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Explore the ancient streets and traditional Bai architecture of Dali Ancient Town. Visit the Three Pagodas, which are iconic symbols of Dali. Take a stroll along the Erhai Lake, enjoy boat rides, and visit local markets for souvenirs. Also, don't miss the lively food scene offering local specialties like "er kuai" (rice cakes) and fresh fish from the lake.
Dali Ancient City borders the rippling Erhai Lake to the east and the perennially verdant Cangshan Mountain to the west, creating a landscape characterized by "water surrounding Cangshan Mountain, and Cangshan Mountain embracing the ancient city." Entering the city from the South Gate, Fuxing Road, a narrow path leading directly to the North Gate, has become a bustling street market, with shops lining the street selling marble, tie-dye, and other ethnic crafts, as well as jewelry and jade.
Some old houses in the streets and alleys can still trace the style of the past, with lush flowers and trees in the courtyard, birds singing, and gurgling streams outside. The scene of "three families share a well, and each household has several pots of flowers" still exists.
Many Bai ethnic group festivals and events are concentrated between March and April each year. Visiting during this time will allow you to experience the rich ethnic customs. As the song goes, "Dali is beautiful in March," spring is the perfect time to visit Dali Old Town, climb Cangshan Mountain, or visit Erhai Lake.
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Dali Ancient Town was the capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom in the 8th century and later the capital of the Dali Kingdom in the 10th century. It is historically significant as a cultural and political hub for the Bai ethnic group. The town’s ancient architecture, temples, and the Three Pagodas are testaments to its rich history and heritage.
Dali Ancient Town is located in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China. It is about 13 km from Dali city. You can take a taxi, bus, or rent a bike to get there. There are no metro services, but taxis and buses are readily available from Dali city.
Dali Ancient Town is open year-round, as it is an open-air historical area. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is warm and the town's beauty is at its peak. It’s less crowded in the winter months, but weather can be chilly.
There is no general entrance fee for visiting Dali Ancient Town itself. However, some attractions like the Three Pagodas, temples, and museums may have an entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local travel agencies.
For the main sites like the Three Pagodas or temples, it is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak seasons (April to October). For general town exploration, no advance booking is required.
It takes about half a day to explore Dali Ancient Town. If you plan to visit surrounding areas like Erhai Lake or the Three Pagodas, it could take a full day.
The Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, and the old city gates are must-see highlights. The ancient streets with Bai-style architecture, traditional shops, and temples are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides are available. Audio guides are also offered in several languages, including English, at major attractions like the Three Pagodas.
Best viewpoints include the top of the Three Pagodas for panoramic views of the town and Erhai Lake. The view from the ancient city wall and the lakeside areas of Erhai Lake also offer stunning photography opportunities.
Start by exploring the ancient streets and main square of Dali Ancient Town. Visit the Three Pagodas and the nearby Chongsheng Temple. Then, take a boat ride on Erhai Lake and explore the lakeside villages. Don’t forget to check out the local markets and cafes along the way.
There are no major light shows, but Dali Ancient Town offers a charming night atmosphere with lights along the streets, cafes, and small shops staying open late. Some cultural performances may be available in the evening.
Dali Ancient Town can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially during the peak tourist season (April to October). The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays, particularly during the off-season (November to March).
Toilets, food stalls, water stations, and rest areas are available throughout the town. There are many shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. Restaurants and cafes are plentiful, offering local specialties and refreshments.
Dali Ancient Town has uneven streets and narrow pathways, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, many of the main attractions are accessible, and there are some wheelchair-friendly areas in the town.
Cash is still commonly used in smaller shops, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in most restaurants, cafes, and shops. Credit cards are less commonly accepted in smaller establishments.
There are a variety of restaurants and cafes offering both local Yunnan cuisine and international options. Some well-known spots include restaurants offering fresh fish from Erhai Lake and local Bai-style dishes like "cross-bridge rice noodles."
Vegetarian options are widely available, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes. Halal food options are less common, but you may find some in larger restaurants catering to diverse tastes.
There are several guesthouses, boutique hotels, and mid-range hotels within walking distance of Dali Ancient Town. For luxury accommodations, check out the hotels by Erhai Lake, offering scenic views and high-end services.
Nearby attractions include Erhai Lake, the Bai ethnic villages around Dali, the Cangshan Mountain for hiking, and the Butterfly Spring. These can all be visited within a day trip from Dali Ancient Town.
Souvenir shops abound in Dali Ancient Town, offering items such as handmade textiles, Bai ethnic jewelry, traditional pottery, and local tea. Erhai Lake-themed crafts are also popular.
The best transportation options include buses and taxis, which are easy to find in the area. For longer trips, buses to nearby towns or the Dali Railway Station can be accessed from the town.
