Dali, Yunnan Travel Guide

Dali 3 Days 2 Nights Travel Guide (Budget: 6000 RMB) Highlights: Dali Ancient Town Erhai Lake Circuit Tour Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple Erhai Lake Cycling Eryuan Ancient Town Local Food Experience Unique Homestay Experience Day 1: Arrive in Dali, Explore Ancient Town and Erhai Lake Transportation Arrangements: Transport Options: Flight: Depart from major cities, fly to Dali Airport (book in advance recommended, price about 800-1500 RMB/person depending on departure city) High-speed train/train: Options include Kunming or Dali Station, ticket price about 200-400 RMB/person From Airport/Train Station to City Center: Airport shuttle bus or taxi (about 50-80 RMB) Accommodation Recommendations: Unique homestays/boutique hotels: around 600-800 RMB/night Recommended: Homestays inside Dali Ancient Town or by Erhai Lake to enjoy lake views or ancient town atmosphere Itinerary: Afternoon: Check into homestay, drop off luggage Stroll around Dali Ancient Town (Foreigner Street, Wuhua Tower, Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple) Experience the leisurely atmosphere of the ancient town, taste local snacks (Rushan cheese, Erkuai rice cake, grilled skewers) Evening: Dinner inside the ancient town (about 150-200 RMB/person), recommended to try Dali sauerkraut, wild mushroom hotpot, etc. Night tour of the ancient town to feel the charm of the night Day 2: Erhai Lake Cycling and Cultural Experience Morning: Breakfast: Homemade at homestay or café inside the ancient town (about 50 RMB/person) Erhai Lake cycling: Rent a bicycle or electric bike (about 100-200 RMB/vehicle, supports whole day) Recommended route: Dali Ancient Town → Xiaoputuo → East side of Erhai Lake (Xizhou, Shuanglang, Wase) → return to ancient town Pass by: Xizhou Ancient Town, Shuanglang sea view, Wase beach Noon: Lunch in Shuanglang: Seaside restaurant or farmhouse (about 100-150 RMB/person) Afternoon: Continue cycling around the lake: Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Erhai Lake Recommended: Stop at Shuanglang or Wase for photos and relaxation Evening: Return to ancient town: Dinner: Enjoy Dali specialty dishes (such as grilled Rushan cheese, butter tea, wild mushroom hotpot), about 150 RMB/person Nightlife: Relax at bars or cafés inside the ancient town Day 3: Cultural Sites and Departure Morning: Breakfast: Homestay or breakfast shop inside the ancient town (50 RMB/person) Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: Early visit (ticket about 120 RMB) Experience: Learn about Dali Buddhist culture, take photos Noon: Lunch inside the ancient town: Specialty Yunnan cuisine (about 150 RMB/person) Afternoon: Free activities: Explore the ancient town, buy souvenirs Return: Travel to Dali Airport or train station for departure Budget Breakdown (Approximate estimate for 2 people) Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (flight/train) 3000 (depends on departure city) Accommodation (2 nights) 1500 (homestay/boutique hotel, double room) Meals 1000 (6 meals, local specialties) Attraction tickets and bike rental 800 Local transportation 200 Others (souvenirs, snacks) 300 Total 6000 RMB Tips: Book flights and accommodation in advance to enjoy discounts Adjust itinerary according to season, spring and autumn are best Stay flexible and enjoy a slow-paced travel experience Bring a camera to capture beautiful moments