Relaxed Dali, set on the southern end of Erhai (Lake Er), has much going for it. Visitors can learn about the ethnic minorities living here, especially the Bai. There are plenty of things to do in Dali for all ages. The Chongsheng Three Pagodas, in charming Dali Ancient Town, are among the tallest in China. The snow-capped Cangshan Mountains are nearby, too, and the gondola ride offers expansive views. You can also take a boat ride on Erhai to explore a fishing village.
Aim for spring, between March and May, or fall, between October and November. The weather is best for exploring outdoors during these months, and the outdoors is what Dali is famous for. Head to Cangshan Mountains and Erhai lake in the spring to see wildflowers blooming. Remember that the first weeks of May and October are national public holidays, so try to avoid them since many Chinese residents are also traveling.
Hop on a bus for a reliable, affordable way to get around Dali. In certain areas, like Dali Old Town, it’s best to get around on foot. Bicycles are also a fun and sustainable way to make your way around town. The town is well-marked in mapping apps, so navigate using one of these to avoid getting lost. If you lose your way, you can always hail a taxi.
If you’ve been to Lijiang, or if Lijiang is on your itinerary, know that it has a different feel than Dali. Yes, they both have preserved ancient architecture and a combination of other minorities. However, Lijiang is a major tourist attraction for Chinese and foreign tourists. It’s almost a carnival scene. Dali is much more relaxed, and you can explore the old town at a more relaxed pace.
