Gantong Temple

Introducing Gantong Temple

Gantong Temple is located at the southern foot of Shengying Peak in Cangshan Mountain, between Dali Ancient Town and Xiaguan, approximately 5 kilometers from the city and 11 kilometers from Xiaguan. With its back against the perpetually snow-capped Cangshan Mountain and facing the vast Erhai Lake dotted with white sails, Gantong Temple embodies the spirits of heaven and earth and is also known as Dangshan Temple. The Gantong Cableway, one of the cableways ascending Cangshan Mountain, is located near the mountain gate. Gantong Temple boasts a long history, having weathered many vicissitudes and experienced several periods of prosperity and decline. At its peak, it housed as many as 36 temples.

Enter the temple through the mountain gate near the lower station of the Gantong Cableway and walk along the path lined with pine trees for a five-minute walk to the temple. The temple is small and somewhat dilapidated. In front of the main hall hangs a plaque inscribed with the words "One smile brings spring," a calligraphy by the Ming Dynasty monk Dan Dang. Behind the temple stands the stupa-shaped Dan Dang Tomb, with a 3.5-meter-high tombstone. The inscription details the life of Master Dan Dang and is worth visiting if you're interested. Seven steles are located throughout the temple, chronicling its rise and fall. Next to the tombstone stands the Xieyun Tower, once the residence of the renowned Ming Dynasty scholar Yang Sheng'an, another historic site worth seeing.

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; Gantong Temple is an important Buddhist building in Dali, located in the beautiful mountains and rivers and emerald green forests, suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Write Rhyme Building;

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

07:30-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Gantong Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Gantong Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Dali, originally built during the Tang Dynasty. It holds cultural and religious significance, representing the spread of Buddhism in the region and preserving traditional Bai architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located on a hillside east of Dali Old Town. Accessible by taxi or local bus from Dali Old Town, and a moderate uphill walk is required to reach the temple entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Morning visits are best for fewer crowds and softer lighting for photography.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is around 20–30 RMB. Tickets can usually be purchased at the temple entrance; online booking is generally not required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not necessary, except during peak holiday periods when crowds are high.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1.5–2 hours to explore the temple, surrounding paths, and enjoy the views.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main prayer halls with Buddha statues
• Ancient pagodas and bell towers
• Stone carvings and inscriptions
• Terraced viewpoints overlooking Dali and Erhai Lake

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese and sometimes English through local tour agencies. Audio guides are not commonly provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Terraces overlooking Erhai Lake
• Main temple courtyards and Buddha statues
• Sunrise or sunset shots from the hillside trails

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter from the main gate, visit the lower halls first, proceed to the upper terraces and pagodas, then walk the hillside paths for panoramic views, finishing with quiet reflection at the main prayer hall.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not permitted. No regular light shows or special evening tours are available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Less crowded in the early morning on weekdays; weekends and holidays can be busy with tourists and pilgrims.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include toilets, a small snack stall, benches, and limited souvenir shops near the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple has steps and uneven paths; elderly and children may need assistance. Wheelchair access is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted; some places may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay, but carrying cash is recommended.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small eateries and local snack stalls are available near the temple entrance. More restaurants can be found in Dali Old Town, 10–15 minutes away by taxi or walking.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available at temple stalls and local restaurants; vegan options are limited. Halal restaurants are mainly found in Dali Old Town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several guesthouses and boutique hotels are in Dali Old Town, within 10–15 minutes by taxi or walking.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Dali Ancient Town
• Erhai Lake
• Three Pagodas of Dali
• Cangshan Mountain Scenic Area

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small shops near the entrance sell Buddha statues, incense, prayer beads, and local handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Walking or taking a short taxi ride back to Dali Old Town or Erhai Lake. Bicycle rentals are also available nearby.