Explore the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Dali with this comprehensive 3-day itinerary. From the iconic Three Pagodas and the serene beauty of Erhai Lake to the rustic charm of Shaxi Ancient Town, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to one of Yunnan’s most enchanting destinations. Dive into the heart of Bai culture, marvel at natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Dali.
Day 1: Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas – Three Pagodas Reflection Park – Cangshan Mountain – Dali Ancient Town
First Stop: Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas (2h)
Chongsheng Temple is located 1.5 kilometers north of Dali Ancient Town and was a royal temple during the Dali Kingdom period. With Erhai Lake to the east and Cangshan Mountain’s Yingle Peak to the west, the scenery here is exceptionally beautiful. Many Bai ethnic festivals and events are concentrated around March and April. The Three Pagodas are the highlight of Chongsheng Temple and a famous landmark of Dali. The combined ticket for Chongsheng Temple scenic area is 120 RMB. Nearby attractions include the Tianlong Babu Film Studio and Dali Ancient Town, with Erhai Lake also close by. There are dining options in the vicinity with reasonable prices.
Second Stop: Three Pagodas Reflection Park (1-2h)
Three Pagodas Reflection Park is located about 1 kilometer south of Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas scenic area, accessible on foot. The park features a pond that provides a perfect reflection of the Three Pagodas, offering a great spot for photography with an open view and excellent composition angles. Most classic photos of the Three Pagodas are taken here.
Third Stop: Cangshan Mountain (2-3h)
From the Three Pagodas Park, you can see Cangshan Mountain in the distance. You can reach Cangshan Mountain scenic area by bus or taxi. The snowy peaks of Cangshan are one of Dali’s famous “Four Great Scenes.” The scenic area generally closes around 3-4 PM, so be mindful of the time. There are two ways to go up Cangshan: by cable car or by hiking the mountain trail. It is recommended to take the cable car up and then explore along Yudai Road, which offers a panoramic view of the entire Dali area and Erhai Lake. There are several snack and tea shops along the way, so you don’t need to worry about food. The entrance fee to the mountain is 40 RMB, with additional charges for the cable car.
- The trails on Cangshan Mountain are complex and it’s easy to get lost. It’s advised to stick to Yudai Road.
- Some locals offer horseback rides up the mountain, but these services can be unsafe, so exercise caution.
- Due to the high altitude, the mountain can be cold with strong winds. Bring warm clothing, especially for the early morning and late evening.
Fourth Stop: Dali Ancient Town (2h)
Dali Ancient Town is located at the foot of the scenic Cangshan Mountain and was the capital of the ancient Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with locals starting their day at sunrise and ending it at sunset. The town is bathed in sunlight and enjoys a pleasant climate, making it a favorite destination for many. It is recommended to stay in Dali Ancient Town, where a wide range of accommodations are available, including youth hostels, inns, boutique hotels, and star-rated hotels. The nearby Foreigner Street and Renmin Road offer numerous eateries and restaurants.
Day 2: Xizhou – Butterfly Spring – Shuanglang – Wase Town – Xiaoputuo
First Stop: Xizhou (2h)
Starting from Dali Ancient Town, head to Xizhou Town, a historical Bai ethnic town with a thousand-year history. The town features traditional Bai clothing, language, food, music, and dance, creating a rich ethnic atmosphere. The streets are authentic and non-commercialized, giving a glimpse of local life. Don’t miss trying the famous “Xizhou Baba” here.
Tips: In some hidden alleys, you can find Bai people’s handmade tie-dye scarves, rugs, or decorations. If interested, listen to their explanations to learn about the rich cultural heritage.
Second Stop: Butterfly Spring (1-2h)
Take a taxi from Xizhou Town to Butterfly Spring, about a 15-minute ride. Located at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, Butterfly Spring is a square spring pool with beautiful water. You can see various species of butterflies bred in the Butterfly World, making it quite interesting.
Tips: For the Bai people, Butterfly Spring symbolizes loyal love. Every year on the fifteenth day of the fourth lunar month, Bai youth gather here for the Butterfly Festival, singing to find their true love. You are welcome to participate or watch. The entrance fee is 50 RMB per person.
Third Stop: Shuanglang (2h)
Take a taxi from Butterfly Spring to Shuanglang, about a 30-minute ride. Shuanglang is considered one of the most livable towns in China and is renowned for its stunning scenery. In addition to its ever-changing natural beauty, Shuanglang’s inns and guesthouses are highlights for visitors. Seaview rooms are highly recommended for their breathtaking views of Erhai Lake. Affordable options include Haidi Life and Peninsula 63.
Fourth Stop: Wase Town (2h)
Take a taxi from Shuanglang to Wase Town, about a 30-minute ride. This section is ideal for cycling, with plenty of rental options available. You can also take a boat trip on Erhai Lake. Located on the east coast of Erhai Lake, Wase Town offers beautiful views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, along with many well-equipped and charming guesthouses.
Fifth Stop: Xiaoputuo (1-2h)
Cycle from Wase Town to Xiaoputuo, about a 15-minute ride. Xiaoputuo is a small island located in the lake off the coast of Haiyin Village in Wase Town. It features a Guanyin Pavilion and can be reached by boat for a ticket price of 15 RMB. Alternatively, you can take photos of the picturesque island from the shore. Every autumn, many people come here to see the red-billed gulls from Siberia and feed them small biscuits, which is very entertaining.
Day 3: Shaxi Ancient Town (Half a day to a full day)
In Northwest Yunnan, there’s a famous saying: “Walk past Dali, pass by Lijiang, but don’t miss Shaxi.” Once an important stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, the tranquil and rustic Shaxi has well-preserved the appearance of an ancient tea trading town, making it a true ancient town.
Transportation: Shaxi is located in Jianchuan County. From the Dali North Bus Station, there are buses to Jianchuan departing every 30 minutes from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a journey time of about 3.5 hours. There are many minibuses running between Jianchuan County and Shaxi daily, with a ticket price of 10 RMB and a travel time of about 1 hour.
Tips: Shaxi’s weekly market on Fridays has been rated as one of the “Top Ten Markets in the World.” It attracts many ethnic minorities, including Yi, Naxi, and Bai people. The goods sold are very local and authentic. There are many inns and guesthouses in Shaxi, offering a variety of choices.