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Visit the traditional architecture and scenic surroundings of Laomuden Village, experience local customs and culture, explore nearby hiking trails, and enjoy photography of the stunning countryside landscapes and rice terraces.
Laomudeng Village is located east of Pihe Nu Township, Fugong County, Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province. "Lamudeng" is a transliteration of the Nu language, meaning "a place people love to visit." The village, nestled on a gentle slope midway up the Biluo Snow Mountain, sits at an altitude of 1,800 meters. The mountainous terrain makes it a crucial point for drivers to reach Zhiziluo, the former capital of Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture and the seat of Bijiang County. The village's beautiful scenery and numerous natural attractions attract numerous tourists from across China and even abroad.
The Nu and Bai (Lemo) ethnic groups live together, with the Nu being the majority. A red and white house perched on the edge of a cliff is the largest Christian church in the Nu River Basin—Laomudeng Church. Walking up to the church, gazing at the distant mountains and nearby grass, the simplicity and natural beauty of this rural church truly brings a sense of peace and tranquility. A red cross points to the sky, and the words "God loves the world deeply" are written in bright calligraphy.
There are three different climate types: subtropical, warm temperate, and cold temperate;
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Laomuden Village is a small, historical settlement in Yunnan, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and rich ethnic culture. It reflects the lifestyle and practices of the local ethnic minorities and provides a glimpse into rural life in Yunnan.
Laomuden Village is located in Yunnan Province, easily accessible from the city of Dali. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Dali to the village, followed by a short walk to the main attractions within the village.
The village is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Avoid visiting during the rainy season (June to August) for better conditions.
Entrance to the village is free; however, some cultural events or special tours may require a small fee. Tickets for any special events can be purchased on-site.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance, as the village does not have a mandatory entrance fee. However, it is a good idea to book tours or special events in advance during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
One to two hours are typically sufficient to explore Laomuden Village, including visiting the traditional buildings, walking around the village, and taking photos. If you want to explore the surrounding natural areas, you may need half a day.
Must-see highlights include the traditional wooden houses, the rice terraces, and the local temples. The scenic views from higher points in the village are perfect for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. If you require an English-speaking guide, it is advisable to arrange one in advance. Audio guides may not be commonly available in foreign languages.
The best viewpoints in Laomuden Village are from the surrounding hills and terraces, offering panoramic views of the village and the natural landscape. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
The recommended route involves starting at the village entrance, walking through the main streets to observe the traditional architecture, then climbing to the viewpoint for stunning landscape photos. Optionally, a visit to the local temple and rice terraces can follow.
Night visits are not commonly available, and there are no light shows in the village. However, you can enjoy the peaceful night atmosphere and starry skies in the rural setting.
Laomuden Village is not overly crowded, but it can get busy during the weekends and peak seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times are weekdays in the off-season (winter and early spring).
Basic facilities, such as toilets and small food stalls, are available in the village. There are also a few shops selling local handicrafts and snacks. However, you should bring sufficient water and snacks if you're planning to explore the area extensively.
The village has uneven terrain, and some areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to access. However, children and healthy adults can enjoy walking around the village and exploring its main attractions.
Cash is widely accepted in the village, but mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also commonly used in more developed areas. It’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
There are a few small local restaurants in and around the village serving Yunnanese cuisine. For a wider selection, you can visit Dali city, which is about an hour's drive away, offering a variety of dining options.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially in the local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but can be found in Dali city or nearby towns.
There are guesthouses and small hotels in the vicinity of Laomuden Village. For more comfortable accommodations, you can stay in Dali, which offers a wider range of hotels, from budget to mid-range.
Nearby attractions include Erhai Lake, the Three Pagodas in Dali, and the Cangshan Mountain. All are easily accessible for a day trip from Laomuden Village.
Souvenir shops in the village offer traditional Yunnanese handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, wooden carvings, and ethnic jewelry. You can also find local snacks and tea as souvenirs.
The best transportation options after visiting Laomuden Village are taxis or buses to Dali city, from where you can continue your travels. You can also rent a car for more flexibility in exploring the region.
