Cultural Dali: Discover the Old Town and Traditional Bai Architecture

Dali, located in Yunnan Province, is a historic city known for its rich culture and stunning natural surroundings. Once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and later the Dali Kingdom, the city played a significant role in regional history. With its charming old town, nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, Dali exudes a timeless atmosphere. Visitors can admire traditional architecture, explore centuries-old temples, and experience the local Bai culture. Dali is a perfect destination for travelers seeking to combine history with breathtaking landscapes. This guide will help you discover the most beautiful historical and cultural highlights of Dali.

A Brief History

Dali has a history that dates back to the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom, which emerged in the 8th century and developed into an important cultural and political center in southwest China. This kingdom was known for its strong military power and thriving trade, largely due to its strategic location along trade routes that connected southern China with Tibet and Southeast Asia. The city of Dali served as the capital of Nanzhao and later of the succeeding Dali Kingdom, giving it a crucial role in regional history and culture.

During the period of the Dali Kingdom, from the 10th to the 13th century, the city flourished as a center of Buddhist art and architecture. Numerous temples, pagodas, and monasteries were constructed, some of which have been preserved to this day. This religious and cultural renaissance attracted scholars and pilgrims from afar, making Dali a melting pot of traditions and influences. The old city walls and cobbled streets still reflect the historic grandeur of this era.

After the fall of the Dali Kingdom in the 13th century during the Mongol conquests, Dali remained an important regional center, although its political influence declined. Nevertheless, the city preserved its unique ethnic identity, largely due to the Bai people, who continue to have a strong cultural presence. Today, Dali blends its rich historical heritage with a vibrant tourism scene.

Practical Info: Best Time to Visit and How Many Days?

The best time to visit Dali is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the climate is mild and pleasant. During these seasons, temperatures typically range between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for exploring the historic old town and the surrounding natural landscapes. Spring brings a blooming, lively atmosphere, while autumn is known for its clear skies and cooler temperatures—perfect for walks along Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains.

For a visit to Dali, a stay of three to four days is recommended to fully experience both the cultural highlights and the natural beauty of the region. This amount of time allows you to explore the old town with its traditional architecture and vibrant markets, as well as nearby attractions such as the Three Pagodas and Erhai Lake. You’ll also have plenty of opportunity to discover the local Bai culture and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that makes Dali so special. This way, you’ll get the most out of your trip to this charming destination.

Top 10 Attractions in Dali

Dali, located on the shores of Erhai Lake in Yunnan Province, is a city steeped in rich history and unique culture. From impressive pagodas to ancient city gates, Dali is a paradise for lovers of history, architecture, and local traditions.

1. Three Pagodas of the Chongsheng Temple (崇圣三塔)

The Three Pagodas are the iconic symbol of Dali and date back to the 9th century during the Nanzhao Kingdom. The central pagoda, Qianxun Pagoda, stands over 69 meters tall and is one of the oldest Buddhist structures in southern China. Flanked by two smaller pagodas, the trio forms a harmonious architectural ensemble. These impressive structures have survived multiple earthquakes and stand as a testament to Dali’s spiritual and architectural heritage.

2. Dali Old Town (大理古城)

Dali Old Town is a walled city with a history of over 1,000 years and a well-preserved street layout. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with traditional Bai-style houses, ancient gates, and lively markets. The atmosphere is a blend of historic charm and modern creativity, featuring artisan shops and cozy cafés. It’s the perfect place to experience both the old and new faces of Dali.

3. Dali City Gates (大理城门)

The four major gates—north, south, east, and west—mark the original boundaries of the ancient city. Rebuilt during the Ming dynasty, these imposing gates serve as important landmarks today. The South Gate, also known as the “Gate of Eternal Peace,” is the most visited and offers views of the mountains. Each gate tells its own story and provides a unique perspective on ancient urban planning.

4. Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺)

Once one of the most important Buddhist centers in Yunnan, this temple was originally built during the Tang dynasty. Though much of the original complex was lost, it has been partially reconstructed near the Three Pagodas. Visitors can explore serene temple halls, Buddhist statues, and a peaceful atmosphere that reflects Dali’s religious past.

5. Cangshan Mountains and Temple Trails (苍山古道)

The Cangshan Mountains rise dramatically behind Dali and are crisscrossed with ancient paths, temples, and ruins. Historically used by pilgrims and monks traveling to remote monasteries, these trails lead past waterfalls, traditional teahouses, and stone inscriptions. Hiking here is both a natural and spiritual journey through time.

6. Erhai Lake and Xizhou Ancient Town (洱海与喜洲古镇)

Located on the western shore of Erhai Lake, Xizhou was a vital trade center during the Dali Kingdom. The town is filled with elegant Bai-style architecture and finely carved wooden façades. Once home to wealthy merchants trading along the Southern Silk Road, Xizhou still radiates the grandeur of that era.

7. Palace Ruins of the Nanzhao Kingdom (南诏遗址)

Just outside Dali lie the ruins of the Nanzhao Kingdom’s palace, which ruled the region in the 8th and 9th centuries. Archaeological remains include palace walls, foundations, and pottery. Though much remains underground, exhibitions and scale models offer insight into this once-powerful dynasty. A must-visit for those eager to delve deeper into Dali’s ancient past.

8. Foreigner Street (洋人街)

Despite its modern name, Foreigner Street has long been a meeting point of cultures. In the 19th century, Western traders and missionaries settled here. Many buildings feature a blend of European and local Bai styles. The street reflects Dali’s historic role as a cultural crossroads between East and West.

9. Confucian Temple of Dali (大理文庙)

Dedicated to Confucius, this temple was built during the Ming dynasty and served as a center for education and moral philosophy. The complex features traditional halls, inscriptions, and statues of Confucius and his disciples. Its tranquil and symmetrical layout makes it a place of reflection and learning, echoing Dali’s intellectual past.

10. Yunnan-Tibet Ancient Road (滇藏古道)

This historic trade route connected Dali to Tibet and was used for centuries by merchants, pilgrims, and caravans. Parts of the trail are still visible and accessible today. Inns, temples, and villages once supported travelers along the way. The route tells the story of Dali as a vital link in southwest China’s regional network.

Accommodation: Where to Stay?

For those wanting to immerse themselves in Dali’s rich history, there are plenty of accommodations that blend comfort with character. In Dali Old Town, you’ll find charming guesthouses and boutique hotels housed in traditional Bai-style buildings with courtyards and wooden carvings. Staying here means waking up to views of the Cangshan Mountains and being within walking distance of temples, city gates, and bustling markets. This area is ideal for travelers who want to experience the historical essence of Dali, both day and night.

For a quieter stay on the outskirts of town, Xizhou Ancient Town is an excellent choice. Here, elegant mansions from the Qing dynasty have been transformed into cozy B&Bs or small-scale resorts. The setting is more rural, offering lake views and opportunities for scenic walks or bike rides through the countryside. Xizhou is perfect for travelers seeking a historic atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.

Looking for accommodation in Dali? Book your hotel or hostel here.

Food & Drink

Dali’s cuisine reflects the rich cultural mix of the Bai minority, Han Chinese, and other ethnic groups in Yunnan. One of the most distinctive dishes is rushan—grilled or fried cow’s milk cheese, often served on a stick and slightly sweetened. Other popular dishes include crossing-the-bridge noodles and sour fish soup, both deeply rooted in local tradition. Markets and street stalls in the old town provide ample opportunity to sample these authentic flavors.

When it comes to drinks, Dali is known for its local flower teas, made from jasmine, chrysanthemum, or roses, often served in traditional Bai teapots. The region also produces homemade rice wine and herbal liqueurs, often enjoyed during festivals or offered by hospitable local families. For something more modern, head to the cafés and bars on Foreigner Street, where local ingredients are used in creative fusion drinks. Whether you’re at a street stall or in a centuries-old teahouse, food and drink in Dali are always a cultural experience.

How to Get to Dali?

Dali is easily accessible via multiple routes depending on your starting point. Dali Railway Station is connected to China’s high-speed rail network, with fast trains to cities such as Kunming and Lijiang. For international travelers, Dali Airport offers domestic flights, especially from Kunming, Chengdu, and Guangzhou. From both the train station and the airport, buses, taxis, and shuttles quickly bring you to the old town.

Once in Dali, the best way to explore is on foot or by bike—especially in and around the old town, where traffic is limited and the atmosphere remains peaceful and authentic. Cycling around Erhai Lake or to nearby Xizhou offers stunning views and access to traditional villages. For longer distances, taxis or electric scooters are widely available and easy to rent. Guided tours are also available to sites such as the Three Pagodas or the Cangshan Mountains—ideal for those wanting to combine culture and nature.

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