About this journey
This is the hike I recommend if you can only choose one on Cangshan.
It's easy to overlook among the many options, but along this route you'll discover ancient villages on the Tea Horse Road, a thousand-year-old Nanzhao city, and real historical ruins that few visitors see—peaceful and beautiful.
Walking on the ancient city wall, you can overlook all of Dali.
The highest point is the White King Temple, part of Dali's own worship system.
On the way down, continue along forest trails for a pleasant and scenic experience.
If time allows, go in the afternoon—the sunset is especially beautiful.
This is an easy hike suitable for most people, including children aged 4 and up.
Distance: 4–5 km, hiking time 2.5–3 hours.
Elevation gain: about 200–300 meters, but you'll enjoy open views of Erhai Lake and the entire Dali basin.
Route highlights: Easy but rewarding—natural forests of Cangshan, historical relics from the Nanzhao Kingdom, and stunning views of Erhai and the Dali plain.
You'll pass a Tea Horse Road village with beautiful views of fields and mountains.
I used to walk this route with my dog, who loves nature and gets excited every time we go into the mountains.
That's how I decided to start this hiking experience.
Schedule: Depart in the afternoon (around 3 PM in winter, 5 PM in summer, depending on booking).
This timing is less common but offers the best scenery and sunset.
No tickets required—no extra costs during the trip.
Included: afternoon tea.
This route covers many aspects of Dali!
Tingming Creek: people still fetch water here today.
History: ruins of the Nanzhao Kingdom city.
Basin views: overlook Dali city and surrounding villages from the foot of Cangshan.
Erhai: unobstructed views of the vast lake.
Temple: the White King Benzhu Temple hidden in the mountains.
Tea Horse Road: a little-known section of the ancient route.
We usually start from a village at the foot of the mountain, walk along a section of the Tea Horse Road, then continue uphill through walnut groves and fields.
My dog often joins the walk.
Nanzhao Ancient City Ruins: Tingming Creek flows down from 3600 meters, cool year-round.
After about 10 minutes of walking, you can see the ruins of the Nanzhao city (Tang dynasty architecture, rebuilt in Ming).
The view here is rare on Cangshan—Erhai Lake, layered peaks, wild grass and trees.
It's a great place to learn about Dali's Nanzhao history and to watch sunrise or sunset.
Mountain God Temple: This peaceful temple was originally a summer retreat for the Dali Kingdom's royal family, now dedicated to the Bai guardian deity.
From the hillside, you can see the entire Dali basin and the famous Three Pagodas.
Sitting under a tree and enjoying the open view is very relaxing.
Tea Horse Road Village: Our last stop, a former rest point on the Tea Horse Road.
Most ancient buildings are well preserved, and there are a few guesthouses and cafes.
Upon arrival, you'll see a still-used mountain spring well, villagers' resting spots, and a large banyan tree—it feels like stepping back in time.
Other notes: Bring a jacket, a small bottle of water, and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
Afternoon tea with fruit and snacks will be provided on the hillside.
