Blossoms and Pagodas: Springtime Magic at Dali’s Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔)
by Kiawchua
Apr 19, 2025
Trip Highlights: Leisurely strolls in the ancient town, cycling around Erhai Lake, hiking Cangshan Mountain, experiencing Bai culture
Budget Allocation:
Transportation: 1000 RMB (round-trip flight/train + local transportation)
Accommodation: 600 RMB (three nights in guesthouses/inns)
Food & Drink: 800 RMB (local cuisine + snacks)
Tickets & Activities: 600 RMB (Erhai Lake boat tour, Cangshan cable car, Three Pagodas, etc.)
Others: 1000 RMB (souvenirs, emergencies, etc.)
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Dali, stroll the ancient town
Morning: Arrive in Dali, check into a guesthouse near the ancient town (recommended: near Renmin Road, Foreigner Street)
Afternoon: Walk around Dali Ancient Town, soak in the historical atmosphere, visit Wuhua Tower, Foreigner Street, Renmin Road, etc.
Evening: Taste Dali specialties (recommended: Rushan cheese, Erkuai rice cake, hot and sour fish), night tour of the ancient town
Day 2: Cycling around Erhai Lake, Xizhou Ancient Town
Morning: Rent a bicycle or electric bike to cycle around Erhai Lake (recommended route: Dali Ancient Town - Caicun Pier - Xizhou Ancient Town)
Afternoon: Explore Xizhou Ancient Town, experience Bai culture, taste Xizhou Baba pancakes
Evening: Return to Dali Ancient Town, enjoy a leisurely evening
Day 3: Hiking Cangshan Mountain, Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas
Morning: Take the Cangshan cable car up the mountain, hike the Yudai Trail, enjoy the beautiful views of Cangshan and Erhai Lake
Afternoon: Visit Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas, experience Buddhist culture
Evening: Try Dali specialty hot pot (recommended: wild mushroom hot pot)
Day 4: Free activities, return trip
Morning: Free time depending on schedule, optional visits to Butterfly Spring, Nanzhao Style Island, etc.
Afternoon: Return trip
Money-saving Tips:
Transportation: Travel in the off-season, book flights/train tickets in advance for discounts.
Accommodation: Choose guesthouses or inns on the outskirts of the ancient town for better prices.
Food & Drink: Try local snacks, avoid expensive restaurants inside scenic areas.
Tickets: Some attractions offer online booking discounts.
Optional Activities:
Experience traditional Bai handicrafts like tie-dye and pottery
Watch the large-scale live show "Impression Dali"
Taste local specialties like Dali beer and Pu'er tea
Notes:
Strong sunlight in Dali, remember to use sunscreen.
High-altitude area, rest well and avoid strenuous exercise.
Respect local ethnic minority customs.
Wish you a pleasant journey!
Post by OceanBreeze3336 | Oct 25, 2025























