Erhai Lake, or Er Lake (Chinese: 洱海; pinyin: Ěrhǎi), is an alpine fault lake located in Dali City, Yunnan province, China. This stunning lake, once known as Yeyuze or Kunming Lake in ancient times, lies at an elevation of 1,972 meters (6,470 ft) and is nestled between the regencies of Tanah Datar and Solok.
Erhai Lake spans 250 square kilometers (97 sq mi) and measures 40 km (25 mi) in length and 7-8 km (4.3-5.0 mi) in width. After Dianchi Lake, it is China’s second-largest highland lake having a total storage capacity of 2.5 billion cubic meters (2,000,000 acre⋅ft), with an average depth of 11 meters (36 ft).
Numerous rivers feed the lake: the Bolou River in the east, the Miju and Mici Rivers in the north, and smaller streams from the Cang Mountains in the west. The lake empties into the Yangbi River, which flows southward and finally empties into the Lancang River (Mekong River).
Erhai Lake is renowned for its picturesque landscape, making it a major attraction in Dali. The lakeshore can be explored by hiking, with highlights including Erhai Park and the Butterfly Springs on the western bank. Visitors can also explore several islands on the lake, such as Guanyin Ge, Jinsuo Island, Nanzhao Folklore Island, and Xiaoputuo Island.
The local Bai people at Erhai Lake are renowned for their unique fishing method, which involves trained cormorants. These birds, fitted with rings around their necks to prevent them from swallowing the fish, return the catch to the fishmongers. This traditional fishing practice is a fascinating cultural experience that visitors can witness and learn about.
Erhai Lake, once a haven for rich biodiversity, now faces significant challenges. The lake, which was once home to numerous endemic species, has seen a decline in its native species. Only two of the 23 known fish species and subspecies have been recorded since 2000, and the remaining species are likely extinct. The lake now hosts more than 10 introduced fish species, and a few native hydrophytes have also disappeared. The urgency of conservation efforts and our shared responsibility for protecting this natural treasure are highlighted by this circumstance.
Erhai Lake has a rich historical significance. It was once used as a royal deer ranch for the Nanzhao Kingdom, adding a layer of historical charm to its natural beauty. This historical connection allows visitors to feel a sense of connection to the region’s past.