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Old towns & culture

Dali and Erhai Lake

An old town of the Bai people between the Cangshan Mountains and a long blue lake.

Dali's old town has stone streets, courtyards and the Cangshan mountains behind it. Erhai Lake lies just to the east, and the road along its shore is a favourite for cycling.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Day 1High-speed train from Kunming, about two hours. Settle in and walk the old town.
  2. Day 2The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple in the morning. In the afternoon, a drive or bike ride along Erhai Lake.
  3. Day 3A slow morning, then the train back to Kunming.

Good to know

Dali is a little higher than Kunming. After surgery or dental treatment, check with your doctor before you go. The dry months, roughly November to April, have the clearest skies.

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