DALI
Dali is the heart of the Bai minority culture, set between the majestic Cangshan Mountains and the serene expanse of Erhai Lake. It’s a place where ancient history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
This region offers a peaceful escape with its ancient city walls, traditional stone architecture, and stunning lakeside scenery. It’s a key stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road.
Most Popular Attractions
Dali Ancient City & Core:
Dali Ancient City (Dali Gucheng): A beautifully preserved historical city with a strong Bai architectural style, famous for its pedestrian streets, city walls, and gates.
Wuhua Building (Wuhualou): A grand, multi-tiered tower at the heart of the Ancient City, offering a central landmark and cultural history.
South Gate (Nanmen): The main and most impressive entrance to the Ancient City, a perfect place for photos and to start exploring.
Foreigner Street (Yangren Jie): A historical street within the Ancient City, once a hub for backpackers, now known for cafes, bars, and souvenir shops.
Fuxing Road: The main street running through the Ancient City, lined with shops selling local crafts, marble, and tea.
The City Wall: Sections of the ancient defensive walls, which can be climbed for views over the city and mountains.
Erhai Lake & Lakeside Towns:
Erhai Lake (Erhai Hu): A stunning plateau lake, often described as “ear-shaped,” famous for its clear blue water and surrounding natural beauty.
Erhai Lake Scenic Road: A scenic route encircling the lake, perfect for cycling or driving, offering spectacular views of the water and Cangshan Mountains.
Xizhou Ancient Town: A major cultural town on the lake’s western shore, known for the most well-preserved and impressive Bai-style traditional residences (the “Three Courses and One Wall” architecture).
Haishe Park (Haishe Shengtai Gongyuan): A popular and picturesque lakeside spot with art installations, offering excellent views of the lake and Cangshan.
Jingui Village (Golden Turtle Village): A small village on the east side of the lake known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunrises.
Shuanglang Ancient Town: A picturesque town on the eastern shore of Erhai, famous for its bohemian atmosphere, guesthouses, and proximity to the lake.
Historical & Religious Sites:
Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: An iconic landmark of Dali, consisting of three independent pagodas arranged in a triangle, dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Chongsheng Temple: The vast and impressive temple complex rebuilt behind the Three Pagodas, one of the most famous Buddhist sites in the region.
Zhoucheng Village: Known as the “Hometown of Tie-Dyeing,” where visitors can see the traditional Bai tie-dye process and purchase unique fabric.
Dali Museum: Located in the Ancient City, featuring artifacts, history, and ethnography of the Dali region and the Bai people.
Gantong Temple: A Buddhist temple nestled high on the slopes of the Cangshan Mountains, offering peace and great views.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities:
Cangshan Mountain: The mountain range that provides a dramatic backdrop to Dali, offering numerous hiking trails and cable car access.
Cangshan Geopark: The main natural area on the mountain with diverse plant life, rock formations, and scenic paths.
Gantong Cableway: A gondola that takes visitors up the Cangshan Mountain for stunning views of Dali Ancient City and Erhai Lake.
Qingbi Stream (Clear Water Stream): A picturesque stream flowing down Cangshan, often visited for its cool, clear waters and nearby hiking paths.
Tianlong Babu Film City: A large-scale film set and amusement park built to resemble the ancient Dali Kingdom for a famous historical martial arts novel and TV series.
Activities & Experiences
Cycle the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor: Rent an e-bike or bicycle and ride along the well-maintained scenic path, particularly the Haixi (west bank) route, to fully appreciate the lake’s beauty and the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains.
Explore Dali Ancient City: Stroll along the cobbled streets, visit historic landmarks like the South Gate and the Wuhua Tower, and explore the blend of traditional Bai architecture and modern cafes on Foreigner Street.
Visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: Admire the iconic, ancient pagodas that stand as a symbol of Dali’s history and take photos of their reflection in the nearby pond.
Hike or Take a Cable Car up Cangshan Mountain: Access the majestic mountain range via one of the cableways (e.g., Gantong or Zhonghe) for breathtaking panoramic views of Erhai Lake and the Dali plain.
Learn the Art of Bai Tie-Dyeing: Head to Zhoucheng Village, known as the “Hometown of Bai Tie-Dyeing,” to participate in a workshop and create your own unique patterned fabric using traditional methods.
Immerse Yourself in Xizhou Town: Visit this beautifully preserved ancient town to see classic Bai-style residential architecture, try the famous Xizhou Baba (a local flatbread), and explore the tranquil atmosphere.
Take an Erhai Lake Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely boat trip on the lake, often including a stop at islands like Nanzhao Fengqing Island and a demonstration of the local Bai “Three Courses of Tea” Ceremony.
Witness the Red-Billed Gulls (Seasonal): From November to March, visit Erhai Lake to see thousands of migratory red-billed gulls, a spectacular winter sight, and feed them with small snacks.
Discover the S-Shaped Bay (S Wan): Find the famous S-shaped section of the ecological corridor for one of the most picturesque photo opportunities along the lake.
Explore the Morning Market in Xizhou: Experience local life and commerce at its most authentic, watching locals trade fresh produce and handicrafts.
Lounge at Lakeside Cafes: Stop at one of the many trendy, aesthetic cafes and guesthouses lining the lake shore, especially on the more developed eastern side (Haidong), to relax and enjoy the view.
Local Tips & Transport
Cycling is King: E-bikes and shared bicycles/scooters are the most popular and recommended way to explore the Erhai Lake perimeter, particularly the ecological corridor on the west bank (Haixi). Rentals are widely available in Dali Old Town and lakeside villages.
Getting to Dali: The most convenient way to arrive is by High-Speed Rail (HSR) from Kunming (approx. 2 hours). From the Dali Railway Station, take a taxi, public bus (e.g., No. 8 to the Ancient City), or a ride-hailing service (like DiDi).
Local Buses: An extensive and affordable bus network connects Dali Old Town to Xiaguan (the new city center) and many surrounding attractions, including the piers and the base of Cangshan Mountain.
Around the Lake: For a full loop of Erhai Lake without cycling, consider a chartered car (flexible and cost-effective for groups) or the official Double-Decker Circle Lake Sightseeing Bus, which allows for hop-on/hop-off at major points.
Embrace the Bai Culture: Dali is the heartland of the Bai ethnic minority. Take time to visit the villages (Xizhou, Zhoucheng) to appreciate their distinct architecture, language, and customs, which are central to the region’s identity.
High Altitude Sun Protection: Dali’s high elevation means the UV radiation is strong, even on cloudy days or in winter. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially when cycling around the lake.
Taste the Local Specialties: Don’t leave without trying: Xizhou Baba (savory or sweet flatbread), Dali Milk Fan (Rushān) (a fried or grilled cheese), and the unique Bai “Three Courses of Tea” ceremony (first bitter, second sweet, third lingering aftertaste).
Best Time to Visit: The weather is generally mild year-round, but Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clearest skies. Winter (Dec-Mar) is ideal for seeing the migratory seagulls.
Hidden Gems:
- The Longkan Pier: A fantastic spot to catch a stunning sunrise over the lake and the distant Cangshan Mountains.
- The Bai Courtyards: Keep an eye out for the intricate architectural details and “Three Reflections” screen walls (Sanfang Yizhaobi) in Xizhou.
- Shaxi Ancient Town: A beautifully preserved, quieter stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, about a two-hour drive from Dali, perfect for a day trip.
- Tianlong Babu Film Studio: A massive, elaborate historical set near the base of Cangshan Mountain, offering a unique photo opportunity for fans of historical Chinese dramas.
Top Restaurants
Cang Er Chun Restaurant [$15-$25] – A time-honored restaurant in Dali Old Town specializing in authentic Dali cuisine, including the famous Dali Fish in Casserole and Ru Shan (milk fan).
Zai Hui Shou Restaurant [$10-$20] – A small, traditional restaurant in Dali Old Town, highly popular for its classic Cold Chicken Rice Noodles (Liang Ji Mi Xian) made with a traditional recipe.
Jinshan GuYuan Restaurant [$15-$25] – Set in a beautiful, century-old courtyard with lush flowers, this spot in Dali Old Town offers authentic and well-regarded Yunnan cuisine.
XI ZHOU HAN LIN CAN TING [$15-$25] – Located in Xizhou town, this distinctive historic mansion serves up delicious and authentic Yunnan cuisine, popular among locals and visitors alike.
MeiZi Jing Restaurant [$15-$25] – An established and long-standing Yunnan restaurant in the Old City, praised for its consistently delicious traditional flavors.
Dali Teng Sheng Restaurant [$15-$25] – A restaurant in Dali Ancient Town known for its authentic ethnic fusion and traditional Yunnan cuisine, offering a strong local flavor experience.
Wozai Dali Dengni [$15-$25] – A media-acclaimed Yunnan restaurant in Dali Ancient City with a reputation for outstanding and authentic traditional cuisine.
SHAN HAI HUI [$15-$25] – A restaurant in Dali Ancient City with colorful Bai ethnic decor, serving a variety of Yunnan dishes with traditional flavors.
Master Duan’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – A unique, martial arts-themed specialty restaurant in Dali Ancient City with decor that celebrates ancient cultural heritage alongside its Yunnan cuisine.
醉琉璃·藏好私房菜 (Zui Liuli) [$15-$25] – A rustic and artistic Yunnan private kitchen in Dali Ancient City with staggered spaces and a charming, unique ambiance.
山海汇·老字号·特色白族菜（人民路店） (Shanhui – Renmin Rd) [$15-$25] – A restaurant converted from a traditional Bai ethnic minority farmhouse, offering a friendly environment and authentic Bai dishes.
Yirantang [$5-$10] – A well-known vegetarian restaurant in Dali following Buddhist tradition, offering a simple yet good vegan buffet at an incredibly low symbolic cost.
Dian Niang Niang Yunnan Snacks [$5-$15] – A popular Yunnan snack shop on Wenxian Road, famous for local treats like crispy fried insects, egg-wrapped potatoes, and sweet, fragrant fried milk fan.
The Local Snack Stalls in Xizhou [$5-$15] – Not a single restaurant, but the numerous stalls in Xizhou Ancient Town are the most authentic place to try Xizhou Baba (a local savory or sweet pastry).
The Cantina in Dali Old Town Market [$5-$15] – Located in the local food market, this is a great, simple spot for inexpensive local noodles, dumplings, and street food.
DREAM ISLAND Restaurant [$25-$45] – A panoramic restaurant in Shuanglang Scenic Area, praised for its quality Western food and magnificent views facing Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake.
Seaview Restaurant (ARCADIA SEAVIEW DESIGN HOTEL) [$20-$35] – A renowned restaurant in the Shuanglang Scenic Area serving Yunnan specialties while offering a fantastic lake view.
留白Villa·菡萏驿海景餐厅 (Lotus Inn) [$20-$35] – A restaurant in the Shuanglang Scenic Area with an open lake view, serving fine Western cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients.
海东方悬崖海景餐厅 (Haidongfang Cliff Seaview) [$25-$45] – A popular Mediterranean-style restaurant in Haidong Town/Ideal City, known for its stunning views of the sunset over Erhai Lake.
云里小坐·花音南洋海景餐厅 (Cloud House) [$20-$35] – A highly acclaimed Thai restaurant in the Shuanglang Scenic Area with outdoor seating that offers spectacular lake views.
松云悬崖海景餐厅 (Songyun Cliff Hotel) [$20-$35] – Located in Haidong Town/Ideal City, this spot is perfect to enjoy magnificent views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake along with delicious specialty cuisine.
Sky Cloud Sea View Restaurant [$20-$35] – A mountainside cliff restaurant in Haidong Town/Ideal City with unobstructed, breathtaking views of Erhai Lake, serving fusion cuisine.
The Market Neighbourhood Cafe (Hotel Indigo) [$20-$35] – A comfortable buffet restaurant in Erhai Park where you can peacefully admire Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake from the window while enjoying the food.
JUN CHINESE RESTAURANT (Pullman Dali) [$20-$35] – Located in Erhai Park, this restaurant offers views of Erhai Lake and the mountains, specializing in fresh Yunnan cuisine.
Scend Cafe [$10-$25] – A hidden gem perched on the hillside in Wenbi Village, perfect for unwinding and catching a breathtaking sunset over Erhai Lake; famous for hand-brewed coffee and desserts.
一间海景餐厅 (One Seaview Restaurant) [$15-$30] – An artisan-designed, dreamy restaurant in Shuanglang Scenic Area with lakeside mountain views that captivate visitors.
Fireplace Image Wild Mushroom Courtyard Hot Pot [$20-$40] – A reputable local restaurant in Dali Ancient City with a savory soup base made from a premium selection of wild and cultivated mushrooms, highly recommended by locals.
花意间 (Huayijian) Mushroom Hot Pot [$20-$40] – Located in Dali Ancient City, this restaurant has an artistic ambiance and offers a mushroom hotpot with generous ingredients and a savory broth.
Na Xie Hua Er Wild Mushroom Hotpot Restaurant [$25-$45] – Highly recommended by locals as one of the best mushroom hotpots in Dali, known for its unique hotpot ingredients and cooking methods in a refreshing garden courtyard setting.
Orient Bistro Fine Yunnan Dining and Bar [$25-$45] – Offers fine Yunnan dining with a beautiful and romantic atmosphere, where various fresh, fragrant, and delicious mushrooms are a highlight.
Mengzi Crossing the Bridge Noodles [$10-$20] – A popular spot, often part of a chain, dedicated to serving the classic Yunnan dish, Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles (Guo Qiao Mi Xian).
Xiaoduan Kitchen [$15-$25] – A kitchen that prides itself on its assortment of flavorful meals prepared with meticulous attention to detail, a local favorite for traditional Yunnan dishes.
Dalin Xingyue Moslem Restaurant [$15-$25] – One of the few authentic Muslim restaurants in Dali Old Town, specializing in Halal-certified Chinese cuisine, often featuring beef and lamb dishes.
Longxingyuan Restaurant [$15-$25] – A popular dining spot known for its delectable Sichuan cuisine, including spicy hot pot, Mapo Tofu, and Kung Pao Chicken, offering a vibrant atmosphere.
Yun Qin Barbeque [$15-$25] – A well-regarded restaurant with over 30 years of history, widely praised for its specialty Dali-style barbecue.
Dali Ark Fat Man’s Kitchen [$20-$35] – A retro-style shop full of folk characteristics, famous for its wild mushroom hotpot and Dai-style pilaf wrapped into delicious rice balls.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bad Monkey (坏猴子酒吧): An iconic, long-standing watering hole located on Renmin Road in Dali Ancient City. It’s famous for its rock/folk live music, extensive drink menu (including house-brewed beer), and a kitchen that stays open late, making it a social and essential stop.
Wild Pigeon Folk Bar (野鸽子民谣酒吧): Found in Dali Ancient City, this popular spot is known for its incredible atmosphere, professional live folk music performances, and creatively decorated interior. It’s a great place to enjoy a slightly sweeter local cocktail or a beer while soaking up the romantic Dali vibe.
Sugar Lounge Bar: A British-style speakeasy hidden deep in Dali Old Town. It offers a chill atmosphere with resident jazz live shows, creative cocktails, and shisha, providing a refined, comfortable escape.
Jim’s Bistro (吉姆小酒馆): Situated on Renmin Road in Dali Ancient City, this bistro/tavern is highly recommended for its warm atmosphere, allowing guests to listen to folk songs and sip on wine for a classic Dali evening experience.
Kaki Cafe: Tucked away in an alley off the busy Renmin Road in the Old Town, this venue is a cafe by day and becomes livelier at night. It offers a quieter spot for a standard selection of drinks and is known for its relaxed atmosphere.
Piaoxiang Tavern (飘香酒馆): Located on Renmin Road, Dali Ancient Town, this tavern has a distinct Hong Kong-style retro charm, making it a great spot for drinking and taking atmospheric, vintage-style photos.
Sun Island: One of the most pleasant bars in the Old Town, located on Renmin Lu. It attracts a young, alternative, and largely Chinese crowd and is a great place to strike up conversations, often serving a local specialty like plum wine/liquor.
Chunlu Tavern (春露酒馆): Found on Yeyu Road in the Ancient City, this smaller bar is known for its whiskey selection and friendly staff, offering a cozy and intimate drinking environment.
The Backyard: Located within Dali Ancient City, this bar is known for its lovely garden setting and friendly, welcoming people, making it an excellent spot for a cozy drink and conversation.
September Music Bar: Found on Xinmin Road in the Ancient City, this venue is a must-visit for lovers of live music, focusing on folk songs and local singers, providing an authentic Dali experience.
LUNA BAR: Situated in Erhai Park, closer to Xiaguan (Dali’s New City) and Erhai Lake, this bar is noteworthy because its cocktails are named after local Dali attractions, each with a secret recipe.
Yunyou Huotang Bar (云游火塘): Located within Dali Ancient City, this bar is incredibly lively and has an amazing atmosphere with talented bands and singers, often featuring traditional instruments like the flute and suona alongside modern music.
Sounds of the Valley (谷里回声): An exquisitely decorated spot in the Ancient City with a comfortable setting. It’s internet-famous for its resident singers, whose voices are often described as beautiful and moving, creating a fantastic sing-along atmosphere.
Li whisky bar: Found in Xiaguan (Dali New City), this bar offers a focused selection of whiskey and is located in the Huarui Shichang area.
Herbalist Bar (药师Bar): A unique and highly-rated bar in the Ancient City, known for its creative cocktails that often incorporate local herbs and botanicals, offering a distinct Dali flavor experience.
SENSE PARTY CLUB: A dedicated nightclub/party club located on Boai Road in Dali Ancient Town, catering to those looking for a high-energy dance and party atmosphere.
Tang Dynasty Bar (唐朝酒吧): One of the oldest and most famous bars on Huguo Road, a key part of Dali Ancient City’s “Foreigner Street.” It transforms into a high-energy venue at night, often featuring loud music and attracting a crowd looking to party.
Liceo Dali (Placeholder): A long-standing, renovated venue in the historic center that operates as a popular nightclub, similar to its Malaga counterpart, potentially hosting diverse events including dance parties.
Bubble Car Nightclub (雅兴酒店”泡泡车夜总会”): Located in the Dali Ancient City Tourism Holiday Area, this is a multi-functional late-night venue that includes a nightclub, song hall, dance floor, and karaoke bar, offering comprehensive nightlife entertainment.
FEZ PUB: Found in the Shuanglang Scenic Area (on Erhai Lake’s east side), this late-night stop offers specialty flavors and is great for enjoying the lakeside ambiance after a day of sightseeing.
A Ba Ba Bar Live House (阿巴巴 Live House): Located in the Ancient City on Guangwu Lu, this venue is known for its focus on live music, especially loved by young people and offering a lively, modern concert-like club feel.
Gala (嘉乐): A club in the Dali Ancient City area, noted for its popular music and lively dance floor, attracting both locals and tourists looking for a fun night out.
How Many Horses?: A simple, long-running bar located on Renmin Lu, often cited for its straightforward drinks and being a reliable spot for a relaxed night out in the Old Town.