Best things to do in Dali

A prime hiking spot in a biodiverse landscape, Cangshan Mountain boasts 18 peaks, all reaching an elevation of over 3,500 m (11,482.9 ft). Hike from the bottom or take the cable car up the side of the mountain to the popular Cloud Pass trail. A relatively flat, paved path running 12 km (7.4 mi) along the mountains, it offers striking views of Erhai Lake twinkling against the range's highest peak, Malong, some 4,122 m (13,524 ft) high. A temple provides a welcome rest stop, with refreshments and supplies to continue your journey. Look out for the many marble crafts available, extracted from the mountain's rich quarries.

Walk down cobblestoned streets and admire the ancient architecture of Dali Ancient, a well-preserved and restored urban core guarded by four turreted gates. Traditional Bai houses along old alleys add to the atmosphere of this picturesque area, with the Cang Mountains and Lake Erhai in the background. Observe craftspeople plying their trade, and browse shops and street stalls offering tie-dyed textiles, marble statues, and jade jewelry. Sample local food specialties and great tea in many family-run teahouses or restaurants in the central part of town--once an important gateway to the Silk Road.

Enjoy the mountainous vistas of Erhai Lake, sandwiched between the Cang Mountains and Dali City. Take a cruise on the calm waters for great photo ops, or rent a bike to explore the lakeside's array of restaurants and small waterfront towns. As you explore, take a moment to observe the local fishing methods, which involve the use of cormorants trained to capture fish and bring it back to their owners without swallowing or damaging the catch.

Cobblestone alleyways and traditional caravanserais form the trademark of Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town, an important stopover on the ancient Tea Horse Road. The well-preserved urban core of this old trading settlement will transport you back in time, helping you will feel a blend of ancient trade and Buddhism. Walk across the precariously arched, 6 m (20 ft) tall brick and stone footbridge over the Yujin River, and admire its stone-carved turtle head. Climb the 700-year-old Chinese theater stage and expore Square Street, the heart and soul of the town. You can also visit Xingjiao temple, which has three separate sections for Buddhist, Taoist, and Muslim visitors.

Built over a thousand years ago, Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple （Northwest Gate） allegedly helped scare off the area's pesky dragons. The surrounding area is well maintained, with lots of greenery and a pond reflecting an image of the pagodas and providing an ideal photo op. There are quite a few steep steps to climb here, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of drinking water.

Admire the scenic vistas of snow-capped mountains enclosing the vast ear-shaped lake of Mt.Cangshan and Erhai Lake Scenic Resort. Ride the cable car surrounded by lush mountains, villages, and the pristine lake reflecting nature. If looking for something more adventurous, hike to the top. The paved walking trails lead through forests of alpine azalea trees, Buddhist temples, and caverns. Find refreshments and snacks at stops along the way. The restaurants in the village on the lake serve delicious local food. Cycle around the pristine lake and discover villages and ancient temples. Rent boats for an even more memorable experience.

Find local products and reminders of home down Dali Foreigner Street, a commercial strip geared towards foreign tourists. Originally known as Huguo Road, the street earned its nickname for the abundance of foreign visitors here at all times, and the services and businesses that have sprung up to meet their tastes and needs. Dotted with tea houses and market stalls selling crafts, clothes, and trinkets with distinctly Bai-style designs, the street offers an easy, if not entirely authentic, route into the local culture. An array of Western-style restaurants offer a few home comforts for travelers who've been on the road for a while.