Introduction
Overview
Erhai Lake (洱海), meaning "Ear-shaped Sea," is a tectonic rift lake formed over 1.2 million years ago. Located at 1,972 meters above sea level, it stretches 42 km from north to south and covers 250 km². As the second-largest lake in Yunnan and a key part of Dali’s "wind, flower, snow, moon" scenery, it blends natural beauty with Bai ethnic traditions.
Natural Features
- Geography: Nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Dali Old Town, its maximum depth reaches 20 meters, with water so clear it’s dubbed "flawless jade".
- Biodiversity: Home to endemic species like ottelia flowers and migratory birds. Conservation efforts since 2016 have restored water quality to "excellent" status.
- Climate: Best visited March–October for mild weather and blooming landscapes.
Cultural Significance
- Bai Heritage: The lake is revered as the Bai people’s "Mother Lake" (Golden Moon). Villages like Shuanglang and Xizhou showcase traditional tie-dye crafts and courtyard homes.
- Legends: A tragic love tale explains its formation—a princess’s tears created the lake, while her husband became Cangshan Mountain.
Activities & Attractions
- Cycling the Lakeshore: A 120-km loop passes S-curves at Panxi Village and fishing docks.
- Island Hopping: Visit Golden Shuttle Island (Bai culture) and Xiaoputuo Island (15th-century Buddhist temple).
- Cruises: Three wharfs (e.g., Daligang) offer routes (CNY 142) with views of "Silver Cangshan, Jade Erhai".
- Photography: Sunrise at Caicun Pier or sunset at Haixin Pavilion are iconic.
Conservation & Tourism
- Ecotourism: The 30-km ecological corridor bans motorboats to protect wetlands.
- Regulations: A CNY 30 lake maintenance fee funds preservation.
Visitor Tips
- Transport: Fly to Dali Airport or take trains from Kunming. Rent e-bikes (CNY 50/day) for flexibility.
- Etiquette: Avoid littering; respect Bai customs (e.g., no touching ancestral shrines).
Erhai Lake is a living postcard—where nature, culture, and sustainability converge.
