As a relic of the past before the Cultural revolution of China, the Chongsheng Three Pagodas are a majestic monument reminiscent of Buddhism’s influence on the large Asian landmass in the 9th and 10th Century. Built under the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, the Three Pagodas have a history of almost 2000 years. Multi-tiered pent roof eaves make up the three towers arranged in a symmetrical triangle against the Reflection Pond before it. The tallest forming the tip of the triangle is the Qiaxun, standing at 69.13m which in layman terms translates to 16 stories of cultural history. The two others are no less grand but stand at 42m to the northeast and southwest of the pinnacle.

Beyond their role as keepers of the land, these pagodas were keepers of the country’s religious past with statues of gold, silver, wood and crystal Buddhas, carved to resemble his serene likeness. These are still enshrined within one of the largest Buddhist centers in Asia located at the Pagodas’ backyard, the Chongsheng Temple. Though one can no longer scale Qiaxun for a view of the vistas, there are still plenty of photo opportunities to be had before this ancient wonder.