How to Get to Dali & Travel Around: A Complete Transportation Guide for 2025

By, luxtour2025

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DaliDali — a dream cradled between the majestic Cangshan Mountains and the shimmering expanse of Erhai Lake — calls to travelers with its timeless charm and ethereal landscapes. Whether you arrive by sky, rail, or road, the journey to this ancient crossroads is as much a part of the adventure as the town itself.

Getting to Dali

By Air

Dali Airport (DLU) stands just 13 km from Dali Ancient Town, welcoming domestic flights from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu. As air routes expand, more frequent flights make Dali increasingly accessible for travelers seeking a quick escape to the mountains.

From the airport, a taxi or shuttle bus provides an easy transfer into the heart of Dali, letting you glide past fields and distant mountain silhouettes as you approach the old city walls.

By Train

The rise of China’s high-speed rail network has woven Dali more closely into the national tapestry. High-speed trains from Kunming reach Dali in approximately two hours, whisking you through rolling highland scenery in comfort.

For those preferring a slower rhythm, traditional trains also operate, taking around 3–4 hours from Kunming and connecting to other regional cities. Dali Railway Station is conveniently located near the city center, offering smooth access to ancient town alleys, lakeshore bike paths, and beyond.

By Bus

Long-distance buses connect Dali to most cities within Yunnan province and neighboring regions. The main bus station, situated near the ancient town, allows travelers to disembark and step almost directly into the winding streets and markets. While slower than flights or trains, buses provide a scenic, contemplative approach to this storied destination.

Traveling Around Dali

Walking & Cycling

Dali Ancient Town feels as though it was designed for wandering. Cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and ancient stone gates invite endless exploration on foot.

For those longing to trace longer loops around Erhai Lake or venture into village life, bicycles offer the perfect balance of freedom and immersion. Gentle breezes, lake reflections, and the distant snow-tipped peaks accompany you at every turn.

Local Buses

An efficient local bus network knits together Dali’s highlights — from the poetic serenity of Erhai Lake to the hiking trails of Cangshan. Affordable and frequent, buses are a great option for visitors seeking to explore further afield while observing daily life along the way.

Taxis

In and around the ancient town and central city areas, taxis are plentiful and convenient. They provide a comfortable option for travelers with luggage, or those aiming to reach more remote spots without the constraints of a fixed schedule.

Boat Cruises on Erhai Lake

A boat cruise on Erhai Lake offers a tranquil vantage point from which to watch the mountain shadows ripple across the water. Whether you drift past Bai fishing villages or pause to visit island temples, this experience connects you deeply to Dali’s natural poetry.

Private Transfers with LuxTourCN

For those who dream of a seamless, personalized journey, LuxTourCN (LTC) offers private transfer services tailored to each traveler’s pace and preferences. From smooth airport pickups to curated day tours, LTC ensures you focus on the pure joy of discovery — leaving the details and logistics in careful hands.

Let us craft your Dali travel experience into a story of effortless elegance and unexpected wonder, whether you’re crossing old bridges, cycling along jade-colored shores, or standing beneath the starlit sky.

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