Things to Do in Dali

Cangshan Botanical Garden in Dali, set between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, showcases camellias, rhododendrons, and diverse woody plants in a scenic, tranquil environment.

Discover the best of Yunnan and her beautiful old towns and idyllic mountain scenery in this classic and amazing 7-day tour！ This tour includes the best ancient towns in China. Explore the well-preserved architecture and traditional culture in Jianshui Ancient Town. Just a short trip away， the Yuanyang Rice Terraces provide a breathtaking landscape of cascading fields， where the vibrant colors of the terraced slopes change with the seasons， creating an unforgettable natural masterpiece. Travel along the 1000-year-old Tea Horse Caravan Road and experience old trading posts such as the ancient Dali Kingdom and Xizhou， home to wealthy Tea-Horse merchants for centuries. Get off the beaten track in Shaxi Old Town， which still holds the same Friday market as centuries ago. Follow in the footsteps of Victorian explorers in romantic Lijiang Old Town.

Explore the ancient charm of Dali on a guided tour of Xizhou Ancient Town and Dali Ancient City. Visit the Yan Family's Courtyard, climb Wuhua Tower, and try local cuisines like Xizhou Baba.

Our tour starts in Dali Old Town and takes you to the non-touristic Xizhou and Zhoucheng. First, we will visit Xizhou, a famous historical and cultural Bai minority town with well-preserved architecture and then continue to Zhoucheng, the hometown of Chinese tie-dyeing. This Dali traditional dyeing process is unique in China and even in the world. During our tour, you can experience minority’s folk customs and daily local life and even better and make tie-dye handcrafted art with your family. Afterwards we will go on a cruise on Erhai lake and visit a local fishing village. • Xizhou: Experience morning market and Three course tea. Bai-style traditional architecture along the old tea-horse road. • Tie Dye:traditional Bai ethnic tie-dye workshop in Zhoucheng, learn how to tie-dye yourself • Erhai lake: cruise on Erhai Lake to a local fishing village

Skip the tourist streets. In 4 hours, your local host takes you through hidden alleys, a real Bai family home, and spots most visitors never find.

All drivers are Chinese- Language and can communicate with mobile phone translation software to provide you with quality service. Start your journey when you wake up, no need to get up early, and control your time freely

No rushing, no crowded tourist routes。 Small-group travel for an easy pace。 visit a village under Jade Dragon Snow Mountain。 Hotel pickup & drop-off included。

Take a in-depth stroll through Dali Ancient City on this half-day tour. Explore the ancient charm of Bai ethnic architecture, climb the Wuhua Tower overlooking the beauty of the ancient city, savor the blend of Chinese and Western cultures on Foreigners' Street, and enjoy the classic Bai ethnic cuisine to please your taste buds. Arrive at the Wuhua Tower. Climb up the stairs, and you can have a panoramic view of the entire ancient city. Step into the Foreigners' Street that is full of exotic flavors. European-style buildings stand along the street, and the aroma of coffee fills the air. Follow the aroma and walk into a restaurant in the ancient city. A plate of roasted milk fan is served. The milk fan turns slightly golden under the charcoal fire. Take a bite, and the milky fragrance spreads instantly. Paired with sweet dipping sauce, the softness and crispness collide, and your taste buds will be immersed in the unique flavor of Dali.

Escape the crowds and explore Cangshan’s hidden trails, crystal-clear streams, and lush valleys. Swim in summer waters, forage wild mushrooms, and enjoy pristine views in this nature lover’s paradise.

The architectural style of the ancient town is unique. Most of the buildings are traditional Bai ethnic group residences. There are various specialty stores on both sides of the street, selling exquisite handicrafts, traditional costumes, and local snacks. Many Bai ethnic group residents live in the ancient town. They are warm and hospitable and still retain their traditional lifestyles and customs. You can see Bai ethnic women wearing brightly colored ethnic costumes, busily doing handicrafts in front of their homes. The temples and Taoist temples in the ancient town are also a major feature. Among them, the most famous one is Xingjiao Temple, which is one of the relatively well-preserved ancient Bai ethnic group temples in China at present. In Shaxi Ancient Town, the food is also a highlight. There are a wide variety of local specialty foods that make people's mouths water. There are many teahouses in the ancient town. You can taste the authentic Yunnan Pu'er tea.

Discover Xizhou on a relaxed walk that reveals its architecture, merchant traditions, and local spiritual culture. Explore the lanes and courtyards as you hear stories that bring the old town to life.

Meet guide in the lobby at 8:30 am and transfer to Xizhou old town in this old town you will see the traditional buildings and Ethnic minority Bai people who has their own clothes then you will visit Xizhou market to see locals are doing business, also you will enjoy cruise at Erhai lake about 2hours , it the second biggest lake in Yunan province which is the biggest one in Dali, it’s clear water and with beautiful Mountain in it’s surrounding, the cruise Ferry will stop at a village and you will visit Tianjingge Pavilion about 30minutes then board cruise again to Dali, the last one is three Pagodas which is built in Tang dynasty with the history of more than 1800 years, it’s the symbol of Dali. Transfer to hotel in Dali city.

takes you to a traditional workshop have been passed down offering a hands-on connection to a timeless craft filled with the earthy smell of clay and the quiet, focused energy of artisans at work.

This activity focuses on meditational hiking which can promote health and wellness at the same time, is recreational. Travelers will be taught proper breathing to match with paces. I also offer private photos of the activity upon the guest's request. In addition, after the hike, you will be spending time at my home. You can play with my white cat, DUMBLEDORE, while waiting for the delectable organic dinner. If you still have energy,we will go for walking after dinner and search for the most interesting tea house or cafe or cocktail bars in Dali ancient town.What a way to end a fantastic day!

Explore the ancient city of Dali on a guided tour. Visit the Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas, stroll along the Longkan, and enjoy a delicious lunch at a popular local restaurant.

While traveling this tour with us, you can visit some important villages on the ancient Tea Horse Road and you will immerse into the diversity of Yunnan. Indeed, we will vary between the famous highlights, some of the must-see places, and remote sites which will give you a unique experience and insight of Yunnan.

Discover the ancient town of Shaxi Ancient Town on a day trip from Dali. Explore the traditional Bai ethnic group residences, visit the Sifang Street, and taste the authentic Yunnan Pu'er tea.

Eat and explore your way through Yunnan’s Tea & Horse Caravan Road, from Dali to Lijiang, plus a unique overnight stay in Tiger Leaping Gorge. Plentiful local meals, cooking classes, market tours, and hot pots galore – the perfect way to explore Yunnan’s diverse culture is through their equally diverse cuisine. Highlights Include: - Visit ancient old-towns and fairytale villages as you discover boutique cafes and the best local cuisine you'll only find with us. - All meals are included, plentiful, and include beer! Enjoy cured meats, fried cheese, hotpots, and dozens of plates every day. - Cycle through Shaxi and the surrounding countryside, stopping at a hidden-away hillside cafe and a unique book store tucked away in an ancient village. - Spend the night in Tiger Leaping Gorge, in your own private villa, with incredible balcony and poolside views. - Explore Lijiang's oldest market before preparing lunch in a private cooking studio with a local Naxi family.

Immerse yourself in a royal banquet with a dance show in Dali. Enjoy a meal inspired by the flavors of the Tang and Song dynasties and explore the Tianxi Garden Royal Garden.

This tour covers some distinctive scenic spots of Dali and Lijiang with included reliable transportation during the entirety of your trip from one destination to another. You will visit Xizhou and Zhoucheng, both near Dali, to witness authentic ethnic minority customs and daily life, in addition to a wonderful Erhai lake cruise. In Lijiang, Naxi culture is an enduring part of life in the region that you simply cannot miss. You will go to Yunhu Village, famous for its unique architecture and culture seen nowhere else. You’re going to love it! Day 1: Dali, Xizhou Village, Zhoucheng village, traditional Tie- Dye factory, Er’hai lake cruise Day2: Dali – Lijiang: Zhongyi Morning Market, Black Dragon Pool, Jade Lake Village, Dongba Museum, Lijiang Old Town

Embark on a day trip to Jizu Mountain from Dali. Visit the Huating Temple and Zhusheng Temple, enjoy a delicious lunch, and climb to the Golden Summit for panoramic views of the mountains.

In this short 2 days private tour ,you`ll visit the gorgeous upper tiger leaping gorge and classic scenic spot in Shangri-La. You will experience the Tibetan culture and food. The tour start and ends in Lijiang where is more convenient to connect flights and speed trains.

Visit the Puzhen Bai Ethnic Group Tie-dyeing Museum in Zhoucheng and learn about the history of the Bai ethnic group's tie-dyeing. Try your hand at tie-dyeing and create a unique travel souvenir.

Visit highlights of Dali including Dali airport/train station pick up, Dali Ancient City, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas,Erhai, Xizhou morning market Zhoucheng village and Xizhou Bai-styled folk residence with this 3 days private tour from Dali. You will be picked up and dropped off at the Dali airport/train station.

Discover the charm of the Xizhou Ancient Town and Bai ethnic culture on a guided tour from Dali. Visit the Yan Family's Courtyard, stroll through rice fields, and buy a classic Xizhou Baba (pancake).

Escape the bustle of the city and discover the ancient Tea Horse Road Town at Shaxi outside of Dali on this double-duty, full-day excursion. After the convenient hotel pick up, hop on your private air-conditioned vehicle, discover the ancient buildings, stone bridges, ancients roads and streets at Shaxi Ancient Town. Learn its history and background from your tour guide, and experience the quaint lives of local Bai People. This private tour including entrance fee, lunch and door-to-door hotel transfers. You can choose to end your tour in Shaxi, Lijiang or return Dali.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Dali Old Town, slow down, and discover the hidden lives of creative alternative Dali dwellers in the villages at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, with a Tea Master.

The length and the itinerary of the tour can be adjusted upon request. For extended sustainable tours in different regions of Yunnan, feel free to get in touch with us.On our tours, our guide will share with you our plastic-free lifestyle. We will help you to refuse all single-use plastic disposables from all venues we visit and provide you with a reusable food container, chopsticks, a spoon, and a reusable water bottle, etc. It’s our mission to encourage and take people to places which they wouldn’t have found on their own. We provide cultural immersion tours, that help people have an in-depth Yunnan experience whilst promoting local sustainable businesses and traditions, keeping the local communities prosperous and alive!

The Stone Forest is a World Natural Heritage site and a World Geopark. It is acclaimed as "the First Wonder Under Heaven" and "the Essence of World Karst"

Explore Dali Old Town like a local on this 4-hour walking and food tour! Stroll through ancient streets, colorful markets, and hidden gems, taste delicious Yunnan snacks at three stops。 If you need, you can also get professional photos of your adventure along the way. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to see, taste, and capture the real Dali.

Discover the rich Hui Musim culture at Donglianhua Muslim Village. Visit the Donglianhua Mosque, explore ancient residences, savor Halal cuisine, and learn about the Hui uprising.

Visit the Puzhen Bai Ethnic Group Tie-dyeing Museum in Zhoucheng. Under the guidance of professional staff, have an in-depth understanding of the historical origin of Bai ethnic group's tie-dyeing. From the ancient origin legends to the modern inheritance and development, admire the exquisite tie-dyeing works and feel the charm of intangible cultural heritage art. Try the hands-on tie-dyeing experience session. Under the guidance of the staff, try to design and make simple tie-dyed handkerchiefs or scarves, and leave with a unique travel souvenir. Walk into the traditional alleys in Zhoucheng and look for a restaurant run by local families to taste one or two dishes from the characteristic "Eight Local Dishes", such as Hongqu Pork, and experience the flavor of traditional Bai ethnic group banquet dishes as well as the connotation of folk culture.

Starts at 2 PM-when the light gets good. Hand-make your own Zhoucheng tie-dye to keep! ,ride Erhai Lake at sunset,then dinner at a real Bai family's table.Private group,max 6,free pickup all of Dali.

Discover the charm of Xizhou Ancient Town and Bai ethnic culture on a guided tour from Dali. Visit the Yan Family's Courtyard, stroll through rice fields, and taste the classic Xizhou Baba. Walk to the rice fields near the Linden Centre. Different seasons bring different beautiful pictures. In spring and summer, the rice seedlings are lush, like green waves rolling; in autumn, the rice ears turn golden, just like a golden carpet. Strolling along the ridges of the fields, the gentle breeze blows, and the fragrance of rice, grass, and soil blend together. In the distance, the Cangshan Mountain is covered with a layer of greenery, and nearby, the brook flows gently, making you feel extremely comfortable. Step into the snack street of the ancient town, where the hustle and bustle of life can be felt. Find an old store and order the classic Xizhou Baba.

Immerse yourself in the culture of Dali with a visit to the Lisong Banquet. Dress up in traditional costumes, enjoy a feast of local dishes, and watch a performance of traditional songs and dances.

Explore unique Ethnic culture and get amazed by Mosuo people in Mosuo Culture Museum. Enchanted by the charm and breathtaking scenery of Lugu lake.

Discover the beauty of Erhai Lake on a scenic loop tour. Visit Dali Ancient Town, explore Xizhou with tie-dye craft, enjoy views in Shuanglang, and stop at Xiaoputuo Island.

We provide Private Self Drive Road Trips specifically for Foreigners Discover the highlights of Dali on a self drive scenic road trip. We provide the following vehicle models for self-drive road trips: Cat A: Mini Cooper, Beetle Cat B: BMW 2 Series, Audi A5 We will assist foreigners to process and apply for temporary driving permit. We can also arrange self-drive road trips for Yunnan and other parts of China.

Experience the amazing highlights of Kunming/Dali/Lijiang/ Shangri-La on this 8–day trip with excellent tour guide and driver

The two days Dali & Lijiang tour covers some distinctive scenic spots from Dali to Lijiang with reliable transportation included during the entire trip. You will visit Xizhou and Zhoucheng, both near Dali, to witness authentic ethnic minority customs and daily life, in addition to a wonderful Erhai lake cruise. In Lijiang, Naxi culture is an enduring part of life in the region that you simply cannot miss. You will view brilliant vistas on horseback and go to Yunhu Village, famous for its unique architecture and culture seen nowhere else.

Shaxi Ancient Town private day trip from Dali or Lijiang,this is a beautifully preserved stop on the Tea Horse Road, blending Bai and Yi ethnic cultures.

Dali City, located in the western part of Yunnan Province, is the prefecture-level administrative capital of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. Dali City is located in the Erhai Plain, the foot of Cangshan Mountain and the shore of Erhai Lake on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It is the capital of Nanzhao and Dali in ancient times. As the political, economic and cultural center of ancient Yunnan, it lasted for more than 500 years. The average temperature is 14degrees it’s a sunshine city but it’s also called windy city, while in summer not hot and winter not cold and all the year is pleasant. During the two days we will arrange your trip to hike at Cangshan Mountain along with the Dali old town, which is a really fantastic day, also we will arrange a day trip to Xizhou market, Erhai lake cruise, and three Pagodas which is another beautiful day, hope you will enjoy the 2 days trip in Dali.

Discover the pottery in a centuries-old village hand-on make your own pottery handcraft bring back to home by master and explore the vibrant Longweiguan morning market on a guided day tour from Dali.

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Dali on this private Muslim tour, visiting Donglianhua (East Lotus) and the picturesque Wuli Bridge Hui Village. Customize your itinerary to suit your interests while enjoying the comfort of a private vehicle. Discover the historical significance of the Du Wenxiu Mansion and Tomb, while receiving insights tailored for Muslim travelers. This experience caters to those seeking a personal touch and flexibility during their journey. - Duration of 10 hours with personalized itineraries - Private vehicle and optional professional tour guide available - Tailored for Muslim travelers with cultural insights - Flexible departure and pick-up options to suit your schedule

Explore a thousand-year-old Bai village and visit ancient salt wells that shaped Yunnan's history. Experience authentic Bai culture amidst mist-shrouded mountains and cobblestone streets.

This special tour contains snow mountain and valley for outdoor activities, Lijiang impression show for culture performance, and old town for history discovery. Why not give it a try? Our experienced tour guide will show you the most authentic local life and amazing landscapes!

Discover the natural beauty of Yunnan on an 8-day tour from Kunming. Visit the Naigu Stone Forest, Erhai Lake, and the ancient town of Shaxi.

This tour is made for people who wants to experience the real local life and culture of Dali. You will visit the local residences in Xizhou, visit the local market and taste the local appetizers like Xizhou pan-baked bread. Moreover, you be taken to Erhai by horse cabin while sightseeing the local village and farms around. You will have a try on Dairy Fan in your lunch and then start a real life experience tour on those architect in unique Bai style and those local living quarters for Bai. While walking in Foreigner Street, you might have a different understanding in Dali and its life.

Discover Yunnan's highlights from Kunming's Stone Forest to Dali's ancient towns. Experience Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Shangri-La's Tibetan culture in this 7-day scenic journey.

Enjoy private travel experience from local professional tour guide and experienced chauffeur, spend full-day to enjoy the marvelous scenery and take fascinating photos at one of the deepest gorges in the world, admire the eye-catching sceneries on the way and enjoy customized commentary from your guide. This amazing sightseeing includes enormous photo opportunities, bring your camera, wear skid-proof shoes and be prepared to be astonished.