Cangshan Mountain
Perpetual snow blankets the summits, earning it the reputation of “snow that never melts, even under the scorching summer sun.” From the summit, one can overlook the stunning vistas of Dali city.
Dali Cangshan Mountain Facts
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What to See on Cangshan Mountain
A trip to Cangshan Mountain of Dali offers more than panoramic views. Key attractions in Cangshan Moutain include ancient temples, pristine alpine lakes, and unique geological sites. A trip to Cangshan Mountain will undoubtedly be an unforgettable highlight of your Dali tour.>> Recommended 4 Days Dali Adventure Tour: Hiking & BikingFor ancient architecture enthusiasts, temples on the Cangshan Mountain are worthy visiting. Such as Jizhao An, which is renowned for its distinctive approach of cultivating flowers instead of burning incense, earning it the title of “China’s most beautiful Buddhist nunnery.”
Another gem is the Seven Dragon Girls Pool, a series of seven stunning, emerald-colored pools and cascading waterfalls nestled deep in a forested valley
Cangshan Mountain Cable Car
Ascending Cangshan Mountain on foot is a significant undertaking. Fortunately, here are 3 cable cars on the Cangshan Mountain.Xi Ma Tan Cable Cars
The Ximatan cable car is the only cable car that can reach the summit. It features three stations—lower, middle, and upper—spanning a vertical rise of 1.6 kilometers and a total length of approximately 5.5 kilometers, truly connecting three distinct landscapes in one journey.
Gantong Cable Car
This cable car provides a route that access to the central scenic area of the mountain. With a total length of 2,630 meters, this section boasts the highest concentration of attractions, including Gantong Temple, Ji Zhao An, the Zhenlong Chessboard, and the Qingbi Stream.
Zhonghe Temple Cable Car
Zhongtong Temple’s open-air gondola cable car offers a romantic journey through the scenic beauty of Cangshan Mountain. while experiencing the forests of Cangshan Mountains up close while enjoying panoramic views of Old Dali Town and Erhai Lake.
Hiking on Cangshan Mountain
Jade Belt Road
The Jade Belt Cloud Trail is an 18-kilometer scenic path constructed halfway up the main peak of Cangshan Mountain. This is the most famous and accessible Cangshan Mountain trail. Hailed as a wellness trail, this route remains nearly flat throughout, offering breathtaking views overlooking Old Dali Town and Erhai Lake. It is suitable for most fitness levels of hiking enthusiasts.Hike to Jizhao An
This easygoing route is perfect for beginners, seniors, or children. The highlight is savoring delicious vegetarian cuisine in Jizhao An while taking in the stunning scenery of Qingbi Stream.
Hike to Xi Ma Tan
For a more challenging hike Cangshan Mountain, experienced hikers can trek from the Seven Dragon Girls Pool station to the Xi Ma Tan summit area. This high-altitude route is steep and demanding.
Hiking Tips: Always check the Cangshan Mountain weather forecast before you go. Start early to avoid afternoon mists. Wear comfortable shoes, take a warm jacket, and always carry enough water and snacks. The mountain’s high UV levels make sunscreen and a hat essential.
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How to Get to Cangshan Mountain
Close to Dali city, The quickest way to get to Cangshan Mountain is from Dali Old Town.By Bus
Cangshan mountain’s eastern foothills are just 2 kilometers west of the Old Dali Town. From the tourist center at the South Gate of Old Dali Town, you can take a direct shuttle to the various cable cars on Cangshan Mountain. Alternatively, take Bus No. 4 and get off at Gantong Temple, then walk approximately 2 kilometers to reach Gantong Temple.By Taxi
Taking a taxi is the fastest way to reach Cangshan Mountain. You can take a taxi from Old Dali Town to the Ximatan Cable Car. The entire journey takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥50-60.Cangshan Mountain Weather and Best Time to Visit
Cangshan Mountain offers stunning scenery year-round, but weather conditions can change significantly within a single day. Be sure to check the Cangshan Mountain’s weather forecast before your visit.
Best Seasons to visit Cangshan Mountain are widely recognized as spring and autumn (April-May & September-October). These months’ weather are the most stable and pleasant, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and lush greenery or autumn colors. It’s the ideal time for hiking and clear views.
Explore Cangshan Mountain with Your Personal Guide: Easy Tour China
To fully appreciate not only the majesty of Cangshan Mountain and its surroundings without the logistical hassle, but also visit other the most famous mountains in China,consider joining a professionally guided tour. Easy Tour China will offer expertly crafted itineraries that combine this natural wonder with the cultural heritages of Dali, Yunnan Province. Here are the suggested Dali travel itineraries that included Cangshan Mountain of Dali.