3 Days Itinerary in Dali, China - Travel Guide

Days	Description
1	Day 1 - Embrace the Spirit of Dali
2	Day 2 - Ascending the Cangshan Mountains
3	Day 3 - Uncover Cai village and Xizhou Ancient town

Introduction

Escape to the charming city of Dali in southwestern China, with this handcrafted itinerary. Famous for its untouched sceneries, serene lake, Cangshan Mountain, and the traditional Bai architecture, Dali is a labyrinth of majestic sightseeing spots waiting for you. Experience the best of Dali over an immersive three-day journey, offering the perfect blend of city exploration and natural beauty.

Day 1 - Embrace the Spirit of Dali

Kick off the exciting trip in the heart of Dali. Visit the iconic Dali Ancient Town. Walk through the city's narrow lanes, soak up its laid-back atmosphere, and marvel at the well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Next, head to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a symbol of Dali's history and a shining beacon to Buddhist worshippers. As the sun sets, stroll to Erhai Lake to enjoy an unforgettable lakeside sunset. Finish the day with some local indulgence, savoring the area's famous cured ham and other delectable local dishes.

Day 2 - Ascending the Cangshan Mountains

Engage in a thrilling cable car ride up Cangshan Mountain. A stroll along the mountain offers spectacular views of the mountain range and the city below, making it a visual feast for nature lovers. Take a break and sample the delicious local snack, 'Er Kuai', a unique Bai-style rice cake. As you descend, visit the lovely Butterfly Spring, a landmark known for its abundant butterfly population during spring season. At night, immerse yourself in the local culture with a night at a local teahouse, sipping on the traditional Puer tea while enjoying a folk performance.

Day 3 - Uncover Cai village and Xizhou Ancient town

Hop on a bike and cycle to Xizhou Ancient Town, home to some of the best preserved Bai style houses. Along the way, stop at Cai village to experience the simple rural life of Dali. In Xizhou town, don't miss the chance to visit Yan's Compound and taste the local specialty, 'Xizhou Baba', a kind of stuffed flatbread. As you conclude your trip, pick up some souvenirs and local arts and crafts from the bustling local market. Wrap up your journey with a final, savory meal at a local restaurant, toasting to three unforgettable days in Dali.