Cangshan and Erhai Lake, a paradise for migratory birds.

Intro

ěr hǎi
Erhai Lake
Best Time to VisitDaytime
ActivitiesSightseeing
Crowd LevelNot Crowd
Ticket PriceFree

Despite the word "hai" implying an ocean in Chinese, Erhai (Erhai Lake) is actually a freshwater lake covering an area of approximately 250 square kilometers. It is the seventh-largest freshwater lake in China, named after its shape which resembles a human ear.

There are numerous attractions around the lake, including islands that can be explored by boat and hills suitable for hiking. Additionally, Erhai serves as a habitat for many bird species, attracting birdwatchers.

BEST DAY IN DALI
BEST DAY IN DALI, YUNNAN We Couldn’t Wait To Come Here In China!@Flora and Note
We explore the charming Shuanglang Ancient Town, indulge in delicious rose cakes and Yunnan coffee, and uncover the countless picture-perfect spots around the Erhai Lake.
Why Chinese Dali So Attractive?
Why Chinese Dali So Attractive?@英国贝丝
My British girlfriend said, 'The winter in Dali is so beautiful; I really want to settle here!'
WE GOT LOST in Dali
WE GOT LOST in Dali@Sun Kissed Bucket List
Exploring the countryside of Rural China had always been a dream of ours. To be able to ride around in the lush green valleys and explore the villages.

Transportation

How to get there

The distance around Erhai Lake is approximately 360 kilometers, with numerous attractions along the way. The most convenient mode of transportation is by taxi.

You can visit the Longkan Ancient Ferry to enjoy Erhai Lake, and then take a sightseeing electric cart or rent an electric scooter to travel along the western shore of Erhai Lake to Xi Zhou Ancient Town. The journey is approximately 20 kilometers long.

Driving around Erhai covers a distance of approximately 150 kilometers. Including stops for sightseeing, the journey typically requires a full day. You can set your navigation route as follows: Start counterclockwise from Dali Ancient City, heading to Santorini Dali, then Wenbi Village, followed by Shuanglang Ancient Town (with a stop for lunch), then Xizhou Ancient Town, and finally back to Dali Ancient City.


Nearby

Explore the Area

To the south of Erhai is the new urban district, which is also where the train station is located. To the west of Erhai is the old town area, where most of the major attractions are concentrated, including Dali Ancient City, the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple and Xizhou Ancient Town. The east side of Erhai has Shuanglang Ancient Town, as well as a beautiful coastal road that runs along the lake, making it very suitable for driving around the lake by car.