Erhai Lake, nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province near the historic town of Dali, is one of China’s most picturesque and culturally rich destinations. Known as the “Pearl of the Plateau,” this crescent-shaped alpine lake spans 250 square kilometers, surrounded by the majestic Cangshan Mountains and dotted with traditional Bai minority villages. With its serene waters, vibrant local culture, and endless outdoor activities, Erhai Lake is a must-visit for travelers seeking natural beauty and authentic experiences. This guide will help you plan a perfect trip to this enchanting destination.
A Travel Guide to Erhai Lake
Why Visit Erhai Lake?
Erhai Lake offers a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural immersion. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect snow-capped peaks and ancient temples, creating postcard-worthy views. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for cycling, boating, and hiking, while the nearby Bai villages and Dali Old Town provide a deep dive into Yunnan’s diverse heritage. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring local markets, or simply soaking in the tranquility, Erhai Lake promises an unforgettable escape.
How to Get There
Erhai Lake is located in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, approximately 2 kilometers east of Dali Old Town. Here’s how to reach it:
By Air: Fly to Dali Huangcaoba Airport (DLU), about 30 km from Erhai Lake. Domestic flights connect Dali to major cities like Kunming (50 minutes, ¥300–800), Chengdu, and Guangzhou. From the airport, take a taxi (¥80–100, 40 minutes) or a shuttle bus to Dali Old Town, then a short taxi or bike ride to the lake.
By Train: Dali Railway Station (high-speed trains) is 15 km from the lake. Trains from Kunming take 2–2.5 hours (¥145–200), and from Lijiang, about 1 hour (¥70–100). From the station, take a taxi (¥30–50) or bus (e.g., No. 8) to Dali Old Town, then head to the lake.
By Bus: Long-distance buses from Kunming (4–5 hours, ¥150–200) or Lijiang (2–3 hours, ¥50–80) arrive at Dali Xiaguan Bus Station. From there, a taxi to Erhai Lake or Dali Old Town costs ¥20–40. Local buses (e.g., No. C2) connect Xiaguan to the lake area.
By Car or Taxi: Rent a car or use ride-hailing apps like Didi from Dali Old Town to explore the lake’s perimeter flexibly. A full loop around Erhai Lake is about 120 km.
Tip: Dali Old Town is the best base for exploring Erhai Lake, with easy access to the lake’s western shore.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather (15–25°C) and blooming wildflowers make this ideal for cycling and photography. The Third Month Fair (mid-April) showcases Bai culture with vibrant festivals. Summer (June–August): Warm (20–30°C) and lush, but expect occasional rain. Early mornings offer clear views before afternoon showers.
Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, clear skies, and golden foliage create stunning landscapes. This is the peak season for outdoor activities. Winter (December–February): Cool (5–15°C) and dry, with fewer crowds. The lake remains scenic, though some attractions may have shorter hours.
Note: Avoid Chinese holidays like National Day (early October) and Spring Festival (January/February) for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Tickets and Costs
General Access: Erhai Lake itself is free to visit, with public access to many shoreline areas.
Specific Attractions: Little Putuo Island: ¥20–30 (includes boat ride). Nanzhao Love Island: ¥50 (includes entry and ferry). Erhai Lake Cruise: ¥100–150 (1–2 hours, depending on the route). Bike Rentals: ¥20–50/day for standard bikes, ¥80–150/day for e-bikes.Local Guides or Tours: ¥100–300 for half-day guided tours, available in Dali Old Town.
Tip: Book boat tours or attraction tickets via apps like Ctrip or through guesthouses to avoid overpaying.
What to See and Do
Erhai Lake offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and outdoor adventures:
Cycling Around the Lake: Rent a bike or e-bike in Dali Old Town and cycle along the Erhai Lake Loop (120 km total). The western shore is flatter and more developed, with cafes and viewpoints, while the eastern shore is quieter and more rural. Popular stops include Caicun Village for lake views and Xizhou Town for Bai architecture and local snacks like xizhou baba (stuffed pancakes).
Boating and Island Visits: Take a boat tour to Little Putuo Island, a tiny islet with a serene Taoist temple, or Nanzhao Love Island, known for its romantic views and Bai cultural exhibits. Sunset cruises are a highlight, with the lake glowing under the Cangshan Mountains.
Explore Bai Villages: Visit Xizhou Town (15 km north of Dali Old Town) to see well-preserved Bai courtyard homes and try local delicacies. Shuanglang Village on the eastern shore is a bohemian hub with art galleries, cafes, and stunning lake views.
Cultural Sites: Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (near Dali Old Town): A 1,800-year-old complex with iconic pagodas, offering panoramic lake views (¥75 entry). Guanyin Temple in Shuanglang: A peaceful Buddhist site with intricate carvings.
Hiking and Photography: Hike trails in the Cangshan Mountains for bird’s-eye views of the lake. The Yunlong Cableway (¥100 round-trip) offers a scenic ride to higher trails. Capture iconic shots at Hai Xin Ting Pavilion or during sunrise at Shuanglang.
Where to Eat
Dali Old Town: Offers diverse dining, from Bai specialties like grilled fish and erkuai (rice cakes) to Western cafes. Try The Bakery No. 88 for coffee and pastries or Yunnan Food Restaurant for local dishes (¥30–80/meal).
Lakeside Cafes: Shuanglang and Caicun have trendy cafes with lake views, serving smoothies, pizza, and Yunnan coffee (¥20–50/item). Street Food: Xizhou’s morning market offers fresh xizhou baba and noodle soups for ¥10–20.
Tip: Bring snacks for long bike rides, as dining options are sparse on the eastern shore.
Where to Stay
Dali Old Town: The most convenient base, with options for all budgets: The Jade Emu International Guesthouse: Budget-friendly hostel, ¥50–150/night. Dali Gurong Hotel: Mid-range with Bai-style decor, ¥300–500/night.
Hilton Dali Resort & Spa: Luxury with lake views, ¥800+/night. Shuanglang: Ideal for a quieter, artsy vibe: Sky Valley Heritage Boutique Hotel: Upscale with stunning views, ¥600–1,000/night. Local Guesthouses: Cozy stays for ¥150–300/night.
Booking: Use Ctrip, Booking.com, or WeChat for deals. Book early for peak seasons.
Tips for a Great Visit
Pack for Variable Weather: Yunnan’s weather can change quickly. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a raincoat, especially in summer. Respect Local Culture: The Bai people are warm and welcoming. Dress modestly when visiting villages or temples, and ask permission before photographing locals.
Cash and Apps: Some vendors only accept cash or WeChat/Alipay. Carry small bills (¥10–50). Eco-Conscious Travel: Avoid littering and stick to designated paths to protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Combine Your Trip: Pair Erhai Lake with nearby attractions like Dali Old Town, Cangshan Mountains, or Lijiang (2 hours by train) for a fuller Yunnan experience.
Final Thoughts
Erhai Lake is a gem of Yunnan, where shimmering waters, ancient villages, and rugged mountains create a magical backdrop for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re cycling along its shores, savoring Bai cuisine, or simply watching the sunset, the lake’s charm will leave a lasting impression. Plan your visit with flexibility, embrace the local culture, and let Erhai Lake’s beauty inspire your journey.
Happy travels!
