Day 1: Cangshan Scenery and Dali Culture
*Accommodation: Stay at a Baroque-style hotel in Dali Ancient Town, such as the Dali MYST designer Hotel.
*Itinerary:
- Cangshan Ximatan Cableway (Morning): Start your day by taking the Ximatan Cableway, the only cableway that reaches the summit of Cangshan Mountain Dali. This ride offers breathtaking panoramic views, with stops at three stations: the lower station near Tianlong Babu Film City at 2,240 meters, the middle station near Seven Dragon Maidens Pool Scenic Area at 2,800 meters, and the upper station at Ximatan Scenic Area at 3,900 meters. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of natural beauty, including the peaks of Cangshan Mountain and Dali Erhai Lake. (Openinging hours: all year round 08:30-15:00)
- The Chongsheng Temple and The Three-Pagoda Culture Tourist Area (Afternoon): In the afternoon, visit the Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas, a site steeped in history and culture. Once the royal temple of the Yunnan Dali Kingdom, this area is renowned for the Three Pagodas, a landmark of Dali Yunnan attractions and one of China’s most famous Buddhist towers. The area also features cultural treasures like the Nanzhao Jianji Bell, Yutong Guanyin Hall, and rare scrolls depicting the history of the Nanzhao Kingdom. This visit offers a deep dive into the cultural and historical richness Dali tour. (Openinging hours: 05/01-10/07 07:10-19:00; 10/08-04/30 07:30-18:30)
- Dali Old Town (Evening): End your day with a leisurely exploration of Dali Old Town. This historic town, once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, is known for its well-preserved Bai architecture, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty, this town is one of the top China places to go. Stroll through the ancient streets and visit attractions like the city walls, Wuhua Tower, Dali Art Factory, and Honglongjing Bar Street. In the evening, the town lights up with warm yellow lights, creating a charming and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy local street food or halal food in Dali Yunnan, visit the lively bars and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the local customs, perhaps even joining a bonfire dance. (Opening hours: 01/01-12/31, all day)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Xidoufen
Lunch: Dali specialties: Dali Fire-Grilled Raw Pork Skin, Haisao Fish
Dinner: Bai-style Stone Slab BBQ
*Accommodation: Stay at a Bai-style courtyard hotel near Xizhou Ancient Town, such as Yishu Ancient House.
*Itinerary:
- Xizhou Ancient Town (Morning): Explore Xizhou Ancient Town, a historical Bai ethnic town in the northern part of Yunnan Dali. Known for its well-preserved Bai residential buildings, this town offers a rich cultural experience. Visit attractions like the Yan Family Compound, Corner House, and Xizhou Old Street. As you stroll through the ancient streets, admire the distinctive Bai architecture and immerse yourself in the town’s cultural ambiance. You can also engage in traditional tie-dyeing at a local workshop, this is one of the immersive experiences in things to do in Dali Yunnan. (Opening hours: 01/01-12/31, all day)
- Butterfly Spring (Afternoon): Head to Butterfly Spring Park, nestled at the foot of Cangshan Mountain’s Yunong Peak. The park is famous for its “Three Wonders” – butterflies, springs, and trees. Explore attractions like Butterfly Spring, Dressing Pool, Five Dragon Pool, Duige Pond, Lover Lake, and the Butterfly Museum. Marvel at the graceful butterflies fluttering around the spring, try traditional Bai clothing, and immerse yourself in Bai culture through folk songs, dances, and traditional crafts. This visit offers a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant ethnic traditions of the Bai people, making it a key highlight of Dali travel. (Opening hours: all year round, 08:30-18:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Grilled Erkuai (local rice cake)
Lunch: Free Range Chicken Rice Noodles
Dinner: Wild Mushroom Hot Pot
*Accommodation: Stay at a Southeast Asian-style boutique hotel near Shuanglang, such as the Cloud House.
*Itinerary:
- Erhai Lake Cruise (Morning): Erhai Lake, nestled within Yunnan Dali, is one of China’s premier tourist destinations. The lake’s expansive waters and crystal-clear quality are framed by the majestic Cangshan Mountain, creating a perfect setting to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. Enjoy a serene morning cruise on Erhai Lake, where you can take in the tranquil atmosphere and fresh air. The cruise includes a traditional Bai Three-Course Tea Party Show, offering an authentic experience of the Bai people’s highest form of hospitality. This is one of the essential activities in Yunnan Dali travel. (Opening hours: all year round 08:30-15:30). Nanzhao Customs Island: Nanzhao Customs Island is a scenic gem surrounded by water, highlighting the natural beauty, historical significance, and ethnic customs of the Nanzhao Kingdom. The island preserves the architectural style of the Nanzhao era, and visitors can explore the Nanzhao Buddha, a symbol of religious reverence, and the Ethnic Customs Garden, which showcases the traditions and customs of local ethnic minorities. (Opening hours: all year round 08:00-17:30)
Cruise Route: Depart from Xizhou Jingui Temple Pier at 11:00, visit Nanzhao Customs Island for 50 minutes, and arrive at Shuanglang Pier at 12:20. - Shuanglang (Afternoon): Shuanglang, located on the northeastern shore of Dali Erhai Lake, is a charming town that blends natural beauty, history, and rich ethnic culture. With the Cangshan Mountain as a backdrop and Erhai Lake at its front, Shuanglang is a picturesque destination in Dali travel itinerary. Stroll along the lakeside, admire the stunning views of the mountains and lake, and explore attractions such as Yuji Island, Kuixing Pavilion, and Zhengjue Temple. The town’s simple and elegant Bai-style architecture and vibrant ethnic traditions provide a deep sense of cultural immersion. (Opening hours: all year round, all day)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Xizhou Baba (local pancake)
Lunch: Bai-style Barbecue
Dinner: Dali specialties: Hot and Sour Fish and Nuodeng Ham Stir-fried with Matsutake Mushrooms
*Accommodation: Stay at a cozy and minimalist hotel near Qigu Hot Springs, such as Dali Yunxian Hotel.
*Itinerary:
- Dali Me3 Luge (Daytime): Dali Me3 Luge is China’s only road extreme-themed park, blending stunning natural scenery with thrilling outdoor adventures. The park features the country’s first high-standard extreme road track, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. For a more serene experience, take a sky gondola ride to enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, fully immersing yourself in this Yunnan Dali itinerary. (Opening hours: all year round 10:30-19:00)
- Qigu Hot Springs (Evening): Nestled in the Qigu Hot Springs area of Xiaguan Street, Dali Qigu Hot Springs is a comprehensive resort dedicated to relaxation and wellness. The hot spring water, sourced from 3,800 meters below the earth, is rich in minerals and offers a variety of therapeutic experiences, including the Tranquility Pool, Surf Pool, Wellness Pool, and Herbal Pool. Surrounded by natural beauty, this serene retreat is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of adventure. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or wellness, this resort is a perfect ending to your Dali tour in China. (Opening hours: all year round 08:00-01:00)
*Dining Options:
Breakfast: Grilled Rushan (local cheese)
Lunch: Dali specialties: Spicy Chicken with Erkuai, Papaya Pork Trotter Soup
Dinner: Dali Shaba Fish
