For many overseas visitors seeking natural scenery and ethnic minority culture in China, Dali is undoubtedly a shining destination. Nestled on the plateau of Yunnan Province, Dali, with its iconic Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, the historic Dali Old Town, and the rich Bai ethnic culture, attracts countless travelers every year. If you’re planning a trip to Dali in 2026, whether for a relaxing vacation or an in-depth cultural exploration, a detailed guide is essential. This article, from the perspective of overseas visitors, provides a comprehensive analysis of Dali’s popular attractions, transportation options, itinerary routes, and practical tips to help you easily plan a memorable Dali journey.
Must-See Classic and Hidden Gems in Dali
Dali Old Town
As the core of tourism in Dali, Dali Old Town lies at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and faces Erhai Lake. Strolling along Fuxing Road and Renmin Road, you can experience the Old Town’s leisurely atmosphere, shop for local handicrafts, or enjoy a quiet moment in a café. The bar street in the Old Town comes alive with energy at night.
Erhai Lake
Circling Erhai Lake, a distance of approximately 130 kilometers, is one of the best ways to experience Dali’s beauty. You can choose to cycle, drive, or take a jeep tour, passing through numerous scenic villages like Xizhou Ancient Town (known for Bai residential architecture) and Shuanglang Ancient Town (known for its artistic vibe). Beautiful scenery can be found everywhere along the way.
Cangshan Mountains
The majestic nineteen peaks of the Cangshan Mountains offer spectacular views. Taking the Gantong Cableway or the Ximatan Cableway up the mountain provides a panoramic overlook of the Dali basin and Erhai Lake. Scenic spots like Qingbi Stream and the Jade Belt Road on the mountain are perfect for visitors who enjoy hiking and being close to nature.
Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas
These three ancient pagodas, over a thousand years old, are iconic historical structures of Dali and a testament to Yunnan’s ancient Buddhist culture. They are immensely impressive, whether viewed from afar or up close.
Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountains
Recommended Dali Travel Routes
To make your journey smoother, we have selected the following two highly-rated Dali travel routes based on existing products from our partners.
Route 1: Dali Classic 3-Day Highlights Tour
- Day 1: Arrive in Dali, check into a hotel near the Old Town. Stroll through Dali Old Town in the afternoon and experience the Old Town’s night views in the evening.
- Day 2: Full-day tour around Erhai Lake, including photo stops at Xizhou Ancient Town, visiting Shuanglang Ancient Town, and experiencing a specialty jeep tour with photography.
- Day 3: Take the Cangshan Mountain cableway in the morning to enjoy the high mountain scenery. Visit the Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas in the afternoon before concluding the trip.
- Features: Suitable for visitors with limited time. Covers the most core attractions of Dali in one go. The itinerary is compact yet rich.
Route 2: Dali-Lijiang In-Depth 5-Day Cultural Tour
- Day 1: Gather in Dali, explore Dali Old Town.
- Day 2: Full-day in-depth tour around Erhai Lake, visiting surrounding Bai ethnic villages.
- Day 3: Explore Cangshan Mountain in the morning. Travel to Lijiang by coach in the afternoon and check into a hotel in Lijiang Old Town.
- Day 4: Discover Lijiang Old Town and Shuhe Ancient Town.
- Day 5: Depending on flight time, visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or Black Dragon Pool Park before transfer to the airport.
- Features: Experience two of Yunnan’s most charming ancient towns in one trip, with an in-depth experience of Naxi and Bai ethnic cultures.
Practical Tips for Overseas Visitors Traveling to Dali
- Best Time to Travel: March to May and September to November offer the most comfortable climate and the most beautiful scenery in Dali.
- Transportation: You can fly into Kunming Changshui International Airport and then transfer to a high-speed train (approximately 2 hours) directly to Dali, which is very convenient.
- Accommodation Suggestions: There are numerous characteristic inns and boutique hotels within Dali Old Town and along the shores of Erhai Lake. You can choose based on your budget and preferences.
- Cultural Experiences: Don’t miss the chance to taste the Bai people’s “Three-Course Tea” ceremony and appreciate Bai song and dance performances to experience local hospitality.
Dali Old Town
The vibrant street scene inside Dali Old Town, featuring locals and tourists, showcasing the atmosphere of daily life.
In conclusion, Dali is a place that can fulfill all your aspirations for nature, history, and culture. Whether you are wandering by the shores of Erhai Lake or getting lost in the alleys of the Old Town, this city is always full of surprises. By planning your route and budget in advance, your 2026 trip to Dali is sure to become a wonderful memory. If you wish to receive more personalized services, such as professional guides, transportation arrangements, or tailor-made itineraries, please feel free to contact China Dragon Travel. We are happy to provide professional advice to make your Dali trip worry-free.
