Dali Yunnan Map: Map of Dali with Attractions

Dali Location Map: Where Is Dali in China?

Dali Location on China Map

If you look at a map of China, Dali (大理) sits in the northwest of Yunnan Province, one of the most scenic and diverse regions in the country.

It's closer to Southeast Asia than to Beijing or Shanghai, which is why the vibe here feels a bit more relaxed, multicultural, and laid-back.

More specifically, Dali is located between two iconic natural landmarks: the Cangshan Mountain to the west and the beautiful Erhai Lake to the east. The old town stretches along the foot of the mountains, facing the lake—basically, it's got one of those “wow, I picked the right place” settings.

Dali Location Map between Kunming and Lijiang

From a bigger-picture view, Dali is about 330 km northwest of Kunming (the capital of Yunnan). It's also on the classic travel route linking Lijiang and Shangri-La, making it an easy and popular stop

Dali City Map: Layout with 6 Areas

Dali City is a county-level city and the capital of the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture.

To help first-time visitors quickly understand how to explore Dali, you can think of the region as six main travel areas, all naturally arranged between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake.

Dali City Maps shows 6 Areas in Dali

This google-based Dali city map shows the 6 area with different colors and main spots. Each area has its own vibe—and knowing the difference makes trip planning much easier.

1. Down Area (Xiaguan)

This is the modern city center of Dali, where you'll find Dali Airport and the Dali Railway Station.

It's filled with high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and local life. Most travelers don't stay long here, but it's your main transport hub when arriving or leaving Dali.

1. Ancient Town Area

This is the heart of tourism in Dali. Centered around Dali Ancient Town, this area also includes the famous Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple.

Expect cobblestone streets, traditional Bai-style houses, cafés, and a lively atmosphere—perfect for first-time visitors.

1. Cangshan Area

Located along the western side, this area covers the scenic Cangshan Mountain range.

The highlight is Ximatan Cableway, which takes you high into the mountains for stunning views over Erhai Lake.

Great for hiking, nature, and escaping the crowds.

1. Xizhou Area

Heading north along the lake, you'll reach Xizhou Ancient Town and nearby Zhoucheng Village.

This area is known for its traditional Bai culture, especially tie-dye (扎染), old courtyard houses, and peaceful countryside scenery.

1. Best Biking Area (Erhai West Shore Greenway)

On the western shore of Erhai Lake, a dedicated eco-friendly cycling path runs along the water—no cars, just bikes and walkers.

The most scenic stretch is from Caicun Wharf to Haishi Park, offering classic lake views, open skies, and a super relaxing ride.

1. Shuanglang Area

On the eastern side of Erhai Lake, this area centers around Shuanglang Ancient Town and Wase Town.

It's famous for boutique hotels, lakefront cafés, and some of the best sunset views in Dali—ideal if you want something quieter and more scenic.

3 Days Yunnan Dali Tour: A Romantic and Leisurely Journey

Dali

3 Days 1 Place View Detail

Dali Tourist Map - Dali Attractions on Map

Dali Tourist Map shows Top Attractions with photos

1. Dali Ancient City (大理古城): A well-preserved ancient town with traditional Bai architecture, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant local atmosphere.
2. Erhai Lake (洱海): A picturesque highland lake offering scenic boat rides, panoramic views, and opportunities for fishing and cycling along its shores.
3. Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔): Iconic ancient pagodas dating back to the Tang Dynasty, standing as a symbol of Dali's rich history and architectural heritage.
4. Cangshan Mountain (苍山): A majestic mountain range overlooking Dali, offering hiking trails, alpine scenery, and stunning views of the surrounding area.
5. Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇): A traditional Bai ethnic town with well-preserved architecture, showcasing Bai culture, local crafts, and vibrant market streets.
6. Zhoucheng Village (周城村): A traditional Bai ethnic village known for its tie-dye textile craftsmanship, where visitors can witness the dyeing process and purchase unique handcrafted textiles.
7. Shuanglang Village (双廊古镇): A peaceful lakeside village on the shores of Erhai Lake, offering tranquility, scenic beauty, and a chance to experience the local fishing culture.
8. Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇): A well-preserved ancient town on the ancient Tea Horse Road, featuring traditional architecture, a historic market square, and a glimpse into the region's trading history.

Foreigner Street in Dali Ancient Town

Architectural Wonders of Dali Ancient Town

Dali Transportation Maps - How to Get around Dali

Dali to Kunming Map

Dali to Kunming Map with Distance and Travel Time

Dali is located 350 kilometers (217 miles) northwest of Kunming. You can get from Dali to Kunming by Yunnan high-speed Train, plane and overland.

6 Days Yunnan's Best: Kunming Dali Lijiang Tour

Kunming - Dali - Lijiang

Kunming Dali Lijiang 6 Days 3 Places View Detail

Dali to Lijiang Map

Dali to Lijiang Map with Distance and Travel Time

Dali is located 170 kilometers (105 miles) south of Lijiang. You can get from Dali to Lijiang by Yunnan high-speed Train and overland.

6 Days Dali Lijiang Tour with Shaxi Ancient Town - Timeless Yunnan

Dali - Shaxi - Lijiang

6 Days 3 Places View Detail

Dali to Shangri-La Map

Dali is located 280 kilometers (174 miles) south of Shangri-La. You can get from Dali to Shangri-La by Yunnan high-speed Train and overland.

8 Days Kunming Dali Lijiang Shangri-La Tour: Yunnan Best Highlights

Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-La

Yunnan Classic Tour 8 Days 5 Places View Detail

How to Plan a Dali Tour - Dali Travel Map

Jade Belt Pathway at Cangshan Mountain, Dali

Seasonal Colors of Erhai Lake Shore

Option 1: Dali Cangshan and Erhai Tour

Day 1: Airport pickup.

Day 2: Explore Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas, and Chongsheng Temple. Visit Dali Ancient Town.

Day 3: Visit Xizhou Village (morning market, Yan's Courtyard, Three Tea Ceremony) and choose an activity in Zhoucheng, such as tie-dyeing. Enjoy a bike ride along the ecological corridor on the western side of Erhai Lake.

Day 4: Airport drop-off.

4 Days Yunnan Dali Tour with Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake

Dali

4 Days 1 Place View Detail

Option 2: Dali Ancient Town Tour

Day 1: Airport pickup.

Day 2: Visit Three Pagodas, Chongsheng Temple, Dali Ancient Town, and enjoy a bike ride along the ecological corridor on the western side of Erhai Lake. Learn to make Xianhua Bing (Flower Cake).

Day 3: Visit Xizhou Village (morning market, Yan's Courtyard, Three Tea Ceremony) and choose an activity in Zhoucheng, such as tie-dyeing. Airport drop-off.

3 Days Yunnan Dali Tour: A Romantic and Leisurely Journey

Dali

3 Days 1 Place View Detail

These itineraries provide a general outline for exploring Dali and its surrounding areas. You can adjust the activities and allocate time according to your preferences and available days.

Reflections of the Three Pagodas

Nature Ride Around Erhai Lake

Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Dali, Yunnan

Travel to Dali with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and rich culture of Yunnan. As a trusted travel partner with over a decade of experience in the region, AOT offers a wide range of customizable Dali tour packages to cater to the preferences of every traveler. Whether you're seeking a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a deep dive into the history of Dali and Bai minority culture, AOT has the expertise to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Popular Attractions: Ancient Dali Town, Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, Xizhou Village

Tour Packages: Dali Tour, Kunming Dali Tours

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Asia Odyssey Travel and explore the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality of Dali. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation.