What's the most popular attractions in Dali?

Here are the best places to visit in Dali, including: Shuanglang,Butterfly Spring Park,Nanzhao Customs Island

Dali City

Dali City Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

About Dali City

Recommended trip: 2–5 day(s)

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Dali City Local Travel Guide 2026

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Dali City Brief Guide

Dali City, located in western Yunnan Province, China, was the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom. Dali City is inhabited by a concentration of minority peoples, mainly the Bai. At the heart of this scenic area is Dali Old Town, north of which stands the Three Pagodas of the Chongsheng Temple, a legacy of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. On the periphery of simple and elegant Dali are the majestic Cang Mountain and charming Erhai Lake.

Dali City Must-try local experiences

1. Experience Tranquility at Erhai Lake Take a scenic boat trip on Erhai Lake, visit Nanzhao Style Island, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance surrounded by stunning mountain views. 2. Hike to the Summit of Cangshan Mountain Hike up Cangshan Mountain for breathtaking views of Dali and Erhai Lake, explore lush forests, and discover hidden waterfalls. 3. Discover the Beauty of Xizhou Explore Xizhou's well-preserved Bai architecture, visit local workshops, and experience the authentic charm of this historic town. 4. Learn the Art of Tie-Dyeing Join a tie-dyeing workshop to create your own Bai textile art and learn traditional techniques from local artisans. 5. Discover Dali’s History and Bai Culture Visit the Dali City Museum to explore the region’s history through artifacts, local relics, and traditional art. For a focus on Bai culture, the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture Museum offers dedicated exhibits. 6. Celebrate the Torch Festival Experience the Torch Festival in July or August with torch-lit parades, traditional dances, and festive activities. 7. Savor the Flavors of Dali Indulge in Dali's culinary scene with specialties like Erhai fish, Xizhou baba, and milk fan, and explore bustling night markets 8. Shop for Bai Handicrafts Purchase unique Bai handicrafts like tie-dye fabrics, silver jewelry, and wood carvings as souvenirs and gifts.

Dali City Must-see Attractions

Dali is a culturally rich and historically significant region in China, known for its ancient city with Bai ethnic architecture, the scenic Cangshan Mountain range, the tranquil Erhai Lake, the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, and the traditional Bai ethnic Zhangjia Garden, each offering unique insights into the area's heritage and natural beauty.

Dali City Food Guide

Dali's food, exemplified by dishes such as Stewed Carp in Sand Pot, Xizhou Crisp Pie, Dairy Fans, and the Three Courses of Tea ceremony, offers a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary practices that reflect the region's heritage and the Bai ethnic group's philosophy of life.

Dali City Transportation

By Air Dali Fengyi Airport (DLU): The main gateway to Dali, located ~13 km (8 miles) southeast of Dali Ancient Town. Serves domestic flights from major cities like Kunming, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Beijing. Limited regional international routes may operate seasonally. To City Center from DLU: Airport buses (30–40 minutes) run to Dali Ancient Town and Xiaguan (Dali New City). Taxis take ~25–40 minutes depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps (e.g., Didi) are widely available and often slightly cheaper than taxis. By Train Dali Railway Station: The primary rail hub, located in Xiaguan (Dali New City). Serves high-speed trains connecting to Kunming (2–2.5 hours), Lijiang (1–1.5 hours), Shangri-La (via Lijiang, ~3–4 hours total), and other major cities. Conventional trains also operate but are slower. By Bus Dali Bus Stations (Xiaguan area): Long-distance buses connect Dali to nearby destinations such as: Lijiang (~2–2.5 hours), Shangri-La (~4–5 hours), Baoshan (~3–4 hours). Buses are a practical option for regional travel, especially where train routes are limited. By Road Driving or private transport is possible via expressways such as the G56 (Hangzhou–Ruili Expressway) connecting Kunming to Dali (~4–5 hours). Self-driving is not recommended for international travelers due to licensing requirements and mountainous terrain; hiring a private car with a driver is a more comfortable option for exploring Erhai Lake and nearby villages.

Dali City Where to Stay

Dali is a city in Yunnan Province, China, known for its historical significance and stunning natural beauty. The city's lodging is spread across several key areas, each offering unique experiences and amenities to travelers.

Dali City Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dali is from March to May and from mid-October to November. During these periods, the weather is fine with little rain, making it very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring in Dali is particularly beautiful with azaleas blossoming on the Cangshan Mountains and a vibrant Erhai Lake, offering a fantastic season for a visit. Additionally, many ethnic festivals occur in March and April, providing a rich cultural experience. Autumn also presents clear and dry conditions, ideal for enjoying the golden wheat fields and the large daily temperature differences that characterize this season.

Dali City Useful Guide

Dali, a cultural hub in Yunnan, China, is linguistically diverse. Mandarin is the official language, with English used in business and administration. The Bai people, forming the majority, speak their own language, contributing to the multilingual tapestry alongside other ethnic languages.