Unveiling the Charm of Dali: April's 4 Days Gap Year Trip

Yunnan has always beckoned as a destination I've yearned to explore, celebrated for its captivating landscapes and rich tapestry of ethnic cultures in China. Annually, it lures in a myriad of travelers eager to delve into its colorful beauty, and I found myself among them. Choosing Dali as the backdrop for my gap year trip, I set out with a group of friends to uncover the enchantment that Yunnan has to offer.

3 Days Dali Classic Tour

Itinerary: Dali
Highlights: Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Xizhou Ancient Town, Zhoucheng Tie-dye

Day 1: High Speed Train Jouney from Chengdu to Dali

We embarked on an 8-hour high-speed train journey from Chengdu to Dali. Although the ride may seem lengthy, the presence of friends by my side transformed the experience into a comfortable and efficient adventure, making the time fly by effortlessly.

Dali Railway Station Arrival

Day 2: Erhai Lake - A Tranquil Oasis

If your tight schedules only permits only one stop in Dali, let it be Erhai Lake. Opting for cycling, we discovered it to be an incredibly comfortable means of travel. The cool breeze gently caressed my face, offering respite in summer.

Dali Cycling Experience

Despite less-than-ideal weather during our Dali trip, it afforded us a unique perspective of Erhai Lake. The mist gracefully enveloped the entire lake, and the clouds danced with the wind, creating a mystical atmosphere. A sudden heavy downpour prompted us to seek shelter, cutting our journey short but adding an unexpected charm to our experience. The rainy Erhai Lake exuded a serene and calming ambiance. While Erhai Lake may lack grandeur, its gentle beauty invites contemplation, leaving you in awe of the natural splendor that graces this tranquil setting.

As the rain subsided, the Three Pagodas emerged in the distance, standing tall like three vigilant soldiers.

The Magnificent Three Pagodas

In the evening, we explored the vibrant Dali Old Town, a historic town steeped in rich culture, nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, and adorned with profound Bai culture. The town bustled with diverse shops, delectable food options, and live bars, among which the folk bar captured our hears. A resident singer strummed soothing folk tunes on a guitar, creating an atmosphere that was both harmonious and gently inviting, adding a delightful musical note to our Dali adventure.

Day View and Night View of Dali Old Town

Day 3: A Deeper Dive into Erhai Lake and the Three-Course Tea Ceremony

Eager to immerse ourselves further, we signed up for a one-day tour of Erhai Lake. The morning was dedicated to exploring hidden gems along the lake’s shore, showcasing our unwavering fondness for this natural wonder. In the afternoon, we delved into the Three-Course Tea Ceremony, a quintessential Dali experience. The ritual involved savoring three cups of tea: the first, marked by bitterness; the second, a delightful sweetness; and the last, designed for a lingering aftertaste. This intricate ceremony symbolizes the lifelong pursuit of perfection in one's personality. Initially unfamiliar with tea-drinking, we found ourselves pleasantly surprised by the three courses of tea. The experience surpassed our expectations, leaving us amazed at the depth and richness of this unexpected encounter.

Erhai Lake and Three-Course Tea

We didn't originally enjoy drinking tea and didn't understand it, but the three courses of tea really amazed us and we never expected to have such an experience. Subsequently, we decided to purchase several cans of tea to take home, intending to enjoy them ourselves or share the delightful flavors as thoughtful gifts.

Day 4: Dali to Chengdu High Speed Train

Our Dali adventure concluded as we boarded the train back to Chengdu, carrying with us sweet memories destined to endure. I'm confident that a return to Yunnan for further exploration of its vibrant facets is on the horizon, such as Lijiang, Shangri-La, Kunming, Xishuangbanna, Yuanyang... If you share an interest in discovering the beauty of Yunnan, I eagerly await the opportunity to embark on another journey with you.

Our Delighted Customers in Yunnan