Discover Dali(大理): A Two-Day Journey Through Cangshan, Erhai, and Ancient Villages
Dali, located in China’s Yunnan province, is a picturesque town celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled between Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains, Dali offers breathtaking landscapes, ideal for hiking and boating. Visitors can explore the charming Dali Ancient City with its traditional Bai architecture, vibrant markets, and historical sites. The town is also known for unique local dishes, such as Rushan cheese and Bai-style hotpot. With its mild weather and relaxed vibe, Dali is a perfect escape into nature and history.
To Discover Dali, Start with These Must-Visit Spots:
Cangshan Mountains -苍山
The Cangshan Mountains lie majestically to the west of Dali, forming a grand backdrop to the town and Erhai Lake. With an average altitude of over 3,500 meters and the tallest peak, Malong, reaching 4,122 meters, the range offers an impressive vista of rugged beauty, often crowned by mist and clouds. Known for its “Four Wonders” — wind, flowers, snow, and moon — Cangshan offers natural beauty year-round. The Cloudy Tourist Path, a 12-kilometer scenic trail, takes visitors past alpine meadows, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts with sweeping views of Erhai. Travelers can access higher elevations via cable cars, leading to spots like Zhonghe Temple and Qingbi Stream, where the ancient architecture harmonizes with the mountain’s natural splendor. The combination of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and local flora make Cangshan a favorite destination for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
Erhai Lake – 洱海
Erhai Lake, one of China’s largest highland lakes, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. Spanning 250 square kilometers, the lake plays a central role in Dali’s culture and economy, with traditional fishing practices still evident among the local Bai communities. The scenic route around the lake, ideal for cycling, showcases a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, as visitors encounter small fishing villages, ancient temples, and lush farmland. The lake’s calm surface reflects the surrounding Cangshan Mountains, creating a picturesque panorama. Numerous boat cruises offer a closer look at the lake’s islands, including Jinsuo Island, known for its Bai heritage, and Xiaoputuo, a small Buddhist temple on a rocky outcrop. Erhai is celebrated for spectacular sunrises and sunsets, with the lake’s shimmering waters and mountainous backdrop making it a serene destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Shuanglang Ancient Town – 双廊古镇
Shuanglang Ancient Town is a picturesque, centuries-old settlement on the eastern shore of Erhai Lake. Known for its tranquil ambiance and charming Bai architecture, Shuanglang offers a unique glimpse into the traditional life and artistic spirit of the region. The town’s narrow, stone-paved streets are lined with whitewashed houses, each adorned with intricate woodwork and floral motifs characteristic of Bai design. Shuanglang is also home to a thriving community of artists, with numerous galleries and artisan shops featuring local crafts, from handwoven textiles to ceramics. Cozy lakeside cafes and restaurants serve local delicacies, allowing visitors to relax and savor the views of Erhai and Cangshan in a serene setting. The town’s slower pace and stunning scenery have made it a popular retreat for travelers looking to unwind, as well as a favored destination for photographers and artists seeking inspiration in Dali’s natural beauty.
Nuodeng Village – 诺邓村
Tucked away in the mountains, Nuodeng Village is a living relic of China’s ancient past, where Bai culture and centuries-old traditions are well preserved. With over a thousand years of history, the village’s narrow alleys and traditional stone houses offer a glimpse into a bygone era, complete with intricately carved doorways, ancient wells, and age-old inscriptions. The village is famous for its salt wells, which have been a source of livelihood for generations, producing Nuodeng ham, a local delicacy cured with mineral-rich salt. The ham has earned national acclaim for its unique flavor, and many visitors come to taste it fresh in local dishes. Traditional Bai temples and ancestral halls stand as reminders of the community’s deep-rooted customs, while the surrounding terraced hills add a scenic backdrop. A journey through Nuodeng provides an immersive experience in rural Bai culture, connecting visitors to the village’s historical and culinary heritage.
Cuisine of Dali
Dali cuisine, reflective of Yunnan’s ethnic diversity, is known for its light, tangy, and aromatic flavors that emphasize natural ingredients and unique seasonings.
Here are five must-try dishes in Dali:
Rushan(乳扇): Known as “milk fan,” Rushan is a unique type of fresh, handmade cheese from Dali, originating from the Bai ethnic culture. Made from local cow’s milk, Rushan is thinly stretched and grilled or fried to a golden hue. Its chewy yet tender texture is best complemented by sweet toppings, like honey or rose jam, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory. This traditional treat is both a favorite street snack and a key part of Yunnan’s dairy culture, enjoyed for its simplicity and freshness.
Midu Rice Noodles(弥渡米线): A unique twist on traditional rice noodles, Midu Rice Noodles are sheets of delicate rice flour filled with seasoned soy, herbs, and chili, making for a vibrant taste with each bite. Often wrapped or rolled, they are soft yet sturdy, capturing the essence of fresh ingredients. This dish originated in the town of Midu, near Dali, where it has been perfected for generations, showcasing both local flavors and a strong connection to the region’s agricultural roots.
Sour and Spicy Fish(酸辣鱼): Fresh from Erhai Lake, this dish brings together tender fish cooked with green chilies, garlic, and lime, creating a balanced, tangy flavor profile that embodies Dali’s culinary style. Sour and Spicy Fish is known for its mild heat and the way it enhances the natural sweetness of the lake fish. Often served in a hot pot or grilled, it’s a reflection of local fishing culture and is a mainstay of celebratory meals, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Bāróu (Barbecue Rice Noodles)(扒肉饵丝): Barbecue Rice Noodles, or Bāróu, combine rice noodles with marinated meat and pickled vegetables, typically grilled to create a smoky, savory flavor. With its mix of textures and tastes, this dish is popular as a street food and a meal, appealing to those who enjoy rich, earthy flavors. The noodles absorb the spices and meat flavors as they cook, creating a deeply satisfying dish that reflects both the boldness and comfort of Dali’s food scene.
Xizhou Baba(喜洲粑粑): A traditional pastry from Xizhou, this flaky bread is filled with either sweet fillings like red bean or jujube paste or savory ingredients such as minced pork and green onions. With a crispy crust and a soft center, Xizhou Baba is a favorite breakfast or snack item in Dali. The dough is kneaded and baked over an open fire, giving it a rustic texture that’s both crunchy and flavorful, making it an authentic bite of local culinary heritage.
Transportation of Dali
Dali’s transportation is well-developed, with options for reaching and traveling around the city. Dali Airport connects major Chinese cities, and regular train and bus services link Dali with nearby areas, making it accessible for travelers. Once in Dali, public buses, taxis, and electric bikes are convenient ways to explore the region.
To reach Cangshan from Dali Old Town, electric bikes or taxis are popular for a short ride westward. For Erhai Lake, renting bikes or scooters offers a scenic route around the lake, while public buses also serve main stops. Shuanglang Ancient Town, on the eastern edge of Erhai, is accessible by bus from Dali City or rented vehicles for more flexibility. For Nuodeng Village, located further northwest, intercity buses or a combination of bus and local taxis provide the most practical access. Each destination offers its unique charm, connected by convenient transportation for a memorable Dali experience.
Best Time to Visit
The climate in Dali is classified as a plateau climate, characterized by significant seasonal variations. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cold and dry, with average annual temperatures ranging from about 15°C to 20°C. The rainy season occurs primarily from June to September, during which rainfall increases significantly. However, due to its geographical location, rain usually falls at night, allowing for sunny weather during the day.
The best times to visit Dali are typically in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the climate is relatively mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. In spring, Dali is adorned with blooming flowers, especially cherry blossoms and azaleas, attracting numerous visitors. Autumn, on the other hand, is a harvest season with pleasant weather and fresh air, perfect for hiking and cycling.
While winter brings colder temperatures, the bright sunshine offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere. For those who enjoy winter sports, the surrounding mountains provide skiing opportunities. However, if cold weather is not your preference, winter may not be the best time for you.
A Two-day Travel Itinerary
Here’s a two-day travel itinerary covering Cangshan, Erhai Lake, Shuanglang Ancient Town, and Nuodeng Village.
Day 1
Morning: Explore Cangshan(苍山)
·7:30 AM: Enjoy breakfast, then depart for Cangshan. It’s recommended to rent an electric bike or arrange for a private car.
·8:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit Cangshan, including taking the cable car to the summit for breathtaking views of alpine meadows and stunning landscapes. You can also choose to hike to experience the beauty of nature.
Lunch
·12:30 PM: Have lunch at a local farmhouse near Cangshan, tasting regional specialties such as wild vegetables and mountain chicken.
Afternoon: Visit Erhai Lake(洱海)
·2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Head to Erhai Lake. You can rent a bike and ride along the lakeshore, enjoying the beautiful scenery. Stop at lakeside cafés or restaurants to relax and appreciate the views.
Evening: Shuanglang Ancient Town(双廊古镇)
·6:00 PM: Arrive at Shuanglang Ancient Town and check into a local inn or hotel.
·7:00 PM: Dinner at a restaurant in the town, trying local dishes like grilled fish and rice noodles.
·8:30 PM: Stroll through the ancient town, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful night views of Erhai Lake.
Day 2
Morning: Visit Nuodeng Village(诺邓村)
·8:00 AM: After breakfast, head to Nuodeng Village, about a 1-hour drive away.
·9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Explore Nuodeng Village, learning about the local Bai culture and history. Visit ancient residences and historical sites to experience the rustic charm of the village.
Lunch
·12:30 PM: Enjoy a meal at a farmhouse in Nuodeng, savoring traditional rural dishes.
Afternoon: Return to Dali
·1:30 PM: Head back to Dali. On the way, consider visiting other attractions like Dali Ancient Town or nearby Bai villages.
·3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Spend free time in Dali Ancient Town, where you can shop, explore, or sample local snacks.
Evening: End of Trip
·5:30 PM: Depending on your plans, you can enjoy dinner in Dali before concluding your trip or continue to relax and enjoy the evening in the beautiful surroundings.
I hope this itinerary helps you fully experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Dali!