Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas - Image 1
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Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas Dali

4.6
·37 reviews·Dali, China

Ancient Buddhist pagodas and a royal temple complex, offering a glimpse into Dali's rich history and serene landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas - Image 1

Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas Dali

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient Buddhist pagodas and a royal temple complex, offering a glimpse into Dali's rich history and serene landscapes.

4.6
(37 reviews)

"Wow, went here without having any expectations and I was blown away."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is large and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking to explore fully. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Consider Electric Cars

If walking is difficult, small electric cars are available for a fee to navigate the steep paths. :minibus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Pagodas

The Three Pagodas

Chongsheng Temple grounds

Iconic 9th-century pagodas, symbols of Dali, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.

Chongsheng Temple

Chongsheng Temple

Base of Cangshan Mountain

A sprawling Buddhist complex with a rich history, once a royal monastery, now a place of peace.

Reflections Park

Reflections Park

Near the Three Pagodas

The ideal spot for capturing the perfect mirror image of the pagodas in the tranquil water.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Visit early morning to avoid crowds and catch the serene atmosphere. The light is also perfect for photos of the Three Pagodas. Consider the weather; sunny days offer stunning reflections in the ponds.

Navigating the Vast Site

The Chongsheng Temple complex is extensive. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking. Small electric cars are available for a fee if you prefer not to walk the steeper sections.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dali: Lakes, snow-capped peaks, and that laid-back vibe—Yunnan’s soul spot! 🏞️🌄 #Dali #Yunnan #wolink #大理 #云南 #大理古城 #ChinaNature #fypppppppppppppp #ExploreChina #Chinatravel #travel #sunsetlover #fyp #tiktoktravel #VisitChina #ChinaTourism #TravelGoals #WanderlustAwaits #ExploreAsia #travelbucketlist #fypppppppppppppp
@lamartin183
18.7K likes • 238.8K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is large and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking to explore fully. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Consider Electric Cars

If walking is difficult, small electric cars are available for a fee to navigate the steep paths. :minibus:

🤩Top places you must visit in Dali ‼️ I bet this place will be one of your best choices for travelling in China 🇨🇳 📍Erhai Lake 📍Dali Old City 📍Cang Shan 📍Zhoucheng #travel #yunnan #dali #chinatravel #fyp
@journey_through_china
9.7K likes • 271K views
Pagodas more than 1,100 years old and is one of the tallest pagodas ever built in China👏😲 📍Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple in Dali, Yunnan . 📹:credit to douyin @ 行天下 #china #yunnan #dali
hichinatravel
450 likes • 7.4K views

📸 Best Photo Spot

Head to Reflections Park for the iconic mirror shot of the Three Pagodas. :camerawithflash:

🚫 Avoid Free Guides

Some visitors suggest avoiding free guided tours as they may have sales quotas. :warning:

🏯 Visited Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔) without any expectations and was blown away (literally). Seven consecutive temples, each one revealing itself only after passing the previous one, like moving through the stages of life. They got more impressive the higher you go, though the last two weren’t accesible, maybe a small reminder that some things are not meant to be fully gra...
cynthia525
38 likes • 627 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The site is large and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking to explore fully. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Consider Electric Cars

If walking is difficult, small electric cars are available for a fee to navigate the steep paths. :minibus:

📸 Best Photo Spot

Head to Reflections Park for the iconic mirror shot of the Three Pagodas. :camerawithflash:

🚫 Avoid Free Guides

Some visitors suggest avoiding free guided tours as they may have sales quotas. :warning:

💰 Entrance Fee

Be prepared for an entrance fee, which can be around 100 Yuan. :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the historical grandeur and serene beauty of the Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple, often describing it as a breathtaking and must-see attraction. While the site is vast and can be pricey, the architectural marvels and peaceful atmosphere make it a highly recommended stop in Dali.

"The site was the Dali royal monastery (for the local Nanzhao kingdom). It was recently rebuilt but nonetheless remains a 5A touristic site in line with Chinese concepts of Theseus shipping. A nice walk in the early morning if arrival before 10am. Apparently do avoid the free guide tours as apparently they have sales quotas to meet."

Chin Zhi Hui

"Tang Dynastie rebuilt UNESCO Buddhist Temple 8th Century BC (rebuilt 2005-2018). Extreme nice area to visit. I highly recommend to book a tour. English markings and explanations are not findable."

Andreas Wethli

"Wow, went here without having any expectations and I was blown away. Def a recommendation."

Cynthia de Wolf

What People Like

Majestic Three Pagodas
Serene temple grounds
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Entrance fee cost
Extensive walking required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a local bus or a taxi from Dali Old Town to reach the Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas. The journey is relatively short, and many visitors opt for taxis for convenience. Some TikTok videos show scenic routes leading to the site. TikTok

Yes, transportation to the Three Pagodas is generally easy. Local buses and taxis are readily available in Dali. For those arriving from further afield, like Lijiang, direct transfers can be arranged. Reddit

While it's possible, it's a considerable distance. Most visitors prefer to take a bus, taxi, or even rent a bike for a portion of the way to save time and energy for exploring the site itself. TikTok

Yes, small electric cars operate within the vast Chongsheng Temple complex. These are available for a fee and are recommended for those who prefer not to walk the steeper inclines. Instagram

Many travelers fly into Dali or nearby airports and then take a bus or taxi. The infrastructure in Yunnan has improved significantly, making travel more accessible. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is approximately 100 Yuan. It's advisable to check the latest pricing before your visit, as it can change. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check official tourism websites for any available concessions. Reddit

The site is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. Visiting in the early morning is recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Reddit

While advance booking is not always mandatory, it can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Check if online booking options are available. Reddit

The entrance fee is typically per person. Ensure you have enough cash or a payment method accepted at the ticket counter. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the pagodas. Late afternoon provides a warm, golden hour glow. The Reflections Park is a must for mirror shots. Instagram

Yes, Reflections Park is renowned for its stunning mirror-like views of the pagodas. Many visitors also find elevated spots within the temple grounds offer great perspectives. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted at historical and religious sites in China. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid issues. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the pagodas and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be helpful for details. Instagram

Photography may be restricted inside some of the temple buildings. Always look for signage and be respectful of local customs. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Culture

Built in the 9th century during the Tang Dynasty, the Three Pagodas are over 1,100 years old and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing the architectural prowess of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Instagram+1

Chongsheng Temple was a significant royal monastery and a holy Buddhist site, even for neighboring Southeast Asian countries. Many kings of the Dali Kingdom became monks here. Instagram

The pagodas have undergone significant reconstruction and rebuilding, with the most recent major renovations completed between 2005 and 2018. They are a testament to historical preservation efforts. Reddit

The pagodas represent the Buddhist concept of the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) and are a symbol of the region's rich Buddhist heritage. Instagram

English markings and explanations can be limited. It's helpful to do some research beforehand or use a translation app. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas can be a fascinating experience for families. The sheer size of the pagodas and the expansive temple grounds offer plenty of space for children to explore. Consider using the electric shuttle cars to cover longer distances, which can be an adventure in itself for kids. Instagram The historical aspect can be introduced through simple stories about ancient kingdoms and builders, making it more engaging. Pack snacks and water, as exploring the vast site can be tiring. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

While the entrance fee is around 100 Yuan, the experience offers significant value. To save money, opt for local buses from Dali Old Town instead of taxis. TikTok Pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items within the site. Focus on exploring the main attractions on foot to skip the fee for electric cars. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This is a photographer's paradise! Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Don't miss Reflections Park for the iconic pagoda reflection shot. Instagram Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the pagodas and the surrounding landscape. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the intricate details of the temple architecture. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enduring Legacy of the Three Pagodas

The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are an iconic landmark of Dali, Yunnan, China. Dating back to the 9th century during the Tang Dynasty, these ancient structures have stood for over a millennium, surviving earthquakes and rebuilding efforts. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the architectural and religious significance of the Nanzhao Kingdom and the Dali Kingdom. Each pagoda has a unique height and intricate carvings, reflecting Buddhist cosmology and artistry. Instagram+1

Visitors are often struck by the sheer scale and historical depth of the pagodas. While they have been rebuilt, their essence and historical importance remain. The site offers a profound connection to China's past and its enduring Buddhist traditions. The surrounding landscape, with views of Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain, adds to the site's serene beauty. TikTokInstagram

For photographers, the Three Pagodas are a dream. The dedicated Reflections Park provides the perfect opportunity to capture a stunning mirror image of the pagodas in the water, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. This iconic shot is a highlight for many visitors and a must-do for anyone visiting Dali. Instagram

Exploring the Chongsheng Temple Complex

Beyond the famous pagodas, Chongsheng Temple itself is a vast and historically rich complex. Once the royal monastery of the Dali Kingdom, it served as a major center for Buddhism in the region. The temple grounds feature numerous halls, courtyards, and smaller pagodas, each with its own story and architectural style. Instagram

Navigating the temple complex requires comfortable footwear, as it's spread out and includes some steep inclines. For those who prefer to conserve energy, electric shuttle cars are available for a fee, making it easier to access different parts of the site. This is particularly helpful for families or individuals with mobility concerns. Instagram

The atmosphere within Chongsheng Temple is often described as serene and tranquil, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of modern life. The blend of historical architecture, religious significance, and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for cultural immersion and quiet contemplation. InstagramReddit

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