Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas** in Dali, Yunnan

#chinatravel
### **Why Visit Chongsheng Temple & the Three Pagodas?**
1. **UNESCO-Listed Marvel**: The 1,200-year-old Three Pagodas are iconic symbols of Dali, surviving earthquakes and wars while showcasing Tang/Song Dynasty Buddhist architecture .
2. **Sacred Buddhist Legacy**: Once a royal temple for the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, it housed 11,400 Buddha statues and saw 9 emperors ordain as monks here .
3. **Stunning Scenery**: Framed by **Cangshan Mountain** and **Erhai Lake**, the pagodas reflect perfectly in the **Reflection Pond**—a photographer’s dream .

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### **Top Highlights & Activities**
#### **1. The Three Pagodas**
- **Qianxun Pagoda**: The tallest (69.6m), built in the 9th century with 16 tiers and intricate Buddha carvings .
- **Twin Pagodas**: Octagonal, 42m-high, adorned with floral patterns and Guanyin statues .
- **Pro Tip**: Visit at sunrise/sunset for golden light on the whitewashed towers .

#### **2. Chongsheng Temple Complex**
- **Rebuilt Grandeur**: The 2005 reconstruction revives Tang Dynasty halls like the **Mahavira Hall** and **Rain Copper Guanyin Pavilion** .
- **Sacred Relics**: Don’t miss the **Nanzhao Jianji Bell** (Yunnan’s largest) and the golden-winged bird statue .

#### **3. Reflection Park**
- Capture the iconic "six pagodas" illusion in the pond’s mirror-like water .

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### **Practical Tips**
- **Best Time to Visit**: **March–April** for Bai ethnic festivals (e.g., March Street Fair) or autumn for clear skies .
- **Entrance Fee**: ¥121 (adults), ¥60 (children); open 7:30 AM–6:30 PM .
- **Getting There**:
- **From Dali Ancient Town**: Walk 30 mins, take Bus #19, or cycle (15 mins) .
- **From Dali Airport**: Taxi (¥80) or shuttle bus to the town first .
- **Dress Code**: Modest attire (cover shoulders/knees) for temple areas .

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### **Nearby Attractions**
- **Dali Ancient Town**: Explore Bai minority culture and try *Xizhou Baba* (savory pancakes) .
- **Erhai Lake**: Cycle the west shore or take a boat from **Caicun Pier** .
- **Cangshan Mountain**: Hike or cable-car up for panoramic views .

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### **Photography Spots** 📸
1. **Reflection Pond** for symmetrical pagoda shots .
2. **Wanghai Tower** for a bird’s-eye view of the temple and Erhai Lake .
3. **S-bend Road** near the pagodas for classic landscape frames .

**#dalitravel #threepagodas #yunnanheritage #buddhistarchitecture**