Cycling Around Erhai Lake – My Favorite Itinerary in Dali 🚴‍♂️🌊✨

#favouriteitinerary #chinatrip

One of the best ways to experience Dali is by cycling around Erhai Lake (洱海)! With breathtaking lake views, charming villages, and endless fresh air, this ride is an unforgettable adventure. Here’s my favorite itinerary for a perfect cycling trip:

Morning: Start in Dali Ancient Town
Rent a bicycle or e-bike from Dali Old Town (I recommend an e-bike if you want a more relaxed ride).
Head toward Caicun Pier (才村码头) for your first stunning view of Erhai Lake. The water is crystal clear in the morning!
Stop by a local café for Yunnan coffee or Pu’er tea before starting your ride.
Midday: Cycling Along the Scenic Route
Follow the lakeside road towards Shuanglang (双廊), passing golden rice fields, white-walled Bai minority villages, and lush greenery.
Take a break at Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) to try the famous Xizhou Baba (喜州粑粑), a crispy, flavorful pancake filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
Enjoy lakeside photo spots—the water, mountains, and sky blend perfectly for the most scenic shots!
Afternoon: Relax & Soak in the Views
Reach Shuanglang, a beautiful town with hip cafés, boutique hotels, and wooden docks extending into the lake. It’s the perfect place to rest.
If you have time, take a short boat ride to enjoy the views from the water.
Ride back while watching the sunset over Erhai, turning the lake golden—one of the most magical sights in Dali!
Tips for the Best Experience:
✔️ Rent an e-bike if you want a relaxing ride (the full lake loop is long!).
✔️ Wear sunscreen & sunglasses—the sun can be strong.
✔️ Bring a jacket—it can get windy near the lake.
✔️ Start early to enjoy the quiet, peaceful morning scenery.

Cycling around Erhai Lake is my favorite way to explore Dali—it’s peaceful, scenic, and gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems along the way. Have you cycled here before? Share your experience below! 🚴♀️🌊