Dali

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Dali's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Ancient Town
morning
:

Start your day by wandering through Dali Old Town's cobbled streets, discovering unique shops and local vendors. Enjoy a traditional Yunnan breakfast at a quaint café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Three Pagodas and learn about their history while taking in the stunning surroundings. Grab a light lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local dishes.

evening
:

Stroll through the lively streets as the town comes alive with lights and street performances. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, sampling famous Dali grilled fish.

day 2
Cultural Day at Erhai Lake
morning
:

Take a boat ride on Erhai Lake, enjoying the serene waters and views of the mountains. Visit small islands scattered across the lake, each showcasing local culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the lakeside villages such as Xizhou and Zhoucheng, known for their Bai ethnic culture. Savor a homemade lunch with a local family.

evening
:

Return to Dali and witness the sunset over the lake, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Dine at a lakeside restaurant to wrap up your cultural experience.

day 3
Hiking the Cangshan Mountains
morning
:

Embark on a hiking adventure in the Cangshan Mountains, enjoying fresh air and breathtaking views. Choose a trail suited to your fitness level and soak in the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Reach one of the mountain peaks for a packed lunch, taking a moment to appreciate your surroundings. Continue exploring the various trails and scenic spots.

evening
:

Descend back to Dali, exhausted but satisfied, and enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant. Share your hiking stories with fellow travelers.

day 4
Market Day and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Visit the lively Dali market for a taste of local life, filled with fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and sample some street food.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Yunnan dishes using market ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch with fellow participants.

evening
:

Visit a local teahouse to experience traditional Chinese tea culture. Relax with friends over refreshments, exchanging experiences from the day.

day 5
Sunset at Erhai Lake
morning
:

Catch the morning light at Erhai Lake with a leisurely bike ride along the scenic pathways. Stop at various points to take photos of the tranquil water and mountains.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, soaking up the beauty and tranquility of the area. Consider renting a kayak to explore the lake further.

evening
:

Witness a stunning sunset that transforms the sky above Erhai Lake. End the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring local specialties.

day 6
Bai Ethnic Experience
morning
:

Learn about the Bai ethnic group's rich culture by visiting local heritage sites. Participate in a traditional Bai dance workshop to immerse yourself in their customs.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Bai lunch, featuring local ingredients and flavors. Visit local artisans to observe intricate crafts, including tie-dye and pottery.

evening
:

Attend a Bai cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance. Conclude the night with a small group dinner, sharing insights about the day's experiences.

day 7
Scenic Walks and Photography
morning
:

Take a morning stroll around the nearby towns and scenic spots, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Capture the beauty of Dali's architecture and landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn more about Dali's history and heritage. Enjoy lunch in a café known for its artistic ambiance.

evening
:

Join a sunset photography session at a scenic viewpoint, perfect for capturing the golden hour. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a view.

day 8
Night Market Adventure
morning
:

Spend the morning exploring nearby temples and gardens, appreciating the tranquil atmosphere. Learn about the significance of these historical sites.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a leisurely lunch before heading to the Dali city art district. Explore contemporary art galleries and local exhibitions.

evening
:

Experience the bustling night market filled with delicious street food and handmade crafts. Sample various local dishes as you soak in the lively atmosphere.

day 9
Art and Nature Day
morning
:

Visit local art studios and meet artists showcasing their work inspired by Dali's beauty. Participate in a short painting workshop to express your creativity.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby natural parks for a relaxing hike, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to the art district for an evening of local culture. Dinner at a cozy restaurant with live music will end the day on a high note.

day 10
Adventure Activities Day
morning
:

Start your day with an adrenaline rush by joining in on local adventure sports like mountain biking. Explore the rugged trails with breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

Take a break for a picnic lunch before heading out for more adventurous activities, such as rock climbing or paragliding. Make the most of Dali's diverse adventure offerings.

evening
:

After a thrilling day, wind down at a local pub or café. Share stories of your adventures over a satisfying dinner.

Discover Dali

Read more in our Dali 2024 Travel Guide.

Dali Travel Guide