Erhai Lake
Erhai Lake, a shimmering highland gem in Yunnan’s Dali Prefecture, is China’s seventh-largest freshwater lake. Nicknamed "Yunnan’s Emerald," this crescent-shaped lake (136 km circumference, 1,972m elevation) has nourished Bai ethnic communities for millennia. Designated a National Scenic Area in 1994, it’s famed for its azure waters, seabird colonies, and Cangshan Mountain views.
Historical Overview
Formed by tectonic shifts millions of years ago, Erhai served as a vital hub for the ancient Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms (7th–13th centuries). Maritime Silk Road traders once docked here, exchanging tea, silk, and horses. In the 1980s, it became a focal point for eco-tourism, balancing preservation with modern development.
Geographical Layout
The lake spans 256 km², framed by:Western Shore: Lush Cangshan Mountain foothills, villages like Xizhou and Zhoucheng.
Eastern Shore: Flatlands dotted with fishing villages (e.g., Shuanglang) and wetlands.
Islands: Golden Orchid Island (Xiaoputuo) and South Shazhou Island.
Key Zones: Dali Old Town waterfront, Erhai Park, and the Eco-Corridor cycling path.
Major Attractions
Xiaoputuo Island: Miniature temple-topped islet, nicknamed "Little Potalaka."
Shuanglang Town: Lakeside village with white-walled Bai houses and sunset bars.
Cangshan Mountain: 19 peaks overlooking the lake; take the cable car to Zhonghe Temple.
Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas: 1,200-year-old Buddhist landmarks near the lake.
Butterfly Spring: Park where swarms of butterflies gather (May–June).
Xizhou Ancient Town: Historic Bai market town with morning bazaars.
Erhai Eco-Corridor: 129-km cycling path with wetlands, yurts, and photo spots.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (4–5 hours):
Dali Old Town → Shuanglang → Xiaoputuo → Erhai Park.
Highlights: Sunset views, boat tours, and Bai architecture.
- Cultural Route (Full Day):
Xizhou → Zhoucheng (tie-dye workshops) → Chongsheng Temple → Butterfly Spring.
Highlights: Bai culture, handicrafts, and ancient temples.
- Adventure Route (2 Days):
Day 1: Cycle the Eco-Corridor (40 km).
Day 2: Hike Cangshan → Visit Erhai’s wetlands.
Ticket Purchase
Free Entry: Lake access is open year-round.
- Attraction Fees:
Cangshan Cable Car: ¥100–150 (round-trip).
Chongsheng Temple: ¥75 (includes Three Pagodas).
Boat Tours: ¥140–180 (1–2 hours).
Transportation
To Dali:
Air: Fly to Dali Airport (DLU), then taxi (¥50–60) to Old Town.
Train: High-speed rail from Kunming (2 hours).
Local:
Bike Rental: ¥20–50/day near Old Town.
Bus: Route #C2 from Dali to Shuanglang (¥15, 1.5 hours).
Taxi: ¥80–100 from Old Town to Shuanglang.
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit Nov–Mar (off-season) or weekdays.
Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) for blossoms; autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies.
Wear: Sunscreen, hat, and layers (altitude causes temperature swings).
Respect: Bai customs; ask before photographing locals.
Eco-Tip: Avoid plastic; use reusable bottles (free water stations available).
Try: Baba (pan-fried cake) and Sannongyu (three-course tea) in Xizhou.
