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Dali
Dali

Things to do in Dali (2025): Top nearby activities,popular attractions,itinerary planning,weather,accommodation,food,transportation,and more - all you need to know (updated September, 2025) | Trip.com

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Dali Local Travel Guide 2025

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Dali Brief Guide

Dali City, located in western Yunnan Province, China, was the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom. Dali City is inhabited by a concentration of minority peoples, mainly the Bai. At the heart of this scenic area is Dali Old Town, north of which stands the Three Pagodas of the Chongsheng Temple, a legacy of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. On the periphery of simple and elegant Dali are the majestic Cang Mountain and charming Erhai Lake.

Dali Must-try local experiences

1. Experience Tranquility at Erhai Lake Take a scenic boat trip on Erhai Lake, visit Nanzhao Style Island, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance surrounded by stunning mountain views. 2. Hike to the Summit of Cangshan Mountain Hike up Cangshan Mountain for breathtaking views of Dali and Erhai Lake, explore lush forests, and discover hidden waterfalls. 3. Discover the Beauty of Xizhou Explore Xizhou's well-preserved Bai architecture, visit local workshops, and experience the authentic charm of this historic town. 4. Learn the Art of Tie-Dyeing Join a tie-dyeing workshop to create your own Bai textile art and learn traditional techniques from local artisans. 5. Explore the Warriors and Horses Marshal Mansion and Immerse Yourself in Bai Culture Visit the Warriors and Horses Marshal Mansion to learn about the history and culture of the Bai ethnic group, local history, and traditional crafts. 6. Celebrate the Torch Festival Experience the Torch Festival in July or August with torch-lit parades, traditional dances, and festive activities. 7. Savor the Flavors of Dali Indulge in Dali's culinary scene with specialties like Erhai fish, Xizhou baba, and milk fan, and explore bustling night markets 8. Shop for Bai Handicrafts Purchase unique Bai handicrafts like tie-dye fabrics, silver jewelry, and wood carvings as souvenirs and gifts.

Dali Must-see Attractions

Dali is a culturally rich and historically significant region in China, known for its ancient city with Bai ethnic architecture, the scenic Cangshan Mountain range, the tranquil Erhai Lake, the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, and the traditional Bai ethnic Zhangjia Garden, each offering unique insights into the area's heritage and natural beauty.

Dali Food Guide

Dali's food, exemplified by dishes such as Stewed Carp in Sand Pot, Xizhou Crisp Pie, Dairy Fans, and the Three Courses of Tea ceremony, offers a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary practices that reflect the region's heritage and the Bai ethnic group's philosophy of life.

Dali Transportation

In Dali, the most common and convenient local transportation options include buses, taxis, and bicycles, which cater to the needs of both residents and tourists. Buses in Dali are a popular means of transportation, with a network that connects various parts of the city and its attractions. The fare for this route is typically around 3 Yuan, making it an economical choice for getting around. Taxis in Dali offer a more personalized travel experience, they can be hailed to reach any corner of the city, and they are especially useful for destinations that are not easily accessible by bus. For those who prefer an eco-friendly and leisurely pace, renting a bicycle is an excellent option. Dali is known for its scenic routes, such as those around Erhai Lake, making cycling a popular activity among tourists. Bicycle rentals are readily available and provide a unique way to experience the local culture and landscape.

Dali Where to Stay

Dali is a city in Yunnan Province, China, known for its historical significance and stunning natural beauty. The city's lodging is spread across several key areas, each offering unique experiences and amenities to travelers.

Dali Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dali is from March to May and from mid-October to November. During these periods, the weather is fine with little rain, making it very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring in Dali is particularly beautiful with azaleas blossoming on the Cangshan Mountains and a vibrant Erhai Lake, offering a fantastic season for a visit. Additionally, many ethnic festivals occur in March and April, providing a rich cultural experience. Autumn also presents clear and dry conditions, ideal for enjoying the golden wheat fields and the large daily temperature differences that characterize this season.

Dali Useful Guide

Dali, a cultural hub in Yunnan, China, is linguistically diverse. Mandarin is the official language, with English used in business and administration. The Bai people, forming the majority, speak their own language, contributing to the multilingual tapestry alongside other ethnic languages.

Things to do in Dali

What to do

Looking for things to do in Dali? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
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Cangshan Mountain

Cangshan Mountain

8.4
4.5/56,594 Reviews
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Mountain climbing
Opening hours: 08:30-15:00
喜欢旅游的柚子味小布丁:“The scenery is really beautiful, but there are too many people queuing for the cable car during the peak tourist season. The one-way trip takes about 10 minutes. You can also see the beautiful scenery of Erhai Lake from a high point.”
The Chongsheng Temple And The Three-Pagoda Culture Tourist Area

The Chongsheng Temple And The Three-Pagoda Culture Tourist Area

8.2
4.7/512,355 Reviews
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Historic buildings
Opening hours: 07:30-18:30 (admission ends at 17:30)
wu_***04:“The environment is very good, the scenery is beautiful. The temperature is suitable. After walking around for a while, I had a vegetarian meal. It was really delicious. I ate a big bowl of rice by myself. It was the happiest meal I had in Dali.”
Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake

8.0
4.6/58,119 Reviews
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Natural scenery
Night view
Open year round, 24/7
M25***ex:“Today I went to a mountain road near the Three Pagodas Temple. There were few people and the scenery was beautiful. I should be able to shoot a popular video, but unfortunately I don't know how to shoot. I also saw a rainbow on the way back. I stayed in a small courtyard by the Erhai Lake. The terrace overlooked the Erhai Lake. The breeze was refreshing. I liked to sit on it and drink tea.”
Dali Ancient City

Dali Ancient City

7.7
4.7/59,619 Reviews
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Night view
Open year round, 24/7
鹿野君1985:“The ancient city of Dali is beautiful and beautiful. The heritage of the ancient city of the millennium: Tang Jianming City still exists, strolling on Qingshiban Street, visiting the ancient walls of the city building, soaking the legacy of Nanxun. Cangwu scenery picture: leaning on Cangshan Mountain, Linyi Sea, riding to watch the sunrise, taking the ropeway to enjoy the wind, flowers and snow. Must visit cultural landmarks: Chongsheng Temple three towers are squash, foreigner street to find milk fans, sour soup fish, feel the tip of the tongue Yunnan. Fresh folk experience: March Street to catch a rally, Bai song and dance, tie-dye silverware, immerse in the national customs. Best B&B for rest: Recommended to stay at the "Dingdaryu Lu Villa B&B" next to the ancient city! Modern design, five-star service, walking distance to the core area, intimate service to accompany you leisurely vacation.”
Shuanglang

Shuanglang

7.3
4.6/53,071 Reviews
󱓓
Night view
Open year round, 24/7
肥格旅游攻略:“I was just stopping by to take a break, but I was captivated and captivated! Shuanglang's beauty lies not in its stunning first impression, but in the details that become more captivating the more you savor it. After spending a night here, I even considered staying longer..." — A heartfelt comment from a seasoned traveler. ✨Don't hesitate! Pack your bags and set off now! ✈️ Trust me, from the moment you set foot on this land, you'll be enveloped by its gentleness and embark on an unforgettable, healing journey. 💫 Remember to bring a positive attitude, because every plant and tree here is waiting to meet you.”
Erhai Lake Cruise

Erhai Lake Cruise

7.3
4.2/52,249 Reviews
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Boat tour
Opening hours: 08:30-17:30 (admission ends at 16:00)
M51***78:“We arrived five minutes late, and the service staff rebuilt the bridge for us to board. The boat was all pink, like a fairy tale world for princesses. The scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake was also beautiful.”
Gantong Ropeway

Gantong Ropeway

7.2
4.3/5790 Reviews
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Cable car
Opening hours: 08:30-16:30 (admission ends at 16:00)
如来的小猫:“I went on August 13th and waited in line for the cable car for an hour and a half. It was unbearable 😣... I bought my ticket on Ctrip. Remember, I must go to the cable car ticket window to get my paper ticket before lining up!!! On a sunny day, the cable car offers a stunning view of Erhai Lake in Dali. There's a very high section, so those afraid of heights should keep their eyes closed. The one-way trip takes about 15 minutes.”
Xizhou

Xizhou

7.1
4.5/51,207 Reviews
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Night view
Open year round, 24/7
印象西南:“[August Xizhou Ancient Town: In the rice fields and Bai customs, meet the romance of summer] August Xizhou Ancient Town is a treasure land filled with greenery and fireworks! Less than half an hour's drive from the ancient city of Dali, just got off the bus and was surprised by the endless rice fields at the entrance of the village. The green rice waves undulating with the wind, and some egrets passed by. The blue sky and white clouds lined the white tiles and white walls of the Bai people's houses. No wonder everyone runs here with their cameras. Time in the ancient town is very slow. The stone road is winding and twisting, and there are intact Bai old houses on both sides. The darts and the carved doors and windows are all exquisite. Walking in is like breaking into the time museum. The key point is to praise the Yanjia Courtyard, not only to see the exquisiteness of Bai architecture, but also to understand the history of Xizhou business gangs. The pomegranate trees in the yard are full of fruits, especially the atmosphere of life. In August, just in time for the local fruit peak season! The roadside stalls are full of yellow figs, sweet grapes, and freshly picked blueberries, affordable and fresh. Of course, Xizhou is indispensable. It is recommended to bake sweet mouths (rose filling) and salted mouths (pork end), the outer skin is crispy and the inner is soft, with a cup of milk fan Shaqima, and the carbide is happy to be directly full. I found a small shop by the river and sat down to eat, watched the flowing water, listened to the locals chatting in dialect. It's so pleasant. In the afternoon, you can rent a bicycle to ride along the rice fields, blow the wind through the fields, pass the villagers' vegetable fields and ponds, and feel the most simple pastoral scenery. In the evening, the light on the edge of the rice field became soft, taking pictures with filters, and many newcomers took wedding photos here, which was very romantic. The only thing to note is that it is a bit sun-dried in the afternoon of August, remember to do a good job of sun protection; there are a little more tourists on the main street of the ancient town, but you can find a cleanliness when you turn into the alley, suitable for slowly shaking. Overall, Xizhou does not have the hustle and bustle of Dali Ancient City, but has more idyllic and humanistic heritage. Come here in August, like putting the beauty of the whole summer in your hands, recommend it to friends who want to slow down and feel Dali ~”
Yang Li Ping Art Space

Yang Li Ping Art Space

7.1
5.0/5847 Reviews
Opening hours: 09:00-12:00
梅花弄引:“Yang Liping Sun Palace Art Space, originally the private residence of dance artist Yang Liping, was built in 2000. It is designed with the concept of "harmonious coexistence with nature" and Yang Liping's unique artistic taste and life aesthetics as the design style, combined with the architectural features of Dali Bai people's houses, to create an art space with quality and beauty. It is also a good experience to take a boat around the lake”
Xi-Ma-Tan Cable

Xi-Ma-Tan Cable

7.1
4.5/52,562 Reviews
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Cable car
Opening hours: 08:00-15:30(Tickets available until 15:00)
M53***01:“The day we went was a beautiful day, after the rain! The fog had dispersed, but not completely, allowing for the most beautiful views. It was quite picturesque. The temperature was just right, neither too hot nor too cold. I wore a short-sleeved shirt and a jacket, so I had to put it on once I got to the top. The meaty sausages were the best, not the red ones.”

Where to stay

Discover the most popular places to stay in Dali, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
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What to eat

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Dali dishes and foodie spots.
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Jinshan GuYuan Restaurant

Jinshan GuYuan Restaurant

5.0/5581 Reviews
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Historical architecture
Avg. DKK79/person
Open at 11:00 today
M61***69:“I had a great time eating and drinking in Dali Ancient Town these few days! I found a lot of treasures and delicious restaurants. The environment and taste were good. I highly recommend Jinshan Hundred Years Ancient Courtyard Restaurant (Wang's Old House)! I really like the traditional Bai ethnic cuisine and the Bai ethnic spring rolls!”
Fireplace Image Wild Mushroom Courtyard Hot Pot

Fireplace Image Wild Mushroom Courtyard Hot Pot

5.0/5286 Reviews
Open 10:00-23:00
M55***85:“[Taste] The taste is very delicious. [Environment] The environment is very clean and hygienic. [Service] The service is very good. The lady is very enthusiastic and patient to help us grill the meat. Highly recommended. Families who come to Dali can come and eat.”
大理松云悬崖酒店·松云悬崖海景餐厅

大理松云悬崖酒店·松云悬崖海景餐厅

4.7/514 Reviews
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View
Avg. DKK139/person
Open pen all day
118***49:“A visual feast with pleasant scenery In this environment, you can also taste such rich and expensive delicacies The ingredients are really fresh and rich! Especially shrimp and abalone, as long as they are not fresh, it is easy to affect the overall taste! Very good! Exceeded expectations. The service of the store staff is really enthusiastic! I really like the store with warm and powerful dishes!”
大理云里小坐·花音南洋海景酒店(双廊店)·云里小坐·花音南洋海景餐厅

大理云里小坐·花音南洋海景酒店(双廊店)·云里小坐·花音南洋海景餐厅

5.0/515 Reviews
Open at 11:00 today
M25***40:“The environment is elegant and comfortable, with an absolute sea view room. The service is warm and in place, they helped us carry our luggage, wash our clothes, etc. The room is well-organized, the dishes are delicious and tasty, the breakfast is very rich and delicious, the afternoon tea is also good and is always delivered to the room. I like this Yunli Xiaozuo very much and recommend it to everyone!”
青寂溪谷半山酒店·枫见餐厅

青寂溪谷半山酒店·枫见餐厅

4.5/512 Reviews
Open at 11:30 today
M41***76:“Been alone for a long time I prefer to choose quiet places when I go out. Qingji·Fengjian Afternoon Tea🫖 is recommended by my good sisters Special thanks, it’s really beautiful and easy to photograph. Hidden at the foot of Cangshan Mountain is a unique Japanese-style garden🏡 Surrounded by more than 200 kinds of plants imported from Japan The sea of ​​hydrangeas that have bloomed recently are even more beautiful. Dali’s unique Japanese afternoon tea☕️ It’s also quite exquisite and the presentation is a plus. The fruit is extremely fresh🍊The wagashi melts in your mouth I have to say that Qingji is really willing to use good ingredients The whole space is very comfortable to stay in The first floor is like a private living room, full of luxury The outdoor seating next to it has a gentle breeze. From the restaurant on the second floor, you can see the entire Erhai Lake One side is a large floor-to-ceiling window 🪟like several forest-style oil paintings Here you can feel completely relaxed and free😌 #大理tourism[topic]## Forest Wild Luxury Hotel[topic]## Forest Light Luxury Hotel[topic]# #民宿[topic]# #大利[topic]# #大利erhai[topic]# #大利游[ Topic]# #大理Travel Guide[Topic]# #tourist[topic]# #网celebrity check-in[topic]# #hiking[topic]# #vacation[topic]# #海景hotel[topic]# #ResortHotel[topic] # #大利 Tandian[topic]# #大理吃[Topic]# #大利erhaihotel[topic]# #Dali Travel Guide[topic]# #文bi村tract[topic]# #大利小精品游戏[topic]# # Niche destination [topic]# #NotesInspiration[topic]# #网celebrityhotel[topic]# #B&B with a strong sense of design[topic]# #discover treasure hotel[topic]# #roomtour[topic]# #大利Hotel [topic]# #大利accomodation[topic]# #大利vacation[topic]# #大利网 celebrity check-in point[topic]#”
ARCADIA SEAVIEW DESIGN HOTEL·Seaview Restaurant

ARCADIA SEAVIEW DESIGN HOTEL·Seaview Restaurant

5.0/57 Reviews
Open at 11:00 today
郭(Ryan):“The mushroom hotpot is great. We had the cured pork ribs, the mushrooms tasted very fresh, and the fried rice was especially great! We bought a set meal for 2 people, and the side dishes were large enough for 3 people. The restaurant staff was very enthusiastic, especially the handsome waiter Xiaoda, who was very thoughtful and considerate.”
MeiZi Jing Restaurant

MeiZi Jing Restaurant

3.0/5158 Reviews
Open 10:00-21:00
境无界:“It is one of the few authentic Bai courtyard restaurants in Dali Ancient City, and the dishes are constantly updated. Of course, some classic Bai dishes are also timeless, such as thin bean powder bait, plum braised pork, etc. The plum tree at the entrance is protected by a sign, and it is a bit old. The dishes are large in size, and it is recommended to have a small portion, otherwise it will be too wasteful. If you like to drink, you can also taste the plum wine that is said to be vintage.”
Yun Qin

Yun Qin

5.0/51,854 Reviews
󱓓
Open Late
Avg. DKK77/person
Open 10:30-03:00
cparissh:“The decoration of their house is quite unique. There are outdoor areas and indoor areas. There are many beautiful paintings by local families hanging on the indoor walls. The space is very large.”
六阅·海东方悬崖海景酒店(大理洱海旗舰店)·海东方悬崖海景餐厅

六阅·海东方悬崖海景酒店(大理洱海旗舰店)·海东方悬崖海景餐厅

4.7/538 Reviews
Open pen all day
勤奋努力小夹子:“This cliff-view restaurant in Dali has a fantastic location, hanging over the Erhai Lake, with a broad view of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. While enjoying the delicious food in the sea breeze, your whole body and mind become open.”
Wozai Dali Dengni

Wozai Dali Dengni

5.0/51,689 Reviews
Open 10:30-22:00
尘尘:“The price is not expensive, the portion is large, the decoration is simple, and the sanitary conditions are good. In terms of the product, I think it's just okay. You can get a free chicken and a free dessert. In terms of service, it's really great. They will help you prepare the dipping sauce. Every three to five minutes, someone will come to check and ask if you need service. Not bad.”
Master Duan's Restaurant

Master Duan's Restaurant

5.0/52,076 Reviews
Open at 11:00 today
M49***63:“The environment in the store is very good and unique, especially suitable for taking photos. The location is also good, very close to where we live, and there are cars nearby, so it is very convenient to take a taxi or drive here. The waitresses inside are very enthusiastic. The dishes are also great. I saw a lot of bloggers recommending it, and I am really satisfied! The ribs are super delicious and tender! The fish is also very unique and the cooking method is also very interesting. If you come, you must come to eat. It is the best meal we had in Yunnan!”
DREAM ISLAND Restaurant

DREAM ISLAND Restaurant

4.0/5122 Reviews
󱓓
View
Avg. DKK200/person
Open at 11:30 today
icqpup:“Enjoy the food and the beautiful scenery by the Erhai Lake. You can never get a dinner reservation, so you can order afternoon tea. Go there from Longkan. There are not many seats near the sea, and we were lucky to get an empty one. The afternoon tea set for two costs more than 300 yuan, including taco, ham, various cakes and desserts, and special drinks. Many Internet celebrities come here to take pictures.”

Dali Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

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