Western Hills
About Western Hills
The Western Hills (Xishan) are a scenic mountain range overlooking Dianchi Lake, featuring ancient temples, rock carvings, and hiking trails. The area is known as the 'Sleeping Beauty' due to the mountain's silhouette resembling a reclining woman. The hills offer some of the best views of Kunming and Dianchi Lake.
History
The Western Hills have been a sacred site for over 1,000 years, with Buddhist temples and rock carvings dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The area was developed as a scenic spot during the Ming and Qing dynasties, with many temples and pavilions built along the mountain paths.
Visiting Tips
- Take the cable car up the mountain for spectacular views
- Visit the Dragon Gate for the most impressive rock carvings
- Hike the trails to discover hidden temples and viewpoints
- Best visited in the morning for clear views of the lake
- Combine with a visit to Dianchi Lake for a full day experience