Little Putuo Island / 小普陀

A tiny island (circumference ~200m) in Erhai Lake near Wase Town, featuring a small Guanyin Pavilion built during the Ming Dynasty. The island is almost entirely occupied by the temple with two large trees beside it.

Little Putuo Island / 小普陀

Category

Religious, Nature

Why Visit

  • One of Dali's most photographed spots—a miniature temple floating on the lake. Winter brings flocks of red-billed gulls. The view with Cangshan Mountain in the background is magical.

Suggested Duration

20–45 Minutes

Best Visiting Time

Winter (November–March) for red-billed gulls. Early morning or late afternoon for best light.

Suitable For

  • Photographers, nature lovers, spiritual visitors, families

Tips

  • Most visitors photograph from the shore rather than taking the boat. Buy bird feed (~5 RMB) to attract gulls in winter. Combine with an Erhai Lake cycling tour.

Admission Type

Free

Reservation Required

No

Price Estimates

Free (Shore)

Boat ride to island: ~15–30 RMB

Opening Hours

09:00-18:00

Address (English & Chinese)

Haiyin Village, Wase Town, Dali City, Yunnan Province, China (East side of Erhai Lake) 云南省大理市挖色镇海印村(洱海东侧)

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