1 Day Dali Muslim Tour with Dali Old Town, Mosques and Erhai Lake
Tour Overview
This 1-day tour in Dali blends cultural exploration with scenic beauty. You’ll visit iconic mosques, enjoy a halal lunch in Dali Old Town, and take a tranquil cruise on...
Code of Tour: YET0000066605
Length of Travel: 1 Day
Destinations of Tour: Dali Old Town-Erhai Lake-Dali Old Town
Departure City: Dali
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour:
This 1-day tour in Dali blends cultural exploration with scenic beauty. You’ll visit iconic mosques, enjoy a halal lunch in Dali Old Town, and take a tranquil cruise on Erhai Lake, all while learning about Dali’s history and Islamic heritage.
Tour Highlights
- Visit Dali Old Town: Explore the ancient city with its unique Bai architecture and vibrant Muslim culture.
- South Gate Mosque (大理南门清真寺): A key mosque for the local Muslim community, offering insight into Islamic heritage in Dali.
- Dali Old Town Mosque (大理古城清真寺 / 大理西门清真寺): Another significant mosque located near the West Gate of Dali’s historic city wall.
- Halal Lunch in Dali Old Town: Enjoy a flavorful halal lunch featuring local specialties like Uyghur-style kebabs and pilaf.
- Erhai Lake Cruise: Explore the ecological corridor of Erhai Lake, known for its stunning natural landscapes and serenity.
- Return to Dali Old Town: Enjoy some free time for shopping or relaxing before the tour concludes.
Detailed Itinerary
Morning: Explore Dali Old Town
Visit Dali Old Town
Start your day in the charming Dali Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history that dates back over a thousand years. Known for its cobblestone streets and traditional Bai architecture, the town offers a perfect blend of cultural richness and modern-day tourism. Spend time walking through its old lanes, exploring local markets, and admiring the well-preserved ancient structures.
Dali South Gate Mosque (大理南门清真寺)
After exploring the old town, head towards the Dali South Gate Mosque, one of the most prominent mosques in the region. This mosque has been serving the Muslim community for centuries and provides a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can learn about the integration of Islam with the local Bai culture. The architecture of the mosque reflects both Islamic and local Bai design, creating a harmonious blend of cultural influences.
Dali Old Town Mosque (大理古城清真寺)
Next, visit the Dali Old Town Mosque located near the West Gate of the city. It’s a key religious site for the Hui Muslim community in Dali and serves as a spiritual center in the heart of the city. You can admire the mosque’s unique architecture, including its whitewashed walls and intricate wooden carvings, which reflect the influence of local craftsmanship. The mosque is also a place of worship, so you can learn about Islamic practices in the region.
Lunch: Halal Dining in Dali Old Town
Halal Lunch in Dali Old Town
For lunch, enjoy an authentic halal meal in one of the local restaurants in Dali Old Town. You’ll be able to sample a variety of Uyghur and Hui Muslim dishes, such as:
- Lamb Skewers (羊肉串): Grilled lamb on skewers, seasoned with cumin and chili powder.
- Pilaf (抓饭): A flavorful dish made with rice, meat (typically lamb or chicken), vegetables, and spices.
- Lagman (拉面): Hand-pulled noodles, often served with beef, lamb, and fresh vegetables.
- Dapanji (大盘鸡): A hearty dish of chicken cooked with vegetables, potatoes, and spicy seasonings.
These dishes are popular among locals and are a must-try for any Muslim traveler in Dali.
Afternoon: Erhai Lake Cruise
Erhai Lake Cruise
In the afternoon, travel to Erhai Lake, Dali’s largest freshwater lake and one of the most scenic spots in the region. You will board a boat for a leisurely cruise on Erhai Lake that takes you through the Ecological Corridor. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and small fishing villages, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the environment.
During the cruise, you’ll witness the beauty of the lake’s clear waters, observe local fishermen at work, and take in the stunning mountain views. The Ecological Corridor is home to many migratory birds, making it a haven for nature lovers.
The lake’s serene atmosphere offers a refreshing break from the bustle of the town, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and reflective moment.
Return to Dali Old Town
After the cruise, return to Dali Old Town. You’ll have some free time to explore the area at your own pace. This is a great opportunity to wander through the town’s narrow lanes, shop for souvenirs such as handmade Bai textiles, carved wooden crafts, and local dried fruits. Alternatively, you can relax at a local café or tea house and enjoy the charming ambiance of the town.
Muslim Travel Tips in Dali
Halal Food in Dali
Dali offers a variety of halal food options, especially in the Old Town area. Many of the restaurants here cater to the local Uyghur and Hui Muslim communities, serving authentic and flavorful dishes. Some popular halal restaurants to try include:
- Uyghur Halal Restaurant: Specializing in grilled lamb skewers and pilaf.
- Dali Muslim Restaurant: Known for its lagman and big plate chicken.
It’s always a good idea to check with locals or your guide for recommendations on halal restaurants, as the food scene in Dali is constantly evolving.
Prayer Facilities
There are a few mosques in Dali that provide prayer facilities for Muslim travelers. The Dali South Gate Mosque and Dali Old Town Mosque are both accessible and welcome visitors. It’s recommended to inquire about prayer times with your guide or the mosque staff to ensure you can participate in prayers during your visit.
Respect Local Customs
While Dali is a welcoming city, it’s important to respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites:
- Dress Modestly: Ensure that your attire is respectful, especially when visiting mosques. It’s advisable to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Follow Local Etiquette: When entering mosques, it’s customary to remove your shoes. Be respectful during prayers and avoid speaking loudly or interrupting the peaceful atmosphere.
Language and Communication
- Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Dali, though Uyghur and Hui are also spoken in the Muslim community. Most people working in the tourism industry understand basic English, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for English-speaking travelers.
- If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to ask your guide or local residents for help.
Currency and Payments
- While major tourist spots in Dali accept credit cards, smaller shops and restaurants in the Old Town may prefer cash. ATMs are available in Dali Old Town, and most places accept Chinese Yuan (CNY). Be sure to carry some cash with you for convenience.
Service Excluded:
- Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets; Chinese visa fees; Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
- Single room supplement;
- Tips to guides and drivers;
- Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
- Personal travel accident insurance;
- All optional programs.
Travel Tips:
- Visitors are advised to always carry changes of clothing due to the large variations in temperature between day and night.
- The climate is relatively dry, so drink more water every day.
- Protecting oneself from strong UV radiation at high altitude.
- Protecting oneself from altitude sickness. Lessen the effects of altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise and have plenty of rest.
- Respect local customs , habits, and religious beliefs.
- When take photos, please pay attention to your safety, do not shoot in dangerous areas.
