
Huadianba, a famous scenic spot in Dali, Yunnan, lies behind Yunnong and Cangniao Peaks, at an altitude of 2,900 meters. It stretches over 20 kilometers from north to south and approximately 3 kilometers from east to west. Comprising the Greater and Lesser Huadianba, Huadianba lies between Wutai and Canglang Peaks, the northernmost of the 19 peaks of Cangshan Mountain. Lesser Huadianba, at 3,200 meters, is a lush, grassy plateau nestled among the peaks. The entire Huadian area is flat and fertile. Every spring and summer, the mountains are covered in a blanket of horse chestnut blossoms, stretching over 20 miles. Interspersed among the blossoms are herbaceous flowers such as white bean flowers and peonies, creating a vibrant and captivating display of color.
From spring to autumn, the entire Huadianba Basin is ablaze with a vibrant array of exotic flowers. Camellias, azaleas, azaleas, wild chrysanthemums, jackal flowers, and dragon claw flowers adorn the basin with a vibrant riot of color. Especially during April and May, Huadianba becomes a world of flowers, a sea of blossoms, attracting numerous botanists from home and abroad for scientific expeditions.
The low-latitude plateau boasts a monsoon climate; May and June are the best months for visiting and enjoying the flowers. Huadianba is at its most beautiful during May and June, when the flowers are at their most captivating. However, you can visit during any season.
It is recommended to play for 4-5 hours
30 yuan/person
Open all day
Huadianba is known for its natural beauty and is a popular eco-tourism destination. It holds significance as a site for outdoor activities and nature exploration, offering a peaceful retreat in the Dali region of Yunnan.
Huadianba is located in Dali, Yunnan. It can be reached by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. There is no direct metro service in Dali, so taxis or local buses are the most convenient options.
Huadianba is open year-round, with the best time to visit being during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant. The area is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
The entrance fee is typically low, around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local tour operators online for convenience.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Huadianba unless you are planning to visit during peak travel seasons (such as holidays or festivals), in which case booking at least a week in advance is recommended.
Exploring Huadianba fully can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on how much time you wish to spend hiking or taking photographs in the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. It’s advisable to check in advance if English guides are available.
Start by walking along the main trail that leads to the scenic viewpoints. Continue on the smaller paths that loop around the lakes, and finish your visit by exploring the tranquil forested areas before heading back to the entrance.
Night visits are not commonly available at Huadianba, and there are no light shows or special nighttime tours. The park is best explored during daylight hours for optimal visibility of the natural beauty.
The site can get crowded during national holidays or weekends. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. However, food options are limited within the park, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks. Small souvenir shops may also be available near the entrance.
Some trails at Huadianba may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the main trails are relatively accessible, and children will enjoy the open spaces and scenic spots.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used and preferred in the area. Credit cards may not be widely accepted.
There are limited food options within Huadianba, but several restaurants and cafes are available nearby in the town of Dali, offering a variety of Yunnanese dishes and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Dali, with many local eateries offering plant-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some available in the city.
There are numerous guesthouses and hotels in Dali, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Many accommodations offer beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance where you can buy traditional Yunnan crafts such as hand-woven textiles, local teas, and pottery items.
From Huadianba, taxis or private vehicles are the best way to continue your journey to nearby attractions like Dali Town or Cangshan Mountain. Local buses may also be available for some destinations.