Dali Travel Guide

Dali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yunnan, famous for its beautiful natural scenery, historical heritage, and well-preserved Bai minority culture. It is considered a great place to relax.

Its location makes it a popular stopping point on the way from Kunming to Lijiang and Shangri-La. Dali is a must visit destination for Yunnan tourists. It is worth staying at least one night.

The Highlights of Dali

Dali Ancient Town

With a history of over 600 years, Dali Ancient Town is one of the most renowned ancient towns in China. There you will see historical architecture built in the traditional Bai ethnic minority style.

Foreigners' Street is a good place to find cafés, Western restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Erhai Lake

Erhai, literally 'ear sea', is the second largest highland lake in China. From Dali Ancient Town, it takes about 50 minutes by foot, or 15 minutes by bus.

Blessed with a mild climate and stunning scenery, the lake is a perfect place to take a boat ride, or a bike ride. Read more about cycling in Dali.

Cang Mountain (Cangshan)

If you would like to get away from the crowds in Dali, you can take a day out to Cang Mountain, from where you can enjoy a bird's eye view of Erhai and Dali.

You can take a 25-minute cable car ride to enjoy the spectacular views, or hike up the mountain along the paved path in 2–3 hours.

Xizhou Village

Xizhou Village is famous for its well-preserved Bai architecture. Wander in the small streets to see the typical ancient buildings and women in traditional dresses. It is a good way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

How to Get to Dali

In northwest Yunnan Province, Dali is only a 40-minute flight from Yunnan's capital Kunming. Trains from Kunming to Dali take 6–7 hours. Read more information on Dali transportation. 

The Best Time to Visit Dali

The climate in Dali is temperate with long, warm, rainy summers and short, mild and dry winters. The temperature ranges from 18 °C (64 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F) in summer and from 4 °C (39 °F) to 17 °C (62 °F) in winter on average. It is a place suitable to visit all year round. 

The best time to visit Dali is from March to October. Erhai Lake and Cang Mountain are beautiful in March and April, when the flowers are in full bloom. Many ethnic festivals are held in these months. Check the dates of the festivals.

Most rainfall is seen from June to October. These months should be avoided if you don't like too much rain. Read more about Dali weather. 

Touring Dali with China Highlights

Dali is a place with a long history and rich culture. A local guide will help you to better understand this city. We are glad to arrange a private tour for you with a private guide.

Here are our most popular Dali tours, for your reference:

• 6-Day Yunnan Ethnic Minorities Tour — taking you to experience the minorities' unique customs in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang
• 8-Day Shangri-La Exploration Tour — including the must-see attractions in Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La