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Dali's landscape is beautiful and varied, and is known as "wind, flowers, snow and moon", namely Xiaguan wind, Shangguan flowers, Cangshan snow and Erhai moon.
Dali is located on a low-latitude plateau with little temperature difference between the four seasons. The dry and wet seasons are distinct, and it is dominated by a low-latitude plateau monsoon climate. The climate is mild all year round and the land is fertile. It is famous for its beautiful scenery and ethnic customs. The most representative attractions in the area are Butterfly Spring, Erhai Lake, and the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple.
February-May
Dali is located in Yunnan, with warm winters and cool summers, making it a very suitable place to live. Dali has beautiful scenery in March, so in spring, it is perfect for visiting the ancient city of Dali, climbing Cangshan Mountain, or visiting Erhai Lake.
Erhai Lake
Erhai Lake boasts three islands, four continents, five lakes, and nine bends. Its crystal-clear waters are known as "a flawless jade amidst the mountains," and it's one of Dali's four famous scenic spots: wind, flowers, snow, and moon. Popular villages along the lake include Shuanglang, known for its "Erhai Divine Light," Caicun, the filming location for the TV series "My Lucky Star," and Xizhou, known for its distinctive Bai ethnic minority architecture. All are worth visiting.
Shuanglang
Shuanglang Town lies on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, nestled against the shimmering waters. With views of the Nineteen Peaks of Cangshan Mountain, it embodies the essence of Cangshan and Erhai Lake's scenery. The town's main attractions, Yuji Island and Nanzhao Fengqing Island, are ideal spots for watching the sunset, and boating on the lake in the evening is a delightful experience. The diverse architectural styles are also a major attraction, with dancer Yang Liping's "Sun Palace" and "Moon Palace" and painter Zhao Qing's "Qinglu" being among the most famous.
Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple
Located 1.5 kilometers north of Dali Ancient City, Chongsheng Temple was a royal temple during the Dali Kingdom period. Known for its three pagodas, also known as the "Three Pagodas of Dali," Chongsheng Temple is one of China's most renowned Buddhist pagodas. The three pagodas, one large and two small, are considered a Dali landmark and a highlight of the scenic beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake.
Dali is an ancient city in Yunnan Province, known for its rich cultural history and beautiful landscapes. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Nanzhao during the 8th to 9th centuries. The city has long been a center of trade and culture and is home to the Bai people, an ethnic minority in China. Dali is famous for its unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and scenic beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.
Dali is located in the central part of Yunnan Province, China, near Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain. To reach Dali, you can fly into Dali Airport or take a train or bus from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan. Within the city, taxis, buses, and walking are common modes of transport. Bicycles and electric scooters are also available for rent in the Old Town area.
Most attractions in Dali are open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot, while winter is colder but less crowded.
The entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, the Three Pagodas may cost around 50-80 RMB, while Cangshan Mountain cable car rides can cost 80-100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s also possible to buy them online through local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, especially for off-peak periods. However, during peak seasons or for popular attractions like the Three Pagodas, it is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long queues.
To explore the major attractions in Dali, 2-3 days is sufficient. This includes visits to the Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, Cangshan Mountain, and Dali Old Town.
Guided tours are available for most attractions in Dali, especially the Three Pagodas and Cangshan Mountain. Tours are typically in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request for an additional fee. Audio guides in Mandarin are available at some attractions.
Night visits are available at some attractions, including the Three Pagodas, which are lit up at night. There are no regular light shows, but Dali Old Town comes alive in the evening with bustling markets, local performances, and street food.
Dali is a popular destination, but it is generally less crowded than other major Chinese cities. The best time to visit to avoid crowds is during weekdays in the low season (autumn and winter). Weekends and holidays can get crowded, especially at the Three Pagodas and Old Town.
Most major tourist sites in Dali are well-equipped with facilities such as toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and souvenir shops. Dali Old Town has numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops offering local snacks and handmade goods.
Many of Dali's attractions, including Erhai Lake and Dali Old Town, are accessible to elderly and children. However, the terrain in Cangshan Mountain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Wheelchairs are available at some tourist sites, but it is advisable to check in advance.
Cash is still widely accepted in Dali, but mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay are very common and widely used. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
There are numerous local restaurants and cafes in Dali, offering traditional Bai cuisine, including rice noodles, fish, and various spicy dishes. Dali Old Town has many charming cafes where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Vegetarian and vegan options are readily available in Dali, particularly at restaurants offering Yunnan cuisine. Halal food options are more limited but can be found at specific halal restaurants.
There are a variety of accommodations in Dali, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. Popular options include the Dali Hilton, Dali Erhai Hotel, and several guesthouses in Dali Old Town.
Souvenir shops are abundant in Dali, especially in the Old Town. Typical souvenirs include Bai-style handicrafts, ethnic clothing, jewelry, and local teas. Dali is also famous for its handmade silver jewelry.
From Dali, you can continue your trip by taking a high-speed train or bus to other parts of Yunnan, including Kunming or Lijiang. Dali also has a small airport with flights to major Chinese cities.
