Dali, Yunnan: 3-Day, 2-Night Travel Guide

Trip Highlights: Erhai Lake cycling, Ancient City stroll, Cangshan Mountain hiking, experiencing Bai ethnic culture Budget Allocation: Transportation: 1000 RMB (Round-trip flights/high-speed rail) Accommodation: 800 RMB (Two nights in a characteristic guesthouse) Dining: 600 RMB (Sampling local delicacies) Tickets & Activities: 1000 RMB (Attraction tickets, bike rental, cable car, etc.) Others: 600 RMB (Souvenirs, snacks, etc.) Itinerary: Day 1: Erhai Lake Cycling & Dali Ancient City Morning: Arrive in Dali, check into your guesthouse, and rest for a bit. Noon: Savor local specialties such as Ersi (rice noodles) and Rushan (milk fan). Afternoon: Rent a bicycle or electric bike and cycle along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, enjoying the beautiful scenery of Erhai Lake. Recommended route: Caicun Pier - Panxi Village - Corridor Bridge. Evening: Return to Dali Ancient City, stroll along Renmin Road and Foreigner Street, and soak in the ancient city's relaxed atmosphere. Night: Enjoy dinner within the ancient city. Recommended Bai ethnic dishes include sour and spicy fish and braised chicken. Day 2: Cangshan Mountain Hiking & Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple Morning: Take the Gantong Cableway up Cangshan Mountain, hike along the Yutai Road, and admire the nineteen peaks of Cangshan Mountain and the panoramic view of Erhai Lake. Noon: Have a simple meal on Cangshan Mountain. Afternoon: After descending the mountain, visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple to learn about Dali's history and culture. Evening: Return to the ancient city and relax at a cafe or bar. Night: Enjoy Dali BBQ or hotpot. Day 3: Xizhou Ancient Town & Departure Morning: Head to Xizhou Ancient Town, visit attractions like the Yan Family Compound and Zhuanjiao Tower, and experience the architectural style of Bai ethnic residences. Noon: In Xizhou, try local snacks such as Xizhou Baba and cold chicken rice noodles. Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you can choose to buy souvenirs in Xizhou or Dali Ancient City, such as tie-dye products and silver ornaments. Evening: Head to the airport or train station to conclude your trip. Accommodation Recommendations: Dali Ancient City: Manxin Hotel Dali Ancient City, Dali Ancient City No. 1 Courtyard Erhai Lake Side: Dali Erhai Wake Up Seaview Inn, Dali Erhaimen Boutique Hotel Food Recommendations: Dali Ancient City: Zaihuishou Cold Chicken Rice Noodles, A Po Cured Pork Ribs, Stone Plate BBQ Xizhou Ancient Town: Xizhou Baba, Qingliang Xiaowu Tips: Dali has strong sunlight, so remember to protect yourself from the sun. Be safe when cycling around Erhai Lake and obey traffic rules. Respect local ethnic customs and traditions. Book flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Optional Activities: If you have extra time, you can add an extra day to visit Shuanglang Ancient Town or Shaxi Ancient Town. If you're interested in photography, you can wake up early to watch the sunrise at Longkan Pier. Hope this guide helps you plan a pleasant trip to Dali!