Nanzhao Dehua Stele

Introducing the Nanzhao Dehua Stele

Within the ruins of Nanzhao Taihe City, west of Taihe Village in Dali City, stands a black ancient stele—the "Nanzhao Dehua Stele," known as "Yunnan's No. 1 Stele." The stele stands 3.97 meters tall, 2.27 meters wide, and 0.58 meters thick. The front of the stele is engraved with 40 lines of text, containing approximately 3,800 characters. Only 256 fragments of the inscription remain. The back of the stele is inscribed with 41 lines of inscription, detailing the titles and names of Nanzhao officials, including the Qingping official, the general, and the six chiefs of the six divisions. After thousands of years of vicissitudes, only about 800 characters remain.

The inscription on the Dehua Stele is said to have been written by Zheng Hui, a Nanzhao official known for peacekeeping, or by Du Guangting, a Tang Dynasty censor living in Nanzhao, though there is debate about the exact nature of the inscription. The inscription primarily praises Geluofeng's civil and military achievements, and recounts the relationship between Nanzhao, the Tang Dynasty, and Tubo, as well as the causes and course of their wars. It also highlights the Nanzhao's rebellion against the Tang and their desire for peace with the Tang. The stele is a valuable source of material for the study of Yunnan's ethnic history and Tibetan local history.

The inscription describes the early history of Nanzhao and its relationship with the Tang Dynasty. Its calligraphy is beautiful and of considerable artistic value, making it a nationally protected key cultural relic.

Climate and best time to travel

Dali boasts a low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; the best time to visit is from March to November. The weather is pleasant, and Dali's temperature fluctuates slightly, making it suitable for tourism year-round. Rainfall is relatively high in both summer and winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

8 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-19:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Nanzhao Dehua Stele

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

The Nanzhao Dehua Stele dates back to the Nanzhao Kingdom, a powerful kingdom that ruled the region during the 8th to 9th centuries. The stele is an important cultural and historical artifact, inscribed with details about the kingdom’s governance, military, and religious practices.

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

The Nanzhao Dehua Stele is located in Dali, Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi from Dali Old Town or other nearby attractions. Public transportation options are limited, so a taxi or private vehicle is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer a less crowded experience.

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

The entrance fee for visiting the Nanzhao Dehua Stele is modest. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there is no online booking system available for individual visitors.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for general visits. However, during peak seasons or national holidays, it is recommended to buy tickets earlier in the day to avoid waiting in line.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Nanzhao Dehua Stele and its surroundings, including the walk through the scenic area and time spent reading the inscriptions on the stele.

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

• The Nanzhao Dehua Stele itself, which is the main historical feature of the site.
• The surrounding scenic park, offering views of the nearby mountains and nature.
• Nearby historical structures that provide context to the stele’s significance.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may also be offered in Chinese. It is best to arrange for a guide if you are looking for an in-depth historical explanation.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The area surrounding the Nanzhao Dehua Stele offers great photo opportunities, with views of the stele set against the backdrop of the mountains.
• The scenic walking paths offer many peaceful spots for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Nanzhao Dehua Stele to examine the inscriptions, then take a walk around the surrounding area to enjoy the views and learn more about the Nanzhao Kingdom’s history. The site can be explored in a circular route.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Nanzhao Dehua Stele. The site is best visited during daylight hours.

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

The site can get crowded during holidays and weekends. It is least crowded early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.

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

The site has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. However, there are no major food vendors or shops inside the park, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks with you.

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

The Nanzhao Dehua Stele is accessible for elderly and children. However, some of the walking paths may be challenging for visitors with disabilities due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used for tickets and small purchases, though mobile payments such as Alipay or WeChat Pay are accepted at most locations around the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small local restaurants near the entrance offering traditional Yunnan dishes such as rice noodles and tea.
• For a broader selection, head to Dali Old Town, which is a short drive away and offers many dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian and vegan options can be found at some local restaurants in Dali and nearby areas.
• Halal food is less common but may be available in Dali Old Town, particularly in Muslim-owned restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels in Dali Old Town, including budget and mid-range options, located about 15-20 minutes by car from the Nanzhao Dehua Stele.
• For more luxurious accommodations, you can find high-end resorts and boutique hotels in and around the Dali area.

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

• Dali Old Town, known for its historical architecture and cultural landmarks.
• Erhai Lake, a scenic area perfect for boating and exploring nearby temples and villages.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops in the area offer items such as traditional Yunnan tea, local handicrafts, and clothing.

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

• The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private vehicle to nearby attractions like Dali Old Town or Erhai Lake.
• Public buses or local transport services are available for longer-distance travel from Dali to other cities in Yunnan.