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Shuanglang Town is located at the northeastern tip of Dali City, on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake. It is a provincial-level historical and cultural town in Yunnan Province and is known as the "Top Town for Canghai Scenic Spots." Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea on one side, the town lies to the west, with the Nineteen Peaks of Cangshan Mountain and the vast expanse of Erhai Lake at its doorstep. To the east, it borders the Buddhist mecca of Jizu Mountain, and to the south, it borders Xiaoputuo, the "Penglai Fairy Island." It is also home to the "Nanzhao Custom Island," a National 4A-level tourist attraction.
In the area, the water and sky are one color, the green mountains and the lake water complement each other, the golden shuttle brocade, the "double islands and double curves" are surrounded by the ancient and elegant, rich Bai ethnic group market town, forming a beautiful natural picture of harmony between man and nature. It is the most suitable town for human habitation and is known as "Dali scenery is in Cang'er, Cang'er scenery is in Shuanglang".
The six ethnic minorities, mainly the Bai people, are rich in ethnic resources and folk customs. They have traditional characteristics in clothing, dialects, food, and beliefs, as well as ethnic houses with blue bricks, white walls, and light ink paintings.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.
2-3 days
free
All day
Shuanglang is a picturesque village located by Erhai Lake, known for its preserved Bai culture and traditional architecture. It has become a popular tourist destination for those seeking a peaceful escape, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. The village has also gained recognition for its thriving arts scene, with many artists and photographers visiting to capture the area’s natural beauty.
Shuanglang is located on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, about 20 kilometers from Dali Old Town. You can easily reach Shuanglang by taxi, bus, or private car from Dali. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle or e-bike to enjoy the scenic ride around the lake.
Shuanglang is a village and natural area with no specific opening hours. It is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Avoid peak tourist seasons like Chinese New Year and summer holidays for a more peaceful experience.
There is no entrance fee to visit Shuanglang itself as it is a public area. However, certain activities, such as boat rides, cycling rentals, and visits to local attractions, may have associated fees. Tickets for these activities can be purchased on-site or through local booking platforms.
For most activities in Shuanglang, booking in advance is not necessary, especially during off-peak times. However, if you plan to take a boat tour or book a guided tour, it is advisable to book at least a day in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
To explore Shuanglang and its surroundings fully, allocate about 4-5 hours. This will give you time to walk around the village, enjoy a boat ride on Erhai Lake, visit the local cafes and shops, and explore the nearby countryside. If you want to take part in more activities like cycling or photography, you may want to spend the entire day here.
Guided tours are available in Shuanglang, particularly for those wishing to explore the cultural heritage of the village. Most tours are offered in Chinese, though some English-speaking guides may be available upon request. It is recommended to book a guide in advance if you require an English-speaking one.
A good itinerary would start with a boat ride on Erhai Lake in the morning to capture the best light. Afterward, walk around the village to admire the Bai architecture and visit some local galleries. Finish the day by enjoying a meal at a lakeside restaurant, watching the sunset over the lake.
Shuanglang does not offer light shows or special night tours. However, the village is beautiful at night, with many cafes offering lakeside views. It’s a relaxing spot for an evening stroll or dinner while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.
Shuanglang can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer and Chinese New Year. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). Early mornings and late afternoons are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
There are several facilities available around Shuanglang, including public toilets, water stations, and rest areas. The village has a range of small shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering food, drinks, and local handicrafts. Many lakeside restaurants serve fresh seafood and traditional Yunnan dishes.
Shuanglang is relatively accessible for elderly and children, with flat areas for walking and easy access to cafes and shops. However, the terrain around the lakeside can be uneven in some areas. Visitors with disabilities may find it challenging to navigate some parts of the village, especially on the lakeside walkways and boat rides.
Cash is accepted in most places, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Many of the cafes, restaurants, and shops around Shuanglang also accept mobile payments, though credit card acceptance may be limited in some smaller establishments.
There are numerous cafes and lakeside restaurants in Shuanglang, offering both local and international cuisine. Many of these establishments offer fresh seafood, traditional Yunnan dishes, and beautiful views of Erhai Lake. Some of the popular spots include the lakeside cafes in the village and restaurants serving Bai cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the cafes and restaurants in Shuanglang, as Yunnan cuisine includes a variety of plant-based dishes. Halal options are limited but can be found in Dali Old Town or nearby areas with more international dining options.
There are a variety of accommodations near Shuanglang, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, and lakeside resorts. Many of these offer scenic views of Erhai Lake, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury stays.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Shuanglang and nearby Dali Old Town. Popular souvenirs include Bai handicrafts such as handwoven textiles, pottery, silver jewelry, and wood carvings. Local art and photography prints are also common souvenirs.
After visiting Shuanglang, you can take a bus, taxi, or private car back to Dali. Buses from Shuanglang to Dali Old Town are frequent, and taxis are readily available. If you plan to explore more of the region, renting a car or booking a guided tour can be an excellent option for a day trip.
