Old Town Dali is the cultural cornerstone of its namesake city on the shore of Erhai Lake. Quaint cafés and bars adorn the narrow alleys, which lead to pagodas, museums and intriguing monuments. Get a glimpse into the customs and traditions of the locals with a trip to this historic center.
Wander around the central area and enjoy the scenic vistas of nearby mountains and preserved city walls. The town is decorated with elegant Bai architecture. Learn about this historic district, which has long been at the center of trade routes between China and the rest of Southeast Asia.
Explore the intriguing sights in the Dali Museum for a better idea of the town’s past. Consider its future at Dali University. This educational institute is known for the spectacular scenery of its Old Town campus.
Marvel at the spectacular Catholic Church, which combines the styles of Chinese and Western architecture. For a change of pace, relax in the verdant setting of Yu’er Park.
Make your way to the northern part of the town for the Three Pagodas. Its central structure is about 1,200 years old. The three independent towers make up an equilateral triangle. Capture photos of the immense structure with a backdrop of the mountains.
Ride a cable car up to the summit of Cangshan Mountain and trek along the Cloud Traveler’s Path. See the Zhonghe Temple and inspect the array of exotic vegetation on the mountain. Expect wet and warm summers and cool, dry winters.
The district is in the heart of the county of Dali on the southwestern corner of Erhai Lake in southern China. It is 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of the modern district of the city in the Yunnan province. Fly to Dali Airport or Kunming Wujiaba International Airport and take the shuttle bus or train to the city.
Old Town Dali offers a cultural feast, with numerous historic and ecclesiastical institutions.
