Dali Introduction

The historic town Dali scenically situated at the foot of the Cang Shan (Cang Mountain) and overlooking Erhai Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yunnan.

Most of the area’s attractions can easily be explored by bike, and good food and cheap drinks await at the end of each day on Huguo Lu. It’s not all traditional charm and romantic views, however. There’s the inevitable recent modern Chinese architecture of questionable aesthetic value and other incursions of functional but less-than-attractive modernity.

On a lighter note, a number of low-key Amsterdam-style “coffee shops” have sprung up like mushrooms, causing some visiting backpackers to extend their stays in order to fully absorb Dali’s sunny weather, friendly vibes, pretty sunsets and repeat plays of Bob Marley and Manu Chao tracks. And, of course, Dali’s popularity comes at the price: The high season finds the city crowded with tour groups, backpackers and trinket-hawking vendors.

History

Dali is the ancient capital of both the Bai kingdom Nanzhao, which flourished in the area during the 8th and 9th centuries, and the Kingdom of Dali, which reigned from 937-1253. Dali was also the center of the Panthay Rebellion from 1856-1863.

Dali is also famous for the many types of marble it produces, which are used primarily in construction and for decorative objects. In fact, Dali is so famous for the stone that the name of marble in Chinese is literally “Dali Stone” .

Dali is now a major tourist destination, along with Lijiang, for both domestic and international tourists.

Coordinates: 25°42′01″N 100°09′23″E .

Time Zone : China Standard Time (UTC+8)