The Lily Pad Inn
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Avg. S$15 /night, 1/15 - 1/16
S$40
per night
S$28
per night
S$15
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#2 of 44 hostels in Dali
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HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Chinese
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Yoga classes
Restaurant
Horseback riding
Table tennis
Books, DVDs, music for children
Indoor play area for children
Street parking
Wifi
Fitness classes
Personal trainer
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Car hire
Business Centre with Internet Access
Meeting rooms
Baggage storage
Concierge
Convenience store
Non-smoking hotel
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
Express check-in / check-out
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Room features
Room service
Bottled water
Electric blanket
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Location
No.13, Group10, Ximen Village, Dali 671003 China
Name/address in local language
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 76 out of 100
76
Dali Airport
16.2 km•
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38 Restaurants
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Detailed Reviews
We travelled as family with a toddler and stayed for 3 nights.
Room: With an oriental touch, we enjoyed our room which had a lovely view of the Cangshan. Waking up to the sunshine falling on the mountains was a real delight (King Room with Mountain View)
Service: The staff was polite and answered to all our questions. While the staff at the reception kept changing, the lady manager was very helpful in giving travel tips to us around sightseeing. Housekeeping was done daily.
Breakfast: Being a hostel/Inn we went ahead and booked breakfast for throughout our stay. Must say we weren't satisfied with what we were served as we had no option and had to eat congee and buns. one meal is ok but not all. On our day of check-out we were declined breakfast as the cook wasn't available which really put us off as we had hurried to be on time with a toddler and no food to eat. our only complaint was let us know a night before so we are better prepared. We expressed our grievance to the lady manager who did her best to undo the mistake with multiple tries and finally compensated us by arranging a Lunch with other residents and staff. That felt like a warm meal with the locals. we really enjoyed and appreciate the length to which the manager went to make up for the mistake.
Location: Very convenient, located almost across the main road of the west gate of Dali Ancient Town. Plenty of restaurant and shopping options around.
LilyPad is a quiet, peaceful inn, suitable for families travelling on a budget.
Room: With an oriental touch, we enjoyed our room which had a lovely view of the Cangshan. Waking up to the sunshine falling on the mountains was a real delight (King Room with Mountain View)
Service: The staff was polite and answered to all our questions. While the staff at the reception kept changing, the lady manager was very helpful in giving travel tips to us around sightseeing. Housekeeping was done daily.
Breakfast: Being a hostel/Inn we went ahead and booked breakfast for throughout our stay. Must say we weren't satisfied with what we were served as we had no option and had to eat congee and buns. one meal is ok but not all. On our day of check-out we were declined breakfast as the cook wasn't available which really put us off as we had hurried to be on time with a toddler and no food to eat. our only complaint was let us know a night before so we are better prepared. We expressed our grievance to the lady manager who did her best to undo the mistake with multiple tries and finally compensated us by arranging a Lunch with other residents and staff. That felt like a warm meal with the locals. we really enjoyed and appreciate the length to which the manager went to make up for the mistake.
Location: Very convenient, located almost across the main road of the west gate of Dali Ancient Town. Plenty of restaurant and shopping options around.
LilyPad is a quiet, peaceful inn, suitable for families travelling on a budget.
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Date of stay: December 2019
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Get the one with mountain view
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
when i arrived to Lily pad inn, i was pleasantly surprised by the welcome and immediately I felt very well. This is like a Family. The Staff is very helpful especially Olivia one of 6 Volunteers. My room was confortable and very clean. I was alone in a double Room and i paid just for one Bed 40 yuans. One day, there was a Powercut and they gave me a Discount of 50% to apologize for this Problem. The Dishes that they cook are not expensive and the Guests can take their Meal with the Staff at the same Table. friendly and relax Atmospher. I've travelled through China for more than 3 Months from the West until Dali and this is the best Guesthouse where i stayed during my two Trips in this Country.
Eric France
Eric France
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Date of stay: September 2012Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This hostel oozes with traditional character. The part we stayed in was brand new but was very in keeping. It is ideally situated just outside the old town along the Tibetan highway. We arrived in the evening/the dark after a highly uncomfortable sleeper bus journey. The staff kindly directed our taxi driver and came to the door to meet us to ensure we didn't get lost. We'd booked our stay with them the night before and for whatever reason they hadn't got it so without a fuss they promptly upgraded us. We'd booked beds and instead we got a beautifully decorated brand new twin room with ensuite. The room needed making up so we waited in one of the courtyards, huddled up to a heater they gave us, sank a few local beers followed by a Dali bacon & goat cheese sandwich from their kitchen - yummy yum yum! We didn't go to our room for several hours (even though it was ready) because we got chatting to everyone but when we did we were greeted with two big fat lovely soft duvets and an electric blanket each. The sheets were fresh & crisp and the bed was bouncy soft so much so that we did not want to get out of bed during our stay. We also ate like kings here - the breakfast was hearty yet healthy and if you like, at dinner time, you can eat with the family - that is pay 15 Yuan and eat with the staff. This truly is the best hostel I have ever stayed in and it makes me want to re-write every other review I've written and take away a star. Dali is a beautiful enchanting place and a stay here will make it all the better. You'll feel like you are in the China you dreamed about.
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Date of stay: January 2013Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can't really comment on the room as we did not stay there. Booked a room through hostelworld but after waiting for 20mins we were told the room was still occupied by the guest who was suppose to check out on the day (We were served a pot of tea while waiting). The person in charge did not leave us waiting or simply just refund and did not care. Instead she recommended and took us to another guesthouse just right in front of Lily Pad Inn. The guesthouse that she recommended is very new with very clean bathroom. However, the owner do not speak English and offer little or no information at all on the town, there is also no map available. We did not feel comfortable and "warm" so we left the next day and spent our time in Lily Pad Inn. The staffs at Lily Pad Inn were nice enough to allow us to use their shower after our cycling trip to Erhai Lake.
The staffs at Lily Pad Inn are all very friendly and warm, they have good knowledge of the town. They even helped us to arrange for bus from Dali to Lijiang. If I ever return to Dali I would definitely stay there again.
The staffs at Lily Pad Inn are all very friendly and warm, they have good knowledge of the town. They even helped us to arrange for bus from Dali to Lijiang. If I ever return to Dali I would definitely stay there again.
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Date of stay: August 2012Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed with our two teenagers and with friends. It was a great place to hang for several days. Staff very helpful.
Good location. Very homey and comfy.
Check out the roof in the evening for cool breezes and great views.
Good location. Very homey and comfy.
Check out the roof in the evening for cool breezes and great views.
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Date of stay: June 2012Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed for 3 nights at the Lily pad in. The location is close to the old town however you need to cross a highway. The hostel is simply furnished and the beds are very hard. Twice we didn't have water in the evenings (due to local drought period). We really enjoyed living with the family which cares about you and it very genuine.
Pros: Chinese family (participate at the dinner!), location, price
Cons: Basic rooms, water problem
Pros: Chinese family (participate at the dinner!), location, price
Cons: Basic rooms, water problem
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Date of stay: March 2015Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dali Lily Pad inn is a unique hostel featuring Bai minority's architecture of white washed house with Chinese paintings and calligraphy on its walls. Situated near the west gate of Dali Gucheng, it's location is good. But what I really enjoyed was the lay back atmosphere. When I first entered my room, I found it was bare and cold. But the service and cheer of the volunteer staffs soon warmed up the place.
I joined their staff dinner for 15rmb on one of the nights and was treated to a hearty fare of local food by the resident cook. They also arranged my Erhai cruise and luxury bus to Lijiang too. However the bus is definitely not luxurious for my standard.
I joined their staff dinner for 15rmb on one of the nights and was treated to a hearty fare of local food by the resident cook. They also arranged my Erhai cruise and luxury bus to Lijiang too. However the bus is definitely not luxurious for my standard.
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Date of stay: March 2013Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lily pad Inn is a very charming guesthouse,with helpful staff and all the volunteers.The rooms are very clean,nice decorated and brand new.They serve great breakfast,we ate goat cheese sandwich every morning,because it was so good!
It is located just 2 min from the west gate,so it is very close to the main area,but away from the noise and all the tourist.That is why it makes a very quiet and plesant stay. We ended up staying for 4 nights,would stay even longer,but needed to move on.We would defenetly stay here again!
It is located just 2 min from the west gate,so it is very close to the main area,but away from the noise and all the tourist.That is why it makes a very quiet and plesant stay. We ended up staying for 4 nights,would stay even longer,but needed to move on.We would defenetly stay here again!
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Date of stay: March 2013
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We chose Lily Pad because of the good reviews and were not disappointed. The staff was indeed very nice and always ready to help, buy tickets and give advice. Also our room was pleasant - we had the double room at the roof terrasse with a view to the pagodas. The location proved to be even better then we thought, as it is very quiet by night, while Dali Old City can be very noisy. One point that might be improved though is the kitchen. While food is quite good, all in all, it takes a little while to arrive at the table and in particular the breakfast demands the patience of a saint. One more important advice: When ordering the cheese sandwhich make sure to double-mention that you actually would like to have it with a slice of cheese in visible size ;-) Everything else is just spendid.
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Date of stay: June 2012Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: The top floor room at the roof terrace is great.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The stay at this inn was an extremely pleasant experience. The staff was very kind and they even offered us to bring us from the bus station to the inn. When visiting you should definitely participate at the common dinner, it is a great way to get to know the other travelers.
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Date of stay: July 2011Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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"If you are taking the bus from the train station, it takes you to the opposite side of old town. Take the electric open car on Ren Min Lu street (3 yuan), takes about 10 minutes, to bring near the west gate that is near Lily Pad. The guest house direction online do not mention this."Read full review
"Ask to see the rooms in the second building for a quieter atmosphere, and always opt for higher floors for the best views."Read full review
PRICE RANGE
S$14 - S$27 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
ChinaYunnanDali Bai Autonomous PrefectureDali
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Lily Pad Inn
Which popular attractions are close to The Lily Pad Inn?
Nearby attractions include Dali Ancient (0.7 km), Dali Foreigner Street (0.6 km), and Four Scenic Resorts of Dali (0.6 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Lily Pad Inn?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and free parking.
What food & drink options are available at The Lily Pad Inn?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant during their stay.
Is parking available at The Lily Pad Inn?
Yes, free parking and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Lily Pad Inn?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Bakery No.88, Blue Gecko Cafe, and Serendipity Diner.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Lily Pad Inn?
Yes, guests have access to fitness classes and yoga classes during their stay.
Are pets allowed at The Lily Pad Inn?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Does The Lily Pad Inn offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to a business centre and meeting rooms during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at The Lily Pad Inn?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Chinese.
Are there any historical sites close to The Lily Pad Inn?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Chongsheng Three Pagodas (2.6 km) and Gantong Temple (6.2 km).