Private Day Tour of Dali Explore the Ancient City

Dali , China

Private Day Tour of Dali Explore the Ancient City

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About this experience

Experience the many cultural and natural attractions of Dali on this easy day trip. Visit this ancient city, with its ethnic Bai culture and architecture. Also spend time on one of the largest lakes in China, Lake Erhai, on a cruise. Travelers with a range of interests will enjoy the monasteries, pagodas, markets, and villages included on the full itinerary.

Available options

Private Day Tour of Dali Explore the Ancient City

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

English Guide

Admission tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your private guide and personal driver will meet you in your hotel lobby by 9am and then drive to the Erhai Lake to take a boat. Our tour of Dali begins with a cruise on Er Hai Lake, visit Jinsuo Island and local market. Erhai Lake is the largest highland lake next to Dianchi and one of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China.The surrounding islands, temples and villages are worth visiting too. Golden Shuttle Island (Jinsuo Dao), and the nearby fishing community of Bai Minority do really deserve a visit with its attractive Bai culture and lifestyle, and because of the rare beauty of the lake and its surrounding scenery.

Then explore the Three dazzling pagodas in Chongsheng Monastery, which faces Erhai Lake and has a history of over 1,800 years. A visit to the pagodas should not be missed by any visitor to Dali City. Enjoy the authentic food in a local restaurant.

Stop 3

After lunch and a short rest, we will wander around in Dali Ancient City, which is one of the 'Three Ancients' (Ancient Cities, Ancient Pagodas and Ancient Steles) of the Dali Scenic Spot. The city layout was uniform, with five main streets from south to north and eight main streets from east to west, while marketplaces were neatly arranged within the city, which has remained unchanged to this date. The traditional Bai ethnic minority folk houses give the city distinctive feel, unlike any other Chinese city. The delicacy, freshness and elegance of their construction may be called first-class among folk residences in Southwest China. When people walk along the cobble-paved streets in the ancient city, a sense of primitive simplicity and elegance will be invoked. After enjoying the feeling of walking through the tranquil town, the driver will take you back to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Please avoid Chinese holidays and summer vacation. The price during holidays will be modified.

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dali

Dali is a picturesque city in Yunnan Province, renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and the famous Erhai Lake. Nestled between the Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali offers a blend of ethnic Bai culture, historic sites, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination in Southwest China.

Top Attractions

Cangshan Mountain

A stunning mountain range offering hiking trails, scenic views, and hot springs. The 19 peaks of Cangshan provide a breathtaking backdrop to Dali.

Nature Half day to full day Free to ¥100 for cable car

Erhai Lake

A large, picturesque lake offering water activities, cycling paths, and stunning sunsets. The lake is a major attraction and a hub for outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to ¥150 for boat tours

Dali Ancient Town

A well-preserved ancient town with traditional architecture, bustling markets, and a rich cultural heritage. The town is a great place to experience the local Bai culture.

Historical Half day Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary

Three Courses of Tea

A traditional tea ceremony performed by local Bai women. The ceremony involves serving tea in a specific ritual, offering insights into the local culture.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥50-100

Xizhou Town

A charming town known for its well-preserved Bai architecture, museums, and cultural sites. Xizhou is a great place to learn about the Bai ethnic group.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, museum entry fees vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Crossing the Bridge Noodles

A traditional Bai dish consisting of a hearty broth with various ingredients, served with rice noodles. The dish is named for the story of a scholar who prepared it to sustain himself while studying for exams.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Erkuai (Yunnan Rice Cakes)

Thick, chewy rice cakes that can be fried, boiled, or steamed and served with various toppings. They are a popular street food in Dali.

Snack Vegetarian

Yunnan Ham

A type of cured ham that is a delicacy in Yunnan. It is often served as a snack or used in various dishes.

Snack Contains pork

Mushroom and Potato Hotpot

A hearty hotpot dish featuring a variety of mushrooms and potatoes, cooked in a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish in the colder months.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cangshan Mountain Cycling around Erhai Lake Boating on Erhai Lake Tea ceremonies Hot springs Lakeside picnics Visiting museums Exploring ancient towns

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

The weather is most pleasant during these seasons, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Yunnan dialect, Bai language
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dali is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Avoid unlicensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Dali Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Dali Station

By bus

Dali Bus Station, Xiaguan Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Foreigners Street Xiaguan Erhai Lake Area

Day trips

Shaxi Ancient Town

90 km from Dali • Full day

A well-preserved ancient town on the old Tea Horse Road, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Lijiang

150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient town, stunning natural scenery, and rich Naxi culture.

Shuhe Ancient Town

150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight

A sister town to Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe offers a more relaxed and less touristy experience, with a rich history and cultural heritage.

Festivals

Dali March Fair • March Bai Ethnic New Year • Late February to early March (lunar calendar) Dali International Photography Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and best selection
Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or the local Yunnan dialect to enhance your interactions with locals
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as Dali is best explored on foot
Try the local Bai cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and ingredients
Visit the Three Courses of Tea ceremony for a unique cultural experience and insights into the local Bai culture