DaliOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Ancient Kingdoms to a Ming Dynasty Fortress

Dali's history shows human activity from 4,000 years ago. Its significant role began in the 8th century AD when local Bai tribes formed the Nanzhao Kingdom. Around 738 AD, Dali became its political center, controlling trade routes. The Nanzhao Kingdom operated for nearly two centuries before its overthrow in 902 AD, leading to a period of instability with several short-lived regimes.

In 937 AD, Duan Siping, a Bai lord, founded the Dali Kingdom, establishing the city as his capital. This Buddhist state lasted over 300 years, until 1253, when Mongol forces led by Kublai Khan conquered it. The Mongols moved the political capital of Yunnan to Kunming, reducing Dali's administrative importance. A reconstruction of Dali began around 1382, during the early Ming Dynasty, which shaped the appearance of the modern Dali Old Town with its surrounding walls and gates.

A Strategic Hub on the Southern Silk Road

Dali's location between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake made it a natural fortress and a trade hub. For centuries, it served as a gateway on the southwestern section of the Silk Road, facilitating trade with South and Southeast Asia, Tibet, and India. This trading network brought wealth and cultural exchange to the city. Even after the Mongol conquest, Dali remained a trading town on the Ancient Tea and Horse Road, acting as a northern stop for tea traders and an eastern stopping point for Tibetans bringing herbal medicines, salt, and yak products. The city's legacy as a cultural and economic center is evident in its architecture and the Bai minority culture present today.

• —South Gate (Nanmen) — This is the oldest gate of Dali Old Town, with a history spanning over 600 years. It serves as an entrance to the ancient city. The inscription "Da Li" on the city wall was written by Guo Moruo, a modern Chinese writer.
• —Wuhua Lou Tower — Located in the center of Dali Ancient City, this three-tiered timber tower has a history of over 1,200 years. Originally built in the 8th century during the Tang Dynasty as the administrative center of the Nanzhao Kingdom, it served as a royal palace and reception hall. The current structure was rebuilt in 1998 based on historical records, showcasing traditional Bai craftsmanship and offering views of the old city.
• —Renmin Road (Renmin Lu) — This street within Dali Old Town has shops and restaurants. It is a place to observe local life and find various goods, from tea to local snacks.
• —Yu'er Park — A green space within the old town, offering a quiet area away from the streets. It is a spot for a stroll and to observe local residents.
• —North Gate (Beimen) — This gate leads towards local markets and neighborhoods. It is a starting point for morning walks and to find local snacks.
• —Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple — These pagodas, first built in the 9th and 10th centuries during the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, are a symbol of Dali. They are part of a larger temple complex and reflect the Buddhist influence in the region's history.
• —Erhai Gate (East Gate) — This gate provides access to the eastern side of Dali Old Town. It is a point to begin exploring the areas closer to Erhai Lake. Many travelers start their cycling trips around the lake from this vicinity.

The best times to visit Dali are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, temperatures range from 15-25°C, with cherry blossoms around Erhai Lake and wildflowers on Cangshan Mountain slopes. March and April are good for photography, though mornings and evenings can be cool. Autumn offers temperatures of 15-24°C, minimal rainfall, and clear skies, suitable for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August) is the rainy season, with afternoon thunderstorms, though mornings are usually clear. Landscapes are green, but mountain views may be obscured by clouds. Winter (December to February) has fewer tourists, mild daytime temperatures (10-18°C), and clear skies, often with snow-capped Cangshan peaks and migratory seagulls on Erhai Lake. Avoid July and August if you dislike rain, as these are the wettest months.

Dali's transportation hub is Xiaguan, the modern city center, about 15 km south of Dali Old Town. Dali Railway Station is in Xiaguan, offering high-speed trains to Kunming (2-3 hours) and Lijiang (1.5-2.5 hours). From the railway station, take public bus route 8 (40-70 minutes, around CNY 3) or a taxi (around CNY 45-50) to Dali Old Town. Dali Fengyi Airport (DLU) is about 13 km from Xiaguan and 1 hour by taxi (around CNY 80-100) to Dali Old Town. Airport shuttle buses are available for around CNY 25.

Within Dali Old Town, walking is the most convenient way to explore the narrow streets. For Erhai Lake, renting an electric scooter (around CNY 50-100 per day) or a bicycle is common for the western shore. Public buses connect Dali Old Town with attractions like Cangshan Mountain and Xizhou Ancient Town. Taxis are available, but negotiate the fare beforehand, especially from transport hubs.