Top 50 Best Things to Do near Dayao
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Top 50 Best Things to Do near Dayao

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Jizu Mountain
    󰺂6.7
    73
    Binchuan.Jizu Mountain Scenic Area98.3 km from Dayao
    󱨠1362 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    Jizu Mountain is a famous Buddhist holy site with beautiful scenery and many pilgrims. The entrance fee is reasonable, but the cable car and shuttle bus within the scenic area are expensive, and have even increased in price since then, making it not very cost-effective.

  • Erhai Lake
    󰺂7.9
    Dali.Small Putuo Scenic Area of Wase TownMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊Nearby towns with historical heritage
    󱨜National scenic area & lake
    󱨠Saved by 1188 users󱨠2865 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    芥子拾须弥芥子拾须弥

    Erhai Lake boasts breathtaking scenery that is truly captivating. It is the second largest freshwater lake on the Yunnan plateau, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the Cangshan Mountains to the west, creating a stunningly beautiful landscape where "Cangshan and Erhai are intertwined." In the mornings, a light mist hangs in the air; in the evenings, the setting sun paints the water golden; and on moonlit nights, the moon's reflection shines exceptionally brightly. The lake is rich in natural landscapes, including islands and karst caves, and every year, red-billed gulls come to roost here. Scattered around Erhai Lake are Bai ethnic villages, where traditional architecture blends harmoniously with the pastoral scenery, adding a unique charm to this landscape with its rich ethnic customs. It's suitable for all types of travelers: families, parents, children, couples, and individuals alike. It's suitable year-round: each season offers a different kind of beauty, such as the return of seagulls in winter.

  • Zhang Jia Garden
    󰺂6.7
    106
    Dali.Cangshan Scenic AreaMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󰋄Sky pavilion for Cang-Er panoramic views
    6 courtyards show Bai architecture
    󱨠Saved by 229 users󱨠5426 positive reviews
    5.0/5
    M2a***ygM2a***yg

    The beautiful scenery, the wonderful stage plays, the passionate actors, and the ancient architecture make you feel as if you are traveling through ancient times and interacting with ethnic minorities.

  • Shuanglang
    󰺂7.2
    Dali.Shuanglang Scenic AreaMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊Walk to Yujidao for sunset views
    󰀆Boat ride & Erhai scenery
    󱨠Saved by 448 users󱨠1139 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    M83***34M83***34

    Shuanglang Ancient Town is located in the northeastern part of Dali City, on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, bordering Jizu Mountain to the east. Named for its "two islands and two bends," it was an important military stronghold of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. It gathers the essence of the Cangshan and Erhai scenery, featuring attractions such as Nanzhao Folk Island and Yuji Island. Yang Liping's Sun Palace and Moon Palace are also located here. The ancient town preserves historical and cultural blocks from the Ming and Qing dynasties and traditional Bai ethnic residences, exuding rich ethnic customs and earning it the reputation of "the No. 1 town for Cangshan and Erhai scenery."

  • Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus
    󰺂6.8
    90
    Dali.Dali Ancient CityMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊Convenient hop-on-hop-off bus stops
    󰋄Sightseeing bus around Erhai
    󱨠Saved by 369 users󱨠165 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    HorsescapeHorsescape

    You need to plan ahead whatever place would you like to visit. When you get the voucher, please play with the app , there’s an English version in WeChat , please see on my profile on how to do it. Or you can directly go to Dali Train Station, they will be the one to teach you, just an FYI download translate for you to be able to communicate with them. The young men in the photo was the one who explained to me everything. If you’ll visit Dali for 24hrs only please be reminded that there’s a timetable (time to get on the bus) You can book ahead before the actual date and you can cancel it also or reschedule if you think you can’t make it. Download WECHAT of else you won’t be able to use the voucher. I hope this help. Enjoy your trip 😊 As a solo traveller, this is highly recommended:) Just be patience on how to manuever the app 😊

  • Dali Ancient City
    󰺂7.6
    Dali.Dali Ancient CityMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊Fuxing Road for culture & shopping
    󰀆Millennial Ethnic Festival Celebration
    󱨠Saved by 1273 users󱨠4474 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    不一样的风采778不一样的风采778

    In early winter, the ginkgo trees in Dali Ancient City are quietly putting on a "gradient color feast." Golden yellow and emerald green intertwine on the branches, concealing the lingering charm of late autumn while revealing the brightness of winter, making the ginkgo viewing period seem even longer.

  • The Chongsheng Temple And The Three-Pagoda Culture Tourist Area
    󰺂8.1
    97
    Dali.Dali Ancient CityMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󰋄Three Pagodas Reflection Pond views
    󰀆Perfect spot for tower reflections
    󱨠Saved by 652 users󱨠5943 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    It's definitely worth a visit. For individual travelers, I recommend buying a package ticket that includes the entrance fee and a round-trip tram ticket, just like I did. Enter from the main gate and tell the staff on your right that you bought a round-trip ticket. They'll let you rest for a bit while the guide, Jin Hua, arrives, and you can follow her directions. Of course, you can explore on your own if you don't want a guided tour; the whole place is lovely! However, I still recommend listening to the guided tour, and I hope everyone will respect local beliefs and customs.

  • Cangshan Mountain
    󰺂8.3
    172
    Dali.Cangshan Scenic AreaMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    10 temples & 20 natural attractions
    󰋄Unique geological landscapes displayed
    󱨠Saved by 864 users󱨠3977 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    媛明缘^_^媛明缘^_^

    The scenery was beautiful, with the lush greenery at the foot of the mountain contrasting sharply with the snow-capped peaks. The only downside was that it was snowing, making the boardwalk very slippery, and many people fell. The service was not as good as that at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

  • Kunming Xishan Scenic Resort
    󰺂7.8
    235
    Kunming.Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac WorldMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊50-foot natural stone gateway
    Cable car ride overlooking temples
    󱨠Saved by 715 users󱨠1618 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    M67***06M67***06

    Admission is now free for those 60 and older. Taking the bus up the mountain is recommended; it's about 5-6 km, while walking takes a long time. You can buy tickets on-site at the Longmen Scenic Area entrance. You don't need to take the electric shuttle bus inside; it's about a 2 km walk. The climb itself is manageable, with many rest areas and stunning views of Haigeng Park and the Haigeng Dam.

  • Haigeng Dam
    󰺂6.8
    Kunming.Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac WorldMore than 100 km from Dayao
    Highlights:
    󱓊Lake & mountain view (Observation deck)
    󰋄Thousands of migratory birds in winter
    󱨠Saved by 217 users󱨠166 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    带你走遍祖国大江大河带你走遍祖国大江大河

    1. An Excellent Place for Watching Red-billed Gulls · Core Attraction: Every winter (roughly November to March), thousands of red-billed gulls from Siberia spend the winter here, creating a truly spectacular spectacle. · Up-Close Encounters: Visitors can stand on the dam and hand-feed the gulls (special gull food is available), experiencing the joy of being surrounded by flocks of them. The photos and videos are truly breathtaking. 2. Expansive Views and Pleasant Climate · Expansive Views: The dam faces Dianchi Lake, offering unobstructed views of the entire "Sleeping Beauty" of Xishan Mountain. · "Kunming Blue": The plateau's sunlight and clear skies make it easy to capture stunning scenic photos, making it a great destination for photography enthusiasts. · Comfortable Climate: Even in winter, Kunming enjoys warm sunshine, making strolls and breezes on the dam a delightful experience. 3. Free Public Space · No Admission: As an open public area, Haigeng Dam does not charge any admission fee and is open to all residents and tourists, offering a very cost-effective experience. 4. A Strong Tourist Atmosphere · Vendors selling seagull food, photo booths, ethnic costumes, and small souvenirs create a lively tourist atmosphere, perfect for visitors who enjoy a lively atmosphere. Disadvantages of Haigeng Dam 1. Strong Seasonality, Uneven Experience · The contrast between "peak season" and "off-season" is stark: In winter, when the seagulls are present, the area is bustling with people and bustles. However, once the seagulls have flown away (approximately April to October), the area becomes a relatively ordinary viewing platform, which may disappoint visitors who have made a special trip to visit. 2. Large Crowds and Overcrowding · Overcrowding: During peak gull-watching season and holidays, the dam is packed with tourists and tour groups, diminishing the experience. Traffic Congestion: The surrounding roads are often jammed during peak hours, making parking difficult to find. 3. Environmental Sanitation Issues · Bird Droppings: Due to the large number of seagulls, there's a significant amount of bird droppings on the dam, railings, and road surfaces. Although cleaners are constantly cleaning, please be mindful of your feet and overhead. 4. Commercialization and Scams · Photo Trap: Many people with cameras offer "snapshot" services, but the quality varies. Some offer opaque pricing or pressure, so choose with caution. 5. Relatively Simple Facilities · The dam's primary purpose is for viewing and strolling. Beyond viewing seagulls and Dianchi Lake, there's little else to do. For those who don't enjoy taking photos or strolling, it might feel a bit monotonous. · If you're visiting Kunming during winter (November to March), it's an absolute must-see. The spectacular sight of harmonious coexistence with nature more than makes up for any of its shortcomings. Tips for your visit: · Best time to visit: 9-11 AM or 3-5 PM in winter, when the light is soft and the seagulls are active. · Be safe: Keep an eye on your belongings, be cautious of crowds, and be mindful of bird droppings when feeding the seagulls. · Stay sensible: Be wary of unsolicited photo opportunities and ask for the price before making a purchase.

Best things to do in Dayao (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Dayao? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Dayao offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Dayao

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Dayao experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Jizu Mountain

• Binchuan.Jizu Mountain Scenic Area | 98.3 km from Dayao

Erhai Lake

• Dali.Small Putuo Scenic Area of Wase Town | More than 100 km from Dayao

• : Nearby towns with historical heritage,National scenic area & lake

Zhang Jia Garden

• Dali.Cangshan Scenic Area | More than 100 km from Dayao

• : Sky pavilion for Cang-Er panoramic views,6 courtyards show Bai architecture

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Dayao

If you want to explore attractions just outside Dayao, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Dayao, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Dayao special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Dayao

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Dayao

Ready to explore the best of Dayao? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are some Best Things to Do near Dayao?
Some Best Things to Do near Dayao include:Jizu Mountain, Erhai Lake, Zhang Jia Garden, Shuanglang, Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Dayao?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Dayao include:Jizu Mountain:4.7, Erhai Lake:4.6, Zhang Jia Garden:5.0, Shuanglang:4.6, Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus:4.3
Where are Best Things to Do near Dayao located?
The Best Things to Do near Dayao are mainly located in:Jizu Mountain:Binchuan, Erhai Lake:Dali, Zhang Jia Garden:Dali, Shuanglang:Dali, Dali Erhai Lake Tour Bus:Dali
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