Things To Do
in Dali
Dali, China, is a picturesque town located in Yunnan Province, nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake. Known for its rich Bai culture, ancient architecture, and stunning natural landscapes, Dali offers a unique blend of history and outdoor activities. The vibrant local markets and serene surroundings make it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions while enjoying breathtaking views and engaging with friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Dali Ancient Town, visiting the iconic Three Pagodas and the local market where you can sample delicious street food.
After lunch, explore the local Bai culture by visiting the Dali Museum and taking a walk along the picturesque Erhai Lake.
Enjoy a traditional Bai dinner at a local restaurant and then attend a cultural performance featuring Bai music and dance.
Take an early morning hike in the Cangshan Mountains, starting from the Cangshan Cable Car for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Visit the local hot springs for a relaxing soak before heading to the Erhai Lake for a boat tour.
End your day with a sunset view over the lake followed by dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $3-$10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-$30 |
| 🚍Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-$3 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $5-$20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with mountains and lakes.
- Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
- Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons.
- Limited English proficiency among locals.
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially in summer.
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪里？(Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "我可以点这个吗？(Wǒ kěyǐ diǎn zhège ma?)" - Can I order this?
- "多少钱？(Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is it?
Places to Visit in Dali
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic symbol of Dali, the Three Pagodas offer a stunning backdrop for photos with the mountains.
The shimmering waters of Erhai Lake provide breathtaking sunset views and picturesque reflections.
The majestic mountains offer numerous trails and vantage points for capturing the stunning scenery.
Food in Dali
Dali Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rice cake specialty that can be grilled or stir-fried, often served with various toppings.
Must-Try!
A traditional Yunnan dish served with a rich broth and various fresh ingredients.
A communal dining experience with fresh vegetables, meats, and flavorful broths.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.
Stalls along the lake serving grilled fish, skewers, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet locals politely and show respect for their traditions.
It's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
Maintain a respectful silence in temples and sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Dali
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is less common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Warm and slightly rainy, perfect for enjoying the lake and lush green landscapes.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies, great for hiking and photography.
Cold with occasional snowfall in the mountains, offering a quiet atmosphere and scenic views.
Dali at Night
Hiking in Dali
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Various trails offer different levels of hiking difficulty and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A scenic path around the lake, perfect for a leisurely hike with opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Dali by plane.
Located about 30 kilometers from Dali, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities like Kunming and Lijiang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Bai people are the main ethnic group in Dali, known for their unique customs, clothing, and cultural heritage.
The Han Chinese make up a significant portion of the population, blending with local cultures and contributing to the vibrant community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is popular among locals, with many amateur teams and public fields.
Basketball courts are common, and casual games are played in public parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dali.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if they use meat-based broths.
Gluten-free options are limited, so it's best to clarify with the staff before ordering.