Things to do in Puge
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Top 10 attractions in Puge
Dacao River Hot Spring Waterfall
The Dacao River Hot Spring Waterfall is located in northwestern Puge County's Qiaowo Town. To reach the hot spring waterfall, visitors must walk atop the Dacao River Canal Levee alongside the canal until they reach and climb the "Tiger's Mouth." The hot springs spew forth straight from the mountainside. The water is clear, pure and can even be directly drunk. Under the gushing spouts of hot spring water, a long trough-shaped pool has been created, and it can accommodate some twenty people at one time. The most beautiful area is the curtain of water formed by the waterfall as it cascades into the large pool. It is also called the "Fairy Pool" or the "Water Curtain Cave." To either side of the "Water Curtain Cave" is a small pool. Each of these little pools is just big enough for two people. Called "Mating Ducks Pools" they are a nice place for couples to go.Puge · 18.2km from downtown
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is also called Kunming Lake. It is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It has the nickname of "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland". The lake is wide and spectacular. Every winter, a large flock of red-billed gulls migrate here from Siberia, making it a good place for bird watching and bird feeding. There are different ways to explore Dianchi lake. You can stroll around the lake, cycle, or ride a boat. You can also climb up to the Dragon Gate overlooking Dianchi Lake to get a better view of the entire lake.China · Kunming
Daocheng Yading
Daocheng Yading, also known as Yading Nature Reserve, is known by locals as Aden Scenic Area. Located in the southern part of Daocheng County in Ganzi Prefecture, it is mainly composed of three mountains, Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji, as well as surrounding rivers, lakes, and alpine meadows. There are not only magnificent and sacred snow-capped mountains in the scenic area, but also vast meadows, colorful forests, and blue crystal clear lakes. Hiking on foot like the local Tibetans is a better way to experience the scenery in Yading. However, due to the high altitude of the Aden Protected Area, the entire walk still requires considerable physical fitness.China · Daocheng County
Erhai Lake
Erhai Lake lies quietly at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and east of Dali Ancient Town, serving as Yunnan's second-largest plateau freshwater lake after Dianchi Lake. Stretching narrowly over 40 km from north to south, its silhouette resembles both a human ear and a crescent moon. The Bai people traditionally call large lakes "seas," and with its vast expanse and sea-like waves when winds rise, it earned this romantic name. The nineteen peaks of Cangshan stand like a screen to the west, reflecting the lake's shimmering waters—a scenery long praised as "silver Cangshan and jade Erhai." This is also the setting for the "Erhai moon," one of Dali's famed "wind, flower, snow, and moon" four scenic wonders. The classic way to explore Erhai Lake is riding or hiking along the lakeside ecological corridor, where you can stop anytime along the 100 km shoreline: Longkan Dock on the western shore features boardwalks extending into the water and rows of dawn redwoods, making it a popular sunrise spot. Further north, Panxi S-bend's waterfront trail curves gracefully along the lake, with a solitary tree in the water and pastoral shores serving as iconic photo backdrops. Taking a cruise offers distant views of Little Putuo Island and a chance to visit Nanzhao Folk Island, often accompanied by Bai ethnic tea ceremonies and dances. Jinsuo Island in the southern lake has been home to Bai fishermen for generations, preserving both village charm and Benzhu faith traditions. During the summer Torch Festival, lakeside villagers toss pine resin powder, creating fiery sparks, while the legend-linked Shuahai Festival—honoring Lady Bojie and Duan Chicheng's serpent-slaying tale—keeps Bai bravery alive by the lakeshore. To slow down, head to Shuanglang Ancient Town by the lake and pick a waterfront café to spend half a day. At dawn, wait for the sunrise on the western shore; in the evening, watch the sunset paint the Cangshan Mountains golden-red from the eastern shore—riding along the lakeshore, cruising back to gaze at the mountains from the lake center, or simply sitting by the water—these experiences perfectly piece together different facets of Erhai Lake.China · Dali City
Lushan Scenic Area
Feel the dense shade of Lushan Mountain. There are more than 10 ancient temples of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism, including Guangfu Temple, Sanjiao Temple, Mengduan Temple, Zushi Hall, Guanyin Pavilion, Queen Mother Hall, Qingyang Palace, Yuhuang Hall and Wuzu Temple, which were built in the Han, Tang, Ming and Qing dynasties. Although the religious rules and philosophical thoughts are different, they can live in harmony in the same mountain for thousands of years, each teaching its own religion, which is rare in China. Lushan, also known as Frog Mountain, is located 5 kilometers south of Xichang City. It is adjacent to Qionghai Lake and rises from the ground. With the momentum of "half of the wall supports the sky, Ningcheng is a painting screen", it forms one of the major Attraction in southwest Sichuan with Qionghai Lake and is known as the "Southern Sichuan Scenic Spot". Located on the south bank of Qionghai Lake 5 kilometers south of Xichang City, it is one of the provincial scenic spots in Sichuan. Lushan Mountain is 2,317 meters above sea level. It is adjacent to the mirror-like Qionghai Lake in the east, the winding and beautiful Anning River in the west, the historical ancient city of Xichang in the north, and the towering Luoji Mountain in the south. There are towering ancient trees on the mountain, especially lush pine trees. The ancients used "pine wind, water and moon" to describe the scenery of Lushan and Qionghai Lake, that is, the pine trees of Lushan Mountain, the wind of Anning River, the water of Qionghai Lake, and the moon of Xichang.Xichang · 57.7km from Puge
Yunnan Provincial Museum
The Yunnan Provincial Museum is a comprehensive museum showcasing Yunnan's history and ethnic culture, housing over 200,000 cultural relics (sets), with strengths in ancient Dian Kingdom bronzeware, Nanzhao and Dali Kingdom Buddhist statues, and historical calligraphy and paintings. The building itself is distinctive: its reddish-brown exterior is composed of irregular stone prism shapes, resembling a stone forest rising from the ground, making it memorable even before entering the exhibition halls. The permanent exhibition follows a chronological sequence, with six themed halls—"Ancient Yunnan," "Dawn of civilization," "Dominance in southern China," "Land of fragrant Buddhism," "Frontier expansion and defense," and "A century of upheaval"—taking visitors from prehistoric times to the modern era, offering a condensed overview of Yunnan's history. Located in a multi-ethnic border region, the artifacts here differ markedly from those in inland museums: bronzeware depicts vivid scenes of animal combat, rituals, and warfare, while the Dian Kingdom's unique shell containers resemble lidded bronze "piggy banks." The Buddhist statues bear the distinct regional style of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, warranting closer attention. The museum's crown jewels deserve dedicated viewing time: the Warring States period bronze ox-tiger table, unearthed from the Lijiashan tombs in Jiangchuan, features a small ox hidden beneath a large ox and a fierce tiger biting the ox's tail, earning the saying "In the north, there's the galloping horse treading on a flying swallow; in the south, there's the ox-tiger bronze table." The Dali Kingdom gilded Avalokitesvara statue with silver halo from the Qianxun Pagoda of Chongsheng Temple in Dali has a unique golden form. Other treasures include Song Dynasty Guo Xi's "Travelers among mountains and streams," Yuan Dynasty Huang Gongwang's "Visiting Dai in Shanxi," and the Ming Dynasty gem-inlaid golden crown. After the visit, you can stop by the nearby Guandu ancient town, making it possible to explore both sites in a day.China · Kunming
Mu Fu Mansion
Mu Fu Mansion is located at the foot of Lion Mountain in the ancient town of Lijiang. It served as the residence of the Mu family chieftains for centuries since the Ming Dynasty. The architecture retains the central plains style of the Ming era while incorporating Bai and Naxi craftsmanship. When Xu Xiake visited Lijiang, he could only admire the grand complex from outside the gates, leaving behind the praise "The splendor of these palaces rivals that of imperial courts." These eight characters are now gilded on the entrance screen wall. Locals often say "As there is the Forbidden City in the north, so there is Mu Fu Mansion in the south," regarding it as Lijiang's version of the Forbidden City. Visiting Mu Fu Mansion, you first pass through the wooden archway inscribed with "Tian Yu Liu Fang" – these four characters are a homophone for "Go study" in the Naxi language, reflecting the Mu chieftain family's tradition of valuing education – then through the exquisitely carved stone archway bearing the words "Loyalty and righteousness." In the past, locals praised it with the saying, "The Three Pagodas of Dali, the stone archways of Lijiang." Stepping through the vermilion gate, the central axis runs east to west, lined with the assembly hall, Wanjuan Tower (Ten-Thousand-Volume Library), guardian hall, Guangbi Tower, Yuyin Tower, and Sanqing Hall. The assembly hall was where the chieftain conducted political affairs, dignified and imposing. Wanjuan Tower once housed thousands of Dongba scriptures, hundreds of Buddhist sutras, poetry collections of six chieftains, and numerous calligraphy and paintings by renowned scholars, embodying the mansion's cultural heritage. The guardian hall, also called the rear assembly hall, was used for family discussions. Guangbi Tower, the gatehouse of the rear garden, has long been hailed as "the finest in western Yunnan." Yuyin Tower was where imperial edicts were received and banquets with music and dance were held. At the axis's end stands Sanqing Hall, situated high at the foot of Lion Mountain, offering a panoramic view of the entire mansion and the layered rooftops of the ancient town. Over a hundred auxiliary halls, pavilions, street-crossing buildings, and family courtyards flank the axis in staggered elevations, recreating the grandeur of the chieftain's residence. Most structures of Mu Fu Mansion were destroyed in wars during the late Qing Dynasty. Its current layout was reconstructed after fundraising following the 1996 Lijiang earthquake and completed in 1999. TV series like "Mu Fu Feng Yun" and "Qian Wang" were filmed here. After the tour, the Zhongyi Memorial Archway outside the mansion, the "Tian Yu Liu Fang" archway, and the screen wall inscribed with Xu Xiake's praise are all photo-worthy spots.China · Lijiang
Old Town of Lijiang
The Old Town of Lijiang, also known as Dayan Town, is one of the famous towns along the ancient Tea Horse Road. TV dramas like "One Meter of Sunshine" and "Mu Fu Feng Yun" were filmed here. The town features wooden houses with dark-tiled roofs, ancient stone-paved streets, and small bridges over flowing streams winding past homes. Standing on East Street, one can see the snow-capped peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on clear days, with the iconic view of the mountain and the old town framed together. The ancient town is built along the mountain slopes, with streets and alleys following the waterways. Sifang Street, once a trading market on the ancient Tea Horse Road, remains the town's center today, with four main streets—Guangyi Street, Qiyi Street, Wuyi Street, and Xinhua Street—radiating outward and branching into a crisscrossing network of lanes. The Yu River splits into three at Yulong Bridge in the north, forming the East, Middle, and West Rivers, which further divide into nine tributaries and countless water alleys, creating a layout where main streets border rivers and small lanes adjoin canals. Mu Fu, the residence of the Mu chieftain praised by Xu Xiake as "palatial splendor rivaling that of kings," stands at the foot of Lion Mountain beside Guangyi Street. For a panoramic view of the town, climb to Wangulou on Lion Mountain, where layers of dark-tiled rooftops unfold below. The melodies of ancient Naxi music can be heard year-round in the town, while shops displaying Dongba script and handmade silver and copper crafts are scattered throughout the streets, offering glimpses of Naxi craftsmanship at every turn. The large waterwheel at the entrance of the ancient town is an iconic photo spot. The town is filled with shops selling ethnic accessories, tea, silverware, and shawls. Local delicacies like cured pork ribs and chickpea jelly can be found in restaurants, alongside Western options like pizza. Tired visitors can take a break anywhere.China · Lijiang
LuoJiShan YiZu FengJing YiTiao Jie
Puge · 25.6km from downtown
Xizhou
Xizhou is located 18 km north of Dali Ancient Town, nestled between the Cangshan Mountains to the west and Erhai Lake to the east. This well-preserved Bai ethnic settlement is the birthplace of Xizhou baba cakes. Strolling through the ancient town, you'll encounter seniors in traditional Bai costumes, local bakeries selling baba cakes, and authentic Bai architecture – all radiating rich Bai cultural charm. Xizhou at a glance The Zhengyi Gate serves as the west entrance to Xizhou Ancient Town, leading directly to its historic streets. Just a few hundred meters inside the west gate stands a 500-year-old banyan tree—so massive it takes several adults to encircle its trunk—making it an iconic landmark of Xizhou. Not far into the ancient town stands Ziyunshan Temple, a Qing Dynasty structure that appears quite weathered. Local elderly residents often gather here for activities and sunbathing. Further in lies Sifang Street, a small square surrounded by shops that serves as the town's central hub. Exploring Xizhou typically begins at Sifang Street, the birthplace of the renowned local snack Xizhou baba, which offers authentic flavors. Explore Bai ethnic architecture Bai-style folk houses are a hallmark of Xizhou, with structures spanning different historical periods. The most visited residences belong to the Yan and Yang families. The Yan Family Residence, located at the southwest corner of Sifang Street, features the classic Bai courtyard layout known as "three rooms with a screen wall" and "a quadrangle with five courtyards." As the wealthiest of Xizhou's "four great families" in the past, this residence offers a glimpse into the Yan family's former grandeur. Visitors can enjoy Bai ethnic song and dance performances and sample the traditional "Three Courses of Tea" here. Tickets are available for those interested in architecture and ethnic culture. The Yang Pinxiang Residence, situated east of Xizhou, shares a similar layout but stands out for its exquisite wood carvings and particularly ornate, flowing gatehouse. Nearby Sifang Street also houses another Yan Family Compound, ideal for a quick introduction to Bai-style dwellings. Explore Haishe Peninsula Additionally, it's worth mentioning the Haixi Peninsula east of Xizhou Ancient Town. Head approx. 3–4 km east toward Erhai Lake until you reach Haixin Pavilion, then continue a few hundred meters further to Jingui Temple. Here you'll discover a lush oasis approx. 100m wide and 1 km long, resembling a jade hairpin piercing the shimmering waters of Erhai Lake—locals call it "Haixi" (Sea Tongue). With few visitors, this spot offers breathtaking scenery: azure skies, white clouds, emerald trees, crystal-clear waves, and waterfowl gliding through the landscape, creating a perfect harmony with nature. Every photo taken here looks like a painted masterpiece. Travel recommendations Xizhou is not far from Dali Ancient Town. If you're staying in Dali Ancient Town, you can take a ride or cycle there for a day trip to explore the area. Alternatively, you may choose to stay overnight in Xizhou and visit Butterfly Spring the next day.China · Dali City
Free things to do in Puge
Dacao River Hot Spring Waterfall
Puge · 18.2km from downtownDianchi Lake
China · KunmingDaocheng Yading
China · Daocheng CountyImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeErhai Lake
China · Dali CityLushan Scenic Area
Xichang · 57.7km from PugeYunnan Provincial Museum
China · KunmingMu Fu Mansion
China · LijiangImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeOld Town of Lijiang
China · LijiangLuoJiShan YiZu FengJing YiTiao Jie
Puge · 25.6km from downtownXizhou
China · Dali City
What travellers say about Puge
M37***2820 February 2023
5.0
The driver was warm and polite, notified the meeting place in advance, and the scenic spots were unique and worth visiting. It is more comfortable to join this one-day tour than to drive by yourself! A one-day tour route worth recommending, a big thumbs up to the responsible driver!
Dacao River Hot Spring Waterfall
Anonymous user14 October 2026
5.0
Location: Haigeng Park/No. 16 Hubin Road ↔ Xishan Longmen (West Mountain Dragon Gate), not near the old street, you have to go to the Dianchi Lake area.
Experience: Crossing the lake + climbing the mountain, about 20 minutes one way, views of Dianchi Lake, Sleeping Beauty Mountain, and city scenery, great for taking photos.
Ticket Price: One way about 59-60 RMB, round trip about 98-100 RMB.
Advantages: Easy for lazy people to climb West Mountain, no climbing required, unique views; seagulls in winter.
Disadvantages: Stops during strong winds/thunderstorms; long queues during peak season; separate ticket/walking required for Longmen after climbing the mountain; don't confuse with the "Xishan Longmen Cableway".
Conclusion: First time in Kunming, taking the Dianchi-Xishan route → worth it; if just exploring the old street → not worth a special trip.
Dianchi Lake
Anonymous user13 October 2026
5.0
Five stars for Daocheng Yading! It truly lives up to its reputation as the last pristine land on this blue planet. The three sacred mountains stand majestically, the Luorong Pasture meadows are vast, and Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake are crystal clear like jewels. The highland scenery is breathtaking and healing; every snapshot is a masterpiece. The sightseeing buses are well-organized, and the staff provides excellent guidance. While the hike is challenging, seeing the snow-capped mountains and lakes with your own eyes makes it all worthwhile. Highly recommended!
Daocheng Yading
Oo一天世界oO11 September 2026
5.0
On my second trip to Dali, I stayed for three days. On the first day, I stayed at Erhai Park, facing north to enjoy the view of Erhai Lake. On the second day, I stayed at Shuanglang Ancient Town, facing west to see the Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake together. On the third day, I cycled from west to east along the Erhai Ecological Corridor to enjoy the view of Erhai Lake. I also went to Yunxiang Mountain Road for extreme mountain biking, Shuanglang, Xizhou Ancient Town, Dali Ancient City, etc. Every angle offered a different perspective of Erhai Lake. The scenery in Dali is truly beautiful.
Erhai Lake
Anonymous user27 August 2026
4.0
Taking the cable car up the mountain saves energy, while the toboggan ride down adds to the fun. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Qionghai Lake – the scenery is beautiful. There are many monkeys on the mountain, and feeding them is quite fun, just be careful.
Lushan Scenic Area
Anonymous user20 October 2026
5.0
Today, I had the privilege of listening to a professional lecture by Professor Li Xuemian from the Yunnan Provincial Museum. It was a truly rare historical and cultural feast, and arguably the most captivating museum lecture I have ever attended.
Professor Li possesses profound knowledge, his lecture was clear and well-structured, weaving together the historical narrative seamlessly. He skillfully highlighted key points, simplifying complex concepts and presenting them in an accessible and engaging manner. His language was both accessible and humorous. What was particularly impressive was Professor Li's deep literary background; he effortlessly incorporated poetry, classical allusions, and idioms, bringing the stories behind the artifacts to life and imbuing these silent relics with historical warmth. Later, I learned that Professor Li is a graduate of Southwest University, a prestigious 211 university. No wonder his lectures were so insightful, profound, and imbued with such touching humanistic spirit.
The entire lecture balanced professional rigor with literary flair, conveying solid museum knowledge while showcasing excellent linguistic appeal. It allowed the audience to appreciate the artifacts while gaining a deeper understanding of Yunnan's rich history and splendid culture. I benefited immensely from listening to Professor Li's lecture, finding it both enriching and thought-provoking. I sincerely admire his solid academic foundation and excellent presentation skills!
Yunnan is a land of outstanding people and abundant resources, boasting not only beautiful natural landscapes and magnificent rivers, but also a profound and glorious history and a splendid and diverse culture. If you want to truly understand the millennia-old past and historical splendor of this red plateau, you must visit the Yunnan Provincial Museum and listen to Professor Li's brilliant cultural heritage lecture!
Thank you again, Professor Li. I wish you success in your work and good health. Until next time, and may we meet again.
Yunnan Provincial Museum
houston10 October 2026
5.0
This visit to the attraction was an excellent experience. It boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and excellent facilities, making for a smooth and comfortable overall tour. In conclusion, this attraction is of exceptional quality and highly worth visiting; it is strongly recommended to all tourists.
Mu Fu Mansion
西格玛 12318 September 2026
5.0
The night view of Lijiang Old Town is a gentle interplay of lights and flowing water. As night falls, the cobblestone streets are bathed in the warm yellow glow of lanterns, creating a poetic atmosphere. The Jade River shimmers, reflecting the starry sky of the old town. In the streets and alleys, Naxi ancient music and folk songs blend together, and the everyday life of the city merges with the ancient charm of a thousand years ago. From a high vantage point, the myriad lights of homes create a scene resembling a flowing ink painting of Jiangnan, gentle and romantic, captivating visitors with its blend of tranquility and vibrancy, making them linger and reluctant to leave.
Old Town of Lijiang
白克凡9 October 2026
5.0
Xizhou Ancient Town is so relaxing! The streets are free to explore, and it retains a strong Bai ethnic atmosphere. Strolling through the corner towers and tie-dye alleys is very charming. The most stunning sight is the Xilinyuan Rice Paddy, nestled against Cangshan Mountain. The sunset casting its glow on the rice paddies creates a truly magical ambiance. I recommend visiting in the afternoon; half a day is just right. A leisurely stroll is perfectly timed and incredibly therapeutic.
Xizhou
