A well-paced Dali itinerary centers on the natural corridor between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Two to three days give you ample time to immerse yourself in Bai culture without rushing through scenic highland villages.
On Day 1, explore Dali Ancient City on foot in the morning, avoiding the commercial main streets by strolling south toward the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple. In the afternoon, take the Ximatan Cableway high into the Cangshan mountains to walk the scenic Cloud Traveler's Path suspended along the granite cliffs. In the evening, sample local Bai clay-pot fish and wild Yunnan mushroom dishes along Renmin Road.
Day 2 should be dedicated to Erhai Lake: rent an e-bike or bicycle and ride the car-free lakeside ecological trail north toward Xizhou Ancient Town. Explore the historic merchant courtyards of Xizhou, watch craftsmen dye indigo fabrics in nearby Zhoucheng, and catch the sunset reflecting over the water from Shuanglang village on the northeastern shore.
