How to get to Dali

Dali is a picturesque city in Yunnan Province in southwest China, nestled between the majestic Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. This destination attracts travelers with its ancient history, the unique culture of the Bai people, and a relaxed atmosphere. You can reach Dali in various ways: by using the local airport, high-speed train, bus, or by taking a car trip along the region's beautiful roads.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own Dali Airport (DLU), which receives flights from many major cities in the country and is located quite close to the tourist zones.

If there are no direct tickets, you can consider flying to neighboring cities. The nearest airports are located in the city of Baoshan (about 124 km) and in the popular tourist hub of Lijiang (about 139 km). It is also possible to arrive in Tengchong, although it is slightly further away, at a distance of about 190 km.

Rail transport is one of the most comfortable and popular ways to get to the city. Dali Station is an important transport hub receiving modern high-speed trains that connect the region with the provincial capital and other major cities.

The route from the city of Lijiang is particularly convenient: the train journey will take very little time and allow you to enjoy the views of Yunnan. Thanks to the developed network of high-speed lines, traveling by train becomes an excellent alternative to road transport.

Bus services in this part of China are excellently developed and are often chosen by tourists as a budget-friendly alternative. Regular services connect Dali with most neighboring towns, including popular tourist routes.

Although it is better to check the exact schedule on the spot, buses often depart from the region's main bus terminals. This is a great way to see the non-tourist life of the province and reach your destination while admiring the mountain landscapes outside the window.

Traveling by car will give you freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops in the most beautiful places. The trip from the city of Baoshan will take approximately 2.5 hours, during which you will cover a distance of about 180 km.

Approximately the same amount of time, about 2.5 hours, will be required to get from the picturesque city of Lijiang, located 194 km away. If you plan to drive from the city of Tengchong, be prepared for a longer journey: the distance is about 319 km, and the travel time is approximately 4.2 hours.

A trip to Dali promises to be unforgettable, but a little preparation will make your journey much more comfortable. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate better on arrival.

1. Clothing and Climate. Due to the altitude (about 2000 meters), the sun here is very strong, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Evenings can be cool even in summer, so a light jacket or windbreaker will be useful.
2. Transport in the City. The Old Town is best explored on foot. For trips around Erhai Lake, renting an electric scooter or bicycle is the ideal option — this is the most popular way of getting around among tourists.
3. Finances and Payment. Cash may be needed at small markets, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are used everywhere in China. Set up the applications in advance, as international Visa/Mastercard cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Language Barrier. English is rarely understood, especially outside major hotels. Install an offline translator on your smartphone with a photo translation function to read menus and signs.
5. Health and Altitude. Although altitude sickness is rare here, it is worth avoiding excessive physical exertion in the first few days and drinking more water for acclimatization.
6. Local Etiquette. When visiting temples, please dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents, especially members of ethnic minorities.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to focus on the beauty of ancient pagodas and the grandeur of the mountains without being distracted by minor details. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Yunnan!