Hello, fellow wanderers! Let's pack our bags and set off to Dali, an enticingly charming city located in the southwest corner of China. This city is a slice of tranquility, boasting a perfect blend of rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, vibrant cultural diversity, and an increasingly bohemian lifestyle. It's no surprise that Dali, nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, is quickly becoming a coveted retreat for artists, backpackers, and all who yearn for a taste of the authentic, the serene, and the beautiful.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Trip.com | -9% | |
| 2. Cheap | Agoda | -7% | |
| 3. Average | Booking.com | -2% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Expedia | 4% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Hotels.com | 8% |
Dali Ancient Town: The heart and soul of Dali, the Ancient Town is an ideal place to stay. Here, you'll find a variety of accommodations within walking distance of the city's best sights, shops, and restaurants.
Xizhou Town: A town that offers an unfiltered experience of Bai culture, Xizhou is perfect for those wanting a quieter stay. Choose from heritage guesthouses to home-stays for an authentic feel.
Shuanglang Town: If you're looking for tranquility by the lake, this former fishing village turned hip area is your perfect spot. Expect boutique hotels and stunning Erhai Lake views.
Cangshan Mountain Area: Ideal for nature enthusiasts, accommodations in this area range from forest resorts to guesthouses, all providing easy access to hiking trails.
Caicun Wharf Area: Stay close to the bustling Caicun wharf, a hub of lakeside activity, with a great selection of hotels and guesthouses.
Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: This iconic site featuring three intricately designed pagodas is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Dali's rich history.
Erhai Lake: Spend a day around this stunning highland lake, ideal for cycling, picnicking, or simply soaking in the panoramic views.
Dali Ancient Town: Wander through this well-preserved town with cobbled streets, traditional houses, bustling markets, and an array of shops and cafés.
Cangshan Mountain: Hiking up this majestic mountain range offers rewarding views, clear streams, and an abundance of flora and fauna.
Xizhou Old Town: Take a step back in time in this charming old town, known for its well-preserved Bai architecture and vibrant daily market.
Baba (Flatbread): Try this local flatbread, available in sweet and savory variants, including a popular version with rose petal jam.
Erkuai (Rice Cake): This versatile dish, made from compressed rice, can be stir-fried with vegetables, wrapped around youtiao (fried dough), or grilled with sweet or spicy sauces.
Rushan Cheese: This local cheese is a must-try, often served grilled on a stick and topped with sweet condiments like rose jam or chocolate sauce.
Cured Pork: Influenced by the Bai ethnicity, this delicacy is often stir-fried with green peppers or used to flavor local dishes.
Fish Cooked in Clay Pot: Freshly caught from Erhai Lake, the fish is slow-cooked in a clay pot with a rich combination of local spices and herbs, offering a true Dali culinary experience.