How to spend 2 days in Dali

### 🌄 2-Day Itinerary in Dali, China Dali, located in Yunnan Province, is a charming ancient city known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant Bai culture. Here's a detailed guide to help you make the most of your 2-day trip: --- ### 📍 **Itinerary Overview** - **Day 1**: Explore Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake, and Three Pagodas. - **Day 2**: Visit Xizhou Town, Shuanglang Village, and enjoy local cuisine. --- ### 🚩 **Sightseeing Route** #### **Day 1**: 1. **Morning**: Start your day at **Dali Ancient Town**. Wander through its cobblestone streets, visit traditional Bai-style houses, and shop for local handicrafts. 2. **Afternoon**: Head to the iconic **Three Pagodas** at Chongsheng Temple. Learn about their history and enjoy the serene surroundings. 3. **Evening**: Take a leisurely stroll along **Erhai Lake** and enjoy the sunset. You can also rent a bike or take a boat ride. #### **Day 2**: 1. **Morning**: Visit **Xizhou Town**, famous for its well-preserved Bai architecture. Don’t miss the **Yan’s Compound** for a glimpse into local culture. 2. **Afternoon**: Head to **Shuanglang Village**, a picturesque lakeside town. Enjoy the views of Erhai Lake and relax at a lakeside café. 3. **Evening**: Return to Dali Ancient Town for dinner and explore the night market. --- ### 🏖️ **Must-Visit Attractions** - **Dali Ancient Town**: A historic town with traditional Bai architecture. - **Three Pagodas**: A symbol of Dali’s rich history and culture. - **Erhai Lake**: A stunning freshwater lake offering breathtaking views. - **Xizhou Town**: Known for its Bai-style courtyards and local markets. - **Shuanglang Village**: A tranquil village with stunning lake views. --- ### 🚇 **Transportation** - **Getting Around**: Rent a bike or electric scooter for short distances. Taxis and local buses are also available. - **From Dali to Xizhou/Shuanglang**: Hire a private car or take a local bus. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. --- ### 📷 **Photo Spots** - **Three Pagodas**: Capture the iconic pagodas with Cangshan Mountain in the background. - **Erhai Lake**: Perfect for sunrise or sunset shots. - **Xizhou Town**: Photograph the traditional Bai architecture and vibrant markets. - **Shuanglang Village**: Lakeside views and quaint streets make for great photos. --- ### 🍜 **Local Cuisine** - **Bai Cuisine**: Try **Xizhou Baba** (a savory or sweet pancake) and **Erhai Lake Fish**. - **Street Food**: Sample **Rushan** (milk fan) and **Yunnan Rice Noodles**. - **Restaurants**: Visit local eateries in Dali Ancient Town for authentic Bai dishes. --- ### 🏠 **Accommodation** - **Dali Ancient Town**: Stay in a boutique guesthouse or hostel for a cultural experience. - **Shuanglang Village**: Opt for a lakeside inn with stunning views of Erhai Lake. --- ### 💡 **Tips** - **Best Time to Visit**: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather. - **Altitude**: Dali is at a high altitude, so stay hydrated and take it easy if you’re not used to it. - **Local Etiquette**: Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples or Bai homes. - **Language**: Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases or use a translation app, as English is not widely spoken. Enjoy your trip to Dali! 🌸