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Jinding Temple is located at the summit of Tianzhu Peak, the main peak of Jizu Mountain, at an altitude of 3,240 meters, 5.5 kilometers east of Zhusheng Temple. Tianzhu Peak is named for its towering height, resembling a giant pillar supporting the sky. The rare Kasyapa bird can sometimes be seen at Jinding Temple. The present-day Jinding Temple, comprising the Duguang Terrace, the main gate, the Maitreya Hall, the Lengga Pagoda, and the Main Hall, is a must-see attraction for visitors to Jizu Mountain.
Jinding not only boasts a long history but also boasts renowned scenic views: sunrise to the east, Cang Er River to the west, auspicious clouds and forests to the south, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the north. Xu Xiake, a renowned Ming Dynasty traveler, journeyed through immense difficulty to reach the summit of Jizu Mountain and was deeply impressed by these four views.
The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate; the best time to visit is from March to November each year, when you can watch the sunrise. Dali has a mild climate, and it feels like spring all year round. In spring, summer, and autumn, you can go hiking and watch the sunrise.
Maitreya Hall, Lengyan Pagoda, Main Hall, etc.;
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
55 yuan/person (included in Jizu Mountain ticket)
08:00-19:00
Golden Summit Temple is a revered Buddhist temple located atop the Cangshan Mountain in Dali. It holds great cultural and spiritual significance in the region, serving as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The temple offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich religious traditions and stunning natural beauty.
The Golden Summit Temple is located at the top of Cangshan Mountain, about 5 km from Dali city center. It can be accessed via a cable car ride from the base of the mountain or by hiking if you're up for a more adventurous route. Taxis and private cars are also available from Dali city center.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded.
The entrance fee for the temple and the cable car ride is usually around ¥100–¥150. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or in advance through travel agencies or online booking platforms for convenience.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you're visiting during peak tourist seasons. If you prefer, booking a ticket online 1-2 days in advance will help you avoid queues.
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Golden Summit Temple, including the cable car ride and a leisurely walk around the temple grounds.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some English-speaking guides available during peak seasons. Audio guides may also be offered for self-guided tours, depending on availability.
The cable car offers some of the best viewpoints on the way up. Once at the summit, the view of Dali city, Erhai Lake, and the surrounding mountains provides excellent photo opportunities.
Start by taking the cable car to the summit, visit the temple, explore the grounds, and take in the views. Afterward, take a short walk around the area for a more peaceful experience before heading back down.
Night visits are not typically available, and the temple is primarily a daytime attraction. However, you can enjoy the sunset views from the summit if you visit later in the day.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
The Golden Summit Temple has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and a small souvenir shop. There are also some food stalls where visitors can buy snacks and drinks.
The temple is generally accessible, with the cable car providing easy access to the summit for elderly or disabled visitors. However, some parts of the mountain may require walking on uneven terrain, which may be challenging for people with limited mobility.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Credit cards may also be used for larger transactions at the souvenir shops and ticket booths.
There are a few small cafes and food stalls at the temple offering snacks, tea, and light meals. More restaurant options are available in Dali city center, a short taxi ride away.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants in Dali, but options at the temple are limited. Vegan and halal food options may be found in Dali city.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the temple selling traditional Dali crafts, Buddhist items, and local artworks.
Taxis and buses are available to take visitors back to Dali city. Private cars or local tours may also provide transportation to nearby attractions such as Erhai Lake or the Three Pagodas.
