Things To Do
in Dali

Enjoy a scenic hike up the Cangshan Mountain to admire its natural beauty and panoramic views of the Erhai Lake.

Embark on a relaxing cruise on the picturesque Erhai Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Explore the historical and architectural marvels of the Three Pagodas, part of the Chongsheng Temple complex.

Wander through the charming streets of the well-preserved Dali Ancient Town, known for its traditional Bai architecture and vibrant culture.

A bustling street filled with food stalls and small eateries offering a wide array of local specialties, including street BBQ, grilled skewers, fried snacks, and desserts like Yunnan rice cakes. Excellent for sampling a variety of street food in one place.

An authentic local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and a range of street food such as grilled meats, local-style pancakes, and noodle dishes. It's an ideal spot to experience the vibrant local food culture.

In Dali, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services. However, in high-end establishments or hotels that cater to international visitors, a service charge may be included in the bill. It is always best to check the bill or ask a staff member about tipping practices.

In Dali, China, cash is the primary form of payment. While major credit cards may be accepted in some hotels and upscale establishments, it is always recommended to carry sufficient cash for daily transactions. ATMs are available in the city for withdrawing cash. When making transactions, it's important to have small denominations of cash as some vendors might not have change for large bills.

Spring is a great time to visit Dali, as the weather is mild and the iconic flowers like azaleas and cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The temperatures are comfortable, and the scenery is picturesque, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer in Dali is warm and can be quite humid. It's a popular time for tourists, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. You can enjoy water activities on Erhai Lake and take part in local festivals and events.

Autumn is another beautiful season in Dali, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. The landscape is adorned with vibrant autumn colors, and it's a good time for hiking, cycling, and exploring the ancient towns and villages.

Winter in Dali is relatively mild, with occasional frosty mornings. It's a quieter time for tourism, but you can still take part in cultural experiences, visit historic sites, and enjoy local cuisine. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and pack accordingly.

The nearest major international airport, located approximately 300 kilometers from Dali. It serves numerous domestic and international flights.

An international airport located around 160 kilometers from Dali, facilitating flights to various domestic destinations and a few international routes.

Located about 180 kilometers from Dali, this airport mainly offers domestic flights with limited international services.

Situated roughly 450 kilometers from Dali, this airport services a range of domestic flights and is popular among tourists heading to Xishuangbanna.

While Yunnan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Dali offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes, such as stir-fried wild mushrooms, tofu-based hotpots, and vegetable rice noodles.

Gluten-free accommodations are limited in Dali due to the prevalent use of wheat-based products. However, some restaurants may offer rice-based alternatives and dishes that are naturally free of gluten.