Erhai Lake is located in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture and is Yunnan’s second-largest plateau freshwater lake. Its surface sits at an elevation of 1,972 meters. Named for its resemblance to a human ear, it is widely known as thePearl of the Plateauthe reputation of being Douyin Encyclopedia. On the western shore, the Cangshan Mountains stretch like a screen. Together, the lake and mountains create the Erhai Moon vista, one of Dali’s celebrated “Wind, Flower, Snow and Moon” scenes CCTV.com.

The route around the lake is approximately 130 kilometers long. An ecological corridor on the western shore, closed entirely to motor vehicles, links piers, wetlands and ancient Bai villages. Visitors can cycle or stroll, enjoy sunrise and sunset, and, each winter, watch flocks of red-billed gulls arrive to spend the season, bringing vibrant life to the lake. Well-known attractions around the lake include Longkan Pier, the Panxi S-Bend, Shuanglang Ancient Town and Xiaoputuo, making it a core destination for experiencing Dali’s slow-paced lifestyle.

Gulls Calling Over Cangshan and Erhai

Every winter, flocks ofred-billed gulls,fly across thousands of mountains and rivers to spend the winter at Erhai Lake. From November to February of the following year, gulls can be seen circling and soaring along the lakeshore, especially at Longkan Pier and Xiaoputuo. Chasing one another across the lake and interacting with visitors, they create a romantic winter scene unique to Erhai.

⚠️Gull-Watching Tips.

1. Please do not feed the gulls bread or processed snacks, as these can harm their health; use specially formulated gull feed instead.
2. Do not chase or touch the gulls. Maintain a safe viewing distance.
3. Do not throw food into the waters of Erhai Lake. Help protect the lake’s ecosystem.

Chasing the Wind Around Erhai

Cycling is the most popular way to experience Erhai Lake. Along the way, enjoy expansive lake views with the distant Cangshan Mountains as your backdrop, passing wetlands, villages and popular photo spots. Stop and go as you please while taking in the scenery of Cangshan and Erhai.