Overview
The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are located northwest of Dali Old Town. Composed of the Tang Dynasty's Qianxun Pagoda and the Song Dynasty's North and South Small Pagodas, they are a thousand-year-old royal temple relic and the prototype for Tianlong Temple in Jin Yong's novel *Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils*.
It is recommended to allow 2-3 hours for your visit. The best seasons to visit are spring (March-April, cherry blossoms in full bloom) and autumn (September-October, golden ginkgo leaves), when the weather is mild and the scenery is superb. For foreign language assistance, please call +86-4009001558 for ticket inquiries.
How to Get There
To reach the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, you can take a taxi from Dali Old Town (approximately 10 minutes and 10 yuan) or take bus routes 4 or 3 directly to the scenic area entrance.
A suggested itinerary is as follows: After purchasing tickets and entering the park, first take classic photos of the Three Pagodas' reflections at the Three Pagodas Reflection Pool. Then, take a one-way sightseeing bus to the Grand Hall of the Great Buddha at the top of the mountain. Afterward, walk down the mountain along the central axis, visiting the Yutong Guanyin Hall, the Nanzhao Jianji Great Bell, and the Cultural Relics Exhibition Hall in that order. This route saves energy and ensures you don't miss any of the highlights.
What to Expect
Foreign passport holders must exchange their passports for physical tickets at the ticket window to enter the park. The main path has clear signs and several rest areas for easy access. A souvenir shop is located at the park exit, selling postcards, fridge magnets, and tie-dye crafts. A small shop offering drinking water and light meals is also available near the Reflection Pool. The entire tour takes approximately 2 hours; comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended, and you should watch your step.
Practical Tips
- The reflection pool is best photographed in the morning
- The rebuilt Chongsheng Temple behind is worth exploring
- Electric carts available for the large temple complex
- Sunset views with Cangshan Mountains backdrop are stunning
