Discovering Dali: A Charming Stop in Yunnan Province

During our journey through Yunnan, we spent two nights in the enchanting city of Dali. We stayed in the heart of the Old Town at a lovely place called Serenity Homestay. The accommodation was cosy, with friendly hosts and a perfect space to safely store our bicycles—ideal for those exploring on two wheels. We highly recommend staying in Dali Old Town, which holds much more charm than the newer districts. With its cobbled streets, traditional Bai-style architecture, and relaxed pace of life, it’s the perfect base to discover the area. Here are our six must-do experiences in Dali, each rich with a touch of history and local flavour: 🔸 ① The Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple The Three Pagodas are Dali’s most iconic landmark. Built during the Tang Dynasty (9th century), these elegant structures were designed to protect the region from earthquakes. The central pagoda, Qianxun, is nearly 70 meters tall and incredibly well-preserved. 📸 Pro tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to capture the perfect reflection of the pagodas in the water for a stunning photo. 🔸 ② A Peaceful Stroll Through Dali Old Town Once a key stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, Dali Old Town is a delightful place to wander. Its streets are lined with historic stone buildings, small shops, and hidden courtyards. 🌅 Best time: Go early in the morning, when the town is still sleepy and free of crowds. It’s the perfect moment to enjoy its authentic charm. 🔸 ③ The Catholic Church Tucked away in a quiet corner, this unique church was built by French missionaries in the early 20th century. It blends Gothic elements with traditional Bai architecture, offering a peaceful space to rest and reflect. ⛪ It's also a symbol of Dali’s historical openness to other cultures and religions. 🔸 ④ The South Gate (南门) The South Gate is one of the main entrances to Dali Old Town, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (14th century). It’s an excellent example of ancient military architecture. 🧱 Climb the steps for a wonderful view over the rooftops of the old city and the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain. 🔸 ⑤ Cycling Around Erhai Lake Erhai Lake, whose name means "Ear Sea" due to its shape, offers one of the most scenic rides in Yunnan. The road hugs the lake’s edge, offering views of the Cangshan Mountains, small fishing villages, and flower fields. 🚲 Along the way, we spotted unusual vehicles, including "motorbike-dogs," and witnessed several wedding photoshoots—a charming mix of tradition and modern love stories. 🔸 ⑥ Dinner at 一品香·木氏土家菜音乐餐厅 This local restaurant serves flavorful dishes. We trusted the waiter’s recommendations, and every dish was a delight. 🎶 The atmosphere, the friendly staff, and the unique cuisine made it one of our favourite meals in Dali. 🏁 Final Thoughts Dali is a gem in Yunnan—rich in history, beautiful landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. With just two days, you can explore its highlights and still feel the slow, magical rhythm of life here. It’s a destination we’ll remember fondly, and one we’d gladly return to.