Dali Tianjing Pavilion

Introducing Dali Tianjing Pavilion

Tianjing Pavilion is located on Yu'an Mountain east of Erhai Lake in Dali. Here, the mountain suddenly extends toward Erhai Lake, surrounded by water on three sides and steep cliffs. The terrain is precarious, creating the illusion that the mountain envelops the sea, creating a mirror-like tranquility. A pavilion was built here during the Ming Dynasty and named "Tianjing Pavilion," becoming one of the four famous pavilions at Erhai Lake in Dali. Later destroyed, it has now been rebuilt on the site of the former Tianjing Pavilion. Standing tall on the mountaintop, the four-story, eight-sided pavilion complements the renowned Luoquan Temple in Dali. Luoquan Temple boasts the Main Hall and the Vairocana Hall, among other features.

The Tianjing Pavilion Scenic Area features attractions such as Tianjing Pavilion, Guanyin Pavilion, Prince Pavilion, Eight Immortals Tower, Luoquan Temple, Luoquan Pagoda Ruins, Erhai Rock Inscriptions, and Stone Mules, each steeped in time-honored legends. This is an ideal vantage point for viewing the scenic beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake in Dali, and perhaps even witnessing the Cangshan and Erhai Lake wonders of Wangfu Cloud and Jade Belt Cloud. A boat trip to Erhai Lake offers the opportunity to experience the profound meaning of Sima Xiangru's Han Dynasty poem, "This water can support a hundred thousand soldiers, yet the ancients only had three thousand guests." This leads to a moment of contemplation as to why the King of Nanzhao ordered his men to establish their "national gate" at this very moment. Why did the Nanzhao Dali Kingdom survive for over 600 years? Why did the ancients choose this location to build a temple?

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; Tianjing Pavilion is a famous scenic spot in Dali. It is the best place to enjoy the scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake in Dali. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianjing Pavilion, Guanyin Pavilion, Prince Pavilion, Eight Immortals Tower, Luoquan Temple, Luoquan Pagoda ruins, Eryan Rock inscriptions, Guo Moruo's poems, and stone mules, etc.

It is recommended to play for 4-5 hours

Tickets

25 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

The park opens at 7:30 and the scenic area staff go off work at 18:30, but there are staff on duty.

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Most Popular FAQs for Dali Tianjing Pavilion

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

The Dali Tianjing Pavilion was built as a place to admire the scenic beauty of Dali. It holds cultural significance as a symbol of the harmonious relationship between nature and human construction. The pavilion has become an important landmark for both locals and visitors.

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

Dali Tianjing Pavilion is located in the Dali region, on the western side of Erhai Lake. You can take a taxi or private car from Dali Ancient Town. Public transport options are limited, but some local buses may stop nearby. Walking from the town is possible, but it takes about 30 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The pavilion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning and late afternoon when the weather is cool and the lighting is ideal for photography.

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

The entrance fee is approximately ¥30 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance through local travel platforms.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak tourist seasons. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance during high season is recommended to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the pavilion in 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend enjoying the views and taking photos.

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

• The elevated platform offering sweeping views of Dali and Erhai Lake.
• The architectural features of the pavilion, blending traditional style with natural surroundings.
• The peaceful gardens and walkways surrounding the pavilion.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some English-speaking guides may be available. Audio guides may also be offered, but availability can vary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The pavilion’s main viewing platform offers the best panoramic views of Dali and Erhai Lake.
• Near the surrounding gardens, where you can capture the pavilion against the natural backdrop.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The best route is to first head to the main pavilion for panoramic views, then explore the surrounding gardens and walkways at your own pace. Don’t miss the view from the top for the best photos.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows. However, the pavilion offers stunning views during sunset, making evening visits a peaceful experience.

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

The pavilion can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays, especially in the off-peak months of winter and early spring.

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

There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas near the entrance. Food and water are not available inside the pavilion, but you can bring your own supplies or find options in Dali Ancient Town.

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

The pavilion is accessible for elderly and children, but there are some stairs to navigate. It might be challenging for disabled visitors due to the terrain, though ramps are available in some areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s best to use mobile payments or carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the pavilion, but nearby Dali Ancient Town has plenty of local eateries offering Yunnan cuisine. You can enjoy dishes like rice noodles and grilled meats.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in the nearby restaurants in Dali. Vegan and halal options are limited, but you may find them in larger restaurants or ask for customized dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels in Dali, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Some popular choices are in Dali Ancient Town or near Erhai Lake, offering scenic views.

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

• Dali Ancient Town, with its historical streets and Bai cultural heritage.
• Erhai Lake, perfect for boating and enjoying nature.
• Mount Cangshan, a scenic mountain with hiking and cable car options.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in Dali Ancient Town, where you can purchase local handicrafts such as textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry. These are popular souvenirs from the region.

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

After visiting the pavilion, you can take a taxi or local bus to other attractions such as Erhai Lake or Dali Ancient Town. Renting a bike or car is also a convenient option for exploring the area further.