What to do and see in Dali, Yunnan: The Best Things to do

June 28, 2021 Lean Nau

Discover the best top things to do in Dali, China including Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Cangshan Mountain, Dali University, Mt.Cangshan and Erhai Lake Scenic Resort, Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town, Xizhou Town, Erhai Lake, Dali Foreigner Street, Dali Ancient, Three Pagodas reflection Park.
Restaurants in Dali

1. Chongsheng Three Pagodas

Under Yingle Peak, Dali 671000 China +86 872 266 6107 http://explorechinatibet.com/attractions/chongsheng-three-pagodas/
Excellent
50%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 516 reviews

Chongsheng Three Pagodas

Reviewed By Travdon - Philadelphia, United States

The grounds of this complex are sprawling, and you could easily spend half a day exploring. The three pagodas are great to see, as they've been standing for over 1000 years. But after you pass those, there are myriad temple buildings to explore. There are some buildings stuffed with numerous gold-coated statues of various individuals - not really sure what it was or who they were, but they were interesting to see. The path continuously hikes upwards, and you have to navigate several sets of steps, but it's worth it. Some buildings you can walk up to the top and have great views of the lake and city. The entrance fee to the complex is 75 RMB/person, plus an additional 35 RMB if you want a shuttle to take you from the three pagodas to the main temple (not worth it, as the leisurely stroll is part of the fun).

2. Cangshan Mountain

Across Dali,Yangbi County and Eryuan Counry, Dali 671000 China +86 872 268 3551
Excellent
58%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 332 reviews

Cangshan Mountain

Reviewed By JY-has-to-travel - Singapore, Singapore

Took a Didi from our AirBnB near Ancient town which costed 21 CNY to to Gantong cablecar station. Cabled up to Jade Belt road, and had a very enjoyable hike from that point till Zhonghe cablecar station before cabling down. Well paved route. Tranquil. Few hikers/ walkers. Just need to carry 500ml water with you as there are vendors selling water at each cablecar station point. Xima pool upper cablecar was closed due to strong winds. In my opinion, Qilongnv pools were mediocre. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the walk thoroughly and would be happy to do it once more if we ever visit Dali again.

3. Dali University

Xuefu Road, Dali 671003 China +86 872 221 9964
Excellent
45%
Good
45%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 44 reviews

Dali University

4. Mt.Cangshan and Erhai Lake Scenic Resort

Within Dali, Dali 671000 China
Excellent
62%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 126 reviews

Mt.Cangshan and Erhai Lake Scenic Resort

Reviewed By johndY7436ZA

This mountain is amazing, it can be a little crowded, but if on the walk way you head south, you will find yourself away from most people and when you get to the cable cart, do not take it!! Go down the mountain by foot, you will find some awesome bridges, and the whole trail is next to the stream! Barely anyone around, it does take you out south, but jump on a bus in the Main Street and it will take you to the gate of old town in a heart beat!

5. Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town

Southwest of Jianchuan County, Dali China +86 139 0888 4354 http://www.localchinaguide.com/attractions/shaxi-ancient-town/
Excellent
73%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 289 reviews

Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town

Reviewed By mattodowd - Beijing, China

We were here for Chinese New Year eve and the atmosphere was lovely, with lots of people on the streets setting off firecrackers, children playing and fireworks. I've been to many ancient towns in China, and this was one of my favourites. There are some really quaint bars, restaurants and souvenir shops, and lovely mountain views. Would recommend staying a night here, as the atmosphere in the evening is excellent. There are plenty of hotels/hostels inside the town. Entry is free. The village is located in between Lijiang and Dali. You may wish to combine with a trip to Shibaoshan (石宝山), just 14km away. Name in Chinese: 沙溪古镇

6. Xizhou Town

North Dali Old Town, Dali China
Excellent
49%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 176 reviews

Xizhou Town

Reviewed By greggyalkey - Suzhou, China

I enjoyed wandering Xizhou Town. I have been to many ancient cities in China and this particular city has a beautiful backdrop that being the lake surrounded by rice fields. There is plenty to do and enjoy here. I suggest taking a morning and or afternoon to explore and enjoy.

7. Erhai Lake

No.55 Zhongshan Road, Dali 661000 China http://www.localchinaguide.com/attractions/erhai-lake/
Excellent
45%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 550 reviews

Erhai Lake

Reviewed By ankyfire - Shanghai, China

I rented a bike and rode along the lake from Dali ancient town to Xizhou and the butterfly spring. It was amazing and I’m already planning my next trip to Dali and riding around the lake (more days needed for that tho!)

8. Dali Foreigner Street

northern part of Dali, between Bo'ai Lu and Fuxing Lu, Dali 671003 China
Excellent
25%
Good
40%
Satisfactory
26%
Poor
6%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 364 reviews

Dali Foreigner Street

This street is where the famous cafes and guesthouses cluster along with souvenir shops and other interesting stores to create a little tourist paradise.

Reviewed By greggyalkey - Suzhou, China

Dali Foreigner Street is located in Dali Ancient City. There isn't anything really special about this street as most of what you see here you will see throughout the Ancient City. Dali Ancient City is wonderful. Like the Foreigner Street, there are lots of shops, restaurants and bars to enjoy. I suggest staying in Dali Ancient City in one of the many Inns. I had a delightful stay and enjoyed the warm and welcoming locals.

9. Dali Ancient

Dali 671000 China
Excellent
40%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 870 reviews

Dali Ancient

Most travelers head straight for the ancient city of Dali, also known as Dali Gucheng. The old city is where the three pagodas and Foreigner's Street are located, while Erhai lake is closer to the new city.

Reviewed By 111KItch

Such a beautiful town, Relaxed and friendly atmosphere, plenty of good restaurants and bars, stunning views from every angle. It is romantic, charming and not overly comercial. Well worth a visit!

10. Three Pagodas reflection Park

Dianzang Road, North-west of Dali Ancient City, Dali 671000 China
Excellent
41%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
6%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 88 reviews

Three Pagodas reflection Park

Reviewed By ochassot - Santa Ana, Costa Rica

Beautiful large religious complex, well worth a visit. Plan at least 2 hours on site. It is a 30 minutes walk from Dali Old Town, although there are many public buses available.

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