Baolin Temple of Cangshan Mountain in Dali City

Chinese Name: 大理苍山宝林寺
English Name: Baolian Temple of Cangshan Mountain in Dali City
Baolian Temple of Cangshan Mountain is one of the Best Tourist Attractions and Top Things to Do when travel to Dali, it introduces the main scenic spots, address, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Baolian Temple of Cangshan Mountain(大理苍山宝林寺).

Baolian Temple (宝林寺), located at the foot of Xieyang Peak (斜阳峰) in Cangshan Mountain, Dali, is one of the most notable Buddhist temples in the area. Known for its peaceful surroundings and cultural significance, it is a must-see for those visiting Dali. The temple is famous for its beautiful location with views of Erhai Lake (洱海) and its rich Buddhist history. It holds a prominent position among the four major scenic spots of Dali.

Location

• Address: Cangshan Mountain, Xieyang Peak, Baolin Village, Dali City, Yunnan Province, China

• Distance: Approximately 3 km from Xiaguan (下关), the main urban area of Dali.

History and Cultural Significance

Origins

Baolian Temple was originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty but was rebuilt in 1898 during the Qing Dynasty under the reign of Emperor Guangxu. The temple is closely associated with the local community's legends and beliefs, particularly the story of Duan Chicheng, a local hero who is said to have rid the area of harmful snakes and brought prosperity to the region. His statue is enshrined at the temple.

Cultural Importance

The temple enjoys cultural prominence due to its affiliation with the four famous pavilions around Erhai Lake:

• Tianjing Pavilion

• Zhuhai Pavilion

• Haoran Pavilion

• Shuiyue Pavilion

These four pavilions, along with Baolian Temple, form an important spiritual and cultural network in the region. The temple represents a blend of Buddhist culture and local folk beliefs.

Architectural Features

Traditional Bai Style

The architecture of Baolian Temple follows the traditional style of Bai ethnic temples. The temple's layout includes several structures:

• Main Hall: Dedicated to Longwang (龙王), the Dragon King, a figure worshipped for controlling water and protecting the area from floods.

• Side Hall: Houses a statue of Duan Chicheng, the local hero who is said to have rid the region of a venomous snake and protected the people.

The pillars of the temple are engraved with inscriptions that highlight local legends, such as:

• "Opening the mountain to channel water, benefiting eight villages; from that day, the blessings spread across generations."

• "Slaying the serpent, bringing peace to all; Duan Chicheng's courage shines through the ages."

These inscriptions capture the local folklore and provide a glimpse into the spiritual connection between the community and the temple.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

• Open Year-Round: Daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entrance Fee

• Free Admission: The temple is currently free to visit, as of 2023.

Recommended Duration

• 1-2 Hours: Given the small size of the temple and its tranquil setting, most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the temple and its surroundings.

How to Get There

From Xiaguan (Dali City Center)

• By Minibus: A short minibus ride from Xiaguan will take you directly to Baolian Temple.

• By Foot: For those who enjoy hiking, you can walk up the 214 National Highway to reach the temple. The walk takes approximately 20 minutes, with a moderate incline.

Visitor Feedback

Overall Ratings

• Rating: 3.7/5 on Ctrip (2023-2025)

  • Positive Feedback: About 40% of visitors appreciate the peaceful environment and the panoramic views of Erhai Lake, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and meditation.

  • Criticism: Around 35% of visitors mention that the temple is small and the mountain path leading up to it can be steep and challenging, especially for those not accustomed to hiking.

Most visitors recommend combining a visit to Baolian Temple with other nearby attractions in Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, and keeping the visit duration to 1-2 hours.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn: The weather is mild and comfortable, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the temple grounds.

• Summer: Can be hot, especially on the mountain trails, so it is advisable to carry water and wear appropriate clothing.

Recommended Attire

• Comfortable Footwear: Since the temple involves a bit of walking uphill, comfortable shoes are recommended.

• Sun Protection: A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are advisable, especially if visiting during the summer months.

Nearby Attractions

• Cangshan Mountain: Known for its beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.

• Erhai Lake: A large, scenic lake offering boat tours and picturesque views.