Destination · Yunnan

Dali Erhai Lake

A freshwater lake near Dali in Yunnan, ringed by mountains and traditional Bai villages.

Dali Erhai Lake, Yunnan See all 3 photos
Where in China
Yunnan, 270 km west of Kunming in a straight line
Nearest town
Dali, 19 km south-east
Entry
Entrance is free

Dali Erhai Lake, located in Dali City, Yunnan Province, is a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by rolling mountains and traditional Bai villages. Known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty, it's perfect for cycling, boating, or simply enjoying peaceful views of the landscape. The lake holds cultural significance for the local Bai people and offers a serene escape with a blend of nature and heritage. In ancient texts, Erhai Lake was known by various names such as "Yeyu Ze," "Kunmi Chuan," "Xi Er He," and "Xi Er River." It was named "Erhai" (literally "Ear Sea") due to its shape resembling a human ear. Although called a "sea," Erhai is actually a lake. Legend has it that the Bai people, who had never seen the ocean, named it "Erhai" to express their longing for the sea.

What to see

Dali Erhai Lake, YunnanDali Erhai Lake, Yunnan

Where it is

10 km20 kmDali19 kmXizhou Ancient Town9 kmDali Ancient Town16 kmXimatan Cableway18 km Dali Erhai LakeStraight-line distances. Roads are on the live map. © OpenStreetMap Yunnansouth-west China 10 km20 kmDali19 kmXizhou Ancient Town9 kmDali Ancient Town16 kmXimatan Cableway18 kmKunming · 270 km Dali Erhai LakeStraight-line distances. Roads are on the live map. © OpenStreetMap Yunnansouth-west China

Where to park

The exact spot, the entrance and the address are in the Dragon Roads app during your trip. Every stop opens in Amap, ready to navigate.

Road trips to Dali Erhai Lake

Dali Erhai Lake is a stop on five of our Yunnan road trips. Every route can be shortened, lengthened or started elsewhere.

How Chinese travelers film it

Short clips from Douyin, the Chinese TikTok. They are in Chinese.

Nearby in Yunnan

Nearest first. Distances in a straight line.

All places in Yunnan