G5611 Dali–Lijiang Expressway

G5611 Dali–Lijiang Expressway

The Dali–Lijiang Expressway (Chinese: 大理—丽江高速公路p Dàlǐ–Lìjiāng Gāosù Gōnglù), commonly referred to as the Dali Expressway (Chinese: 大丽高速公路Dàlǐ Gāosù Gōnglù) and designated as the G5611, is a 259-kilometer-long expressway (161 mi) Chinese expressway in that province of Yunnan that connects the tourist city of Lijiang with the Hangrui Expressway (G56) running between Kunming and the Burmese border. It officially opened on 30 December 2013. The expressway features 435 bridges, totalling a length of 98 km (61 mi), and 10 tunnels, totalling a length of 38 km (24 mi), including the 4.398-kilometer-long (2.733 mi) Huajiaoqing Tunnel, the longest tunnel in Yunnan. It takes 2 hours from Dali to Lijiang.

The Dali Expressway does not connect to Dali proper but to Xiaguan (“New Dali”), the major industrial city within Dali County. Dali is connected to both ends of the expressway via Hwy 214.

Routes of G5611 Dali–Lijiang Expressway

G5611 Dali–Lijiang Expressway is the main channel from Yunnan to enter Sichuan and Tibet. G5611 Dali–Lijiang Expressway is located in the East and west of Chinese Yunnan Province. It started Fengyi toll station in the south,  and ended Lijiang and Lashi toll Gate and Lijiang toll Gate in  the west of the city. The route passes  through the city of the Dali, Eryuan county, Jianchuan County and the Naxi Autonomous County.

The G5611 Dali-Lijiang Expressway, also known as the Dali-Lijiang Expressway, is a crucial transportation route in Yunnan Province, China. Here’s an overview:

Overview

The G5611 Dali-Lijiang Expressway connects the cities of Dali and Lijiang in northwestern Yunnan Province. It plays a significant role in regional transportation, facilitating travel and economic development in the area.

Route

  • Start: The expressway begins in Dali City, a major tourist destination known for its ancient town and Erhai Lake.
  • End: It terminates in Lijiang City, another popular tourist city famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town of Lijiang.
  • Distance: The total length of the expressway is approximately 160 kilometers.

Features

  • Scenic Route: Passing through picturesque landscapes of Yunnan, the expressway offers views of mountains, valleys, and rural scenery.
  • Transportation Efficiency: Designed as a high-speed road, it enhances connectivity between Dali and Lijiang, reducing travel time compared to older routes.
  • Infrastructure: The expressway is equipped with modern facilities, including service areas, rest stops, and toll stations.

Importance

  • Tourism: It facilitates tourism between two of Yunnan’s most famous destinations, Dali and Lijiang, attracting visitors from both China and abroad.
  • Economic Development: Improves transportation efficiency for goods and services, supporting local economies along its route.
  • Regional Connectivity: Enhances overall regional connectivity within Yunnan Province and integrates with broader national transportation networks.

Development and Future

  • Expansion: Ongoing efforts may include expansions or improvements to accommodate increasing traffic demands and promote safer and more efficient travel.
  • Tourism Development: Supports ongoing tourism development initiatives in Dali and Lijiang, contributing to the region’s economic growth.

The G5611 Dali-Lijiang Expressway serves as a vital link in Yunnan’s transportation infrastructure, blending functional utility with scenic beauty, making it an essential route for travelers and commuters alike.