Dali Travel Guide: Erhai Lake, Ancient Town & Bai Culture

This Dali travel guide takes you to Yunnan’s cultural highlands, where Erhai Lake meets the Cangshan Mountains. Once the center of the Bai Kingdom, Dali is famous for its ancient town, scenic nature, and laid-back lifestyle—making it a must-visit destination for travelers in 2025.

Must-Visit Top Sights in Dali

Dali Ancient Town – Walking Through Bai History

Wander through historic alleyways, admire traditional Bai-style homes, and shop for handmade crafts.

Erhai Lake – The Heart of Dali Travel Guide

Rent a bike or hop on a boat to explore this enormous 42-mile lake, surrounded by ancient villages and temples.

Three Pagodas – Spiritual Symbol of Dali

The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are a signature icon of Dali, representing centuries of spiritual history and resilience.

Xizhou Village – Authentic Bai Architecture

Visit Xizhou Village to experience the Bai way of life, admire some of the best-preserved Bai houses, and enjoy the famous “Three-Course Tea” ceremony.

Traditional Foods in Dali

  • Rushan Cheese (乳扇) – A grilled cheese snack, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
  • Cured Ham Rice Noodles (火腿米线) – Yunnan-style noodles with savory ham and pickled vegetables.
  • Pineapple Rice (菠萝饭) – Sticky rice steamed inside a pineapple, balancing sweet and salty flavors.

Dali Travel Tips 2025/2026

Best Time to Visit Dali

The best time to visit is from April to October, when weather is mild and skies are clear.

How to Get to Dali

  • By air: Fly to Dali Airport (DLU).
  • By train: High-speed trains run from Kunming to Dali.
  • By bus: Regional coaches connect Dali with other Yunnan towns.

Yunnan Dali – Kunming Transportation Map

Where to Stay in Dali

Choose from cozy guesthouses in Dali Ancient Town or boutique lodges near Erhai Lake for scenic views.

Recommended Dali Tour Packages

Why Visit Dali?

Dali may not be as famous as Lijiang or Shangri-La, but its combination of stunning natural scenery, Bai culture, and relaxed pace makes it unforgettable. Whether cycling around Erhai Lake, sipping tea in Xizhou Village, or exploring ancient temples, Dali offers something unique for every traveler.

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