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Dali's most iconic landmark, these three Buddhist pagodas date back to the 9th century Tang Dynasty. The central pagoda stands 69.6 meters tall with 16 tiers, flanked by two smaller 10-tier pagodas. Built by the Nanzhao Kingdom, they survived multiple earthquakes that destroyed the original temple. The reflection in the pool at their base creates a famous photo opportunity.
7:10 AM - 7:00 PM(May-October);7:30 AM - 6:30 PM(October-April)
Tickets: ¥75; Cable car: ¥35 (round trip)
1km north of Dali Old Town, Yunnan
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.
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.
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.
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