The Past Prosperity of Dali
When you heard about Dali for the first time, you might have been attracted by the beautiful scenery of the Cangshan mountains and Erhai Lake. However, the amazing landscape is just one part of the charming Dali. The hardworking and talented Bai people have created an abundant historical and cultural treasure trove in Dali.
In this 4-day Dali tour, you will start from Dali and explore Jiangchuan, Shaxi, and Nuodeng, which are ancient towns on the lost Tea Horse Road. Go beyond the usual tour attractions to find the great things bequeathed by the Bai people's traditions and history.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Recall the Fading Memories of Caravans in Shaxi Ancient Town
Visit the last remaining market town on the ancient Tea Horse Road — Shaxi. The shining wall, the ancient stage, bridge, and grand courtyard still tell stories about the horse caravans.
Take Part in Traditional Salt and Ham Production
Discover a place of product origin on the ancient Tea Horse Road. Experience making salt, one of the important trade goods, and salt and taste the delicious ham preserved by the local salt.
Relax Yourself in an Old and Peaceful Village
Enjoy a big meal of local ham, then try the wonderful foot bath with a herbal infusion made by the local Bai people, which will relax you ready for sweet dreams in the starry night.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
|
|
Daisy is the best
Daisy is an awesome guide, she takes care of her guests as if they where her own kids.She's so knowledgeable and forthcoming, we had the absolutely best time with her ?? more
Apr 2024, Florian
|
Wonderful Time in Dali!
Daisy is warm, thoughtful, and attentive. Besides staring the history, culture, context, and future developments of the places we visited, we also enjoyed delicious local dishes which we would otherwise not have ordered. We especially enjoyed our hike and tea at Mount Cangshan. more
Apr 2024, Alan
|
Our trip to Dali was a very amazing
The recommendation for eating and highlights outside the leading trip through Nancy were very helpful. She was a great leader. Thanks for all. Maybe we will come back in a few years to Dali. more
Apr 2024, Tom K.
|
Tour Map
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Starting from Dali, you will drive to Shanxi and visit the ancient town of Jianchuan on the way. It enjoys the reputation of the real cultural center of the Bai ethnic minority. The residential houses, the city gates, the temples, and the bridge are still in the ancient Bai style.
Visit a workshop where a typical handicraft of Bai people, Buzha, is carried out. It comprises colorful cloth with embroidery and wormwood to keep insects and evil spirits away. A Buzha master will show you this beautiful folk art. It is a great chance to meet people who love and protect the culture of their nationality.
In the afternoon, explore the historical temples and the Buddhist caves hidden in the Mt. Shibaoshan which tell the stories of the ancient kingdom in Dali area.
Tour Shaxi Ancient Town in the morning. Visit Xingjiao Temple, Square Street, the ancient stage, and the Yujing bridge. Listen to the stories of horse caravans in a private museum devoted to Tea Horse Road trade caravan paraphernalia.
Before arriving Nuodeng, drive up a mountain for an incredible yin-yang symbol view made by the Nuodeng River, a tributary of the Lancang (Mekong) River.
Uncover its stories recorded on the old Taoist temple, the old pavilion, the traditional residential houses, the ancient salt well, and the family ham-making workshop. Witness how local people produce salt and preserve ham, which used to be popular goods traded on the Tea Horse Road.
Relax yourself in this old and peaceful village. Enjoy a big meal with ham, try the wonderful foot bath with the herbal soup of the local Bai people, and have a good dream in a starry night.
Drive from Nuodeng to Dali. Your private guide and driver can escort you to your hotel in Dali or to the airport or train station for your next destination.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: dal-2