The Grotto of the General (also called the Temple of the General) is a temple dedicated to General Li Mi who was a Tang Dynasty army commander who died during his attack on the Nanzhao. The temple is about 2 kilometers northwest of modern Dali on Cangshan Mountain. The park occupies 0.67 hectare (about an acre and a half), and it is composed of the Gate Tower, the Bazi Building and the Main Hall. One of the traditional religions of the region had many gods, of which the historical Tang general Li Mi was the god of mountain spring. It is curious that a general who was defeated and whose army was destroyed would be worshiped as a god in the region. The temple is in a park area on scenic Cangshan Mountain, and there are trees and a small waterfall nearby.
In front of the General Temple is a stone torii, and on the torii engraved the words "Wonder of Sunset"; above the gate hangs a plaque with the words "Temple of Mr. Li in Tang Dynasty". Outside the Temple are simple alcoves and corridors where you can overlook the panorama of Xiaguan. Above the pavilion falls a waterfall, and the Temple is thus surrounded by water.
This area is famous for its nearby attractions that include the Three Pagodas, Cangshan Mountain with its excellent hiking, many peaks, great views and natural scenery, and Erhai Lake. Travel in the valley area is easy. To get into the mountains, you can chose to hike, ride horses, ride in a vehicle on the roads or ride the cable car from the ancient district of Dali.
How to get there:
General Temple is a tourist resort not very far away from the city proper of Dali. You just go from the old city of Xiaguan across Longwei Pass, and then up the steps. In about 40 minutes you will get there.