Cangshan Zhonghe Cableway
Ascend Cangshan Mountain via the Zhonghe Cableway for unparalleled views of Erhai Lake and Dali's natural splendor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Cangshan Zhonghe Cableway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Cangshan Mountain via the Zhonghe Cableway for unparalleled views of Erhai Lake and Dali's natural splendor.
"Amazing view and it took me 2 hours or so to walk up to the middle of the mountain."
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and avoid queues by purchasing your cable car tickets online beforehand. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Erhai Lake Views
From the cable car and mountain viewpoints
Breathtaking vistas of Erhai Lake and Dali city unfold as you ascend. A truly unforgettable sight.
Cangshan Mountain Hiking Trails
Various trails accessible from cable car stations
Explore lush greenery and pristine streams on well-maintained mountain paths. Perfect for nature lovers.
Mid-Mountain Transit Station
Mid-point of the Zhonghe Cableway
A convenient stop for a break, offering stunning views and access to different hiking routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cable Car Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and avoid queues by purchasing your cable car tickets online beforehand. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
☁️ Check the Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly. Dress in layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. :cloud:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't just ride the cable car; take time to hike the beautiful trails for a deeper nature experience. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Save time and avoid queues by purchasing your cable car tickets online beforehand. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
☁️ Check the Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly. Dress in layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. :cloud:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't just ride the cable car; take time to hike the beautiful trails for a deeper nature experience. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Erhai Lake are incredible. Have your camera ready! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Erhai Lake and Dali city from the cable car and mountain trails. The natural beauty, pristine streams, and hiking opportunities are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the ticket price a bit high, and weather can occasionally impact operations.
"We loved the 11km trail hike a split at the mid-transit cable car station. We went northwards and it was beautiful."
Clement Leong
"Take Zhonghe cable car is a good choice to receive nice view of Dali and Erhai"
zhijie han
"Amazing view and it took me 2 hours or so to walk up to the middle of the mountain."
Yutong Shi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi or a local bus from Dali Old City to the base station of the Zhonghe Cableway. Many visitors find taxis convenient for direct access. :taxi: Some TikTok creators suggest it's a short ride from the old town.
Yes, there is usually parking available at the base station for those driving. However, it can get busy during peak times. :car:
The Zhonghe Cableway is a popular and efficient way to ascend Cangshan Mountain for hiking. It provides access to various trails. :hiking_boot:
Ride-sharing apps are generally available in Dali and can be a convenient option to reach the cableway. :iphone:
While direct shuttle buses might not be frequent, local buses and taxis are readily available from Dali Old City. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around 200 RMB for a round trip. It's advisable to check the official website or local ticketing platforms for the most current pricing. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the ticket office at the base station. However, buying in advance online is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during busy periods. :ticket:
Operating hours typically start in the morning and end in the late afternoon. It's best to confirm the exact hours on the day of your visit, as they can be subject to change due to weather. :clock1:
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. Inquire at the ticket office or check online for any promotional offers. :discount:
The standard ticket usually includes a round-trip journey on the Zhonghe Cableway. Access to the hiking trails on the mountain is generally included with your entry to the national park area. :mountain_cableway:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the top, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Erhai Lake and Dali city, explore various hiking trails, and experience the natural beauty of the mountain. :hiking_boot:
Absolutely! The cable car stations provide access to numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. :forest_tree:
Expect lush green hillsides, pristine streams, and breathtaking views of Erhai Lake and the surrounding Dali landscape. It's often described as picturesque and poetic. :mountain_snow:
The cable car ride itself is enjoyable for children. However, some hiking trails can be challenging, so assess your children's stamina and choose easier paths. :child:
A typical visit can range from 2-4 hours, depending on how much hiking you plan to do. Some visitors spend longer to fully appreciate the trails. :stopwatch:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually some basic food stalls or small eateries near the cable car stations on the mountain, offering snacks and simple meals. :hamburger:
You can typically find snacks, drinks, and some local Chinese dishes. It's advisable to bring your own snacks if you have specific dietary needs. :apple:
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed and recommended, especially if you plan on a longer hike. :water_wave:
The most dining options are found in Dali Old City, which is a short distance from the cableway base. You can find a wide variety of local and international cuisine there. :forkandknifewithplate:
Food prices on the mountain can be slightly higher than in the city due to the location. Eating in Dali Old City is generally more budget-friendly. :money_bag:
📸 📸 Photography
The cable car ride itself offers incredible photo opportunities. Once on the mountain, viewpoints overlooking Erhai Lake and the city are prime spots. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hours, provides beautiful lighting for landscape photography. :sunriseovermountains:
Look for designated viewing platforms and clearings along the hiking trails that offer unobstructed views of Erhai Lake and the surrounding scenery. :mountain_view:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the distant mountains or city. :camera:
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and scenic areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options on the mountain can be limited and pricier. [^Review] Checking the weather forecast beforehand is crucial, as sudden changes can make the mountain experience less enjoyable for little ones. The mid-transit station offers a good spot for a break and some light exploration without committing to a long hike.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for any available discounts on tickets, such as student or senior rates, if applicable. [^Review] Alternatively, if you're on a very tight budget and enjoy a strenuous hike, exploring the lower parts of Cangshan Mountain on foot from the base might be an option, though this requires significant time and energy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't limit yourself to just the lake views; explore the mountain trails for unique perspectives of the lush vegetation, flowing streams, and the intricate details of nature. [^Review] A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive landscapes, but a telephoto lens can also be useful for distant details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Zhonghe Cableway Experience
The cableway typically operates from morning until late afternoon, and it's wise to check their official hours before your visit, as they can be influenced by weather conditions. The journey itself takes approximately 20-30 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery.
At the mid-transit station, you have the option to disembark and explore further. This is a popular point for accessing various hiking trails that wind through the mountain's lush vegetation and along pristine streams. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, simply enjoying the views from the station is also a rewarding option.
Hiking and Nature on Cangshan Mountain
These trails are not just about the physical activity; they are an immersion into the natural beauty of Yunnan. You'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, and the crisp mountain air provides a refreshing escape. Many visitors highlight the pristine condition of the mountain and its streams, emphasizing the untouched natural environment. [^Review]
When planning your hike, it's advisable to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea, especially for longer treks. The mid-transit station serves as a convenient starting point for many of these explorations, allowing you to choose your adventure.
Capturing Dali's Beauty from Above
Travelers often recommend riding the cable car during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – to catch the most dramatic lighting. This is when the sun casts a warm glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical atmosphere for photos. The journey itself provides a dynamic perspective, with the scenery constantly changing as you ascend.
Beyond the lake views, the mountain itself offers plenty of photographic subjects, from the intricate details of the vegetation to the cascading streams. [^Review] Remember to have your camera or smartphone ready, as the most breathtaking vistas can appear unexpectedly.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit