Things To Do
in Puli
Puli is a picturesque town located in the mountains of central Taiwan. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including lush forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear streams. The town is also famous for its high-quality tea production, with many tea plantations dotting the landscape.
Visitors to Puli can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the local cultural attractions.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Chung Tai Chan Monastery, which is an architectural marvel. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the beautiful gardens and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the Puli Brewery to learn about the beer-making process. Don't forget to sample some local brews and snacks.
End your day with a stroll along the Puli Night Market. Taste local street foods and shop for unique souvenirs.
Rent a bike and cycle around the scenic Sun Moon Lake area early in the morning. The peaceful surroundings and breeze will invigorate your spirit.
Stop for lunch at a lakeside restaurant and enjoy the beautiful view. Afterward, take a boat tour of the lake to uncover its beauty from a different perspective.
Return to Puli and explore the night market once more, focusing on local crafts. Relish a bowl of hot Taiwanese beef noodles to complete the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Delicious local food and unique culinary experiences.
- Warm and welcoming local community and friendly people.
- Well-connected public transport making it easy to explore the area.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-locals.
- Higher levels of humidity and rainy seasons can be uncomfortable.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Language barriers for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Tourist crowding during peak seasons may detract from the experience.
Best Activities in Puli
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the picturesque Sun Moon Lake for boating, cycling, and hiking around the area.
Enjoy water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the serene Puli River.
Explore the Lavender Cottage for beautiful gardens, picturesque landscapes, and charming cafes.
Embark on scenic hikes in the surrounding mountains and forests, including trails like Shuishe Mountain Trail and Ci'en Pagoda Trail.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puli with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puli
Visit one of these nice places.
A mesmerizing lake with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque scenery
An ancient temple offering scenic views of the Puli area and an ideal spot for photography
A beautiful, lush landscape with panoramic views of the rolling hills and mountains
Food in Puli
Puli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Hakka dish featuring ground tea leaves, served with rice and an assortment of vegetables and herbs. Try it at Lei Cha Fan (Thunder Tea Rice) at local eateries like Xin Yi Market.
Must-Try!
Soft and chewy rice cakes often filled with red bean or peanut paste. Find authentic mochi at stalls in Puli's Shuili Market.
Indulge in various stir-fried dishes showcasing fresh, local ingredients. Visit restaurants like Li Family Kitchen for a taste of these flavorful creations.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puli better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling night market to sample a wide array of local snacks, from grilled meats to bubble tea. Don't miss trying the renowned local sausages.
This lively market is the perfect place to savor authentic Taiwanese street food such as stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puli, Taiwan, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper titles and addressing them with courtesy and humility.
Cultural norms in Puli emphasize the importance of being polite, modest, and humble in social interactions and communication.
Visitors to Puli should be mindful of traditional customs such as removing shoes before entering someone's home and participating in rituals or ceremonies with reverence.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puli with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Puli, Taiwan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, taxis, or other service industries. However, if you receive exceptional service and would like to show appreciation, a small tip may be given, but it is not customary.
In Puli, Taiwan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, especially in smaller shops and local establishments. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger businesses and restaurants. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any issues with card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puli.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for the cherry blossoms and pleasant weather
Expect hot and humid weather, but great for outdoor activities and local festivals
Ideal for hiking and enjoying the beautiful fall foliage
Cool and misty, suitable for exploring the hot springs and enjoying the unique winter scenery
Puli at Night
Hiking in Puli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning views and diverse flora, Hehuanshan offers various trails suitable for different skill levels.
This area features well-maintained hiking trails surrounded by lush forests, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
Shuanglong Trail is famous for its scenic rivers and waterfalls, providing a moderately challenging hike with beautiful landscapes.
A picturesque trail that skirts the Mingde Reservoir, offering peaceful views and a chance to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Though a bit farther from Puli, Ali Mountain is famous for its hiking paths and stunning sunrise views, making it a worthy day trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puli through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puli by plane.
Located approximately 50 km from Puli, it's the nearest major international airport serving the Taichung area.
About 90 km from Puli, Tainan Airport offers international and domestic flights.
Approximately 130 km away, this airport is one of the main international gateways in southern Taiwan.
Located around 180 km from Puli, it's the largest international airport in Taiwan and serves as the main hub for international flights.
Situated about 130 km from Puli, Hualien Airport provides limited international services alongside domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Puli, comprising various subgroups.
Includes several recognized tribes, such as the Seediq and Atayal.
A growing demographic group consisting of individuals from Southeast Asia and other regions, often employed in agriculture and labor-intensive jobs.
Includes expatriates and long-term residents from other countries, often involved in tourism and education.
The Soul of Puli
Discover the essence of Puli through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Puli, often played at schools and community centers, with local tournaments frequently held.
Due to the scenic countryside, cycling is a favored recreational activity, attracting both locals and tourists.
Football is widely played among youth and adults, with local leagues and teams participating in regional competitions.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport, commonly played in schools and sports centers throughout Puli.
Tai Chi is practiced by many in Puli for its health benefits, often performed in parks and community groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Puli is renowned for its meat-centric dishes, many restaurants and markets offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as tofu-based dishes and fresh vegetable stir-fries.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can savor rice-based dishes like Hakka Lei Cha and seek out gluten-free snacks at local markets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puli with these cultural adventures.