Explore the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongshen Temple with expertly guided tours showcasing Dali's rich Buddhist history and stunning architecture.
The Three Pagodas of Chongshen Temple stand as Dali's most recognizable landmark, an enduring symbol of the ancient Bai Kingdom and its profound Buddhist heritage. Rising majestically against the backdrop of Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains, these three pagodas have witnessed centuries of history, from imperial dynasties to modern tourism. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique opportunity to connect with a spiritual and architectural marvel that has captivated travelers for generations. Three Pagodas Historical Visits tours are designed to immerse you in the story of this sacred complex. Beyond simply admiring the structures, these guided excursions delve into the history of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, the significance of the Buddhist art and architecture, and the legends associated with the pagodas themselves. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking to understand the soul of Dali, these tours provide context and depth to your exploration, transforming a sightseeing stop into a meaningful discovery.
Discover our top picks for three pagodas historical visits in Dali

Explore the cultural, historical, and scenic highlights of Dali with a private guide. Its history stretches back to the kingdom of Nanzhao in the 8th century. The walled old city, from the Ming dynasty, contains traditional homes and towers from the Bai ethnic minority. Beyond the old city rise the Three Pagodas of Chong Sheng Temple, dating back to the 9th century. Meet your guide at your hotel or meeting location of your choice to bring you on the private tour based on your customized itinerary. Let your guide know what you like and receive suggestions. Learn about the city's history and culture from your guide as you explore.

Experience Dali city highlights at your own pace on a private tour from Kunming by bullet train. Be greeted by a local private tour guide, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle, visit and explore the must-see attractions like Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake and Xizhou Ancient Town. Tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, transportation, train tickets and of course a private guide to provide information and take you through Dali. You can choose to end your tour in Dali or return Kunming.

On this Yunnan Discovery cultural trip, you will experience the historical cities of Kunming, Dali and Lijiang from SHANGHAI by plane. This personalized tour is tailored to your needs and allows you to tick off famous attractions, such as Stone Forest, Guihu Park, Flower and Birds Market, Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake, Mu Palace, Lijiang Old Town, Baisha Village. In addition, explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy amazing open-air Impression Lijiang Impression Show which performances by non-professional peasant actors who are from local villages. Tour including plane/train tickets, entrance fee, lunch, show tickets, cable car round trip, English speaking tour guide and travel by air-air-conditoned private vehicle, you can choose to end your tour in Lijiang or return SHANGHAI. Tour includes the option to book 4 star accommodation with daily breakfast.

Visit highlights of Dali including Dali ancient city, Xizhou village, Erhai lake and Three pagodas park with this private day tour from Dali. You will be picked up and dropped off at the Dali hotel/train station.

Meet guide in the lobby at 8:30 am and transfer to Xizhou old town in this old town you will see the traditional buildings and Ethnic minority Bai people who has their own clothes then you will visit Xizhou market to see locals are doing business, also you will enjoy cruise at Erhai lake about 2hours , it the second biggest lake in Yunan province which is the biggest one in Dali, it’s clear water and with beautiful Mountain in it’s surrounding, the cruise Ferry will stop at a village and you will visit Tianjingge Pavilion about 30minutes then board cruise again to Dali, the last one is three Pagodas which is built in Tang dynasty with the history of more than 1800 years, it’s the symbol of Dali. Transfer to hotel in Dali city.

Dali City, located in the western part of Yunnan Province, is the prefecture-level administrative capital of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. Dali City is located in the Erhai Plain, the foot of Cangshan Mountain and the shore of Erhai Lake on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It is the capital of Nanzhao and Dali in ancient times. As the political, economic and cultural center of ancient Yunnan, it lasted for more than 500 years. The average temperature is 14degrees it’s a sunshine city but it’s also called windy city, while in summer not hot and winter not cold and all the year is pleasant. During the two days we will arrange your trip to hike at Cangshan Mountain along with the Dali old town, which is a really fantastic day, also we will arrange a day trip to Xizhou market, Erhai lake cruise, and three Pagodas which is another beautiful day, hope you will enjoy the 2 days trip in Dali.

Experience the best of Dali in one day! Begin at the iconic Three Pagodas, marveling at their ancient Tang Dynasty. Then dive into a vibrant flower field photoshoot with a vintage jeep. Finally, hop on a bike for a scenic Lake cycling adventure around Erhai, gliding past traditional Bai villages, lakeside cafes, and artsy towns like Shuanglang, with breathtaking views at every turn. This perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure ensures a day packed with photo ops, history, and the serene beauty of Dali—all in one seamless journey! - Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple - Flower Fields Photo Spot - Cycle Around Lake Erhai (if you cannot join, please contact us to customize your tour)

Join your English-speaking local guide on a journey north of Barcelona to discover one of Catalonia’s most captivating regions. Spend the day exploring three distinct destinations or tailor the itinerary to your interests. Begin with a visit to the Dalí Museum in Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and the heart of the Alt Empordà region. Step into the surreal world of the artist and wander through the town’s historic streets. Continue to a family-run winery, where you’ll learn about native grape varieties, the local climate, and traditional winemaking methods. Savor a guided tasting of their finest wines. Complete your experience with a visit to the coastal villages of Costa Brava or the medieval charm of Girona. As you return to Barcelona, take a moment to reflect on the art, culture, and flavors that made the day unforgettable.

Exciting experience that combines three destinations in the region of Catalonia, Spain. Start at the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, where you will have the opportunity to explore the surrealist work of renowned artist Salvador Dalí and immerse yourself in his creative world. It is a unique experience that will take you through Dalí's most emblematic creations and his artistic legacy. The tour will then take you to Besalú, a charming medieval town in the province of Girona. Here, time seems to stand still as you explore the cobblestone streets and historic architecture that make it a window to the past. History comes to life in this town that will transport you to ancient times. Finally, the tour concludes in Girona, a historic city with impressive architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the city's highlights, such as the Girona Cathedral and the picturesque streets of the old town.

Experience picturesque landscapes and colorful minority culture in Dali and Lijiang at your own pace on a 2-day private tour from Kunming. Travel by bullet train, greeted by a local private tour guide in Dali, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle, visit and explore the must-see attractions such as Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake, Mu Palace, Lijiang Old Town. In addition, explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy amazing open-air Impression Lijiang Impression Show which performances by non-professional peasant actors who are from local villages.This private tour including English speaking tour guide, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle, train tickets, entrance fee, round trip cable car, lunch, show tickets and door-to-door hotel transfers. You can choose to end your tour in Lijiang or return Kunming. Tour includes the option to book 4 star accommodation with daily breakfast.

Our tour starts in Dali Old Town and takes you to the non-touristic Xizhou and Zhoucheng. First, we will visit Xizhou, a famous historical and cultural Bai minority town with well-preserved architecture and then continue to Zhoucheng, the hometown of Chinese tie-dyeing. This Dali traditional dyeing process is unique in China and even in the world. During our tour, you can experience minority’s folk customs and daily local life and even better and make tie-dye handcrafted art with your family. Afterwards we will go on a cruise on Erhai lake and visit a local fishing village. • Xizhou: Experience morning market and Three course tea. Bai-style traditional architecture along the old tea-horse road. • Tie Dye:traditional Bai ethnic tie-dye workshop in Zhoucheng, learn how to tie-dye yourself • Erhai lake: cruise on Erhai Lake to a local fishing village

Join this comprehensive 3-day private tour to experience the highlights of Kunming, Dali and Lijiang. This personalized tour is tailored to your needs and allows you to tick off famous attractions, such as Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Cave, Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake, Mu Palace, Lijiang Old Town. In addition, explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy amazing open-air Impression Lijiang Impression Show which performances by non-professional peasant actors who are from local villages. This private tour including English speaking tour guide, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle, train tickets, entrance fee, round trip cable car, lunch, show tickets and door-to-door hotel transfers. You can choose to end your tour in Lijiang or return Kunming. Tour includes the option to book 4 star accommodation with daily breakfast.

Visit highlights of Dali including the Dali Xizhou old village, Erhai lake, Three Pagodas and Dali ancient city with day tour from Kunming by round way bullet train. You will be picked up and dropped off at Kunming hotel.

Visit highlights of Dali including Dali airport/train station pick up, Dali Ancient City, Cangshan Mountain, Three Pagodas,Erhai, Xizhou morning market Zhoucheng village and Xizhou Bai-styled folk residence with this 3 days private tour from Dali. You will be picked up and dropped off at the Dali airport/train station.

Meet guide in the hotel lobby at 8:30am, start day trip to Cangshan Mountain , you will take Gantong cable car to the Mountain and visit streams , chessboard, waterfalls, then you will start your hiking tour at Jade belt road, it includes 19 peaks and 18 streams with the highest Malong peak is 4122 meter above sea level, today you will do the hiking and trekking about 9.8 kilometers, it’s a good way to hug nature and take deep breath in the green Mountains with plenty of oxygen, pls wear good walking shoes and take water with you meanwhile I advise you take some snacks as not many shops in the Mountain, after the hiking way you will take chairlift down to the Mountain, take private transfer to Dali old town and we will arrange your food at the local restaurant, after lunch you will visit the Dali old town.
Gain priority access and insightful commentary at Dali's most famous historical site.
Understand the deep Buddhist history and architectural significance of the pagodas.
Learn from knowledgeable guides who share local stories and historical facts.
Discover the best vantage points for capturing the pagodas' grandeur.
Appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountains.
Enjoy well-planned routes that maximize your time and experience.
This is the most common type, focusing on a detailed exploration of the Three Pagodas complex. Guides will share the history of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms and the religious significance of the structures.
These tours often combine a visit to the Three Pagodas with other nearby cultural attractions, such as Dali Old Town or Erhai Lake viewpoints. They offer a broader understanding of the region's heritage.
For those seeking a more personalized experience, private tours offer flexibility in itinerary and a dedicated guide. This option is ideal for families or small groups wanting to focus on specific interests.
Most tours dedicated to the Three Pagodas last between 2 to 3 hours. Combined cultural tours may extend to 4-5 hours.
Dali enjoys a temperate climate. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are mild. Always check the forecast and dress accordingly.
Group sizes can vary from intimate private tours with just your party to larger shared groups of 10-15 people.
Typically includes guided commentary and entrance fees to the Three Pagodas complex. Transportation may be included in longer or private tours.
Tours usually meet at or near the entrance to the Three Pagodas historical site. Specific details will be provided upon booking.
Entrance fees are usually covered. Meals, personal expenses, and tips for guides are typically not included.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun and crowds.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the site.
Carry water and sun protection, especially during warmer months.
Respect the religious nature of the site; dress modestly and be mindful of temple etiquette.
Consider combining your Three Pagodas visit with a stroll through Dali Old Town for a fuller experience.
If you have a specific interest in Buddhist art or architecture, inform your guide beforehand.
Keep an eye on the weather; Dali can experience sudden rain showers.
Many tours offer hotel pick-up within Dali city; check if this is an option when booking.
A: The Three Pagodas are remnants of the Chongshen Temple, built during the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, dating back over a thousand years. They are iconic symbols of Buddhist architecture and have survived numerous earthquakes and historical changes.
A: Yes, these tours are generally suitable for families. Children can learn about history and culture in an engaging way. Private tours offer more flexibility for families with young children.
A: The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather. However, the site is beautiful year-round, and tours operate daily.
A: The Three Pagodas are located just north of Dali Old Town, about a 15-20 minute drive. Many tours conveniently combine visits to both locations.
A: You can certainly visit the Three Pagodas independently, but a guided tour provides invaluable historical context, architectural insights, and helps you understand the cultural significance you might otherwise miss.
A: Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Given the religious nature of the site, it's advisable to dress respectfully, avoiding overly revealing attire.
A: Transportation arrangements vary. Shorter, dedicated Three Pagodas tours might meet you at the site. Longer cultural tours or private bookings often include round-trip transportation from your hotel in Dali.
A: While the grounds are relatively flat, there are some steps and inclines to navigate within the temple complex as you move between different areas. The main pagodas themselves are not generally climbed.
Experience the charm of ancient Bai culture nestled against stunning Erhai Lake views.
Wander historic cobblestone streets in Dali's ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy affordable and comfortable travel with convenient public transport options around Dali.
Explore centuries of history evident in the Three Pagodas and ancient city walls.
Savor authentic Bai cuisine and connect with friendly locals in this picturesque Yunnan city.
Discover a relaxed pace of life where mountains meet the serene waters of Erhai Lake.
Dali enjoys a subtropical plateau monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are warm and rainy, while winters are dry and cool, though sunshine is abundant. The spring and autumn months offer the most pleasant weather.
The spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November are ideal for visiting Dali, offering sunny days, comfortable temperatures, and lower humidity.
The peak season generally falls during the summer months (July-August) due to school holidays and favorable weather, and also during major Chinese public holidays like Golden Week in October, leading to larger crowds and higher prices.
The off-season months, typically from November to February, see fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere, though temperatures are cooler and some outdoor activities might be less comfortable.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Explore the rich traditions, vibrant arts, and ancient customs of the Bai people through immersive tours in Dali, Yunnan.
Discover breathtaking vistas and ancient trails on guided hiking expeditions through Dali's majestic Cangshan Mountain range.
Discover the Bai culture, historic architecture, and vibrant street life of Dali Ancient Town on guided walking tours.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Erhai Lake on two wheels with guided cycling tours, offering a unique perspective on Dali's natural landscapes and local culture.
Explore the vibrant flavors of Yunnan on curated food tasting tours and culinary adventures in the historic city of Dali.
Getting around Dali is quite convenient. Within Dali Ancient Town, walking is best to soak in the atmosphere. For longer distances, local buses are very affordable, connecting major attractions like the Three Pagodas and Xizhou. Taxis are readily available, especially in the New Town and near bus stations. Renting an electric scooter or bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to explore the Erhai Lake scenic route at your own pace, offering flexibility and scenic stops. Ride-sharing apps are also operational.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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