Dali , China

1-Day Dali Erhai Sightseeing Tour

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About this experience

Experience the best of Dali in one day! Begin at the iconic Three Pagodas, marveling at their ancient Tang Dynasty. Then dive into a vibrant flower field photoshoot with a vintage jeep. Finally, hop on a bike for a scenic Lake cycling adventure around Erhai, gliding past traditional Bai villages, lakeside cafes, and artsy towns like Shuanglang, with breathtaking views at every turn. This perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure ensures a day packed with photo ops, history, and the serene beauty of Dali—all in one seamless journey!
- Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple
- Flower Fields Photo Spot
- Cycle Around Lake Erhai (if you cannot join, please contact us to customize your tour)

Available options

1-Day Dali Erhai Sightseeing Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Experienced private English-speaking tour guides

Supplement for driver and tour guide (meals)

Transportation: Gas, tolls, parking fee and any additional pick-ups and drop-offs

2 bottles of local drinking water per person per day

Entrance tickets to the attractions listed

24/7 English-speaking customer services

Government taxes

Detailed itinerary

Be picked up by our English-speaking guide and driver from hotel in Dali Ancient Town.

Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple

First stop to the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, one of the most famous landmarks in Dali. Located by the bottom of Cangshan Mountain facing the Lake Erhai, these ancient structures date back to Tang Dynasty (9th century). Built to ward off natural disasters, the pagodas are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of the spiritual and historical richness. Dive into the 1,000-year-old stories and treasures.

Stop 2

Flower Fields Photo Spot

Next stop to the vibrant flower fields, where seasonal blooms paint the landscape in brilliant colors. Capture the moment with a photo session, complete with a stylish jeep for that picture-perfect memory. It’s a favorite spot for travelers seeking a mix of nature and fun!

Stop 3

Cycle Around Lake Erhai
End the day with a relaxing bike ride along the shores of Lake Erhai. The well-maintained cycling path offers gentle terrain and stunning lake views. Stop at your own pace by visiting nearby villages, browsing local shops, or enjoying a lakeside coffee. Whether you're taking photos or simply catching the view, this part of the journey freezes the time of your life.
Before we say goodbye, call back on history, natural beauty and unforgettable moments; while getting back to Dali Ancient Town.

What's not included

Meals not listed in the program

Chinese visa

Personal expenses;

Domestic and international flights/trains

Tourist bus / minibus transportation between airport / train station

Personal Travel Accident Insurance.

Tips for drivers and guides, highly appreciated but not requested

Things not mentioned in this itinerary

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Full payment will be collected in advance, including all admission fees, fuel, and equipment rental.

Important notes

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

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