eat and Drink in Dali, China

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to the must-try eats and drinks in Dali, promising an unforgettable journey for your taste buds.

Dali’s Signature Dishes

• Erhai Fish (洱海鱼) : Caught fresh from the crystal-clear waters of Erhai Lake, this dish is usually grilled or steamed, seasoned with local herbs and spices, offering a taste of Dali’s natural bounty.
• Rice Noodles with Pork (过桥米线) : A comforting bowl of rice noodles served with thinly sliced pork, vegetables, and a rich, aromatic broth. It’s a staple breakfast or lunch option that perfectly encapsulates Yunnan’s love for noodles.
• Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles (过桥米线) : This iconic Yunnan dish consists of a steaming hot pot of broth, served alongside raw ingredients like slices of meat, vegetables, and noodles, which are cooked tableside. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.
• Yunnan Cheese (乳扇) : Also known as “Rushan,” this unique dairy product is often grilled or fried and served with a sweet or savory dip. It’s a testament to the dairy traditions of the Bai people.
• Shanxi Mature Vinegar Peanuts (山西老陈醋花生) : A popular snack or appetizer, these peanuts are mixed with mature vinegar, giving them a tangy, addictive flavor that’s hard to resist.

Must-Try Beverages

• Dali Beer (大理啤酒) : Brewed locally, Dali Beer is a refreshing lager that captures the spirit of the city. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a spicy meal or a sunset by the lake.
• Sweet Osmanthus Tea (桂花茶) : This fragrant tea, made from the sweet osmanthus flowers, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s known for its sweet, floral aroma and a number of health benefits.
• Highland Barley Wine (青稞酒) : This Tibetan-inspired alcoholic beverage is made from highland barley and has a rich, robust flavor. It’s a must-try for those looking to sample the local spirits.
• Rose Petal Jam (玫瑰花酱) : Often spread on toast or used as a sweetener for tea, this jam made from local roses adds a floral touch to any meal.
• Wild Mushroom Hot Pot (野生菌火锅) : While not a drink, no culinary journey in Dali is complete without experiencing a hot pot filled with locally foraged mushrooms, a true delicacy of the region.

Tours For Visitors To Dali, China

Here’s a comprehensive list of tours you should consider to make the most out of your visit to Dali.

1. Historic Dali City Tour

Delve into Dali’s ancient past with a guided tour around the Dali Old Town. Discover the city’s well-preserved gates, walk along its ancient walls, and explore landmarks like the Three Pagodas. Learn about the rich history of the Bai people and the city’s significance along the Tea Horse Road.

2. Cangshan Mountain Hiking Experience

Embrace the great outdoors with a hike along the Cangshan Mountain range. Choose from trails that suit all levels of fitness, from leisurely walks to more challenging treks. Enjoy panoramic views of Erhai Lake and Dali below, and discover the mountain’s unique flora and fauna.

3. Erhai Lake Cycling Tour

Cycle around the picturesque Erhai Lake, stopping at fishing villages, local markets, and temples along the way. This leisurely tour offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities and stunning lakeside scenery. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Dali at your own pace.

4. Tea Plantation and Tasting Tour

Yunnan is famous for its tea, and a visit to a local tea plantation reveals the secrets behind tea production. Learn about the ancient art of tea making, from picking to processing, and enjoy a tasting session of different varieties, including the renowned Pu’er tea.

5. Bai Culture and Artisans Workshop Tour

Immerse yourself in Bai culture with a tour that takes you to traditional Bai homes, workshops, and markets. Learn about Bai architecture, watch artisans at work creating tie-dye textiles and pottery, and perhaps try your hand at some traditional crafts.

6. Dali Street Food and Market Tour

Explore Dali’s culinary scene with a guided tour of its bustling markets and street food stalls. Sample local specialties such as fried cheese, rice noodle soup, and sweet rose cakes. This tour is a feast for the senses and offers insight into the local cuisine and ingredients.

7. Xizhou Ancient Town and Zhoucheng Village Tour

Discover the charm of Xizhou and Zhoucheng, two towns near Dali known for their well-preserved Bai architecture and vibrant local markets. In Zhoucheng, known as the ‘Town of Tie-Dye,’ you can witness the traditional process of making Bai tie-dye textiles.

8. Dali Nightlife Experience

Experience Dali after dark with a tour of the city’s best bars, breweries, and night markets. Enjoy local craft beers, taste street food delicacies, and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience the city’s modern-day culture and socialize with locals and fellow travelers.

9. Meditation and Yoga Retreats

For those seeking tranquility, Dali offers several meditation and yoga retreats set in serene locations. Reconnect with nature and find inner peace through guided meditation sessions, yoga classes, and wellness workshops, all while surrounded by Dali’s stunning landscapes.

10. Bird-Watching and Nature Tour in the Wetlands

Venture into the wetlands surrounding Dali for a bird-watching tour. These biodiverse areas are home to a variety of bird species, offering a peaceful escape into nature. It’s an ideal tour for photographers and nature lovers.

Day Trips From Dali, China

Here’s a curated list of day trips from Dali that promise to enrich your travel experience with unforgettable memories.

1. Xizhou Ancient Town

Just a short drive from Dali, Xizhou is renowned for its well-preserved Bai architecture and vibrant local culture. Stroll through the town’s bustling market, sample traditional Bai snacks, and admire the intricate designs of the historic houses. Xizhou offers a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the Bai people, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

2. Cangshan Mountain Hike

The Cangshan Mountain Range, with its majestic peaks and breathtaking scenery, offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels. Take the cable car up and hike among the clouds, exploring tranquil streams and waterfalls. The mountain’s flora and fauna add to the beauty of the hike, promising a day filled with natural wonders. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning vistas.

Cycling around Erhai Lake provides a leisurely way to take in the serene beauty of one of China’s largest freshwater lakes. The route takes you through quaint fishing villages, lush farmlands, and offers panoramic views of the lake and mountains beyond. Bike rentals are readily available, and the flat paths make this an enjoyable activity for all ages. Stop at local eateries along the way to savor fresh fish and regional specialties.

4. Shaxi Ancient Town

A bit further afield, Shaxi was once a bustling stop on the Tea Horse Road and has retained much of its old-world charm. The town’s Sideng Square, surrounded by traditional wooden buildings and the ancient stage, is a highlight. Visitors can explore the local temples, enjoy hikes to nearby villages, and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere of rural Yunnan. Shaxi is an ideal destination for those looking to step back in time.

5. Weishan Old Town

Discover the lesser-known Weishan Old Town, where history comes alive amidst Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The town’s relaxed pace, historic buildings, and friendly locals offer a stark contrast to more touristy destinations. Weishan’s local market is a treasure trove of Yunnanese snacks and crafts. The town serves as a gateway to the Weibaoshan Daoist mountain, home to centuries-old temples nestled in lush forests.

6. Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple

While technically in Dali, the Three Pagodas and the adjacent Chongsheng Temple complex warrant a day trip of their own. These iconic structures are a testament to Dali’s Buddhist heritage and offer stunning photo opportunities. The site’s history, combined with the panoramic views of Dali and Erhai Lake from the temple grounds, is truly mesmerizing. Visitors can explore the temple’s extensive grounds, including several newly restored pavilions and halls.

7. Bai Traditional Villages Tour

Spend a day visiting the Bai traditional villages that dot the landscape around Dali. Each village, with its unique customs, architecture, and crafts, offers a different perspective on Bai culture. Participate in a traditional tie-dye workshop in Zhoucheng or explore the ancient irrigation systems in Shuanglang. These villages provide an intimate look at the Bai way of life, past and present.

8. Butterfly Spring

Nestled at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains, Butterfly Spring is a natural spring surrounded by a lush garden and thousands of butterflies in the right season. The site is famed for its annual “Butterfly Meet,” where swarms of butterflies gather, creating a spectacular sight. The spring’s clear waters and the surrounding greenery make it a peaceful retreat. It’s a spot that combines natural beauty with local legend, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

9. Jizu Mountain

Regarded as one of the most sacred Buddhist mountains in Yunnan, Jizu Mountain invites visitors to explore its ancient temples, serene forests, and stunning views. The hike to the summit is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to visit the historic Jinding Temple. The mountain is a site of pilgrimage and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and exploration. It’s an ideal trip for those seeking both spiritual and physical elevation.

10. Puzhehei Scenic Area

For those willing to venture a bit further, the Puzhehei Scenic Area offers an idyllic landscape of karst formations, clear lakes, and lush vegetation. Known as “a place where fish and shrimp play,” Puzhehei is perfect for kayaking, photography, and enjoying Yunnan’s natural beauty. The area is also home to several small ethnic villages, providing insight into the diverse cultures of the region. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Dali Transportation Guide

Here’s a detailed guide on getting around Dali, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Getting to Dali

By Air : The closest airport is Dali Airport, serving both domestic and limited international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach Dali city center or directly to the Old Town.

By Train : Dali has its own railway station, connecting it with major Chinese cities. The high-speed trains offer a comfortable and efficient way to travel to Dali from places like Kunming, the provincial capital.

By Bus : Long-distance buses run frequently between Dali and other cities and towns within Yunnan Province, including direct routes from Kunming, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.

Getting Around Dali

By Bicycle : Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Dali and its surroundings, especially around Erhai Lake and the Old Town. There are numerous rental shops offering bikes for hourly or daily rates.

By Electric Scooter : For a faster mode of transport, electric scooters are available for rent. They offer a fun and efficient way to navigate the city and surrounding countryside.

By Local Bus : Dali’s local bus service is an economical option for getting around, with routes covering the city, Dali Old Town, and major attractions. Buses are frequent, and routes are well-marked, making it easy to navigate the area.

By Taxi : Taxis in Dali are readily available and reasonably priced. They can be hailed on the street or ordered through your hotel. Always make sure the meter is running to avoid overcharging.

On Foot : Walking is perhaps the best way to explore Dali Old Town, where the streets are lined with historical buildings, artisan shops, and cafes. Many of Dali’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pedestrian-friendly option.

Private Car or Van Hire : For those looking to explore more remote areas or preferring a personalized itinerary, hiring a private car or van with a driver for the day is a convenient option. This can be arranged through travel agencies or hotels in Dali.

Tips for Travelers

• Public Transportation : While public buses are cheap and efficient, they can get crowded during peak tourist seasons. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
• Bicycle Rides : When cycling, especially around Erhai Lake, be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry necessary supplies like water and snacks.
• Navigating the Old Town : The charm of Dali Old Town is best experienced on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready to explore its narrow, cobbled streets.
• Language Barrier : Not all taxi drivers or bus operators speak English, so it’s handy to have your destination written in Chinese or a map app to show them.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Dali?

Here’s a list of destinations that promise to extend your adventure with more unforgettable experiences.

Just a few hours north of Dali, Lijiang awaits with its ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its well-preserved architecture and waterways. Explore the cobbled streets, visit the iconic Black Dragon Pool, and soak in the views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Lijiang’s vibrant Naxi culture and bustling night markets offer a deep dive into the local heritage.

2. Shangri-La

Venture further into the mystical landscapes of Yunnan to discover Shangri-La, a city that embodies the region’s natural and cultural splendor. The Songzanlin Monastery, resembling a mini Potala Palace, and the breathtaking views of Pudacuo National Park are highlights. Shangri-La is also the gateway to the Tibetan cultural area, offering a glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of the Tibetan people.

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate, Kunming, the provincial capital, offers lush parks, historic temples, and the mesmerizing Stone Forest. It’s a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition, offering a range of cultural experiences, from the dynamic Yunnan Nationalities Village to the tranquil Green Lake Park.

4. Yuanyang Rice Terraces

For those willing to venture further, the Yuanyang Rice Terraces offer some of China’s most spectacular landscapes. These intricately constructed terraces change colors with the seasons and provide breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. The area is also home to several ethnic minorities, including the Hani people, offering rich cultural interactions.

5. Tiger Leaping Gorge

One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers one of the most dramatic treks in China. The trail provides stunning views of the Yangtze River as it forcefully makes its way through the gorge. It’s a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.

6. Jinghong, Xishuangbanna

Experience the tropical side of Yunnan in Jinghong, the heart of the Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture. The region is known for its lush rainforests, wild elephants, and the rich culture of the Dai people. Visit the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden and enjoy a traditional Dai water splashing festival if you’re there in April.

7. Puzhehei

Nicknamed “the Guilin of Yunnan,” Puzhehei offers stunning karst landscapes, clear lakes, and peaceful boat rides. The area is dotted with small villages and vibrant lotus blooms in the summer, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and rural life.

In spring, Luoping transforms into a sea of yellow as the canola flowers bloom, creating one of China’s most stunning natural displays. The area is also known for its unique karst formations and the spectacular Jiulong Waterfall.

9. Dianchi Lake

Just outside Kunming, Dianchi Lake offers a scenic escape with its vast waters bordered by mountains and parks. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, explore the surrounding temples and pavilions, and don’t miss the impressive Dragon Gate in the Western Hills.

10. Jianshui

An ancient town with over 1,200 years of history, Jianshui is renowned for its traditional architecture, including the Chaoyang Gateway Tower and the Confucius Temple. It’s a lesser-visited gem that offers a deep dive into the Ming and Qing dynasties’ culture and architecture.

Dali Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

As we draw our Dali travel guide to a close, let’s reflect on why this city is more than just a stop on your itinerary—it’s a journey into the heart of Yunnan’s mesmerizing blend of nature, culture, and history.

A City That Lives Its History

Dali doesn’t just rest on the laurels of its past; it wears its history with pride. From the ancient walls that encircle the old town to the tranquil temples that have witnessed centuries unfold, Dali offers a living, breathing history lesson that’s accessible to all. It’s a place where every stone tells a story, inviting you to listen.

The natural beauty surrounding Dali is nothing short of breathtaking. Whether it’s the serene vistas of Erhai Lake that call for contemplation or the rugged peaks of the Cangshan Mountains that challenge adventurers, Dali’s landscapes serve as a backdrop for endless exploration. It’s a reminder of the simple beauty that nature offers to those willing to seek it out.

Dali stands as a testament to the diversity and richness of Yunnan’s cultural heritage. Here, the Bai people’s traditions thrive alongside a growing community of artists, travelers, and expats, creating a vibrant mosaic of life that’s as colorful as the tie-dye textiles found in the local markets. Dali is a place where cultures not only coexist but flourish together.

The Flavors of Dali

Your taste buds are in for a treat in Dali, where the cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. From street food stalls serving up mouth-watering snacks to restaurants offering fusion dishes that marry local ingredients with international flavors, Dali’s culinary scene is a delight. Each meal is an opportunity to explore the region’s bounty.

Ode To Dali

In the land of Dali, where mountains meet the sky, A place of beauty, where ancient echoes lie. Wander through the streets of Old Town’s embrace, With Bai-style architecture, a glimpse of grace.

Three Pagodas stand tall, proud and strong, Whispering tales of history, a legacy that’s long. Erhai Lake glistens, serene and pure, Reflecting the beauty that will endure.

Xizhou Village beckons, with its charm untold, Bai culture and traditions to unfold. Step into the past, where time slows down, As ancient customs and crafts are found.

Cangshan Mountain calls, with trails to explore, Nature’s wonders, to captivate and adore. Rivers and waterfalls, a symphony of sound, A sanctuary of peace, where solace is found.

Shaxi’s ancient streets, a portal to the past, Trade routes and stories that forever last. Shibaoshan’s grottoes, a spiritual retreat, Carved in stone, a treasure to meet.

Journey further to Lijiang, Shangri-La, and beyond, Yunnan’s beauty, an enchanting bond. Immerse in the colors, the flavors, the sights, A traveler’s delight, where dreams take flight.

Oh, traveler, let Dali’s essence touch your soul, With each step, a new story to unfold. Embrace the wonders, the cultures, the art, In the heart of Dali, a journey to start.

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How to Plan a Dali Tour | Ultimate Dali Trip Planning Guide

Dali (大理) is well located on the west tourist route of Yunnan as the middle stop of Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-La line . It is about 260 kilometers from Kunming and 140 kilometers from Lijiang. “Romantic” and “Beautiful” are the common words to describe Dali. “The wind in Xiaguan blows those flowers in Shangguan, the moonlight in the Erhai Lake shines over the snow in Cangshan Mountain” - how poetic the city is! Besides, Dali used to the ancient capital of Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom in 9th and 10th century and it is the most concentrated place (80 percent live in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture) to experience Bai ethnic group’s stunning culture and festivals !

So,  how to plan a tour to Dali ? Doing detailed research before your Dali Yunnan tour will make you travel smoothly and in a well-organized way. In our latest Dali trip planning guide, we have listed some essential travel information, like best time to visit, how to get to Dali, best attractions to see and top things to do, how long to spend and itineraries suggestions, where to stay and more for your Dali trip. Just take some time to read and make a perfect Dali travel plan for yourselves in 2024/2025!

Dali Weather & Best Time to Visit Dali

Dali is located in the west of Yunnan Province , with an average altitude of 2090 meters. It belongs to plateau monsoon climate with very distinct dry and wet season, and small seasonal temperature differences. The annual average temperature of the year is around 15.5℃ . Dali, just like Kunming , can be described as each season is like spring all throughout the year. From the late May to the late November, it enters into the rainy season; and from early December to the next May, it belongs to the dry season.

For the warm and comfortable weather in four seasons, Dali can be visited all year round and the most recommended period is from March to November . In March to April, the lively Third Month Fair is holding in Dali Old Town and the beautiful flowers are blooming around Erhai Lake. From May to August, Dali becomes the summer resort to escape heat that the cool Cangshan Mountain brings you some refreshment. From September to November, the weather is super comfortable which is suitable for many outdoor activities like boating on Erhai Lake. ( Useful Tip: Sunblock Stream, sunglasses, hat are highly recommended to bring to prevent the ultraviolet ray and heat.)

▶ Learn more about: Dali Weather, Temperature & Best Time to Visit

How to Get to Dali? Flights & Trains to Dali

Usually, Dali is served as a middle stop for a Yunnan trip since most travelers would like to do 6~11 days tour in Yunnan. Dali itself has an airport and a railway station to well connect with other cities in Yunnan and China. Travelers can take flights or high speed trains to Dali.

Flights to Dali

Dali Airport (IATA：DLU) has flights well linking with 21 cities in China, including Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Xian, Guilin, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Guiyang, Nanjing, Wuhan, Changsha, Xishuangbanna and more cities. Among all the cities, Chengdu (about 1.5 hours), Beijing (about 4 hours) and Guangzhou (about 2.5 hours) have frequent daily schedules to Dali. Dali Airport is located in the southeast of Dali Ancient Town, about 25 kilometers away.

High Speed Trains to Dali

Taking high speed trains to Dali is the popular choice for most travelers. Dali has high speed trains linking with Kunming (about 2-2.5 hours), Puzhehei (about 3.5-4 hours), Guilin (about 10 hours), Guangzhou (about 10.5-11 hours), and more destinations. All the trains will arrive at Dali Railway Station which is about 17 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town (about 45 mins’ transfer).

Travelers who take Kunming-Dali tour, Kunming-Dali-Lijiang tour, or Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La tour, would take high speed trains from Kunming to Dali. The two sections have over 20 daily schedules running from Kunming Railway Station to Dali Railway Station, only taking 2-2.5 hours. Learn more about Kunming to Dali High Speed Train Real-time Schedules >>

▶ 4 Days Kunming & Dali Highlights Tour by High Speed Train

Get Around Dali - Travel to Dali Ancient Town & around

After arriving at Dali Airport or Dali Railway Station, you can either take taxi, bus or airport shuttle to Dali Ancient Town. From Dali Airport to Dali Ancient Town, it takes about 35 mins to 1 hour by private car, about 50 mins to 1 hour by airport shuttle. From Dali Railway Station to Dali Ancient Town, it takes about 30mins-45mins by private car, or about 1 hour by local bus No.8.

To get around Dali Ancient Town to Xizhou Ancient Town, Zhoucheng, travelers can the buses at Cangshan Gate Parking Lot to those places. Also, you can hire battery car or rent a bike to travel around.

▶ Learn more about: How to Get to & around Dali | How to Get from Dali to Shaxi Ancient Town

Top Attractions & Best Things to See in Dali

Dali is a heavenly paradise well combined with breathtaking natural scenery, time-honored old towns, unique Bai ethnic folk culture.

For most travelers, the exploration in Dali is mainly concentrated on Dali Ancient Town, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas and the surrounding sites around Erhai Lake. If you want in-depth discovery or relaxation, you are suggested to head to the North of Dali (Shaxi Ancient Town, or Shibao Mountain), South of Dali (Weishan Ancient City, Weibao Mountain, East Lotus Village) and East of Dali (such as Jizu Mountain). If your time is limited, traveling to Dali Ancient Town and around Erhai Lake will be enough to catch most essence of Dali.

Dali Ancient City

Dali Ancient City, known as Dali Old Town, is a 1200-year-old historic town with rich culture located between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. It was used to be the ancient capital of Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom. Compared with Lijiang Old Town, Dali Old Town is less crowded and less commercialized where you can experience Bai ethnic group’s culture and customs. Wander in the old town to have leisure exploration about city gates, old towers, old streets, temples, churches, museums, shops and bars... Recommended Visiting Time: about 2 hours

Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple

Three Pagodas is the symbol of Dali, which was first built in the time of Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom in 9th and 10th century. The Three Pagodas are made of one big pagoda and two small pagodas, forming a symmetric triangle. Looking them from a distance, the pagodas are like three giant ballpoint pens erecting in front of Cangshan Mountains. Your visit also covers Chongsheng Temple and catch graceful reflections of Three Pagodas at Reflection Pond. Recommended Visiting Time: about 2-2.5 hours Distance from Dali Ancient City: in the northwest about 2.3 kilometers away, about 10 minutes’ driving

• Cangshan Mountain

Cangshan Mountain, situated magnificently in the west of Dali Ancient City, is composed of 19 peaks with average altitude over 3500 meters and the highest peak called Malong Peak at elevation over 4000 meters. Cangshan Mountain belongs to world geopark and the snow is covered the peaks of Cangshan Mountain all year round. Travelers usually take Gantong cableway up to the hillside to walk round Jade Belt Road and have panoramic view of Dali Old Town and Erhai Lake. Recommended Visiting Time: about 2-3 hours Distance from Dali Ancient City: in the west about 1.9 kilometers away, about 10 minutes’ driving

Erhai Lake (Ear-shaped Sea), the mother lake of Bai people, is the second largest plateau freshwater lake in Yunnan situated in the east of Dali Ancient City. Erhai Lake spans 40 kilometers in length and roughly 9 kilometers in width. Taking a cruise is the most popular to appreciate the beauty of Erhai Lake. You’ll have a chance to visit one of its three islands - Nanshao Folk Island, Puto Island and Jinsuo Island. Caicun Pier is the most used pier to take the cruise. Recommended Visiting Time: about 2-4 hours Distance from Dali Ancient City: 4 km from Erhai Gate, about 10-15mins’ driving

Xizhou Village (Xizhou Ancient Town)

Xizhou Village, with a profound history over 1000 years, is the most concentrated ancient town for local Bai people and becomes the best old town to experience Bai people’s ethnic culture. Spend one morning to Xizhou Village attending its morning market, appreciating the Bai’s featured architecture by visiting Yan Family Compound, trying Three-Course Tea and savor the various life phenomenons, or visiting a local dye house or learn to make a tie-dye by yourself... A visit to Xizhou Village makes you have a full understanding about Bai ethnic group. Recommended Visiting Time: about half day Distance from Dali Ancient City: 30 km, about 30mins’ driving

• Shaxi Ancient Town

Shaxi Ancient Town is well situated on the way between Dali and Lijiang. If you do Dali Lijiang tour in one trip, it is a good idea to add Shaxi Ancient Town into the itinerary. Shaxi is one of the well preserved ancient towns in Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Road. It is very primitive and less crowded that you can explore Bai group’s culture in leisure pace. Highlights here include Sideng Street and vibrant Friday Market. The nearby Shibao Mountain is also worth your visit. Recommended Visiting Time: about half day to one day Distance: 148 km from Dali (about 2.5-3 hours’ driving), 107 km from Lijiang (about 2-2.5 hours’ driving)

▶ Learn more about: Top Attractions in Dali

Awesome & Special Experiences in Dali, Yunnan

Besides the endless beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali is a ravishing destination giving you more. It is a lively place on plateau taking you truly involving in local ethnic group’s daily life and have in-depth experience about their stunning cultures.

Attend Bai’s Morning Markets to Feel Authentic Local Life

If you want to have a look at the local Bai people’s daily life, going to one of the old towns in the morning and visiting the local lively market is the authentic way. The locals are dressed in traditional costumes, either selling goods or buying daily staff. You can see many stuff only can be found in Yunnan. Among all the local market, Xizhou Ancient Town morning market is the most recommended for it will hold everyday and acted as the must-visited part when visiting Xizhou Village.

( Note: To catch the most lively trading scene, you’d better visit in the morning. The real running time of the markets would make some adjustment based on the real situation. )

Taste Three-Course Tea of Bai & Experience Tea Ceremony

The genius Three-Course tea ceremony is a must try in Dali. Three-course tea, first cup is bitter, second cap is sweet and the third cup is for aftertaste, which indicating the pursuit of perfection of personality during the whole life. In ancient times, Bai nationality used it as a blessing to the younger generation when studying, learning skills, doing business and getting married. Now Three-course tea becomes a custom for Bai people when they are welcoming the guests. When tasting three-course tea, you can enjoy Bai group’s singing and dancing as well as know the tea ceremony and Bai’s culture. The recommended places to enjoy Three-Course Tea are Xizhou Village Yan Family Dwellings , and Zhoucheng Bai Family Dwellings .

Learn How Tie-Dye is Made in Zhoucheng & Make One in Person

In 2006, Tie-dye technique of Bai Minority was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. Tie-dye can be used as a clothes, tablecloth, decoration, etc. If you are interested in the making process of tie-dye, you transfer to Zhoucheng Village - “Hometown of Bai People’s Tie-dye Art” and visit one the workshop to witness how cloth is tie-dyed. In Zhoucheng, the side walls of the houses are always hung with tie-dye of different colors and patterns, which is beautiful and enchanting. If you want to make one in person, it needs another 1-1.5 hours with extra fees (about CNY 50/pp).

▶ 7 Days Dali Lijiang Shangri-La Inspiring Tour with Ethnic Culture Seeking

Learn to Make Rushan in Local Bai Family House

In Xizhou Ancient Town, you’ll visit a local Bai family and learn how to make Yunnan Cheese called “Rushan” . Rushan is a cheese made out of goat milk, produced primarily by the Bai ethnic minority in Dali. Spend about 30 minutes involving in the whole process and taste the delicious cheese made by your own hands. As well, you can have a better understanding about local Bai people’s daily life and their eating habits. This experience needs extra fee about CNY 60/pp.

Enjoy Interesting Ethnic Festival of Bai Ethnic Group

Bai people are talented in singing and dancing. The annual  Third Month Fair  during every  lunar March 15th - March 21st  is one of the best times to appreciate their artistic talent. This historical festival can dates back to 1,000 years ago, during which in Tang dynasty, people gathered here in Dali to hear the Buddhist sermon and formed the large fair. Experiencing some changes and development, the Third Month Fair becomes more grand and joyous. On the occasion, people wearing featured ethnic costumes would dance, sing, and enjoy many kinds of sports, cultural and entertainment activities. If time is right, you can enjoy it at the West Gate of Dali Ancient Town.

Another important festival for Bai people is the  Rao San Ling Festival  in the  late Lunar April (Lunar April 23rd - 25th) . During the three days, Bai people would dress up in their unique costumes to walk along the Dali Ancient Town , Three Pagodas , Cangshan Mountain Wutai Peak, singing and dancing, worshiping for the King of the past Dali Kingdom, good harvest, peace of the world.

Take Battery Car or Cycle around Erhai Lake for More Fun

For travelers who are in good physical condition or want more leisure time to see the beautiful scenery along Erhai Lake, you can rent a battery car or a bike at Dali Ancient Town. It is recommended to start from the Erhai Gate of Dali Old Town and head north along Erhai Lake to Xizhou Ancient Town . The whole distance is about 18 kilometers. It needs about 1.5-2 hours’ riding or 1 hour by battery car. You’d better do it in the morning otherwise it would be hot.

How Many Days to Stay in Dali? Recommended Itineraries

Dali is suitable for about two days’ exploration. Many travelers would like to extend around Dali to Shaxi Ancient Town or other places, they usually spend about 3 days in and around Dali.

If you have 2 days, you can go like this:

(Note: the above travel plans exclude the arrival in Dali one day ahead. While, the recommended tours include the arrival day.)

If you have 3 days, you can go like this:

▶ Learn more about: All Itineraries & Recommended Tours in Dali

Where to Stay in Dali? Recommended Areas & Hotels for Accommodation

Most travelers would spend one or two nights in Dali City. For those only spend one night, the top recommended area is in Dali Ancient Town . You can have an easy walk to discover the authentic historic flavor of this famous ancient city, no matter for architecture admiration in day time or leisure stroll at night along the lit up streets. Besides, Dali Ancient Town is close to Cangshan Mountain, Erhai Lake, Three Pagoda & Chongsheng Temple, which can be accessed with short driving time, usually within 0.5 hour. Staying here, lots of accommodation choices from luxury 5 star to budget 3 star, from boutique hotels to cost-efficient hostels are scattered around this area. Some famous international brands can also be found there, and the prices are usually better than those in big cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, etc.

If you prefer a quieter place to feel the tranquility of an old town, you are recommended to live in Xizhou Ancient Town which is in the north of Dali Old Town, about 18 km away. You can closely touch the beautiful Bai ethnic dwellings and have a close look at the shimmering Erhai Lake from your window. 

For those who want to cover Shaxi Ancient Town into their Dali trip, you can stay one night there which is a very primitive old town. Although Shaxi does not offer so many hotels as Dali or Lijiang, some 3-5 star hotels, boutique hotels, budget hostels, etc. are also very easy to find. Some advanced boutique hotels also prepare exquisite design, fine facilities and bedclothes for your comfortable rest!

▶ Learn more about: Where to Stay in Dali | Top Recommended Hotel List in Dali

Extend Your Dali Tour

To more destinations in yunnan.

Most visitors plan Dali as a part their exploration of the vast  Yunnan Province  and usually arrange it for a middle stop between Kunming and Lijiang. To enrich your travel experience, you are highly recommended to do as the others to enjoy a classic week long vacation in Yunnan. Since most travelers would land in Kunming first and it is a good idea to spend one or two days there visiting the incredible Stone Forest, overlooking Dian Lake from Dragon Gate of Western Hill, viewing local people’s daily life at Green Lake Park...then with a high speed train to Dali for about 1.5 days’ exploration to catch all the essences of Dali. Transfer to  Lijiang  to meet the famous Lijiang Old Town and learn the mysterious Dongba culture within 2 days. Following the exciting Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking, enjoy another 2 days in  Shangri-La  to immerse into the earthly paradise with nice visiting of the holy monasteries and lovely landscapes.

Besides, you can extend from Kunming to Yuanyang to marvel at the unbelievable magnificent Yuanyang Rice Terraces , to Puzhehei to relax at the pleasant wonderland of lotus blossoms, to Luoping to be fond of the golden sea of rapeseed flowers, to Xishuangbanna to feel the enthusiastic Dai ethnic people and the lush tropical forest, etc.

Most Popular Dali Yunnan Tour Packages:

8 Days Classic Yunnan Tour (Kunming / Dali / Lijiang / Shangri-La)

6 Days Yunnan Essence Tour (Kunming / Dali / Lijiang)

11 Days Amazing Yunnan Tour (Kunming / Yuanyang / Jianshui / Kunming / Dali / Lijiang / Shangri-La)

To More Destinations in China

Only a Yunnan tour is not complete for your visiting in China. It is a great idea to cover Yunnan with more places around China to savor more amazing landscape, culture, history, ethnic minority customs, food, etc. in one go, such as Guilin with Karst landform wonders, Guizhou with wonderful ethnic beauties, Chengdu with adorable giant pandas, Beijing with profound ancient royal Forbidden City, Shanghai with modern cityscape, Xian with impressing Terracotta Warriors, Zhangjiajie with incredible Avatar Mountains, and more like Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Yangtze River, Lhasa, etc. If you have any idea about planning your Dali China trip, please feel free to contact us for help!

Most Popular Dali China Tour Package:

10 Days Yunnan & Guizhou Amazing Minorities Tour (Lijiang / Dali / Kunming / Kaili / Guiyang)

Travel with China Discovery

China Discovery has been the leading online travel agency for over 10 years and we are specialized in offering different tours in diverse Yunnan, including Kunming tours , Lijiang tours , Dali tours , Shangri-La tours , Yuanyang Rice Terraces tours , Dongchuan Red Land tours, Xishuangbanna tours...

No matter you want to put one simple destination into your trip or cover several destinations together or even extend your Yunnan tour all over China, China Discovery can provide you best tour guides and experienced drivers with comfortable private cars in any of the destinations. Our English-speaking tour guide will accompany you all the way, showing you the best traveling route and telling beautiful stories of the colorful Yunnan. The tour can be tailor-made according to your group size, time, physical condition, plan, interests, budget and other special need . Please feel free to  contact us  if you need any help or customize the tour with free quotation!

We have helped many global travelers enjoy their memorable trips to Yunnan for the past few years. Among them Mr. Elie & his wife from Belgium had 15 great days in Yunnan during their 69 days China trip customized with us and shared us their special travel story . Travel with China Discovery to create your wonderful Yunnan trip memories!

Keep Reading on Dali

• Dali Old Town
• Three Pagodas & Chongsheng Temple
• Xizhou Village
• Dali Things to Do
• Dali Attractions
• Dali Transportation
• Dali Weather
• Dali Where to Stay
• Dali Hotels
• Dali Travel Guide

Useful Yunnan Travel Articles

• Yunnan Travel Guide
• How to Plan a Yunnan Tour
• Yunnan Tours
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• Lijiang Tours
• Shangri-La Tours
• Yuanyang Tours
• Top 10 Places to Visit in Yunnan
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• Yunnan Minorities
• Yunnan Ethnic Festivals
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Recommended Dali Tours

Top 3 Dali tours chosen by most customers to explore Dali in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

8 Days Classic Yunnan Tour

Kunming / Dali / Lijiang / Shangri-La

10 Days Beautiful Yunnan Tour with Dongchuan Red Land

Kunming / Dongchuan / Kunming / Stone Forest / Dali / Lijiang / Shangri-La

11 Days Amazing Yunnan Tour

Kunming / Stone Forest / Yuanyang / Jianshui / Kunming / Dali / Lijiang / Shangri-La

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Exploring Dali: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Must-Do Activities

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of southwestern China, Dali is a destination that beckons travelers with its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage. This ancient city, located in the Yunnan province, is renowned for its stunning views of the Cangshan Mountains and the enchanting Erhai Lake. Dali’s old town, with its traditional Bai architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant markets, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural diversity.

But Dali is more than just a picturesque setting; it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in a myriad of experiences. From exploring ancient temples and pagodas to discovering local crafts and cuisines, Dali offers something for every traveler.

Come along on this journey as I uncover the numerous factors that make Dali a must-visit destination for your travel bucket list.

You might also be interested in: ⭐ 11 Best Things to Do in Kunming 2023 (Plus a Food Guide!)

Table of Contents

🌟 dali travel planning guide, 👑 best things to do in dali old town, 🚲 best things to do: cycling around erhai lake, 🏔️ best things to do in cangshan mountain, 😋 what to eat in dali, 🛫 how do i travel to dali, 🚖 how to get around dali, ☀️ best time to visit dali, 🏨 where to stay in dali, 🌸final tips on traveling to dali, china travel planning guide&faq.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.

Considering a last-minute trip to Dali? 🇨🇳 Top Activities and Tours in Dali: 1. 1-Day Dali tour with the Daili old town, Xizhou Village and Three Pagodas 2. Dali Yunnan Local Market + Pottery Making Eco Tour 3. Private hiking and trekking tour to Cangshan Mountain from Dali 4. Eat Your Way Through Yunnan’s Tea & Horse Road, from Dali to Lijiang 🏨 Top Hotels in Guangzhou: Tinghua Island Garden Inn (⭐️ 4.9 luxury) OASIS EAST VILLA (⭐️ 4.9 luxury) Oasis The Secret Luxury Hotel (⭐️ 4.8 luxury) Three Colour Chain Inn Dali Erhai (⭐️ 4.9 mid-range) Dali Ancient Luchun Hotel (⭐️ 4.9 mid-range) 🌐Make sure to install ExpressVPN in advance for unrestricted internet access during your stay in China!

Dali Old Town, situated between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, was built during the Ming Dynasty. Going uphill leads to Cangshan Mountain, while going downhill takes you to Erhai Lake. Despite its small size, this town harmoniously accommodates Buddhist temples, mosques, and Catholic churches, embracing different beliefs.

Like many ancient towns in China, Dali Old Town has been somewhat commercialized. However, fortunately, many indigenous people have not moved away, so you can still immerse yourself in the alleys and markets, experiencing a bit of local life.

Additionally, you can fully enjoy the benefits of commercialization, such as quiet and comfortable inns, street stalls, whether it’s daytime or nighttime, whether you prefer strong liquor or coffee, you can always find a cozy place.

1. Confucian Temple

The Bai people, who value culture, had a tradition in ancient times: when a new life was born, they would take the newborn to the Confucian Temple, scoop up some soil from the temple, and place it in the baby’s swaddle. They would then go to the Martial Temple, scoop up some soil, and also place it in the swaddle, praying for the child to excel in both literary and military skills in the future.

Today, the Confucian Temple seems to serve more as a landmark of the ancient town. It is the busiest area in the ancient town, where Foreigner Street, Renmin Road, and Fuxing Road intersect. During the Spring Festival, camellias in the courtyard bloom one after another, decorating the spring of the old town.

🎫Admission ticket: free ⏰Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM

2. Dali Old Town Catholic Church

The essence of Renmin Road is hidden in the branching alleys. In the alley at the intersection of Renmin Road and Xinmin Road, there is a Catholic church with a blend of Chinese and Western styles. Built in 1927 by French missionary Father Yè Měi Zhāng, was once the only Catholic church in Dali Old Town.

Unlike other churches with Western styles, this Catholic church fully adopts the local “Bai” architectural style. With carved beams and painted rafters, as well as traditional Chinese paintings, it is incredibly magnificent.

🎫Admission ticket: free ⏰Mass Time: Weekdays 07:00 (Monday to Saturday); Sunday 09:30.

3. Foreigner Street

Foreigner Street is not the formal name of a street, but a small section of the ancient city’s Huguo Road. Initially, this area was designated by the local government as a specific residence for foreign tourists, so foreign visitors gathered here throughout the year, leading to its later renaming as “Foreigner Street.” Nowadays, with gradual opening up, it’s difficult to find traces of foreigners on Foreigner Street, but it remains lively.

On the over 1000-meter-long Foreigner Street, there are many Western-style shops, as well as a place to enjoy Western cuisine. In the evening, the bars on the street start operating, making it particularly lively.

There are many small shops such as jewelry stores, antique shops, Tie-dyeing workshops, galleries, etc., selling Bai ethnic snacks and souvenirs. You can stroll and shop along the way, but prices are on the higher side.

4. Wuhua Tower

Wuhua Tower, once used for official gatherings and hosting honored guests, is now a prominent feature of Dali Old Town. Despite its tumultuous history of being built and destroyed three times, what stands today is a reconstruction from the 1990s, designed to resemble the Ming Dynasty Wuhua Tower.

While there may not be much to see from the ground, ascending the tower to overlook the ancient town offers a captivating view . Of particular note, the top floor houses an affordable café, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the highest point in the ancient city for a modest fee of CNY 10-20.

5. Grand Marshal’s Mansion (Dali Museum)

The Grand Marshal’s Mansion, originally the Dali Governor’s Mansion in the Ming and Qing dynasties, is now the Dali Museum.

From ancient times to the Ming and Qing dynasties, the history of Dali can be glimpsed here. The courtyard’s collection of steles from various dynasties is the museum’s most valuable treasure , with over 120 ancient steles from the Song Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, providing detailed descriptions that serve as the best historical guide to Dali.

The museum is open from 08:30 to 17:30 daily from April 1 to October 31, and from 09:00 to 17:00 on other dates, closed on Mondays.

6. Dali Art Factory

This area was once an old factory in the old town that has been transformed into an art district. It’s situated at the end of a deep alley, making it challenging for most tourists to find.

Despite the presence of old factory buildings and signs from the 1990s, the area is now filled with trendy tea houses, small theaters, vintage clothing stores, bookshops, galleries, coffee shops, photography studios and more.

It’s known as the “most artistic area in Dali,” yet it’s relatively small, serving as a hub for young artists and photographers in the area. Visiting here provides a unique opportunity to experience an industrial atmosphere that’s rare within the old town.

7. North Gate Market

North Gate Market is the largest market in the old town , with various stalls lining both sides of the small road. Local residents bring their own products and set up stalls randomly, simply laying out a piece of cloth or placing a basket on the ground to create a stall.

This market offers a range of products including locally pickled rose sugar, fresh local vegetables, and various mushrooms, all at reasonable prices. Local residents typically navigate the market with bamboo baskets, which are convenient for carrying their purchases.

More than 90% of travelers heading to Dali will definitely visit Erhai Lake. It complements Cangshan Mountain, forming the ultimate business card for the most splendid scenery in Dali.

Circling around Erhai Lake , you’ll encounter islands, sandbars, forests, villages, and more, gathering various must-visit destinations in Dali, including the ancient city, Xizhou village, Shuanglang Town, Little Putuo Island, and the urban area.

📌Cycle around the Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake is vast, and if you have ample time, circumnavigating it is the most suitable and representative way to explore. A tour around Erhai Lake typically starts from Dali Old Town and takes 1 to 2 days. Whether by car, self-driving, or biking, this itinerary can connect several must-visit destinations around the lake.

However, for a more immersive experience, it’s recommended to allocate two days . It’s suggested to travel clockwise from west to east, allowing you to catch the mesmerizing sunset over Erhai Lake in the east.

🌞 For a one-day trip: Starting from Dali Old Town in the morning, you can follow the route of Xizhou Village – Haishe Ecological Park – Shuanglang Town – Wase Village – city area – Longkan Wharf, and return to Dali Old Town in the evening. Renting a car is recommended for a one-day tour to complete the circuit around Erhai Lake in one go, while biking would cover only half the distance. You can plan the itinerary according to your preferences.

8. Majiuyi Village

Majiuyi is a Bai village in the middle section of the western shore of Erhai Lake. Near the village, there are some oddly shaped trees growing by the lakeside, which gives an artistic feel. Since 2013, the village has rapidly built rows of hotels and inns along the lakeshore, gradually forming a linear hotel cluster.

Apart from the coastal houses developed into hotels, the rest of the village remains intact. There are wide asphalt roads, old ladies in Bai costumes, and white-walled and grey-tiled houses, and if you look closely, you’ll find almost every household grows flowers.

However, the most spectacular scenery in Majiuyi is the metasequoia forest that gradually turns red from November onwards. This metasequoia forest is quite extensive, and when the autumn wind blows, the leaves flutter in the breeze, as if the red clouds have spilled all over the ground.

9. Panxi Village

Panxi Village is a quiet little village by the side of Erhai Lake. Only some inns are built on the side facing Erhai Lake, while the rest of the village maintains the local way of life without being completely commercialized.

Most families in the village are well-off, with square courtyards, three-story small buildings, and yards full of fruits and vegetables, and poultry, living a carefree life.

However, the most famous attraction in Panxi Village is the “Erhai S-shaped Bend,” which is the widest part of Erhai Lake and provides a special viewpoint for admiring the lake, making it a wonderful place to view the lake.

Panxi Village is only a 20-minute drive from Dali Old Town. If you are not driving, there is no need to worry about the inconvenience of getting in and out of the village, as there are many private cars nearby that provide 24-hour shuttle services for tourists. Also, you can ask the hotel owner to call a familiar driver to pick you up.

10. Xizhou Village

If any town embodies the history of Dali, it is Xizhou Village. With over 80% of its residents being Bai people, Xizhou has preserved a large number of residential buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, making it the best-preserved cluster of Bai ethnic dwellings in Dali. Compared to Dali Old Town, Xizhou has a richer cultural atmosphere.

Bai architecture is characterized by its predominant white color , with white walls and grey tiles. The town boasts hundreds of Bai residential buildings from the Ming, Qing, Republic of China, and contemporary periods, such as the Yan Family Compound, Yang Family Compound, and Mansion of General Yin, symbolizing the Bai people’s pure and simple way of life.

Many murals can be found throughout the town, and elderly people often dress in Bai tie-dye jackets and wear Bai ethnic accessories, showcasing the ethnic charm.

In Xizhou Village, every street and alley has its own unique features, all clean and tidy, without an overwhelming number of tourists. There are many shops renting ethnic costumes and selling tie-dye fabrics, which are a must-try experience!

Xizhou’s Posu Baba (“喜洲破酥粑粑”) is a must-try local snack when visiting Dali! It’s a kind of crispy pancake made mainly from flour, similar to a Western pizza. It comes in sweet and savory flavors. The savory version is sprinkled with green onions, Sichuan peppercorns, and minced pork, while the sweet one is flavored with ham and rose sugar, making it deliciously crispy and fragrant.

P.S. Xizhou is a bit far from the shore of Erhai Lake. If you’re just wandering around the town, you’ll need about 1-2 hours to explore.

11. Haishe Ecological Park

Haishe Ecological Park is a lush, pristine wetland park. The park sits on a long, narrow sandbar, extending into the sea on three sides.

Entry to Haishe Ecological Park is free, and the island retains its original beauty with almost no facilities, except for a gate at the entrance prohibiting motor vehicles. You can see vast stretches of trees and tall grass, with the clear, blue waters of Erhai Lake in the distance.

The park is not very large, featuring many oddly shaped trees reflecting in the water, which is a major characteristic of Haishe Wetland Park. Aside from the submerged dead trees, abandoned boats, and a derelict coffee house, there is also a large tree at the end of the park known as the “couple tree,” which is a must-see sight.

📍Location: Haishe Ecological Park is 3 kilometers from Xizhou Village and can be reached by bike in about 15 minutes.

12. Zhoucheng Village

Zhoucheng Village is the largest Bai ethnic village in Dali, renowned for its tie-dye fabrics and embroidery, earning it the title “the hometown of Bai tie-dye.”

As you enter the village, you’ll pass by an ancient opera stage and two large green trees. Despite ongoing renovations in the village, it still retains a unique sense of simplicity and authenticity. The lively market, various local snacks, and locals dressed in ethnic attire carrying bamboo baskets.

One of the highlights is experiencing traditional tie-dye, as Zhoucheng is the home of Bai tie-dye art. Every household along the road is a tie-dye workshop, with blue and white patchwork hanging along the street. Even if you’re just wandering around aimlessly, you’ll likely be greeted by one or two Bai grandmothers inviting you to visit their dyeing workshops.

13. Shuanglang

Shuanglang, once a small fishing village and a crucial stop on the Southern Silk Road, boasts some of the best lakeside views in Dali. As a relatively new and popular destination, it attracts travelers from all over China.

The town of Shuanglang has developed a vibrant commercial atmosphere, with various bars, guesthouses, and souvenir shops. If you choose to stay in Shuanglang, opt for a room with a view of the lake. From the balcony, facing Erhai Lake, one can witness stunning sunrises and sunsets with just a window open.

There are two places in Shuanglang where you need to buy tickets: Nanzhao Island and Yuji Island . Nanzhao Island features a resort, a statue of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), and a small beach. While Yuji Island boasts two unique villas, the Sun Palace and the Moon Palace, both with avant-garde designs, making them upscale accommodations. Personally, if you’re looking to explore, Yuji Island is worth the visit.

If time allows, consider taking a boat tour around the islands. Operated by local villagers, these tours last about 25 minutes, offering panoramic views of each island along with the chance to dip your toes in Erhai Lake and enjoy the breeze—a truly relaxing experience.

14. Wase Village

Compared to the well-known Shuanglang, Wase Village is much quieter and more off the beaten path. However, to photographers, it is considered the best spot along the Dali Erhai Lake circuit for taking pictures.

Little Putuo Island , built during the Ming Dynasty, is a pavilion-style two-story building constructed in the middle of the sea. Visitors can take a boat to the island for sightseeing. Every winter, the island is filled with a large number of red-billed seagulls, attracting many bird watchers. If time is limited, it’s still worth driving by to admire from a distance.

At the Wase Pier, there is a platform that extends directly into the water, offering a perfect vantage point for admiring Cangshan Mountain and enjoying the sunset glow.

Luwo Mountain Relic Site is a hidden gem located 1 kilometer from Wase towards Shuanglang along the coastal road. It features a small cliff by the sea with extensive dry grasslands, solitary trees extending into the sea, and a beach below covered in rocks. However, when descending the mountain for photography, safety should be a top priority.

15. Cangshan Mountain

Cangshan Mountain is an integral part of tourism in Dali. In recent years, it seems that Erhai Lake tourism has become more popular, but I believe that the scenery of Cangshan Mountain is just as impressive as Erhai Lake. Dali has become even more spiritually rich because of these mountains and waters.

Taking a Cable Car

The most common way to visit Cangshan Mountain is to take the cable car directly up the mountain. The entire Cangshan Mountain spans over 40 kilometers from north to south, with complex routes within the mountain. Hiking requires a good level of physical fitness and familiarity with the routes.

Among them, the Xima Pool Cableway is the best way to appreciate Cangshan Mountain. Taking the Xima Pool Cableway to the top of Cangshan Mountain takes about 40 minutes, with a transfer station midway. Finally, you reach an altitude of about 3900 meters.

From the clear sky at the beginning to the misty fog on the mountaintop, you can experience the most mysterious and enticing scenery of Cangshan Mountain, including the glacier relics, azalea forests, and fir forests. This cableway is also the longest one on Cangshan Mountain.

Yudai Rd (Jade Belt Rd) is a stone path that crosses Cangshan Mountain, resembling a jade belt hanging between the six peaks and five streams of Cangshan Mountain. Yudai Rd is 16.2 kilometers long, and it takes about 6 hours to complete the entire route.

This is a route designed specifically for walkers , with a relatively gentle stone path that passes through many important attractions of Cangshan Mountain and offers views of Dali Valley. As Yudai Rd connects with three cable cars, some people choose to hike the Yudai Rd while using different cable cars for ascent and descent.

The Best Time to Visit Cangshan Mountain

The best time to visit Cangshan Mountain is during the spring ( March to May ) and autumn ( September to November ) seasons. Spring showcases the mountains draped in vibrant red azaleas, a breathtaking spectacle. In winter, visitors can witness the Cangshan Snow, one of the Four Wonders of Dali. Sometimes, the cableway may close due to weather conditions.

Personally, I find winter less beautiful than spring because Cangshan’s vegetation is lush and vibrant during that time . Without the adornment of flowers and trees, it would be somewhat regrettable.

🎫Xima Pool Cableway round-trip ticket: Peak Season (Apr. – Oct.): CNY 335 Off-Peak Season (Nov. – Mar.): CNY 275

👉 Book Cangshan Mountain Hiking Tour on VIATOR

16. Three Pagodas

Chongsheng Temple, a royal temple from the time of the Nanzhao Kingdom, was the largest and grandest temple in Dali’s history. Although the temple has been abandoned and rebuilt, its most striking feature, the Three Pagodas, has stood tall here for over a thousand years.

The Three Pagodas consist of one large pagoda, known as the Qianxun Pagoda, and two smaller pagodas. The Qianxun Pagoda, at 69.13 meters tall, boasts a simple and majestic exterior with unique eaves, reflecting the Tang Dynasty architectural style.

The two smaller pagodas are adorned with Buddha statues, lotus flowers, and treasure vases, and their charming shapes contrast with the more solemn Qianxun Pagoda.

For a better view of the Three Pagodas, visitors can climb to the higher buildings in the Chongsheng Temple complex. The temple area is constructed along a central axis, with main buildings such as the Daxiong Hall and Yutong Guanyin Hall aligned on this axis. Walking along the central axis, visitors are greeted by the solemnity of the temple.

For a quieter and more serene place to admire the Three Pagodas, the Reflection Park is a good choice. Located outside Chongsheng Temple, this small park has fewer visitors and offers the best angles to capture the reflection of the pagodas in the water.

17. Wuwei Temple

Wuwei Temple, a royal temple built during the Nanzhao Kingdom, is located at the foot of Cangshan Mountain. The temple follows the tradition of Chan Buddhism and has been home to many eminent monks throughout history.

Wuwei Temple is ideal for those who enjoy a quiet atmosphere. While not grandiose, it holds the status of a royal sanctuary from the Nanzhao Kingdom era, with exceptionally fresh air in the mountains. The temple is often bustling with incense offerings, as it is a place of regular worship for the locals.

In front of the temple, there is a small open space where people often practice morning exercises. Visitors may also encounter scenes of Buddhist ceremonies or foreign monks practicing martial arts. It’s truly a place where you can feel the devoutness of those practicing here.

Note: Wuwei Temple is hidden deep in the mountains, and the road conditions are very poor, consisting of dirt roads. It can be quite tiring to walk, so be prepared if you choose to visit on foot.

Xizhou’s Posu Baba (喜洲破酥粑粑)

Xizhou’s Posu Baba is a famous snack from the historical town of Xizhou, made mainly from flour. It comes in two flavors, sweet and salty. During preparation, a two-tier charcoal fire is used, with intense heat on the top and gentle heat on the bottom. After brushing the prepared dough with lard, it is baked in a pan. During the baking process, the dough is brushed several times with oil to make it crispy and fragrant.

Xizhou’s Posu Baba has a crispy outer shell and a soft interior, earning it the nickname “Eastern Pizza” and making it very popular.

Shengpi (Raw Pork Skin)

During festivals or casual gatherings, the Bai people always showcase their signature dish and specialty, Shengpi, a cold salad made from raw pork.

Shengpi literally means “raw skin,” where an entire pig is roasted over straw fire to remove the hair, and while still fresh, the roasted pork is thinly sliced or shredded.

There are two main ways to enjoy Shengpi: one is to eat the raw skin and condiments separately, dipping the skin in the condiments before eating; the other is to mix the condiments with the raw skin directly, creating a cold salad. Each method has its own unique flavors and textures.

Nuodeng Ham

Nuodeng Ham is a high-quality Yunnan ham, known for its superior taste. It is made using high-quality well salt from Nuodeng, and each ham is cured for three years. The meat near the bone can be eaten raw and is delicious; other parts are excellent when fried, stewed, or steamed.

Nuodeng well salt does not contain iodine but is rich in potassium, which is beneficial for health. It has excellent penetration, making it an excellent choice for curing meat.

Rushan (乳扇)

Rushan is a fan-shaped curd made from milk through a special process, with high nutritional value. It can be eaten raw, but it is best enjoyed when grilled. Eating it raw may have a slightly milky taste, which some people may not like. Grilled Rushan, when paired with condensed milk, rose jam, peanut butter, or chili sauce, is very delicious.

Dali Hot and Sour Fish

Dali Hot and Sour Fish is a traditional dish originating from Shuanglang. People living by Erhai Lake catch fresh fish from the lake, which is then cooked with sour ingredients like green plum or papaya, along with dried chili powder and pickled chili for spiciness. Tofu, potatoes, and other ingredients are added to enhance the flavor, creating a delicious and popular dish that never fails to satisfy.

Cold Chicken Rice Noodles

Cold Chicken Rice Noodles are extremely popular in Dali due to their perfectly balanced sweet and sour flavor. Locals who enjoy spicy and sour flavors love it, and even those with different tastes can appreciate it.

The rice noodles are placed in a bowl and topped with various condiments and braised chicken, then drizzled with homemade sauce, chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn oil, walnut sauce, and more, making it incredibly appetizing!

Yongping Yellow Braised Chicken

Yongping Yellow Braised Chicken uses high-quality local chicken, and while the cooking method is simple, getting the timing right is crucial.

The yellow braised chicken has a great texture and is chewy. Experienced chefs can usually make a plate of fragrant yellow braised chicken in about ten minutes. The spiciness of the dish can vary between restaurants, so if you can’t handle too much spice, it’s best to let the chef know. Most restaurants in Dali make delicious yellow braised chicken.

Braised Pork with Carved Plum

Carved Plum is a traditional specialty of the Bai ethnic group in Dali, and is one of the most delicious snacks in Dali.

Green plums harvested in spring are carved with patterns by local girls, gently pressed to form chrysanthemum shapes, and then shaped into serrated plum cakes. These cakes are placed in a basin of water, sprinkled with a little salt to remove the sourness, and then placed in a sand jar. They are soaked in high-quality brown sugar and honey for several months until the plum cakes turn golden yellow, indicating they are ready to be eaten.

The pork used for Braised Pork with Carved Plum is typically multi-layered pork belly, with alternating layers of fat and lean meat. It is steamed together with the carved plums for about 4 hours, allowing the pork to absorb the fragrant essence of the plums. The result is a dish that is rich but not greasy, with a delicious taste. Most restaurants in Dali serve this dish, and it is known for its authentic flavor.

Dali Airport (DLU) is the only airport in Dali City, with direct flights to over 20 domestic destinations including Beijing, Shanghai, Kunming, Xishuangbanna, Tianjin, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guiyang, and Guangzhou.

Located about 13 kilometers from downtown Dali, 17 kilometers from Dali Old Town, and 3 kilometers from the shore of Erhai Lake.

Dali has only one train station, Dali Railway Station , which offers high-speed trains to and from Kunming, Guangzhou, Guilin, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.

The station is located in downtown Dali, about a 10-minute drive from the city center and 40-50 minutes from the Dali Old Town.

There are currently 30 bus routes within Dali City, with routes like Bus No.4 and No.8 directly connecting to Dali Old Town, with a journey of about 30 minutes (Note: Bus No.4 takes a longer route, while No.8 is shorter, so Bus No.8 is preferred). Bus fares range from CNY 2 to 3.

Additionally, there are many bus routes in Dali that take you from the city center to accommodations and various attractions such as Xizhou Village, Cangshan Mountain, Zhoucheng, and Shuanglang.

Taxis are readily available in Dali and can be found at taxi stands or hailed on the street. It’s advisable to have your destination written down in Chinese characters, as many taxi drivers may not speak English. During the daytime, the first 3 kilometers cost CNY 8, while at night, the fare is CNY 10.

Renting a bicycle is a popular option for getting around Dali. Many guesthouses and rental shops offer bicycles for rent, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

Dali has a distinct dry and wet season, with mild winters and not-too-hot summers, making it suitable for travel throughout the year. However, there are some differences in the scenery in different seasons. Generally, the peak season for travel to Dali is from May to October.

For a unique experience, it is recommended to visit during special festivals.

Every April (15th day of the 3rd lunar month) is the “Third Month Fair” in Dali, a traditional ethnic festival with a history of thousands of years. The festival lasts for 7 days, from the 15th to the 21st of the 3rd lunar month.

Every July or August (around the 24th day of the 6th lunar month for the Bai ethnic group and the 25th day of the 6th lunar month for the Yi ethnic group) is the Torch Festival celebrated by the Yi and Bai ethnic groups in Dali.

If you’re looking to have a room with a view of the sea, you can opt for hotels or guesthouses within the Erhai Lake Scenic Area or Shuanglang Scenic Area, but typically, prices are higher in these areas. If you prefer being close to the old town, there are many hotels and guesthouses within Dali Old Town, although prices may also be on the higher side. Additionally, the numerous guesthouses at the foot of Cangshan Mountain are also a good option, offering a relatively higher value for money and just a few stops away from the old town.

OASIS EAST VILLA

This is a hotel that offers standard hotel services along with the personalized touch of a guesthouse. The stay experience is fantastic – breakfast, afternoon tea, and the mini bar are all complimentary; breakfast and afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the room; custom makeup bags and Hermès toiletries are provided; there’s butler service (very attentive but not overly intrusive).

The villa has 6 unbeatable sea-view rooms, each with a spacious layout, a plush and comfortable large bed facing the beautiful Erhai Lake outside the window, perfect for a honeymoon trip. Each room also has a bathtub, perfect for a relaxing soak at night.

Located in a villa area, the hotel offers free shuttle services to and from the airport/high-speed railway station for room bookings. The hotel is a bit far from attractions like Dali Old Town and Shuanglang, but they can arrange taxi services. A taxi to Dali Old Town costs around CNY 70.

👉Read more and check availability on Trip

Three Colour Chain Inn Dali Erhai

This hotel is located right across from Erhai Lake, and it only takes a 2-minute walk to reach Shuanglang and the food street. The hotel features a popular spot for taking photos.

The rooms are decorated in a luxurious European style, with large floor-to-ceiling windows, electric curtains, and amenities such as a swimming pool and bathtub.

Guests can swing on a swing while overlooking Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain, or enjoy the sunset on the rooftop terrace. Every part of the hotel, including the restaurant, rooftop, rooms, small garden, and public areas, offers views of the sea and mountains. Guests can also wear local costumes provided by the hotel for photos.

The hotel also offers complimentary afternoon tea desserts and breakfast.

👉 Read more and check availability on Trip

Tinghua Island Garden Inn

Tinghua Island Garden Inn offers 22 sea-view rooms, all arranged in a U-shaped structure around a corner of Erhai Lake. The decor is simple and elegant, with a touch of Mediterranean style. Each room provides a wide view of the lake, offering a beautiful sight of Cang Er’s scenery right outside the window!

What sets this inn apart is the unique design of each room. Some feature swings and private baths, others have rooftop open-air swimming pools, and some even offer panoramic bubble houses!

By the Erhai Lake, there are white tables and chairs for relaxation under the swing, along with white daisies, flowing curtains, Turkish sofas, a variety of pillows, and woolen blankets, creating picture-perfect travel scenes!

Guests can enjoy personalized butler service in each room. The hotel also helps guests plan their travel routes and provides photography services for those who love taking photos, offering them exquisite clothing and props for their pictures!

Oasis The Secret Luxury Hotel

The Oasis The Secret Luxury Hotel is ideally situated, right in the heart of Dali Old Town, offering easy access to shopping and dining. Despite its central location, the hotel provides a peaceful retreat, ensuring privacy and security.

Housed in a renovated old mansion, the hotel boasts a charming courtyard with flowing water, exuding a quaint, ancient charm. The rooms are elegantly styled, perfect for travelers seeking a serene and intimate atmosphere.

The hotel’s services are attentive, including complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, minibar, and turndown service. Guests can enjoy breakfast and afternoon tea in their rooms, catering to those who prefer a private dining experience. The afternoon tea desserts are exquisite and not for sale. Additionally, the butler serves a bowl of sweet soup every evening, regardless of the guest’s return time.

The rooms are equipped with top-notch amenities, with the bedding receiving high praise. Apart from standard toiletries, guests are provided with face masks and steam eye masks.

However, some rooms may have dim lighting and slightly inadequate soundproofing.

Dali Ancient Luchun Hotel

The hotel is located at the foot of Cangshan Mountain. From a distance, its flying eaves, white walls, and gray tiles, along with the simple shadow walls and wooden corridors, almost become a microcosm of the architectural features of the entire city of Dali.

The hotel has a dedicated fleet that provides free airport shuttle services. Guests can also be transported to Dali Old Town or other destinations as needed, with transportation arranged by the hotel.

The design style of the hotel rooms is modern and minimalist, with retro-style wooden furniture. The rooms are spacious, with large panoramic windows that allow you to enjoy the magnificent view of Cangshan Mountain and the misty Erhai Lake, as well as the lingering charm of the sunset.

The hotel offers a rich and varied breakfast with excellent flavors. The restaurant is stylish, and there is also a café where guests can sit and enjoy the view outside.

• If you plan ahead and aren’t worried about language issues, traveling independently is totally fine!
• External vehicles are not allowed in the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor. You can only ride bicycles or take the sightseeing cars inside the corridor.
• When renting an electric scooter, try to choose a high-power one. The cute small electric scooters are only good for their looks.
• When hiring a car to travel around the lake, make sure to agree on the price, time, and route with the driver in advance to avoid being ripped off.
• Don’t easily choose restaurants that pull customers on the roadside. There are many delicious foods you can choose online.
• Do not buy fruits with strange colors on the roadside; they are dyed and not tasty or healthy.
• Don’t easily be attracted to niche attractions; they may not be as good as they appear in photos.
• There are many places in Dali suitable for taking photos; there is no need to visit artificially created attractions.
• Choose the right time for seasonal attractions; for example, cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers bloom in March.
• Dali Ancient Town is suitable for night visits; it will be more atmospheric.
• It is not advisable to buy silver jewelry or antiques in the ancient city; many are fake.
• Dali’s specialties include fresh flower cakes and tea.
• There are many attractions in Dali, suitable for slowing down and experiencing. Don’t try to visit all the attractions in one or two days.
• The ultraviolet rays in Dali are strong throughout the year; be sure to use sunscreen. Dali is also very dry, so moisturize well.
• Most ethnic clothing is of poor quality and similar. If you want to buy a skirt for photos, you might as well visit a clothing store in the ancient city.

🎫Do I need a visa for China?

Yes. Most visitors to China will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your trip, as well as your nationality. If you are a resident of the US, you must apply for a Chinese visa at the Consular Office in the country. On the other hand, inhabitants of countries like Japan, Canada, and the UK can request a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center .

🤔 Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?

In China, the government has strict regulations on internet access, leading to the blocking of popular websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and YouTube. To access these sites, a VPN is suggested as a means of bypassing the restrictions. It is important to choose a reputable VPN provider and use caution while doing so. ExpressVPN has been historically deemed the most reliable VPN for this purpose, despite being heavily targeted by China’s censors. Nevertheless, it is still a widely preferred option owing to its ease of installation and user-friendliness.

📲 Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?

Yes. It is crucial to acknowledge that accessing the internet in China may pose limitations due to certain websites being prohibited or filtered. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity while staying in China, purchasing a local SIM card is advisable. For optimum results, acquiring SIM cards from either China Unicom or China Mobile is recommended. While China Mobile has the most comprehensive coverage in China and is a market leader, China Unicom is more compatible with foreign phones, enabling 3G and 4G services. Or you can purchase a SIM card online .

🔮 Should I buy China travel insurance?

Yes. Although China is generally a safe country for travel, it is still possible to encounter accidents or other unexpected occurrences. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance can provide a sense of security and financial protection. In my research, I have found that World Nomads is a reputable travel insurance provider that covers a wide range of activities and is recommended for the average traveler. Nevertheless, I advise you to compare insurance quotes from various providers before making a decision.

🚙 Can you rent a car in China?

Unfeasible . Obtaining a Chinese driver’s license to rent a car and self-drive may seem like an option, but it is not a practical choice for most foreigners. Therefore, many prefer to opt for a driver or public transportation when navigating China, as it proves to be more convenient.

✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

I suggest using Trip for affordable flights to China. As a China-based company, they often offer lower prices compared to foreign companies. Additionally, they offer English-speaking phone support in case of any issues.

🏡 What is the best way to book hotels in China?

Not only does Trip offer a wider range of flight options, but it also provides a greater selection of hotels to choose from. Moreover, Agoda is a reliable resource for hotels throughout Asia.

🎒What do I pack for China?

Travel adapter and converter: China uses a different electrical system than many other countries, so it’s important to bring a travel adapter and converter if you plan to use electronic devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops.   Sunscreen: The UV index in China can be high, particularly during the summer months, and prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Deodorant: It should be noted that finding deodorant in China may not be a simple task.

📚 Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?

Yes . If you’re planning to travel to China for the first time, a travel guidebook can be a valuable resource, and Lonely Planet is one of the most reputable guides available globally. Its comprehensive itineraries and recommendations take into account your personal preferences and can save you both time and money. The insider tips are also extremely helpful in navigating China’s unique cultural landscape like a local.

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Things to do in Yunnan: exploring Dali (大理) Old Town

• June 3, 2024

Dali (大理) is one of the most popular destinations in Yunnan. Don’t miss this post if you want to visit the old capital of the Nanzhao kingdom.

In my blog, I have often talked about Yunnan , one of the most beautiful provinces in China. But my list of places to visit can’t be complete without mentioning Dali , the ancient capital of the Nanzhao kingdom, and the old capital of Yunnan ( don’t miss my Yunnan travel guide ).

Dali is a city with a millenary history. Located at a strategic point along the ancient Tea Horse Road (also known as the South Silk Road) , the Erhai Lake naturally protects it on one side and the Changshan Mountains on the other (whose peaks reach about 4000 meters). Despite being about 2000 meters above sea level, the climate is mild all year round, and the land is fertile. Dali is the most important center for the Bai minority, one of the largest in China and Yunnan.

The Bai population (Bai means white in Chinese) is famous for their ability to work silver and marble and for being able to create many incredible decorations. Bai houses are generally white, with beautiful paintings on the exterior walls. A whole book would not be enough to talk about the Bai culture, so the best thing to do is visit Dali and Lijiang.

Things to see in Dali

The old town of dali.

Dali’s main attraction is the old town, one of the few in China surrounded by walls. Unlike Lijiang, Dali is a little more authentic because there are still many families living there. For a panoramic view, I recommend a walk on the walls to enjoy the view of the lake on one side and the mountains on the other.

The two main streets within the city are crowded and full of shops, but if you start wandering around a bit, you will see immediately why many agree that Dali is more authentic than Lijiang. My suggestion is to find accommodation in the old town.

The three Pagodas

The three pagodas are a complex of temples about 1.5km from the old town of Dali. They can be reached on foot or by taxi. Apart from the three pagodas, you’ll find a complex of temples, and it takes at least a couple of hours to see them all. The three pagodas are different from most other religious buildings in China because they are truly ancient (unfortunately, after the cultural revolution in China, many ancient buildings have been destroyed).

If you want to know more about the Three Pagodas, you will find more info here. Don’t miss the small pond on the right side of the pagodas walking towards the mountain, where you can photograph the three pagodas reflected in the water.

A visit to the houses of the craftsmen

As I said at the beginning of the article, the Bai are excellent craftsmen, and their fame is well deserved. In the Dali area, you can see different forms of craftsmanship. The most interesting one is the processing of Batik fabric. There are different methods to achieve the same objective: coloring the fabric.

In Guizhou Province, the Miao minority uses wax, while in the surroundings of Dali, Bai women sew the fabric in such a way as to create a design that will not absorb the color during the next stage of the production process.

It is a fascinating process that requires a lot of work, and it demonstrates again that there is much to discover in China.

China is the home of silk, and seeing with my own eyes the process that has remained a secret in the rest of the world for centuries was very exciting.

The paintings created by those who know how to work silk are art masterpieces and, as such, have very high prices. One of the paintings cost 13000€ and took 13 months to make.

A visit to the local markets

If you’re used to visiting Asia, visiting a local market is not a fundamental experience. If, on the other end, this is your first time, I recommend doing it. It is always interesting to see how local people live, and the market is the ideal place. I visited the one in Xizhou, which is not open every day. I recommend you contact a local agency for accurate information, as I said in the previous paragraph.

A day trip to Shaxi (沙溪)

Halfway between Dali and Lijiang, you can find one of the best-preserved old towns along the ancient South Silk Road, also known as Tea Horse Road: Shaxi. If you have enough time, don’t miss it!

Final considerations and tips

Dali is a place worth a visit for first-time visitors to Yunnan. But even if you’ve been there before, it’s still nice to come back occasionally to enjoy rural Chinese life without sacrificing comfort.

Getting there is very easy as there are many trains and buses departing from Kunming every day. One very important thing to remember is that Dali is divided into two parts: Dali Old Town (the one I talked about in this post) and the new city of Dali called Xiaguan. All means of transport, or almost all, arrive in Xiaguan and NOT in Dali Old Town. From there you must take a taxi to the Old Town 10 km away.

For the accommodation, I recommend Trip.com since it has way more options than other search engines.

To conclude, before visiting China, get a VPN , or you will lose access to all social media and Google, including Gmail.

Here, you can find more pictures I took in Yunnan . Here is my complete travel guide to China , and here is my two days guide to Shangri-La.

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4 thoughts on “things to do in yunnan: exploring dali (大理) old town”.

Thanks a lot for this post. Beautiful pictures.

Oh I love the history and its culture as well. I have been a big fan of swordplay Chinese dramas and movies for so many years, especially the transformed works from novels of Kim Dung. Among a bunch of amazing novels. Tian Long Ba Bu makes the strong impression on me with the presence of Da Li country. Thanks so much for your sharing!

Interesting! Thanks for your comment!

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• 1.1 History
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3 By plane
• 4.1 Old Town
• 4.2 Cangshan Mountains
• 4.3 Other sights
• 7.2.1 Chinese
• 7.2.2 Western
• 7.3 Splurge
• 9.1.1 Hostels
• 9.1.2 Hotels
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe

Dali (大理; Dàlǐ ) is a city in Yunnan Province in China famous for its old town and handicrafts.

Dali is a popular tourist destination for domestic Chinese tourists, one of the string of towns described in Yunnan tourist trail leading up to the beautiful Tiger Leaping Gorge . It is a medium-sized city of 650,000 but its tourist draw is the "Old Town." (大理古城). Like many Chinese tourist destinations, the old town, which has architecture that dates back to the Ming dynasty, has been extensively renovated, rebuilt and modernized, including newly constructed city walls and gates. You can still see the remnants of the old wall in the form of long mounds that surround the old city, but Dali is no longer a walled city by any means. The old town section of Dali is sandwiched between two multi-lane highways. While it lacks the authentic rustic charm of other old Chinese cities (e.g. Pingyao or even Lijiang ) and much of the old town has been renovated and is devoted to tacky knick-knack stores for Chinese tourists, it does sit in the shadow of a beautiful mountain range, the Cangshan and is close to the large Erhai lake. There is an expensive cable car (¥90) that you can take to reach the top and there are some hiking paths that offer beautiful views of Lake Erhai.

But do not expect to find a small ancient city in the beautiful mountains of Yunnan; this is not what you will get. Dali is very spread-out and it takes almost an hour by bus #8 to get from the train station in the modern part of town to the old town. In addition to the popular old town and various traditional villages scattered around the lake, Dali now has an urban core filled with modern buildings, 20-story residential towers, and a Wal-Mart. You can also see factories belching emissions on the other side of Lake Erhai.

In 738 the Nanzhao Kingdom was established; the original capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom was located in Weishan (within Dali Prefecture) and later moved to sites around Erhai Lake. The territory conquered was quite substantial; covered a large area of Yunnan and northern Burma , and parts of what are now Sichuan and Guizhou . The kingdom survived almost 200 years and had 13 kings before collapsing. After several decades of chaos the Kingdom of Dali emerged in 937.

The Kingdom of Dali established by Duan Siping in 937 was controlled by the Duan clan and survived until it was conquered by the Mongols about 300 years later. The Kingdom retained a close alliance with the Song Dynasty, and was one of the major transit points for the introduction of Buddhism throughout the rest of China. By 1000, Dali was one of the 13 largest cities in the world.

The rulers of the original Nanzhao Kingdom were probably precursors to the modern Yi peoples, while the Kingdom of Dali rulers were precursors to the modern Bai minority.

Many local people in Dali have the surname Duan to this day (rare in other parts of China). These historical events are romanticized in the Martial Arts literature of Hong Kong author Jin Yong (read by every Chinese school kid), giving Dali a fame nationwide. The Dali Kingdom had a military alliance with the Song Dynasty against the aggressive Tibetan Empire which made regular incursions into its territories.

A huge memorial stele to the Pacification of Kingdom of Dali was built during the Ming Dynasty and remains standing at the end of Sanyue Street past the city's West Gate. Entrance is free. The Mongols destroyed the old capital and palace of the Kingdom of Dali, just to the south of the Three Pagodas. Almost all records of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms were burnt or destroyed, leaving much unknown about these periods. In addition, the Mongols brutally displaced many of the inhabitants of the prefecture, with the result that Bai minority people were forced as far east as Hunan Province. Many ethnic Han also moved into the Kunming area during this period.

The old Dali City was rebuilt in the early 1400s by the Ming Dynasty. What you see in Dali Old Town today is the rebuilt Ming town. Since then, the fortunes of Dali have declined and its importance as a cultural and economic centre in the Yunnan area have been overtaken by Kunming, the provincial capital.

1856-1872 Dali was the headquarters of the Panthay Rebellion led by Du Wenxiu. That rebellion commenced as an uprising against local oppressive rulers by the Hui Muslim minority and ended as open rebellion against the Qing Dynasty. The Palace of Du Wenxiu is on Fuxing Road and serves as the local museum (the museum exhibition on the rebellion paints it as a patriot workers revolt which it was not). The rebellion was brutally crushed by the Qing and hundreds of thousands of Yunnan Muslims were killed in revenge.

Buses from Kunming West Bus Station take about 4½ hours and cost around ¥100 for an ordinary bus (as of March 2019) and around ¥130 for an express luxury bus, and will bring you to Xiaguan (Dali New City). Some buses go to Dali, too, so check with the driver. There are three different bus stations in Xiaguan. From nearby the bus station you should be able to take bus 12 (¥2 as of March 2019) and then transfer to bus 8 (¥3 as of March 2019) or bus 4 (¥2), 45 minutes (approx. 18 km) to Dali Old Town 13 km to the north (Bus 4 also runs through the town). It's also possible to catch a white mini-bus on Jianshe Lu that run between Xiaguan and Dali, there's usually a white sign displayed inside the front wind shield that reads (大理<->下关) in Chinese. The cost for the mini-bus is ¥3 per person. Taxi fare between Xiaguan and Dali should be around ¥40.

If the expressway is closed or under construction the bus may take the more scenic route akin to the notorious "road of death" in Bolivia, though paved.

Buses coming south from Lijiang are about ¥60-80 and stop outside the old town, from where it is possible to get a taxi or walk to the main guesthouses. You can save about ¥20 on the Lijiang bus by hailing one on the highway east of the old town.

There is a bus service to Xiaguan from Jinghong , Xishuangbanna prefecture, which has buses running at 17:00 and 21:30, possibly earlier too. The ticket price is ¥195 and the journey was about 17 hours. The bus used on this route is a sleeper bus so you get a fairly comfortably bed and a blanket. This service may be useful for people who have arrived in China from northern Laos , e.g. Luang Namtha .

Bullet trains leave from Kunming South train station and Central train station (short stop) to Dali train station (in Dali New City) every 30 minutes, and take two hours to reach Dali, running at speeds of up to 200 km/h. Tickets cost around ¥155 (as of October 2023) . The number of slow train connecting Kunming to Dali is getting very rare, and night trains have been canceled. Once you've arrived at the train station, take bus 8 to the old town for ¥3 (2019) from just outside the station, taking about an hour and terminating near the North Gate. Another bus route named Chongsheng Tree Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔 in Chinese characters) also goes to old town, passing by West Gate. Another option is the Dali Shuttle Bus, which costs ¥5 (2019), takes about 45 minutes, and is more comfortable than the public bus; it drops you about 700 meters from the old town's South Gate.

There are also 8 trains daily from Lijiang to Dali and back. The ride takes nearly 2 hours. Cost is ¥34 for hard seat (as of March 2019). Your carriages might be hard sleeper cars, but you are not allowed to lay down as the sleeper is shared for four passengers.

There are no airport busses. Taxis are waiting but cannot always be trusted to take you to the guesthouse or hotel you want to go to as they get commission at a lot of hotels. Better book an airport pick-up with the hotel you booked. Depending on the time of year you can get discounted tickets (around ¥400 one way Dali-Kunming) but you will need to book well ahead. Full price is ¥750 (¥680 + 70 airport tax, Nov 2009). From major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) it is possible to book a flight to Dali but always with a stopover in Kunming. Best discounts apply to tickets booked 15 days or more in advance.

Or, you can go to Kunming Wujiaba International Airport ( KMG  IATA ) by plane. It is in the southeast of Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan Province. (It is one of the most important and the busiest international airports of China.) You can then take the Airport Shuttle bus [dead link] from Kunming airport. They operate 06:30-22:00 (Beijing time).

Dali Old Town is small enough to get around on foot, and being laid out in a grid format it is relatively easy to navigate. The major landmarks are the South and North Gates with Fuxing Road running between them, and Yangren Street (Westerner's Street) lined with cafés and tourist shops. City maps are readily available for around ¥5 but tend not to follow the usual north-at-the-top standard because the natural orientation of someone in Dali is to look towards the huge looming Cangs Mountain which run north-south next to the city. As you look at the mountains and face west, the lake is at your back, or east. This method of orientation makes even more sense when you realize that the entire town gently slopes from the mountains to the lake, making those two landmarks a natural way to find your bearings.

Bikes are available at many guesthouses and rental huts around town and cost ¥5-40 per day. Bikes vary greatly in quality so shop around for the best deal. The Chinese brands Merida and Giant are among the better ones to consider.

Electric scooters and electric micro cars (smaller than a Smart) seem to be license-less, hence available for renting, no driving license required. E-scooters go for different rates depending on the range of the battery, ranging from ¥30 to just bike around the vicinity of the old city to ¥80 for enough battery to comfortably ride all the way around Erhai Lake . The e-car seems to go for about ¥140, and has a range of 100 km.

The e-taxis in Dali Old Town generally cost ¥5 for under 3 km (though most drivers will ask for ¥10). For other locations outside the old town, all prices are negotiable. A taxi to Dali New City will cost around ¥40.

In addition to the Old Town, Dali is a Prefecture of over 10,000 km 2 . A whole range of destinations exist within the Prefecture that are perfect for the adventurous traveller. All are relatively easily accessible from either Dali Old Town or Dali New City, the major city 13 km to the south. A lot of useful information is available from the cafes within the old town on day trips around the prefecture.

Xiaguan Northern Bus Station

• Foreigner Street (洋人街) In the ancient city of Dali," the road" in the beginning of Yunnan people against Yuan Shikai proclaimed himself Emperor, named after the war of asylum. The road east-west, 1000 meters long, 7 meters wide, green stone pavement. Dali of Foreigner's Street is on the road in the West Dali section.
• City Wall: Take a walk in Dali Old Town's city wall for an elevated view on the town. Access from the Southern Gate.
• Wuhua-Tower (五华楼): Climb the stairs to the old gate-looking tower for a nice view. It's in the center of the pedestrian street of Dali Old Town. Entry free of charge. The tower is in accessible (as of March 2019).
• Dali Municipal Museum ( 大理市博物馆 ). summer 08:30-17:30, winter 09:00-17:00 . Mostly ancient steles, gravestones, and the like. Free . ( updated May 2019 )
• 25.7016 100.16558 1 Puxian Temple ( 普贤寺 Pǔxián Sì ). An authentic, non-touristy temple. ( updated May 2019 )

Cangshan Mountains

There are two accessible "peaks" of mountain you can choose: First, the 2500-m altitude that hosts Gantong Temple, Zhongho Temple and "Cloud Traveler's Path" that lies between the two temples. To reach here, you have options of:

• taking a cable car from the city (near Guan Yin Temple) to get to Gantong Temple; or riding a horse to Zhongho Temple from Dali Tianlongbabu TV City; or walking up (1½ hours) to the somewhat middle of Cloud Traveler's path from Dali Tianlongbabu TV City; or
• riding a horse or walking up (1½ hours) to Zhongho temple from the city (from the gate across Ren Min Lu street).

Second, the 3700-m altitude that hosts Horse Washing Pool. To reach here, you can use the cable car from Dali Tianlongbabu TV City or use cable car in direction of Gantong Temple and walk the Cloud Traveler's Path for around 3 km until you find a chairlift service and then take chairlift to Horse Washing Pool.

As the cable car to get to Horse Washing Pond is really pricey (¥285 for return as of January 2014), the most economical (yet still fascinating) hike to the mountain is to hike to and walk the Cloud Traveler's Path with the following route options:

• The northern route of 6 km of path offers one of the sharpest cliff views of the entire Dali valley, and on a clear day you can see Jizu Mountain well beyond Erhai lake. At the bend in the main valley it also offers a path up the mountains for 2 km which ends at a mountain pool where you can take a swim on a warm day.
• The southern route winds down for 11 km through a few valleys to Gantong temple. This hike will lead you to most of the sights mentioned below and will take 4–5 hours. You can even turn this into an 8 hour hike if you continue southwards Xiaguan along good paths (with several early exit points down the mountain) and enjoy the spectacular view.
• A suggested route would be to hike to Zhonghe Temple (by walking or riding horse), take the northern path for 3 km enjoying the clearest view of the entire valley, then head back south past Zhonghe Temple towards Gantong Temple. You can buy refreshments at the temple, so take a break, then keep walking the full 11 km until you reach Gangtong. If you are not up to the full walk, you can exit the mountain about 3 km past Zhonghe Temple down a well made stairway behind Dali Tianlongbabu TV City. If you are planning to get down using cable car at Gantong Temple, make sure you reach there before 16:30 (the cable car service closes at 17:00 but they may close earlier than that), otherwise there is a path to climb down (even though the map on your ticket only shows that the only way to get down is by cable car) to get back to city for about 1–2 hours hike down.

Entrance to the Mountain Park costs ¥30 and the cable car from/to Gantong Temple: ¥80 round trip or ¥50 one way. A taxi to/from Gantong temple (about 8 km south of the old town) is ¥30. If you are particularly dedicated, you can gain an access (also ¥30) to the mountain by taking a longer route behind the One Pagoda (follow the stone road) and up the stairway behind the Dali Tianlongbabu TV City.

Other sights

For a route around Erhai Lake that stops in several old towns, parks, and traditional temples, see Around Erhai Lake by electric scooter .

• Erhai Lake Villages ( 洱海湖山庄 ). There are 17 villages spread along the Western shore of the Erhai Lake between Xiaguan and Xizhou. Take a tour by bike by riding East from Dali Old Town until you reach the lake in Caicun Village and then North beside the lake shore taking local paths and roads. A great opportunity to see village life at its best, meet locals, see the Banyan trees in each village square and admire local architecture. There are 3 Qing Dynasty bridges along the route.  
• 25.9092 100.0961 3 Butterfly Spring ( 蝴蝶泉 ) ( if you really want to see this you can catch a minibus from outside the west gate ). A deep blue pool that periodically swarms with countless butterflies, with a legend to go with it: Long ago, a young woman named Wen Gu and a young man named Xia Lang were in love. But the prince took a fancy to Wen Gu and kidnapped her. Xia Lang rescued his beloved, but the soldiers pursued them and, unable to defend themselves, the star-crossed lovers jumped into the deep pond. Early the next morning, out of the pond flew a pair of beautiful butterflies, and then countless butterflies flew to the pond from all over, fluttering and dancing in the air. For many hundreds of years since, the pond has been a gathering point for young men and women to dance, sing, and spend time with the butterflies. The site also includes a fairly nice hillside park with trees and birds, a small butterfly breeding centre, a Butterfly Museum (蝴蝶管) with hundreds of mounted butterfly specimens, and (the highlight) the "world of butterflies" (蝴蝶世界), a big greenhouse where you can see lots of butterflies flying around. You can pay an extra ¥15 for a ride to the pond on a sort of oversized golf cart, but it's probably not worth it - it's less than a kilometer and a nice walk anyway. ¥40 . ( updated May 2019 )
• Wase Market . Combine a trip to Erhai Lake with a visit to the Wase Market on the eastern shore of the lake. Wase is a traditional and conservative Bai town with a weekly market aimed at townspeople and nearby farmers. The market offers an interesting look at life in a quiet country town.  

• Shaping Market ( about 30 km north of Dali ). Shaping Town offers a lively weekly market with plenty of local color. The market starts early. A great chance to see local farmers out in force and literally watch plenty of horse trading. Not much to buy (unless you are a farmer) but gives you the feeling of life in a small country town.  
• 25.600251 100.230541 5 Dali Bai Nationality Autonomous Prefecture Museum ( 大理白族自治州博物馆 ), 8 Erhe South Road, Xiaguan (下关洱河南路8号) ( in the modern part of Dali, Xiaguan; take bus 8 from the old town and get off after the bridge, follow the river east (left) until just before the next bridge ), ☏ +86 872-2128614 , [email protected] . 8.30am - 5pm. Closed between 11:30 and 14:00 . Worth a visit. It has an extensive collection of exhibits, with half signs are translated into English. The museum grounds are beautiful as well, the exhibits are set around a traditional garden. Free, but requires ID to enter . ( updated Mar 2019 )

• Eryuan ( West of Dali ). Eryuan is a small town next to Cibihu lake. After taking a bus that leaves every hour for ¥13/person from the intersection with 214 National Road near the North Gate market you can get off in Eryuan town or anywhere along the way. If the bus is overloaded the bus driver's assistant will walk past police checkpoints with passengers that didn't have a seat. Cibihu lake is about 3 km downhill from the usual bus stop in Eryuan. Very few motorbikes for hire go to the lake, so if you walk in, expect to walk out.  
• 25.60677 100.24502 8 Erhai Park ( 洱海公园 Ěrhǎi Gōngyuán ). The best piece of nature in downtown Dali, a city park on the lake known for its flowers. Free . ( updated May 2019 )

• ClimbDali ( 大理攀岩 ), 393 Renmin Road , ☏ +86 131 50644701 . 20 rock climbing routes have already been bolted (Shuanglang and Binchuan) with potential for hundreds more.  
• Jizu Mountain ( lit. Chicken Foot Mountain ) ( further away from Dali to the northeast behind Wase on the east side of Erhai Lake, take a bus (2 hours) from Xiaguans Eastern Bus Station to Binchuan (滨川) and from there change to a minibus or bus (1 hour) ). The mountain and its ranges look like a chicken's foot. It's a 2-3 day trip in its own right. The top and slopes are covered in temples, many in a state of disrepair. Some have been restored and have resident monks. This is a difficult hike with the summit at 3200 metres. Be prepared. Or there are horse rides and a cable car that starts halfway up.  
• Rice and Friends Cooking School Dali ( 米饭和朋友们 ), No.1 Hong Long Jing, Dali old town ( meeting point is the Bad Monkey Bar, 59 Renmin Road ), ☏ +86-151-2526-4065 . Rice & Friends Chinese cooking school offers hands-on Chinese cooking courses, highly rated on tripadvisor. Beautiful open-air setup with mountain views. Authentic and very personal 5-hour cooking experience, including outdoor-market shopping for ingredients, introduction to the theory of Chinese cooking, hands-on preparation of 3 dishes with a recipe booklet to take away and plenty of time for everybody to sit down together and enjoy the meal they cooked themselves.  
• Johnny 'O palm reading , @Tibetan Cafe, ( Remin Lu, across from Bad Monkey Bar ). every day at 16:00 . The guy, that looks like a retired Super Mario with dark sunglasses, reads your palm and gives your an interesting perspective of what happened to you in the past. Won't tell you the future until you explicitly beg for it. Worth the ¥100 he's asking for. ¥100 .  
• Erhai Paradise ( By Erhai Lake ). Certainly worth a visit. It is a magical Buddhist haven with giant statues, empty amphitheaters, demon-statues, tea gardens and an artificial beach. One way is to hire a taxi driver form Dali or Xiaguan for the entire day and negotiate a price. The driver can take you to the boat jetty and show you onto the island ferry. You will sail across the lake. Explore the island and come back by boat, where your driver will be waiting to take you to a restaurant for dinner, or temples and bars as you wish. However this is really unnecessary as there is never a shortage of taxi drivers waiting at the ferry and the local bus service is extremely inexpensive and accessible. Buses are lined up and ready to take you back to Dali at an intersection 5 minutes walk down the road leading to the ferry. Total for the day about ¥500 .  
• Xiaguan Hot Springs ( 下关温泉 ) ( from the train station take bus 21 (Bus 8 runs from the Old Town to the train station) ). This swimming pool is called a hot springs resort because it probably really uses naturally hot water. Other than that it might be a little different from what most people might expect. These days it is a regular, pretty run down swimming pool (one pool on the inside, one on the outside, otherwise identical) with all the spa's (that are still on the price list) being closed. Interestingly there are places to stay in the resort with rooms around ¥280. ¥12 .  
• Peter's Tourist Center ( 李震票务中心 ), #65 Bo Ai Street, Dali Old Town, Yunnan, China中国 云南 大理古城 博爱路65号 , ☏ +86 15125296978 , [email protected] . Fluent English speaking with experience in arranging tours around Dali, especially cultural tours like Shaxi day tour and Yi, Bai, Hui minority markets and villages. Air, bus and train ticket booking, hotel and guest house booking.  

Dali has a number of famous local products. Any part of the city that gets a good number of tourists will have plenty of souvenirs, and probably hats (the sun is strong due to the altitude) and fruit. As ever, be prepared to bargain when shopping in Dali. See Yangshuo#Tourist stuff for advice on prices in Chinese tourist towns.

• Marble - Dali is famous for marble; the Chinese word for marble is Dalishi or Dali stone. Products included vases, ashtrays, carved animals and equipment for the game of Go . Some of this is just touristy trash, but much of it is exquisite. Larger items are heavy enough to be a little difficult to carry or a problem for airline luggage allowance.
• Tie-dye - The local tie-dye fashioned from dye and wax is also popular and cheap. One of the main production places is the Bai village Zhoucheng, about 40 minutes ride from Dali, which also has a nice daily small afternoon market and some nice old Bai houses.
• Embroidery - You can also purchase beautiful embroidery made by ethnic minorities, generally Miao minority from Guizhou Province, at a number of shops. The items include baby carriers, clothing or decorative patches that were attached to traditional costume.
• Teahouse - Dali has great teahouses. Relax in a teahouse regularly, buy a little tea and you will be welcome to come back at any time, with friends, usually for free. Sample new teas and as long as you buy something every so often, you will be welcomed again and again.
• Antiques - There are many antique shops very close to each other on Yù'ěr Lù (玉洱路). Start at the intersection of Yěyú Lù (叶榆路) and walk west. It can be very interesting to browse. Even if you're not a collector you may be tempted to buy something when you see how badly some of these treasures are being handled and stored.
• Rose products : roses are a big specialty here, and if you head out into the countryside you may spot rose farms. You can buy rose pastries (鲜花饼), rose juice, rose alcohol, rose jewelry, rose skincare products...you get the idea. Products made from other flowers, from peach blossom to osmanthus, can be found too.

If you are looking for light bites or other daily needs with fair price without paying the "tourist price", check out the 'Si Fang Jie' supermarket, they have three branches in Dali Old Town (Fuxing Street, Yu'er Rd, and near North Gate). Alternatively, you may check 'Da Chang Sheng' supermarket at the junction of PingDeng Rd and Yu'er Rd.

There are lots of local specialties, especially Bai cuisine (Bai people are the local ethnic group). Bai restaurants are plentiful, especially in the northern part of the old city. Try shuǐxìng yánghuā 水性杨花, an underwater plant whose name is also an idiom meaning "promiscuous"; shùhuā 树花, or "tree flower", a bitter tree fungus; or shùpí 树皮, literally "bark" but actually an even more bitter tree fungus.

Another local specialty is roses , which find their way into juice and pastries.

Try rǔshān 乳扇 the local "Fried cheese" that is a crispy snack often wound around bamboo skewers. Available at restaurants or sometime street stalls.

Xizhou' s famous dish is bābā 粑粑, a slightly oily, slightly chewy, slightly flaky thick pancake-like pastry, which you can get sweet or savory.

A bowl of noodle ranged between ¥10-15 (slightly more expensive than Kunming) (as of March 2019). Chinese meal served catering for four people along with beer expect to pay ¥80. Western meals average around ¥25, including a bottle of the local beer. Breakfast prix fixe menus are served everywhere and average around ¥25 including coffee.

Fruit stands and corner stores abound. Try to get a feel for prices before buying if you want to avoid paying exorbitant prices. You can buy apples for ¥4/jin (a half kilo), a bottle of water for ¥2 (as of March 2019).

• 再回首 (Zai Hui Shou) , Renmin Road ( walk east down Renmin Road just past Fuxing Road, traditional noodle stall on the left hand side ). Spicy cold noodles with chicken strips, very well known locally. There is only one thing to order.  
• 色了木 (Se Le Mu) , Yu Er Road ( walk east down Yu Er Road, just past Fuxing Road, open restaurant on the right hand side ). The name literally means Salaam. Delightful eatery serving Dali Muslim food. Pictures are on the walls. Noodles only during breakfast hours while rice dishes are available for the rest of the day. Ask for chicken leg from the back kitchen.  
• Golden Local-Style Noodles , Renmin Road ( near Fuxing Road, several storefronts to the left of Bad Monkey ). Noodle shop that specialized in Cross-the-Bridge Noodles, a local specialty where a bowl of hot broth is brought to the table, and then the rice noodles and a number of plates with small quantities of other foods is immediately added by the waiter. The menu is all in Chinese, but there are pictures displayed throughout, and ordering should be no problem.  
• Vegetarian, Beef and Pork Dumplings , Renmin Road . Great place for fresh homemade dumplings. Nine dumplings with sauce just made and freshly steamed only cost ¥3.5.  
• 25.688928 100.160961 1 Vegetarian Buffet ( 一然堂 ), Boai Road ( north of Mingcheng Art Garden Hotel, just off of Boai Road ). 11:30-13:00, 17:30-19:00 . All-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet operated by Buddhists, the choices are usually four different vegetable dishes, soup, rice, and pickled vegetables. ¥5 .  

• Sun Island Cafe ( 太阳岛; Tàiyángdǎo ), 324 Renmin Road ( towards the East Gate ), ☏ +86 872 2676075 . A couple of steps away from the main tourist avenues lies this hybrid of Chinese and Japanese culture. This is the place to go for some genuine Japanese food cooked up the Chinese-, Japanese- and English-speaking owner or to relax to some chilled out music. The Japanese crew that manages the place might even throw a Jombei, Didgeridoo, Jews harp party which guests are more than welcome to join in on using any of the plentiful instruments. If the night creeps up on you after to many drinks or smokes then there is also a dormitory for ¥20 a night.  
• Marley's Cafe , Huguo Road ( Central Old Dali Town cross with boai ), ☏ +86 872 2676651 . Excellent first floor restaurant. Very good Bai dishes. Nice decor. Cheap and has a narrow balcony great for people watching.  
• Om Shanti , 245 Renmin Road ( East, down towards lake ), ☏ +86 872 2679306 . Vegetarian restaurant which serves great food and has a great, laid back atmosphere. The staff are very helpful too and can give you loads of helpful information.  
• September , ☏ +86 872 2670266 . Sichuan food.  
• Dali Cookery School , East Gate Village, Dali Old Town , [email protected] . Why not try to cook several Chinese dishes? Great time and good food. Several courses available with four dishes in each. Visit the local market to buy all the fresh veggies. Can be booked direct or through several guesthouses in Dali.  
• [dead link] Ruben's Belgian Waffles ( 红龙井比利时挖福饼; bǐlìshí wāfúbǐng ), Corner of Fuxing Road and Honglong Jing (waterfall street), next to Dico's (红龙井和复兴路的十字路口,德克士旁边) , ☏ +86 13577015005 , [email protected] . Open everyday from 14:00 . This small waffle place, which is run by Belgian expat Ruben, offers delicious Belgian waffles, with several toppings available.  
• The Sweet Tooth ( Sweet Tooth 甜点屋; Sweet Tooth Tiándiǎnwū ), 52 Boai Road (博爱路52号; Bó'àilù) ( on a corner in Dali Old Town ). This cafe specializes in pastries and desserts. The cafe is owned and operated by local hard-of-hearing people. Serves delicious and high quality desserts, coffee and milkshakes.  
• Cafe de Jack ( 樱花园咖啡; Yīnghuāyuán Kāfēi ), 82 Boai Road (博爱路82号; Bó'àilù) , ☏ +86 872 2671572 . Dali's oldest Western cafe. Has a fireplace, great apple pie, pleasant atmosphere and a great rooftop garden. While the menu is a little tired, the breakfast is good, as well as the chocolate cake and the lasagne. Spread over three levels, Cafe de Jack is the largest and most successful of the backpacker cafe/bars in Dali. Very popular with locals and travellers alike. The owners, local brothers Jack and Tim, are often on hand to provide good travel advice.  
• Bakery 88 ( 88号西点店; 88hào Xīdiǎndiàn ), 88 Boai Road (博爱路88号; Bó'àilù) ( next to Cafe de Jack ). This German-style bakery is easy to spot and has a great cake selection visible from the street. Run by a long term German resident, Karine, and is popular with both foreigners and locals.  
• 25.693305 100.159709 2 [dead link] Black Dragon Cafe ( 墨龙咖啡馆 mòlóng kāfēiguǎn ), No.42 Centre Square, Foreigner Street 人街中心广场42号 ( in the alley two doors down from Bakery 88 ), ☏ +86 13330556685 , +86 872-2670535 . 09:00 to late . The best coffee, and generous, mouth-watering meals - the wraps (chicken, beef, smoked tofu) are a speciality. A good selection of books to borrow or buy.  
• Jim's Peace Cafe ( 大理吉姆和平饭店; Dàlǐ Jímǔhépíng Fàndiàn ), Boai Road ( With Jim's Guesthouse ). Excellent Tibetan goulash, vegetarian or with yak meat. All-you-can-eat banquet for groups of four or more, ¥30 a head. Various other dishes. One of the town's oldest traveller hangouts.  
• Old Dali Four Seasons Inn ( 四季客栈; Sìjì Kèzhàn ), 55 Boai Road (博爱路55号; Bó'àilù) ( near East Gate ), ☏ +86 872 2670382 . Great place to meet people and pick up travel tips; the Inn is a major backpacker hangout and people discusses their next expedition over breakfast. Has relocated and no longer provide all-you-can-eat breakfast.  
• La Stella's Pizzeria ( 新星比萨房; Xīnxīng Bǐsàfáng ), 21 Huguo Road, Dali Old Town (护国路21号, Hùguólù) , ☏ +86 872 2679251 . A well-run operation making generous portions of delicious woodfired pizzas, pastas, salads and Chinese dishes at good-value prices. They also have a wide selection of alcoholic beverages. The staff speak English, and there is a travel agent out the back of the three-storey restaurant. Worth a visit.  
• LP café ( 咖啡 ), A18 Hong Longjing Road (红龙井A18号) . It's the sort of place every neighbourhood would be lucky to have. The staff are friendly, the food thoughtfully composed and prepared. Serves deli style sandwiches and snacks made with high quality ingredients. Has a good selection of imported wine and liquors.  
• Kaiyi's Kitchen (一线天), Foreign Street (洋人街). They have a nice mix of western and Chinese food available. The environment inside is relaxing and one can watch travelers walking down the Foreign Street of Dali from inside.

Dali Wall Hump Garden (驼峰厨房-点苍虹鳟). 53 Hong Long Jing. At the top of Hong Long Jing (waterfall street), right before the Hong Long Jing gate on the right. This newly opened restaurant specializing in Rainbow trout is set in a beautiful garden built over the remains of the original Dali wall. Dali's rainbow trout is considered the best in China, and spring water carried down from the mountains is used for every step of the cooking process.

A 500 ml bottle of Dali Beer will cost you around ¥10-12 in a bar and about ¥4-5 from a grocer. A large selection of beer is on offer but some are coloured green and require an acquired taste. But for the price, there is no excuse not to sample the lot.

• Bad Monkey ( 坏猴子; Huàihóuzi ), 59 Renmin Road, Dali Old Town (人民路59号; Rénmínlù) . From 09:00 . Dali's longest running foreign bar. It is hosted by two well-travelled Englishmen Carl and Scott who entertain guests before the dancing starts later in the evening with a Derek and Clive patter of jokes and one-liners. The Monkey is a magnet to foreign and Chinese travelers (many of whom seem to wander in and never leave), and remains popular with Dali locals. The bar has a pool table, dancing pole, a huge selection of local and imported beers and spirits (and their own pints of various Bad Monkey Beers on tap, made locally at the bar's microbrewery, and regular performances by bands and DJs. Bad Monkey also opens from 09:00 in the morning as a cafe, providing Western breakfasts; Thai, Indian, Chinese and Western cuisine are also available throughout the day.  
• Daliba ( 大理吧; Dàlǐbā ), 260 Renmin Road, Dali Old Town . The first flavoured vodka bar in China, owned by Vanessa from Guizhou province. More than 30 flavoured vodkas made by Vanessa and Kiki, beer and cocktails are available too!  
• Sun Island Cafe ( 太阳岛 ). A relaxed place owned by A Chun, a friendly woman from Lin Cang. Well worth a visit for a few drinks, well worth a stay in the rooms they have for visitors in the courtyard.  
• ClimbDali ( 大理攀岩 ), 393 RenMin Lu . Boulder bar offers free bouldering, cheap beer, and information on rock climbing around Dali. Also has an organic garden and pool table.  
• 非常麻辣烫 ( Fēicháng má là tàng ), Xiaguan, Renminjie (下关，人民街) ( it may be hard to find since this is deep territory, but well worth a trip into Xiaguan, so bring a Chinese friend if you can't speak any Chinese, though if not, then if coming from Old Town in the north, ask a taxi driver to take you to the intersection of Tiānbǎo lù（天宝路 and Rénmín nán jiē（人民南街, from there it's a short walk south and on the right hand side, although signs use its Chinese name ). This restaurant/bar makes an evening trip to the south of the lake worth it. They offer extremely kitschy Revolution-era Chinese military and cultural memorabilia decor, as well as one of the most friendly and talkative owners in the area, but the main attraction is the food and booze. Try their various homemade flavoured liquors made from local fruit: the Plum Baijiu is a favourite (梅子酒). The food is unpretentious and delicious local comfort food: recommended are the stir-fried erkuai with peanuts and chives (炒饵块), and dumplings tossed in chili sauce. Vegetarian options are limited, though its still worth the trip as a strictly drinking place for those coming from the Old Town. This place may be closed and demolished.  
• Neverland Cafe . On Bo Ai Lu has homemade wine and fruit wines, and needs your help in advising how to blend good wines. Great baked potatoes with tuna fish topping. Owner speaks English and listens to Billie Holiday.  

Dali has some of the cheapest accommodation options available in all China. Lots of accommodation to chose from. Expect to pay ¥15-30 for a dorm bed, ¥40 and above for rooms, ¥60-300 for a double room with private shower and toilet.

• Bird Nest ( 鸟窝 ), 22 Renmin Road ( Tucked into a courtyard Bai house at the top of Renmin Road ), ☏ +86 872 2661843 . Very comfortable range of rooms from dorm beds, single, double and suite rooms to a private, 3-bedroom courtyard house with kitchen. Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour hot water, chill bar, good pizza and great Greek-style yogurt. ¥30-500 .  
• 25.704444 100.163333 1 Dali Letu International Youth Hostel ( 大理乐途国际青年旅舍 ), 叶榆路 Yeyu Road, Old City . A nice, clean hostel with free WiFi at the edge of the old city, less than a 5-minute walk from the 8 bus stop but more like 15 minutes from the main part of the old city. Most guests are Chinese but foreigners are welcome (check-in staff speak English). Bunks and private rooms available. Bunks from ¥20 . ( updated May 2019 )
• Dali Mingtong Yinxian Youth Hostel , Caicun Dock, Dali Old Town , ☏ +86 872 2691261 , +86 13888635082 . On the banks of Erhai Lake; there is an enjoyable view of the whole lake from the terrace on the third floor. Located in a Bai village, it is very quiet at night. Dorms ¥25, en suite doubles from ¥80 .  
• Dali Three Pagodas Youth Hostel (Hostelling International) ( north-west of the old town, just west of the main road, a 5-minute walk away ), ☏ +86 872 2666398 , +86 13529651981 , [email protected] . This hostel has friendly staff and is clean and pleasant. Courtyard and gardens. There is a large comfortable lounge with two PCs and free internet access, self-catering kitchen, roof terrace with great views and a travel service. The hostel is empty off-season.  
• [dead link] Dragonfly Hostel ( 清亭国际青年旅 ), 200 Pingdeng Rd ( from train station or long distance bus station take the bus #8 to its terminal station then head south along Yeyu road for 500 m then at Pingdeng road turn left and walk for 100 m ), ☏ +86 1800 872 4682 . Owned by an experienced hostel staff from Chengdu's mix hostel and her Dutch-American husband. The hostel is inside the ancient city of Dali but far from the noise of the touristic spots. It was opened in 2014. Dorm beds have privacy curtains and extra wide IKEA beds. Cheap beers and large roof top area to smoke and eat BBQ. Suitable for long term stay. ¥25-165 .  
• Five Elements ( 五行客栈, wu xing ke zhan ), Dali oldtown West Gate Dazhifang 69 or the west side of 214 Highway, opposite of Hong Long Jing gate, walk north for 50 m, or 500 m south of the West Gate, on your right side ( Directions ), ☏ +86-130-9985-0360 , [email protected] . Facilities include: Staff are fluent in English and Japanese, comfortable rooms, organic food, freshly ground coffee each morning, clean spring water, convenient location (2-min walk to the town), and a beautiful garden area. There are two cute golden retriever dogs. Drinks are also available. Dorm bed: Starting at ¥15; a room with queen size bed: Starting at ¥90 .  
• Mama Naxi Guesthouse Dali ( Joker's Guesthouse ), 88 Fu An Alley. Ren Min Lu ( walk to the East Gate on the Ren Ming Lu; go right after the No.5 guesthouse (should be on your right); you should also see Wang Jia Zhuang Hotel written on the wall at the end of the street; go there and then turn left; walk until you reach the end and turn right ), ☏ +86 872 267 1168 , +86 015198320421 . This is the Mama Naxi in Dali offering the same services as the one in Lijiang. Clean comfy dorms, double and triple rooms. Quiet, convenient location with friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking staff. Free internet and Wi-Fi. Bike rental. Bus, train and airplane bookings. Discount tickets for local sights. Breakfast and family dinner. There is a nice courtyard to sit and meet other people. ¥20- .  
• Higherland Inn , Zhonghe Temple, Cangshan Mountains , ☏ +86 872 2661599 , +86 13988539680 . Up in the Cang Mountains behind the Zhonghe Temple at 2600 m altitude, with a spectacular view of the lake and valley. Blissfully peaceful. A short cable car ride away from town. Great food, highly recommended for vegetarians. Booking advised.  
• The Jade Emu and The Jade Roo International Guesthouses ( outside the west wall, 5 minutes walk to the centre of town ), ☏ +86 872 2677311 , +86 13887232726 , +86 15887399551 , [email protected] . The Jade Emu International Guesthouse was built in 2008 and the Jade Roo opened in 2010. The Jade Emu Guesthouse won the Hostelbookers Award for Excellence, 2010 - Top 3 Hostels/Guesthouses in Asia. They are run by Dave (from Australia) and his partner Song (from China). Double, twin/triple share, singles, family suites and dorm rooms available, all are modern, clean and comfortable. Facilities include spacious courtyard and rooftop balcony, Facebook access, pool table, table tennis table, Fussball table, bar/cafe with outdoor home theatre system, free internet (6 PCs including Wi-Fi throughout the buildings), satellite TV, printing/scanning facilities, laundry service and/or free access to a washing machine, electric bike rental, discounted tours. Guests staying for ４ weeks or more are given a 40% discount． Dorms from ¥20-40, private rooms from ¥55-150 .  
• Lee's Guesthouse , Dali Old Town , ☏ +86 872 2671385 , +86 872 3156069 , [email protected] . Set up in 2008 and run by Lee's family from Inner Mongolia. It provides quality accommodation for backpackers. Cozy, clean and comfortable. Facilities include local Bai minority courtyard, mosquito-free accommodation, free internet & Wi-Fi, free movie, family dinner 19:00 (book one day ahead), fax/printing/scan, CD/DVD burning, laundry service, bike rental (shimano system), ¥1/min international call and travel agency. English spoken. Dorm rooms and double rooms ¥25-290 .  
• Rainbow‘s Nest International Guesthouse , 104 Guangwu Rd, Dali Old Town ( two minutes from the center of Dali Old Town ), ☏ +86 15808726740 , +86 15125250972 , [email protected] . Bai style house with six separate apartments each one equipped with living rooms, kitchens and private bathroom. Open sunny courtyard garden. Rooftop entertainment area and chill out room with free movies. Free laundry service, bike rental, comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Free high speed internet and Wi-Fi. Traveler information and bookings. Staff are fluent in English and Chinese. Discount rates for weekly and monthly stay. Private rooms with living room and kitchen ¥130-150 .  
• Smile Cafe , Renmin Road, Dali Old Town ( 5 minutes further downhill from the tourist concentration ), ☏ +86 872 2670565 , [email protected] . 11:00-01:00 . The young English-speaking couple that run Smile Cafe have befriended many a visitors with their laid back attitudes, approachability, and helpfulness. Cheap accommodation with nice rooms, laundry, free internet, hot water, courtyard with sun and table tennis, TV and DVD player. Dorms ¥25-30 .  
• TTF Cafe Hostel , 11 Luyu Road, Dali Old Town (大理古城绿玉路11号) ( One minute walk on Luyu Road (绿玉路) from south end of Boai Road (博爱路) where intersects with Yita Road (一塔路) ), ☏ +86 13988536165 , [email protected] . This may be the best bargain in the area. Free green tea, internet machine, Wi-Fi, 24-hr solar-hybrid hot shower, western-style toilet. Dorms and private rooms available. Dorms ¥15 (¥10 for members) .  
• Dali Private House , Dali Jiulong Ju A3-4 ( opposite Gurong Hotel ), ☏ +86 15894533443 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 14:00 . Private house to rent with all appliances provided. Discount for socially active tenants (baking cakes, helping in BBQ, painting, etc.) possible. 180 .  
• Jim's Tibetan Guest House , Bo Ai Lu 63 Dali Old Town , ☏ +86 872 2671822 , [email protected] . Very comfortable, clean and well appointed single and double rooms. Relaxed service. Downstairs is the cosy and good cafe & restaurant, Jim's Peace Cafe. They own another more upmarket place called Jim's Tibetan Hotel (see listing below). Owner Jim (a local) is a fluent English speaker and was the first local to start business with foreigners. With his Dutch wife he organizes great daytrips: trekkings, overland to Tibet, etc., can be found on their website. Bookings accepted by e-mail. Singles/doubles from ¥150 .  
• Koreana Guesthouse . This Korean-themed guesthouse is on the Foreign Street very close to the Chinese Construction Bank ATM. The staff is pleasant and well-trained and the manager speaks good English. They have Western toilets. They also provide a quick and free laundry service. Avoid rooms facing the street as they can be quite noisy in the evenings and mornings. ¥150-300 .  
• New No. 5 Guest House ( down Renmin Road near East Gate ). A nice, quiet spot on the East end of Old Town. Its rooftop deck claimsa very nice view of the area. English is spoken here, but the guests are typically Chinese. Affordable and clean.  
• No. 3 Guesthouse , Huguo Road , ☏ +86 872 2664941 . Nice, inexpensive, quiet option just outside the gates of the old town. The helpful staff speak Korean, Chinese and English and will accommodate most reasonable requests. Rooms on the second floor are pricier than those on the first. Restaurant on the first floor specializes in Korean fare but offers other dishes as well. Rooms are relatively clean. You should be able to bargain a double down to ¥70-80, including private bathroom .  
• Tibetan Lodge , 58 Renmin Road, Dali Old Town , ☏ +86 872 2664177 , +86 872 2678917 . A guest house and restaurant with a lot of character and atmosphere. Cheap but with mediocre service. Sometimes no air-con. Room types available include singles, doubles, triples, family, and suites. Slow but free internet is provided (wireless or on very slow desktops in the lounge). The restaurant downstairs is good, but a little on the expensive side. Single rooms start at ¥39 .  
• Yu Yuan Guesthouse ( A block West of the main tourist area ), ☏ +86 872 2673267 . Clean, with friendly English-speaking staff. Doubles with bathtub and electric blankets. The breakfast is good. Doubles ¥80 including breakfast .  
• Jim's Tibetan Hotel , Yuxiu lu 13 yu yuan 4 ( just outside the small South Gate in Dali Old Town ), ☏ +86 872 2677824 , +86 872 2440014 , [email protected] . Beautiful spacious rooms with colourful handmade furniture. Singles, doubles, 3- and 4-bed rooms and family rooms. Great garden, rooftop bar and terrace. Playground for kids. From ¥280 including breakfast. Same owner as Jim's Guesthouse (see above). Bookings accepted by e-mail.  
• Dali Garden Bed & Breakfast ( 10 km north of Dali in a Bai minority farmers village; 2 km north of the B&B is the ancient town of Xizhuo with its Bai morning market and traditional Bai courtyard houses ), ☏ +86 138 872 317 54 , [email protected] . Dali Garden Bed & Breakfast is not a hotel or guesthouse. In the B&B you are the (local Bai/Dutch) owners' special guest and you can use also private parts of the house, such as the comfortable living room with TV. As you are their guests, service and hospitality have a high priority. The B&B is built in Bai architecture with European influence. The nice decorated guestrooms (doubles on first floor and twins on second floor) have modern Western facilities and an attached spacious bathroom with shower. One double on the third floor has a big terrace and a fantastic view over the village, lake and mountains. The price includes free pickup (with minimum stay of 2 nights) from Dali airport/express bus station, a welcome drink and snack, extensive Western breakfast, Yunnan coffee, tea, free use of bicycles, free Wi-Fi, all the mineral water, soft drinks and Dali beer you need during your stay and travel information.  
• Landscape Hotel ( 大理古城兰林阁酒店; Dàlǐgǔchéng Lánlíngé Jiǔdiàn ), Yu'er Road, Dali Old Town (大理古城玉洱路96号; Dàlǐgǔchéng Yùěrlù) ( at the foot of Cang Mountain close to Erhai Lake ), ☏ +86 872 2666188 , fax : +86 872 2666189 , [email protected] . Spacious rooms with internet access against surcharge. Business center, currency exchange, gift shop, ticket office, massage and sauna available. Chinese restaurant, coffee shop and room service. Listed rates for doubles from ¥460, discounted from ¥250, including breakfast .  
• The Linden Centre , 5 Cheng Bei Xizhou ( 19 km north of Dali in timeless village of Xizhou ), ☏ +86 872 2452988 . In one of Southwest China's most pristine examples of traditional Bai architecture. Developed and managed by an American couple who has been involved in China since 1984, offers 14 upscale double rooms in the completely restored, nationally-protected villa. The centre also has a small museum, two restaurants, a cafe/bar, library, conference rooms, exercise room, and four elegant courtyards full of gardens and outdoor seating.  
• 25.70184 100.17098 2 [dead link] Regent Hotel ( 大理风花雪月大酒店; Dàlǐ Fēnghuāxuěyuè Dàjiǔdiàn ), Yu'er Road, Dali Old Town (大理古城玉洱路; Dàlǐgǔchéng Yùěrlù) ( on Cang Mountain facing Erhai Lake ), ☏ +86 872 2666666 , fax : +86 872 2682082 , [email protected] . Five-star hotel in Bai architecture style. Very large rooms with free internet. Business center, currency exchange, gift shop, beauty salon, ticket office, karaoke, night club, billiards, table tennis, fitness, tennis, massage and outdoor swimming pool available. Chinese and Western restaurants as well as coffee shop and bar. The hotel comes with everything you can expect from a Chinese five star hotel, but lacks something in taste, service and Western breakfast compared to what you will find in larger cities. Listed rates for doubles ¥880-5,800 including breakfast .  
• Linden Centre : in Xizhou, 20 km north of Dali. Lovely Bai architecture; very nice hosts and lovely surroundings. Very tasteful. ¥700 (incl breakfast).

The old town has free WiFi. Use the network "DaliTravel".

There are a few scams and petty crime targeting tourists in Dali. Watch your belongings carefully to protect from pickpockets and theft, though perhaps the major risk you take if staying in cheap accommodation is theft by other foreign travellers. Overall Dali is a very safe place with little crime directed at tourists.

If you are planning to hike up the Cang mountains, travel in a group both to protect yourself from robbery and as back up in case of accident. Stay on the paths and don't take any risks climbing no matter how experienced you are, as fatal accidents do happen!

Drugs disguised as strange artifacts are usually sold by women in traditional Bai costume, who will then lead you to their homes. Marijuana is still widespread, of course, but it is no longer tolerated in public. It is not uncommon to see marijuana growing in the wild. Women may also offer you "opium", but it is just worthless garbage, possibly sesame oil pressed with some unknown substance. It is no longer easy to purchase marijuana in Dali.

Don't get your shoes fixed by men approaching you on the corner of Fu Xing Rd and Foreigner St. Even if a price is agreed, they will add a couple of extra stitches and charge ridiculously inflated prices (¥200-300). You're in a difficult position to argue because they have your shoes! Just go to a regular established shoe shop (there are several towards the east end of Renmin Rd) where you can get your shoes repaired well for less than ¥10.

Most of the hostels and travel agents can organise bus tickets anywhere in Yunnan . They can also arrange flights farther afield.

Many travelers from Kunming continue on from Dali to Lijiang (either by bus or by train). Consider taking a bus to the Old Southern Silk Road town of Shaxi , which is about half way between Dali and Lijiang. The town has been well preserved and still holds much of its traditional character. The valley around it is littered with Qing and Ming Dynasty homes, bridges, theatres and temples. It is also the main jumping off point to visit the beautiful grottos at Shibaoshan. After your visit to Shaxi it is easy to continue your journey. Direct buses are now available from Shaxi to Lijiang.

There are also bus services to Shangrila . Most of these buses depart from the Dali North Bus Terminal, though a few a buses depart from the Dali Old Town Bus Terminal.

If you prefer to take the train to Shangri-la, you will need to change trains in Lijiang.

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Dali Attractions

Attractions in City Proper

If a shortlist of Dali's attractions was to be drawn up, the 'silver Cangshan Mountains' and the 'jade Erhai Lake' would top it. They are usually the firstchoice destinations for visitors.  

Composed of nineteen peaks lining up from north to south, the Mt. Cangshan, located to the west of Erhai Lake, have an average altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) with the tops perpetually covered in snow. Eighteen streams between the nineteen peaks of the mountain flow eastwards to the lake. The ear-shaped Erhai Lake is referred to as 'a pearl on the plateau' with an area of about 250 square kilometers (97 square miles). Every year in the Mid-autumn Festival, people living around the lake sail on the clear, green water and admire the golden moon reflectedin the lake. This is the most romantic place in this area. The snow on the mountains and the bright moon above the lake symbolize the vows between lovers. The Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture Museum is near the Erhai Dock, which is a garden museum with strong local ethnic minority's characteristics. Running from north to south, the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake form one of the most enchanting sights to be seen in the city. Proceeding northward from Xiaguan, Erhai Park, established in 1976, is the first stop along the way to Erhai Lake. It is located at the south end of the lake and provides a panoramic view of thearea. Thirteen kilometers (8 miles) north of Xiaguan, Dali Ancient City was first constructed in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains. This simple and tranquil city is characterized by the dwellinghouses of the Bai Minority. It is a must-see destination, ranking as one of the most noted historical and cultural cities in China. Nearly all the local specialities are available here. Huoguo Road, or Foreigner Street, is the central thoroughfare where most westerners assemble. Apart from the local foods and handicrafts that are available, plentiful cafes, bars and distinctive restaurants also attract visitors from both home and abroad.

Attractions Around

Dali is the Pai of China

03/21/2014 by Kristin Addis 19 Comments

I’ve sung Pai in northern Thailand’s praises until I was blue in the face.  Whenever anyone asks me where my favorite place in Southeast Asia is, I answer, “Pai,” without even needing to stop and think about it.  There’s so much to love about that hippie town , full of dreadlocked, tattooed, and pierced residents and visitors.

I certainly didn’t expect that I’d find Pai’s counterpart in China, but was pleasantly surprised to see dreadlocked and rock star-attired Chinese residents when I visited Dali in Yunnan province, about 4 hours outside of Kunming.

Dali is the kind of place that everyone likes, and unlike other old towns in China which have been completely manufactured and are fake, people actually make their homes and livelihoods in Dali.

What is it about Dali that makes it so amazing?  For one, the scenery is beautiful:

The town is surrounded by mountains for hiking and lakes for bicycling around.

For a rental fee of 30 RMB for one day, one can rent a bike and take it around the outskirts of town and around Er Hai, the massive lake outside of town.

I met up with a couple of guys I had first briefly encountered at my hostel in Kunming, and we hatched a plan to cycle along as much of the river as we could manage given our late 12- noon start.

Along the banks of the lake in a small town outside of Dali, we happened upon an enterprising woman who engineered an hour-long boat ride for us for about 40 RMB each – a bit rich but an adventure we felt like having, so we sprang for it.

About 20 minutes in we were rewarded with the incoming of fishermen with their cormorant birds – a symbiotic relationship where a string is tied around the bird’s neck so that when it dives for fish, it’s unable to swallow them.  The birds are given a fish as payment for their services after the fishermen have a satisfactory catch.

I had read about this before but didn’t realize the method was still employed just as it had been hundreds of years in the past.  It was pretty exciting to see first-hand.

The lake itself is pretty easy to cycle around, with flat paths passing through a lot of little villages with various food and beverage offerings.

However, cycling around the lake still proved difficult because of the constant beautiful distractions, such as the busy people fishing in the lakes, tending to the fields of veggies and rapeseed flowers, and generally making Dali as picturesque as a little Chinese town can be.

The final distraction was shao kao, which I’ve waxed poetic about my love for in Kunming.  I was more than happy to come upon it again in Dali.

Alex was, too. He even made up a song about it that I still can’t get out of my head, three weeks later.

He also felt compelled to push a Chinese man on a hammock.

Oh Alex, always giving!

The day finished with a brilliant sunset, which I climbed a roof to get a photo of:

I stayed in Dali for three days, eating at little German coffee shops, discovering a beverage called exploding egg mango, drinking an amazing IPA at the Bad Monkey bar, making new friends, and making plans for the lesser-known parts of Yunnan, near Tibet.

I would be heading there next.

Do it yourself:

• Busses leave from Kunming West Bus Station to Dali every 20 minutes or so. One can also take an overnight train, but it takes 3 hours longer than the bus
• Most busses actually go to Xiaguan, 15km outside of Dali old town. Busses bound for the old town can be taken from the parking lot in front of the bus station for 2.50 RMB. Ask to be dropped off at Honglongjing (红龙井), which is closest to the hostels
• Rent a bike anywhere along the main walking street, Renmin Lu, for 30 RMB.  They will request a passport
• Follow the signs for Er Hai along the western road
• Stay: I’m a big fan of The Lily Pad . It’s super clean and a great value for the money with a western style bathroom – a treat in China!

READ NEXT: A Guide to China and Yunnan Province Highlights

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Andrea says

03/21/2014 at 7:35 am

Wow your photos are stunning. What camera do you use?

Kristin says

03/21/2014 at 5:43 pm

Why thank you! Just a Nikon D3000 – the most basic DSLR they make 🙂 Info is here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/backpacking-asia-packing-list/

Steph (@ 20 Years Hence) says

03/21/2014 at 6:04 pm

You’ll forgive me if I stop reading your posts about China because they positively make me sick with envy! When we visited at the start of our trip, we were such green travelers that we found the country really overwhelming and largely unenjoyable. We started in the north and stuck to the cities early on and I think that also tainted our experiences, so we never made it to Yunnan or Sichuan province. I don’t have a lot of regrets about our trip because we’ve done the best we can with the info we have at any given moment, but in retrospect (and seeing your photos!), I really wish we had made it to China’s southwest. It looks so beautiful!

03/22/2014 at 11:49 pm

I think it’s a hard place to start out. I am definitely glad that I have some travel experience to build upon for my time here. It wasn’t easy at first but now that I’ve gotten the hang of it I’ve learned to love the differences and challenges. The Southwest is Amazing!

03/21/2014 at 7:27 pm

I’m so happy you’re traveling here right now and posting about it because China is where I’m starting my RTW trip in September and I’m going to be traveling to all these regions! After Beijing and Xi’an I’m heading to Chengdu and then to Dali, Litang, Tiger Leaping Gorge before flying out of Kunming to Kathmandu. Now I know all the best things to do in those areas thanks to you! 🙂

03/22/2014 at 11:47 pm

September should be a good time! I am totally loving Chengdu. I have returned to it because I love it so much.

03/22/2014 at 11:46 pm

Oooh I’ll have to check out Suzhou now!

03/24/2014 at 12:53 am

Yunnan is wonderful. I think you’ll really enjoy it!

Heather says

03/25/2014 at 8:15 am

I completely agree with your love for Dali! We spent five days there, staying on the lake and exploring the old town which is by far one of the most authentic in China. We took the train down from Lijiang which was a huge disappointment but Dali completely made up for everything Lijiang lacked. Glad you are enjoying your time in China!

03/26/2014 at 5:02 am

I thought Dali was a lot better than Lijiang as well. Lijiang is fake, Dali’s real.

10/25/2020 at 12:54 pm

What is fake? The Asians love it!

Is Disney fake?

And sorry to be an ass but Dali is equally fake if not more so

10/25/2020 at 4:03 pm

Lijiang is a fake town, people actually live in Dali, that’s all I meant.

Siu Kan Tang says

11/03/2020 at 2:17 pm

Why do you think so ? I see a sad human who only generalize n profile others.

Kylie Belli says

03/29/2014 at 4:25 am

This is awesome and you’re gorgeous! I finally made my way to Pai and was definitely in love. Guess I’ll have to start a trek to Dali!

03/29/2014 at 10:42 pm

Aw thank you, Kylie.

07/20/2016 at 9:42 pm

Nice, can I repost it on my site?

07/21/2016 at 4:19 am

NO – I suggest you come up with your own content.

Nicole @ Shinyvisa says

10/01/2016 at 8:03 am

Nice experience. I was at Dali last year. Is this er hai lake? Did you visit xi zhou too?

• Dali Overview

Chinese Name : 大理白族自治州 English IPA : Da Li Location : Central Yunnan Population (city) : 3,456,000 Language : Bai Language Zip code : 671000 Tel code : 0872 Time zone : UTC+8

Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture is located in the central western part of Yunnan Province. Enjoying long history, Dali is one of the earliest cradle of Yunnan culture and has created glorious Dali Kingdom. In this land, Cangshan Mountain , Erhai Lake , Dali Ancient Town and Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are the representative scenic spots. As the natives of Dali Prefecture, Bai ethnic minority  has its unique and charming culture, custom, architecture and festivals, which attracted numerous tourists to visit.

Highlights of Dali

• Paradise for Visitors:  The attractions of Dali are numerous, including the natural sceneries and human sceneries. The vigorous Cangshan Mountain , the Erhai Lake -bright and beautiful as a mirror, Dali Ancient Town are constituted an  aesthetic picture. Do not worry things to do in Dali because the gorgeous sceneries can be seen in every place of Dali.
• Colorful Ethnic Culture:  As a prominent ethnic minority who has created Nanzhao Kingdom in Yunnan history, Bai nationality boasts splendid culture, custom and architecture style. Walking around Dali, you will witness the magical power and charm of Bai people with your own eyes.
• Casual and Leisure Lifestyle: The “New Dali people” eventually stay here, because of the scenery and climate, but also the people here. Dali is the “Utopia” in the real world. The image of pastoral in various romantic descriptions and reported by the media is essentially a true portrayal of life .
• An Important Stop of Ancient Tea Horse Road:  As a trade station on the Tea and Horse Caravan Route, Shaxi Old Town and Yunnanyi Ancient Town are the true ancient towns that retain the most original architectural style.

Other Destinations in Dali

• Jianchuan County
• Binchuan County
• Xiangyun County
• Yunlong County
• Midu County
• Yangbi County
• Nanjian County
• Yongping County
• Eryuan County
• Heqing County
• Weishan County
• Shuanglang Town
• Xizhou Ancient Town
• Shaxi Ancient Town
• Nuodeng Ancient Town
• Dali Ancient Town
• Dali Attractions

When you come to Dali, do not worry what to do in Dali. Dali Attractions are abundant and are full of all kinds, including all kinds of natural sceneries, human sceneries and all kinds of villages where you can experience the rich ethnic culture. The scenery of Dali is a picture of “Wind, Flower, Snow, Moon”. You can go boating in Erhai Lake and feel the boundless of the heaven and earth; visit the holy land of Jizu [...]

More Dali Attractions >>

Dali Tours are always connected with other top destinations in Yunnan, like Kunming, Lijiang, Shangri-la. It is a place with profound history and numerous attractions. The beautiful sceneries, such as the expansive Erhai Lake, vigorous Cangshan Mountain, Dali Ancient Town, various traditions and the culture of minority nationalities make Dali a well-known place of interest. What's more, we provides tour packages in various tour themes, including Dali Highlights Tour, Dali Golf Tour, Dali City [...]

• More City Tours Including Dali >>
• All Tours Including Dali >>

Climate & When to Go

Dali Climate is low latitude plateau monsoon climate, which is characterized by small temperature difference between four seasons. Dali, known as the "Oriental Switzerland", has around 126 days in the year at the temperature of 18-21℃, which is the most appropriate temperature for a holiday. In addition, it enjoys abundant sunshine, which is most popular during the winter due to its high altitude. Dali Weather & Climate describes information with Dali Climate Graph, Dali Climate Data, What to Wear in every [...]

More Dali Climate & When to Go >>

Transportation

Dali Transportation is very convenient due to the advantageous location-the junction of the Yunnan Burma Highway(320 National Highway) and the Yunnan-Tibet Highway (214 National Highway). It is located in the west of central Yunnan Province, with an altitude of 2,090 meters. It is adjacent to Chuxiong Prefecture in the east, Pu'er City and Lincang City in the south, Baoshan City and Nujiang Prefecture in the west, and Lijiang City in the north. How to Get [...]

More Dali Transportation >>

• Festivals and Activities

Dali Festivals and Activities are very colorful and Dali is the best place to take a festival tour. There are 13 ethnic groups in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, namely, Han, Bai, Yi, Hui, Lisu, Miao, Naxi, Zhuang, Tibetan, Blang, Lahu, Achang, Dai and other ethnic groups. This part gives a brief [...]

More Dali Festivals and Activities >>

Travel Tips

When you go to a new place, some useful information can make your journey more convenient and save your time. Yunnan Exploration provides the detailed information about Dali Travel Tips, which make your Dali Travel more convenient and interesting. Useful Numbers Fire: 119 Police: 110 Traffic: 122 Ambulance: 120 Area Code: 0872 Zip Code: 671000 Weather Forecast: 121 [...]

More Dali Travel Tips >>

Useful Maps

Dali Maps in English include Maps List of Dali Tourist Attractions, Maps of Dali Tours, Maps of Transportation. It shows the specific location maps of main roads, transportation, railway, stations, bus stations, expressway, administrative division, famous tourist attractions, travel & tours, banks and hospitals. Refer to the following content, you can always find the maps you want, which can help you better understand Dali and plan your Dali Tour reasonably. Dali Transportation Maps Dali Tourist Attractions Maps [images_gallery [...]

More Dali Useful Maps >>

• Dali Accommodation

Dali Accommodation will solve the problem-where to stay in Dali. Dali Accommodation and Hotels Booking introduces the recommended 5-star luxury hotels, comfortable, economic and cheap hostels in Dali. As a tourist resort, you can always find the most suitable hotel for you in Dali. The Recommended Hotels in Dali The 5-star Hotels in Dali The One Resort(古城一号院) Add: No. 9 Boai Road, Dali Ancient Town(古城博爱路9号) Tel: / Gurong Hotel (大理古榕会馆) Add: No. 59 Boai Road, Dali Ancient Town, Dali City (大理市 大理古城博爱路59号) Tel: 13608725554 Dali Haiwan International [...]

More Dali Accommodation >>

Other Hot Destinations in China

• Baisha Ancient Town
• Baoshan Stone Town
• Bingzhongluo
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Dulongjiang
• Haba Snow Mountain
• Heshun Ancient Town
• Honghe Hani Rice Terraces
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
• Lashihai Lake
• Lijiang Ancient Town
• Meili Snow Mountain
• Shuhe Ancient Town
• Stone Forest
• Three Parallel Rivers
• Tiger Leaping Gorge
• Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces

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Advanced tickets recommended, plus don't miss Dalí Alive 360° in The Dalí Dome. Reserve tickets.

Home > Exhibits > Dreams of Dalí in Virtual Reality

Dreams of Dalí in Virtual Reality

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Travel Inside and Beyond the Art: Dreams of Dalí in Virtual Reality

Enjoy the remarkable marriage of art and technology in Dreams of Dalí , a virtual reality experience, as you explore Dali’s painting  Archaeological Reminiscence of Millet’s “Angelus.” Immerse yourself in the world of the Surrealist master like never before in this encounter, venturing into the towers, peering from them to distant lands and discovering surprises around every corner. We imagine Dalí himself, known in his lifetime as what we now call an “earlier adopter” of new technology, would applaud this inspiring homage to his 1935 painting.

This award-winning VR experience has garnered visitor acclaim, online praise and international recognition through a multitude of industry awards, including the prestigious Cannes Cyber Lion GOLD; a  Webby People’s Voice award; and a Facebook Silver award for Innovation, among others.

Museums and educational institutions interested in licensing Dreams of Dalí may contact [email protected] .

Download the Interactive Experience

For a fully immersive virtual reality experience from anywhere in the world, using your Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, download  Dreams of Dalí  from these leading VR platforms: 

Download Dreams of Dalí from Oculus Home . (Rift) Download  Dreams of Dalí  from VivePort. (Vive) Download  Dreams of Dalí  from Steam . (Vive or Rift)

Watch the Linear 360° Video

When you can’t visit The Dalí in person, or if you don’t own a Rift, you may view a linear 360° video version of Dreams of Dalí from a variety of devices such as a Samsung Gear VR or Google Cardboard or Daydream.

Even if you don’t have a VR device, you may view the video on any smartphone, tablet or desktop PC using the latest version of Chrome.

Visit the Museum in Person to Experience Dreams of Dalí in Virtual Reality

Dreams of Dalí   opens daily at 11am and is complimentary with Museum admission.

The last passes for the day are given out at 5pm (7pm on Thursdays); seating is limited; wait times will vary. Headsets used to experience Dreams of Dalí are one-size-fits-all. For guests ages 13 and up. Disclaimer: Consult your physician prior to using the headsets if you are prone to blackouts, disorientation, seizures, or experience photosensitive epilepsy.

View the trailer, below, to see a preview of what you’ll experience at the Museum.

“Truly amazing! It has forever changed the way I will look at the art of Dalí.” – Stephanie, YouTube

“I swear I cried and laughed with happiness to see and feel this! I love technology, I love art, I love dreams and I LOVE DALÍ.”  – Lizbeth, Facebook

©Salvador Dalí Museum, Inc., St. Petersburg, FL. Worldwide rights ©Salvador Dalí, Fundacio Gala-Salvador Dalí. Created for The Dalí by Goodby Silverstein & Partners, San Francisco, CA. Read Dreams of Dalí User Agreement &  Privacy Policy.

Dali cargo ship leaves Baltimore for Norfolk nearly 3 months after bridge collapse

The coast guard oversaw the voyage from baltimore to norfolk and provided a 500-yard safety zone around the dali, by brian witte • published june 24, 2024 • updated on june 24, 2024 at 1:15 pm.

The cargo ship Dali headed out of Baltimore for Virginia on Monday, nearly three months after the ship lost power and crashed into one of the Francis Scott Key Bridge’s supporting columns and caused the bridge to collapse.

The 984-foot Dali started moving shortly before 8:30 a.m. with four tugboats.

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The Dali was sailing under its own power with a full crew of 22 and six salvage experts, the U.S. Coast Guard said in a news release.

The Coast Guard oversaw the voyage and provided a 500-yard safety zone around the Dali during its trip.

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The Dali was scheduled to go directly to Virginia International Gateway to have roughly 1,500 cargo containers off-loaded to reduce draft, the Coast Guard said. The vessel was then scheduled to travel further to Norfolk International Terminal, where it was scheduled to undergo continued salvage and repairs from damage caused during the bridge collapse.

$2 billion Baltimore bridge rebuild is test case for new national debate over infrastructure spending

Baltimore shipping channel fully reopens after bridge collapse

Only on 4: An up-close look at the damaged ship that hit Baltimore's Key Bridge

Shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore early on March 26, the ship lost power and propulsion and crashed into one of the bridge’s supporting columns, killing six construction workers.

On May 20, the Dali was refloated and guided back to port. The vessel had been stuck amid the wreckage for almost two months, with a massive steel truss draped across its damaged bow.

A National Transportation Safety Board investigation found the ship experienced two power outages in the hours before it left the Port of Baltimore. In the moments before the bridge collapsed, it lost power again and veered off course. The agency is still investigating what caused the electrical failures.

The FBI launched a criminal investigation.

Last week, under an agreement confirmed by a federal judge, members of the Dali's crew were allowed to head home. None of the crew members had been able to leave the U.S. since the crash. Under the agreement, the crew members can return home but must be available for depositions.

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Thousands of longshoremen, truckers and small business owners have seen their jobs impacted by the collapse, prompting local and state officials to prioritize reopening the port and restoring its traffic to normal capacity in hopes of easing the economic ripple effects.

Earlier this month, officials announced the reopening of the Fort McHenry federal channel, after clearing wreckage from the 700-foot-wide by 50-foot deep channel.

Officials have said they hope to rebuild the bridge by 2028.

This article tagged under:

Watch CBS News

Beachgoers witness history as the Dali leaves the Port of Baltimore

By Paul Gessler

Updated on: June 24, 2024 / 10:05 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- Nearly three months since a container ship left the Port of Baltimore, striking the Key Bridge, the Dali left again, just after 8 a.m. Monday morning.

The departure was carefully planned and executed with multiple escorts, not only as it passed the wreckage site, but as it headed south down Chesapeake Bay. 

"It's wild," Sarah Kelly said, as the Dali passed by the same Key Bridge site it collided with in March. 

20 miles down the bay, and 2 hours later the Dali approached Sandy Point State Park. 

"I'm excited to get to see it," Sarah Keller said as she and other beachgoers witnessed a glimpse of history. "It's amazing to see how big it is."

"There's still some concrete on it, on the top, and you can see some crushed containers," Joe Ruzzi said while looking through binoculars. "Under escort with at least three, maybe four tugs." 

Joe Ruzzi wouldn't miss it. 

"I'm sure all of those tugs are going to make sure it goes straight through the center span," Ruzzi remarked. 

Tugs were escorting the damaged ocean liner under the Bay Bridge and all the way to Norfolk for repairs. 

"To me, it's amazing that it's floating," said Anne Vail, another bystander. "Look at the damage. It's terrible." 

"There's also a coast guard ship at the stern of it," said Ruzzi. 

The coast guard had a 500-yard safety zone around the ship during its trip. 

"We're wondering how bad it's going to affect bridge traffic from them shutting it down," Keller said. 

State officials had shut down both spans of the Bay Bridge as the ship approached.

And just like that, the Dali's days in Baltimore are done. 

Right now, the Dali is located just off Pax River Naval Air Station.  

The trip to Norfolk is expected to take another 8 to 12 hours. 

Paul Gessler is a general assignment reporter at WJZ with a decade of experience reporting in Baltimore.

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Top 7 Things to Do in Dali

Dali has breathtaking natural scenery and is a great place to experience the culture of China's ethnic minorities. Most Bai people live in Dali.

Here we list the top 7 things to do in Dali , from beautiful old towns and temples to natural beauty, from outdoor adventures to Bai culture experiences.

1. Visit Dali's Ancient Towns

Dali has many old towns. The stone walls are beautifully tiled, flowers hang from the roofs, and streams gurgle alongside the streets.

Visiting the old towns, you can get in touch with local people's lives . It is also a pleasure to take a stroll around the picturesque streets. Here are four recommended old towns around Dali.

Dali Old Town

Dali Old Town is the most famous ancient town in Dali Prefecture, and it's famous among China travelers. Almost everyone coming to Dali will go there .

During the day , you could take a stroll in the ancient town and take some photos. There are ancient gate towers, temples, Bai-style buildings and many shops on both sides of the streets. Explore some gadgets with ethnic characteristics or rest in snack bars to taste some local specialties.

At night , take a sip of wine and listen to the music in a bar.

Xizhou Town

Xizhou Town lies 18 kilometers (11 miles) north of the Dali Old Town. It has a quieter atmosphere. It has the most and best-preserved Bai residential buildings — characterized by green tiles, white walls, upturned eaves, wall paintings, and "shining walls".

The houses are among the best examples of traditional Qing (1644–1912) architecture in China and are exquisitely detailed.

By visiting this small town, you can gain a better understanding of the history of the ingenious Bai people and an appreciation of a culture that has been important in Chinese history.

Contact us if you are interested in visiting Xizhou Town. We will plan a trip for you.

Shaxi Town used to be an important staging point on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road. With the decline of the road, the town has been gradually forgotten, which helped Shaxi Town better retain its original features . There are ancient village gates, ancient trees, ancient wells, an ancient bazaar, etc.

Highlights of Shaxi Town include the centuries-old stone bridges on the edge of the town and an old theater in the middle of the town's square. You could also find many beautiful wood carvings decorating porches and windows of Shaxi's houses.

Shaxi Town, along with Fengyangyi Village and Xizhou Ancient Town is a picturesque setting in the popular TV drama 去有风的地方. If you're interested in visiting these captivating locations, feel free to contact us , and we'll create your trip based on your preferences and needs.

Our 4-Day Dali and Tea Horse Road Experience Tour will take you to explore Dali Old Town and Shaxi Town.

Shuanglang Town

Shuanglang Town is located on the northeast coast of Erhai Lake and is called " the first scenic town of Erhai Lake ". The main attractions — Yuji Island and Nanzhao Island are good places to watch the sunset.

2. Visit Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas

Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas are located 1.5 km (1 mile) northwest of the ancient city of Dali. They are the landmark of Dali and a witness to the prevalence of Buddhism in Dali.

Chongsheng Temple is the inspiration for Tianlong Temple in The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, a martial arts fiction written by Jin Yong. It is said that nine emperors of the Dali Kingdom (937–1253) became monks in this temple.

The Three Pagodas stand in front of Chongsheng Temple in a triangle. The central one is more than 1,100 years old and is one of the tallest pagodas ever built in China.

There is a small square in front of the temple where you could take a beautiful picture of the Three Pagodas.

3. Bike around Erhai Lake

Cycling around Erhai Lake and capturing the beauty of the landscape bathed in sunshine and breezes is a real pleasure. Erhai Lake is the most beautiful place in Dali.

The crystal sparkling lake is surrounded by lush trees. The water laps against the rocks on the shore. Every December, flocks of black-headed gulls from Siberia fly in to spend the winter at Erhai Lake. You'll be continuously tempted to stop and take photos.

There are two cycle routes around Erhai Lake: Haixi (on Erhai's west shore) and Haidong (on Erhai's east shore).

For the Haixi cycling route , we suggest you start from Cai Village (才村) which is near Dali Old Town and cycle as far as Little Forest (小树林) in Xiaguan District. The one-way journey is about 12.5 km (8 miles).

The peaceful Erhai Lake will be on your left-hand side. You will also see the elegant white houses of Bai ethnic minority villages. It is more suitable for young or inexperienced riders because motor vehicles are not allowed on the cycle path.

Biking on the east side of Erhai Lake will let you view the Cangshan mountains and Erhai Lake at the same time. The best section is from Wase village to Wenbi village, which is quiet and has panoramic views. The one-way trip is about 13 km (8 miles).

We can arrange mountain bikes with helmets for you or you can also use a shared bike (no helmet available) if you have the app on your cellphone. Contact us for a bike trip round Erhai Lake.

• Recommended tour: 4-Day Essence Dali Tour — Meet a Dynamic Dali

4. Visit the Majestic Cangshan Mountains

The Cangshan Mountains are in the ridged transition zone of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. As the magnificent Hengduan Mountains end at the Cangshan massif, there is no mountain reaching above 3,500 meters (1,500 feet) southeast of it. So, Cangshan is known as " The Eave of the Roof of the World ".

At Cangshan, you can see snow-capped peaks, flowing clouds, murmuring brooks, diverse flora, and historical temples.

The best way to enjoy the scenery of the mountains is to combine cableways and hiking . You can take cableways up to the Cloud Traveler's Path, hike along the path to enjoy the views on the mountains, and then take another cableway down to the foot of the mountains.

5. Adventure in Shimenguan Geopark

Shimenguan Geopark is hidden "behind" the Cangshan Mountains in Yangbi County's western Cangshan slopes, 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Dali Old Town — 1 hour's drive.

Shimenguan used to be an important strategic pass on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road. Two steep peaks rise from the ground facing each other, like a huge door pushed open, hence the name Shimenguan ('Stone Gate Fortified Pass').

With mountains, streams, waterfalls, glass walkways, hot springs, and temples, you will feel the breath of nature and culture there. You can also try some exciting outdoor activities.

The conducive geological environment provides a natural site for all-terrain vehicle (ATV) driving and via ferrata (steel-cable-protected cliffside adventure courses).

ATV experience : There are sharp bends, deep puddles, and steep slopes to negotiate on the route. You can enjoy the speed and power of off-road motorsport fully.

• The coach will teach you how to drive the ATV and he will accompany you for the first loop. And then you can drive on your own for another two loops.
• Children under 16 years old are not allowed to drive the ATVs. However, the coach could drive, and one child could enjoy the ride sitting at the back.

Via ferrata : There is an easy route for kids who are more than 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) tall on a cliff about 5 meters (16 feet) above a stream.

6. Learn Tie-Dye in Zhoucheng

Known as the " the hometown of Bai tie-dye ", Zhoucheng is located 23 kilometers (14 miles) north of Dali Old Town. It is the largest Bai township in Dali.

Tie-dye has been a traditional folk craft of Bai people in Zhoucheng since around the Ming-Qing dynasty transition in 1644.

You could take a try at tying up the white cloth with a thread according to a pre-drawn pattern and dying it with natural vegetable dye by yourself. After rinsing and removing the thread, it will show the final patterns.

• Recommended tour: 7-Day Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour

7. Enjoy Special Bai Cuisine

One of the ways to learn about a place's culture is through its food. The Bai ethnic group is the 15th largest minority in China. Most Bai people live in Dali.

The flavor of Bai cuisine features sourness, coolness, and spiciness. Special foods include rushan (cow's milk cheese), er kuai (rice cake stir-fried with vegetables) and 'sand-pot fish'.

In addition, Bai people are fond of drinking tea. 'Three Cups of Tea' is a traditional tea ceremony conducted by the Bai people to express their best wishes to tea drinkers. The first one tastes bitter, the second sweet, and the last one has a strong aftertaste.

The best way to taste authentic Bai cuisine is to find a local Bai family household who welcome you in to sit in their traditional Bai house, enjoy the food, and listen to stories of the Bai ethnicity.

Explore Dali with Us

Dali has more to explore. Whether you are looking for leisure or seeking adventure, Dali will satisfy you. See our customizable Dali tours:

• 4-Day Essence Dali Tour — Feel a Dynamic Dali
• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour — Meet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
• 7-Day Kunming, Dali, Shaxi, and Lijiang Tour — A Memorable Winter Trip in Yunnan
• Or contact us to create a Dali tour according to your requirements.
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• 12-Day China Silk Road Tour from Xi'an to Kashgar
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Biggest ever Dalí show comes to Russia—where his work was banned during the Soviet era

More than 180 works will feature in the moscow exhibition including a section focusing on dalí's russian-born wife gala.

Dalí’s Maximum Speed of Raphael’s Madonna (1954) will travel to Russia © Salvador Dalí, Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation, UPRAVIS

Russians are the second largest group of foreign visitors to the Dalí Museums in north-eastern Spain, according to the director Montse Aguer. Now Salvador Dalí is heading to Russia, in the biggest ever exhibition of the artist’s work in the country where he was banned during the Soviet era.

More than 180 Dalí works, from paintings to engravings, will be shown at the Manege Central Exhibition Hall in Moscow, including early Impressionist landscapes from his youth; the painting Average Pagan Landscape (1937) featuring Sigmund Freud’s head; and Soft Self Portrait with Grilled Bacon (1941) from his time in the US in the 1940s.

“Russians in general feel attracted by Dalí’s universe and want to know more about his career and his creative process,” says Aguer, who has organised the show. “They are especially curious about [his wife] Gala, since she was of Russian origin.” A section of the exhibition will show how Gala was not just Dalí’s muse but also an artist and writer in her own right, Aguer says. Dalí signed “some his works with a double signature: Gala Salvador Dalí” and, through Gala, was influenced by Fyodor Dostoevsky and Leo Tolstoy.

Dematerialisation under the nose of Nero (1947) © Salvador Dalí, Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation, UPRAVIS

The exhibition will also include works from the post-war period that come under Dalí’s “nuclear mysticism” period. “He talks about integrating modern physics [with] mystic traditions,” Aguer says. “He also evokes landscapes since the launching of the atomic bomb touched him ‘seismically’ and he incorporates it in his imaginary iconography,” she adds.

The group of works might strike an unusual chord in Russia, where some religious conservative intellectuals promote a concept of “Nuclear Orthodoxy”—believing nuclear weapons and the orthodox religion are essential to maintaining Russia’s strength—and where in 2018 in the same exhibition hall, Russian President Vladimir Putin showed an animated video of nuclear warheads striking what looked like Florida during his state-of-the-nation speech.

The exhibition is organised by the Link of Times Foundation and Fabergé Museum, with the Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation in Figueres and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia.

• Salvador Dalí: Magic Art, Manege Central Exhibition Hall, Moscow, 28 January-25 March

Dali, the cargo ship that triggered Baltimore bridge collapse, set for journey to Virginia

The ship that crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge and triggered its collapse is preparing to travel from the Port of Baltimore, where it has remained for since the bridge collapsed on March 26 , to the Port of Virginia.

The United States Coast Guard said in a news release Monday it will oversee the "safe and secure voyage" of the motor vessel Dali .

During the transit, the Coast Guard Cutter Sailfish, an 87-foot Marine Protector-class patrol board homeported in Virginia Beach, will provide a 500-yard safety zone around the Dali while Coast Guard watchstanders at command centers in the Fifth Coast Guard District, in Portsmouth, Virginia, monitor the ship's movement, the Coast Guard said.

The Dali is scheduled to sail under its own power with a full crew of 22 and six salvage experts from Resolve Marine, according to the news release. Four commercial tugboats will accompany the ship and the salvage vessel Interceptor from Resolve Marine will follow closely behind.

According to the Coast Guard, the Dali is scheduled to go directly to Virginia International Gateway to have roughly 1,500 cargo containers offloaded to reduce draft. It will then transit further to Norfolk International Terminal where it is slated to undergo "continued salvage and repairs from damage caused during the bridge collapse."

Channel reopened: Baltimore channel fully reopened for transit over 2 months after Key Bridge collapse

Visual analysis: How Francis Scott Key Bridge was lost: A minute-by-minute visual analysis of the collapse

Baltimore channel fully reopened for transit

The Fort McHenry Federal Channel was restored to its original operational depth earlier this month, nearly three months after the  Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse .

The channel was restored to its original dimensions  of 700 feet wide and 50 feet deep after 50,000 tons of bridge wreckage was removed from the Patapsco River, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced on June 10.

“We are proud of the unified efforts that fully reopened the Federal Channel to port operations,” Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon, commanding general of USACE, said in a statement. “The partnerships that endured through this response made this pivotal mission successful.”

The Key Bridge Response 2024 Unified Command has worked to remove the destroyed Baltimore bridge since the collapse occurred on March 26, when it was hit by the Dali, killing six construction workers.

“Although the overarching goal to restore full operational capacity to the Federal Channel was successful, each day, we thought of those who lost their lives, their families, and the workers impacted by this tragic event,” Col. Estee Pinchasin, Baltimore District commander, said. “Not a day went by that we didn’t think about all of them, and that kept us going.”

Contributing: Julia Gomez, USA TODAY

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

Dali cargo ship leaves Baltimore for Virginia, nearly 3 months after bridge collapse

The cargo ship Dali is headed out of Baltimore for Virginia

The cargo ship Dali headed out of Baltimore for Virginia on Monday, nearly three months after it lost power and crashed into one of the Francis Scott Key bridge’s supporting columns and caused the bridge to collapse.

The 984-foot Dali started moving shortly before 8:30 a.m. with four tugboats.

The Dali was sailing under its own power with a full crew of 22 and six salvage experts, the U.S. Coast Guard said in a news release.

The Coast Guard is overseeing the voyage and providing a 500-yard safety zone around the Dali during its trip.

The Dali is scheduled to go directly to Virginia International Gateway to have roughly 1,500 cargo containers off-loaded to reduce draft, the Coast Guard said. The vessel is then scheduled to travel further to Norfolk International Terminal, where it is scheduled to undergo continued salvage and repairs from damage caused during the bridge collapse.

Shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore early on March 26 , the ship lost power and propulsion and crashed into one of the bridge’s supporting columns, killing six construction workers.

On May 20, the Dali was refloated and guided back to port. The vessel had been stuck amid the wreckage for almost two months, with a massive steel truss draped across its damaged bow.

A National Transportation Safety Board investigation found the ship experienced two power outages in the hours before it left the Port of Baltimore. In the moments before the bridge collapsed, it lost power again and veered off course. The agency is still investigating what caused the electrical failures.

In an update to its May investigative report, the NTSB said Monday that investigators have completed in-person interviews with the Dali’s crew.

The update noted that investigators have removed an electrical component known as a terminal block, as well as two portions of control wiring associated with the terminal block.

“We continue to examine the removed components at the NTSB Materials Laboratory,” the board said. “We will continue to evaluate the design and operation of the vessel’s electrical power distribution system, and investigate all aspects of the accident to determine the probable cause and identify potential safety recommendations.”

Last week, under an agreement confirmed by a federal judge, some members of the Dali's crew were allowed to return home. Of the 10 allowed to leave, eight have done so, said Darrell Wilson, a spokesperson for ship manager Synergy Marine. The roughly two dozen total seafarers hail from India and Sri Lanka.

Under the agreement, the crew members who return home must be available for depositions.

Thousands of longshoremen, truckers and small business owners have seen their jobs impacted by the collapse, prompting local and state officials to prioritize reopening the port and restoring its traffic to normal capacity in hopes of easing the economic ripple effects .

Earlier this month, officials announced the reopening of the Fort McHenry federal channel, after clearing wreckage from the 700-foot-wide by 50-foot deep channel.

Monday also was the submission deadline in Maryland for proposals to rebuild the bridge. Procurement regulations prohibit the state from providing information about the proposals until the contract award is made and the state announces the design-build team. The state estimates the award and announcement sometime in mid- to late summer.

Officials have said they hope to rebuild the bridge by 2028.

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Dali Ancient City Scenic Area Self-service Tourist Car Zhaohu Station Bo'ai Intersection Station Review

Dali Ancient City Scenic Area Self-service Tourist Car Zhaohu Station Bo'ai Intersection Station

The best times to visit are either late morning or in the evening. In the morning, you can go for a nice to walk, especially as the small boutique shops are just beginning to open up. Also, the restaurants and cafe's are open for brunch. Nice to sit outside, have a coffee and people-watch. Best to avoid the busy crossroads, as there are crowds and many bikes. In the evening, it's nice to walk around and view the pretty lighting and the old buildings from a different perspective. There are many different types of restaurants serving local food to western cuisine. Also recommend finding a nice quiet craft beer or whiskey bar after dinner to finish off the evening. Avoid the commercial street, as bars are overpriced and too loud...istead I recommend finding bars in small alleys off the main streets. #dali #tigeryear2022 #tripblazers

The ancient city of Dali is located in Yunnan Province. It is a very famous attraction. It is very convenient to choose to walk or self-service tour bus. No matter which way, it will make people have a perfect experience! Because the scenery is so beautiful! Have the opportunity to enjoy it again!

The scenery of the ancient city of Dali is beautiful, the buildings here are also very distinctive, there are many tourists, arriving in Dali, you must come to the ancient city to enjoy the beautiful scenery, really let people linger! Now you can only recall all the beautiful scenery at home!

The scenery of the ancient city of Dali is very beautiful, and there are many special shops. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and buy some Yunnan special small commodities to give to friends. It is beautiful! Walking in the ancient city, enjoying the beautiful scenery and food, it is a bit lingering!

I feel that it is very interesting to have such a review location. In fact, in the entire Dali ancient city scenic area, you can completely use various ways to self-service tourism. You can walk through every street or rent an electric car. Cycling every street like us can take a bus, because there will be a variety of buses in the ancient city. It is a relaxing paradise where you can find your longing for life.

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Key Bridge collapse: Judge’s order seeks to keep crew of Dali in US until Thursday hearing

C rew members who have been stuck aboard the cargo ship that toppled the Francis Scott Key Bridge may have to wait a little longer before they can leave the United States.

A federal judge ordered the ship’s owner and the U.S. government not to allow crew members to travel to their home countries until at least Thursday, when there will be an emergency hearing on a request to make the crew available for depositions.

The city of Baltimore and another party with claims against the ship learned Tuesday that eight members of the crew likely would leave for their home countries “on or about June 20,” according to emergency motions filed late Tuesday.

The motions asked a judge to require the crew to stay in the U.S. until they receive further instructions from the court, and to require the ship’s lawyers to guarantee the crew’s continued availability.

“The crew consists entirely of foreign nationals who, of course, have critical knowledge and information about the events giving rise to this litigation,” wrote Adam J. Levitt, one of the lawyers for the city. “If they are permitted to leave the United States, Claimants may never have the opportunity to question or depose them.”

Senior U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar set a court hearing for Thursday and ordered lawyers for the ship’s owners not to facilitate the crew’s departure. The order does not block the crew from traveling, but requires the U.S. government and the ship’s lawyers to make every effort to keep the crew present through Thursday’s hearing.

Bredar wrote in his order that it was not immediately clear whether he has the authority to halt the crew’s travel.

“An order enjoining the crew members from leaving the jurisdiction would implicate their liberty interests,” Bredar wrote. “The Court would not take such an action lightly.”

The cargo vessel Dali struck the Key Bridge early on the morning of March 26, collapsing the span into the Patapsco River and killing six members of a crew who were doing road work on the bridge.

The ship’s owner and manager, both companies based in Singapore, quickly filed a limitation of liability action in federal court aimed at capping the amount of damages they could be forced to pay at about $43 million, roughly the salvage value of the Dali and its cargo.

The Dali remained pinned under the Key Bridge until last month, when it was refloated and moved to Seagirt Marine Terminal. The massive ship and its crew, who are from Sri Lanka and India, according to Tuesday’s petitions, have remained there since.

In an email included with Tuesday’s petitions, the lawyers for the ship owner wrote that they are in the process of arranging for a replacement crew for the Dali.

The email also advised that the U.S. Coast Guard had given permission for some crew members to return to their home countries but also asked that others stay in the country. The email lists eight crew members who would be allowed to return home.

Those crew members have been interviewed by the U.S. Department of Justice, according to the email, which did not object to their departure. The FBI boarded the ship in April as part of an investigation into the bridge collapse. The crew also has obtained criminal counsel, New York attorney Owen Duffy, who said he would advise the crew to invoke their right against self-incrimination in depositions, according to the email.

The ship owner’s lawyers also wrote that they asked the Coast Guard to help obtain “temporary parole from CBP,” seemingly a reference to Customs and Border Protection, to allow crew members to briefly remain in the United States. The request was denied, so the crew members leaving the country will be taken directly from the Dali to the airport, according to the email.

©2024 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Dali departs Baltimore for first time since bridge collapse, heads to Virginia

The ship that launched multiple federal inquiries and knocked down an iconic Baltimore structure has left town.

Three months after it crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge and sent the span tumbling into the Patapsco River, the 984-foot Dali container ship began slowly sailing under its own power — assisted by four tugboats — just before 8:30 a.m. Monday to Norfolk, Virginia. After a trip of 16 to 20 hours, the Dali was expected to tie up early Tuesday to unload all of its containers and receive more extensive repairs.

With crushed containers still resting on the bow and a tarp covering a hole in the hull, the ship left the Port of Baltimore’s Seagirt Marine Terminal and then turned right to follow the federal shipping channel. Marine tracking data indicated the ship traveled at roughly 9 knots (10 mph) for the bulk of its transit during the day Monday.

Traffic on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge near Annapolis was halted for roughly 20 minutes at 11 a.m., as the ship approached the bridge. To avoid distracting drivers, the Maryland Transportation Authority sometimes stops traffic on the bridge when vessels of high public interest sail underneath.

About 100 people gathered at Sandy Point State Park, in the shadow of the Bay Bridge, to spectate as the damaged Dali — still carrying fragments of Key Bridge — safely sailed beneath the span that links Central Maryland to the Eastern Shore. The crowd, some of whom peered through binoculars, fell so silent as the ship approached that birds could be heard chirping. As the Dali safely transited the bridge, observers called out: “Threading the needle” and “Clearing the goal posts.”

“Did you notice how quiet everyone was?” said Paula Schnabel, of St. Margaret’s. “It was almost solemn.”

The Dali had been in Baltimore since it lost power in the early hours of March 26, colliding with a Key Bridge pier and collapsing the structure, killing six construction workers. Debris from the disaster blocked Baltimore’s shipping channel for more than two months, and the bridge’s demise eliminated one of only three harbor crossings, slowing car and truck traffic in the area.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FBI are both investigating the calamity. As the Dali sailed Monday, the NTSB released a rare update to its investigation, noting that it is focusing on a small electrical component of a circuit that connects two wires, known as a “terminal block.” The NTSB took the component to a lab for further testing, it said in a statement, also noting it had completed interviews with the 21 crew members aboard the ship at the time of the incident.

Prompted by the collapse, the Coast Guard has also initiated a board of inquiry to evaluate potential risks to other bridges in the U.S.

Last month, crews used explosives to cut up a piece of the Key Bridge that sat atop the Dali, then refloated the vessel. Five tugboats moved the ship to the Seagirt Marine Terminal, where some of the wreckage on its crumpled bow was removed. Some of that debris remained on the vessel as it transited Monday, however, and several workers could be seen standing on the bow as the vessel began its voyage. The ship will undergo further cleanup and repairs in Norfolk.

Containers remained on the Dali in Baltimore to weigh the ship down so it fit under the Bay Bridge, which has about 185 feet of vertical clearance.

The Coast Guard enforced a 500-yard safety zone around the Dali during its voyage, and there will also be a 100-yard safety zone once the ship is moored near Norfolk to protect from “potential hazards created by the heavily damaged M/V Dali while it offloads cargo,” according to a Coast Guard memo.

The Dali leaves Baltimore for first time since Key Bridge collapse | PHOTOS

A few people gathered at Fort Armistead Park earlier in the day to watch the ship’s departure from the Port of Baltimore, including George M. Treas III, who lives nearby. He likened the bridge collapse to “losing somebody” and said visiting the area is “like going to a graveyard.”

As Treas watched the ship slowly depart, he said: “It feels good. I feel safer now. They caused enough havoc here.”

Bob and Karen Merrey had to tend to some business on the other side of the Bay Bridge from their home on Kent Island, and they left early Monday to avoid the span’s closure.

They had been scheduled to take Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas cruise out of Baltimore on April 4, but with the port closed at the time, they themselves had to travel to Norfolk to board. Retirees from the Towson area with a son who lives near the Key Bridge, the couple had driven across that span the day before the catastrophe.

They quietly watched Monday from Sandy Point State Park as the Dali passed before them and beneath the Bay Bridge.

“I still,” Bob said, “get goosebumps.”

Baltimore Sun reporter Alex Mann contributed to this article.

Watch live: Dali ship departs from Baltimore

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