Little Putuo

Introducing Little Putuo

Xiao Putuo is located in Haiyin Village, Wase Town, east of Erhai Lake in Dali. About 20 meters from the shore, it's a small island with a Guanyin Pavilion. Visitors can take a boat to the island or take beautiful photos of it from the shore.

Xiao Putuo is a tiny island with a circumference of only about 200 meters. It is almost the same size as the Guanyin Pavilion on the island, and there are two large trees growing next to the pavilion. To get to the island, you need to take a boat from the Xiao Putuo ferry on the north side of Haiyin Village.

There aren't many things to see on the island, so most tourists opt to take photos of Little Putuo from the shore. On a clear day, Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake loom large in the background, with a small island and pavilions nestled in the lake, creating a magical and beautiful scene. The scene is even more captivating when flocks of seagulls fly by. Spending a few yuan on a bag of feed to feed the seagulls is a truly enjoyable experience.

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate; the pocket-sized island with the Guanyin Pavilion is very beautiful for taking long-range photos, and feeding seagulls is also very interesting. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Guanyin Pavilion, feeding seagulls on the island;

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Boat ticket + entrance fee: 15 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

09:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Little Putuo

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

Little Putuo is a sacred Buddhist site located on an island in Erhai Lake. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. The island is named after the famous Putuo Mountain, which is one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains. The site attracts visitors seeking peace and spiritual rejuvenation.

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

Little Putuo is located on Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan. The best way to reach it is by boat from Dali or from nearby lakeside areas. You can take a taxi to the lakeshore and then take a boat to the island.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Little Putuo is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and not too crowded. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon ensures fewer tourists and beautiful lighting for photography.

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

The entrance fee to Little Putuo is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, at the boat departure point, or via local tour operators. Online booking is not typically available for individual visits.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as you can buy tickets directly at the boat departure point. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid long waits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore Little Putuo, depending on how much time you spend enjoying the scenic views, visiting temples, and walking around the island.

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

• The main Buddhist temple where you can observe local religious practices.
• The small pagodas scattered around the island, providing great views of Erhai Lake.
• The scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides can offer insights into the Buddhist significance of the island and its history. Audio guides may not be readily available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The central temple area provides a great view of the lake and nearby mountains.
• The lakeside paths along the shore of the island offer peaceful and picturesque spots perfect for capturing the beauty of the island.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the boat dock and walk along the lakeside path towards the central temple. From there, you can explore the various smaller pagodas and viewpoints around the island. Finish your visit by sitting by the lakeside to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

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

There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at Little Putuo. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

Little Putuo can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the peak tourist season. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

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

There are basic facilities on the island, including toilets and small rest areas. There are a few shops near the boat dock where you can buy water, snacks, and small souvenirs. However, there are no large restaurants or cafes on the island.

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

The island has some uneven terrain, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the peaceful surroundings, but parents should be mindful of the steep areas. For visitors with mobility challenges, it is advisable to check accessibility before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used for small purchases, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted on the island and nearby areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are a few small local restaurants in Dali offering Yunnan specialties, including rice noodles and hotpot.
• For a more relaxed meal, consider dining in Dali Old Town, where there are a variety of restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available in Dali, including in nearby restaurants. Halal food is also available in some local eateries catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Dali Old Town offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
• For a scenic stay, consider booking a hotel with a view of Erhai Lake, which is close to Little Putuo.

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

• Dali Ancient Town, known for its traditional Bai architecture and cultural sites.
• The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, another iconic landmark in Dali.
• Erhai Lake offers opportunities for boat rides and scenic views.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near Little Putuo offer local handicrafts, including Buddhist statues, silk products, and embroidery. You can also find tea and local snacks as souvenirs.

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

• Taxis or buses can take you back to Dali city center or to other nearby attractions like Dali Ancient Town or the Three Pagodas.
• If you're traveling to other parts of Yunnan, buses and trains are available from Dali city.