Top Places to Visit in Dali

Exploring Dali, a city rich in history and natural beauty, feels like a journey through time. Each attraction in this magical land carries deep historical significance and unique natural scenery, making it hard to leave. So, where are the must-visit places in Dali? Here are some top picks you shouldn't miss. 1. Dali Ancient City Dali Ancient City, also known as the Purple City, is a symbol of Dali's historical and cultural heritage. The city preserves numerous ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with crisscrossing streets and quaint stone-paved roads. Walking through the ancient city feels like stepping back in time, allowing you to experience its simplicity and tranquility. Here, you can taste authentic Bai cuisine, enjoy Bai dance performances, and purchase various ethnic handicrafts. 2. Erhai Lake Erhai Lake, known as the pearl of Dali, attracts countless tourists with its beautiful lake and mountain scenery and rich biodiversity. The lake's surface ripples with blue waves, blending seamlessly with the sky and reflecting the Cangshan Mountains. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the scenic views or stroll along the lakeside to soak in the serenity. Additionally, Erhai Lake is a habitat for many migratory birds, adding a unique charm during migration seasons. 3. Cangshan Mountain Cangshan Mountain, located by Erhai Lake, is one of Dali's iconic attractions. This majestic mountain range stretches for dozens of kilometers, with snow-capped peaks contrasting sharply with Erhai Lake. You can take a cable car to the mountain top for a panoramic view of the Dali Basin or hike along the mountain trails to marvel at nature's craftsmanship. The mountain is also home to numerous temples and historical sites, such as Gantong Temple and Zhonghe Temple, offering a rich cultural experience. 4. Shuanglang Ancient Town Shuanglang Ancient Town, located on the northeast shore of Erhai Lake, is a romantic fishing village. The town's unique architectural style, with white walls and black tiles, harmonizes with the lake's scenery. In Shuanglang, you can wander through ancient streets to feel the peace and harmony or sit in a lakeside café to enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the lake's beauty. It's also a great spot for capturing stunning photos of Cangshan and Erhai. 5. Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are one of Dali's landmarks and a famous ancient site in Yunnan Province. These three towers represent the Buddhist trinity of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The towering structures, with their golden tops, shine brilliantly under the sun. Visitors can learn about the rich Buddhist history and culture, and appreciate exquisite murals and stone carvings within the temple complex. 6. Xizhou Ancient Town Xizhou Ancient Town, located north of Dali, is a well-preserved Bai town. The town's elegant and simple architectural style features Bai residences lining the streets. In Xizhou, you can admire beautiful Bai embroidery and tie-dye art, taste authentic Bai cuisine, and participate in Bai dance performances and folk activities to gain deeper insights into Bai culture. 7. Jizu Mountain Jizu Mountain, located southeast of Dali, is a Buddhist sacred site. The mountain's steep terrain and beautiful scenery make it a paradise for hikers. On Jizu Mountain, you can experience magnificent natural landscapes and profound Buddhist culture. The mountain is dotted with temples and historical sites, such as Zhusheng Temple and Jiaye Hall. It's also a prime location for watching sunrises and sea of clouds, attracting many photography enthusiasts. In summary, the must-visit places in Dali include Dali Ancient City, Erhai Lake, Cangshan Mountain, Shuanglang Ancient Town, Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Xizhou Ancient Town, and Jizu Mountain. Each of these places offers unique attractions, whether it's natural scenery or historical culture, making them unforgettable. Don't miss these beautiful spots when you visit Dali!