
Liupan Mountain, located in Jingheyuan Town, Jingyuan County, Guyuan City, has long been known as "a mountain as high as Taihua Mountain, three thousand feet high, and as dangerous as the Qin Pass." Its main peak, Migang Mountain, rises 2,942 meters above sea level. The long-term influence of internal and external forces has shaped a strongly dissected mid-mountain landscape, characterized by high altitudes, with relative heights exceeding 400 meters. Liangdian Gorge, in particular, reaches a relative height of over 500 meters, and the canyon's cliffs are extremely steep. These topographical features have crisscrossed the canyons with streams, which cascade down steep drops into waterfalls or pools, creating a variety of waterscapes, including pools, waterfalls, springs, streams, and creeks.
Liupanshan National Forest Park's main attractions include Liangdian Gorge, Xiaonanchuan, and Erlong River. Upon entering the park's main gate, visitors are greeted by Liangdian Gorge to the north, Xiaonanchuan in the middle, and Erlong River to the south. There's also an ecological museum and botanical garden. Liangdian Gorge, a 10-kilometer-long canyon surrounded on three sides by mountains, has long been a popular summer resort. A clear stream flows through the valley floor. Exit Liangdian Gorge and walk along Erlong River for a short distance, passing through the natural forest, to the entrance to Xiaonanchuan Gorge. After about an hour's walk, you'll reach Xiaonanshan Waterfall, the deepest point of the forest park.
temperate monsoon climate (strongly continental);
Summer and autumn are the best time to visit, as it is cool and refreshing in summer and the red leaves on the mountain in autumn are very spectacular.
It is recommended to spend half a day
65 yuan
9:00-18:00
Liupan Mountain has long been a cultural and natural landmark in Ningxia, known for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning views. Historically, the mountain was an important spiritual site for Tibetan Buddhism, with many monasteries and temples nestled in its serene environment. It also has a significant role in local agriculture and traditional farming.
Liupan Mountain is located in Guyuan, Ningxia, China. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Guyuan city. The mountain is approximately 50 kilometers away from the city center. Public transport options like buses are available, but taxis offer more convenience for direct access.
Liupan Mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most beautiful. Avoid winter due to cold temperatures and snow.
The entrance fee for Liupan Mountain varies depending on the specific areas you wish to visit. Generally, the price ranges from 30 to 80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite, and there is currently no online ticketing system for the area.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended during national holidays or weekends to avoid long queues.
To fully explore Liupan Mountain, a visit of 1–2 days is recommended. This allows you to enjoy hiking, explore the local monasteries, visit the reservoir, and experience the surrounding landscapes at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may speak basic English. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it is advisable to arrange for a local guide if you wish to learn about the history and cultural significance of the area.
Start your visit with a hike in Liupan Mountain Forest Park to take in the breathtaking views. Then, head to the Liupan Mountain Reservoir for some quiet time by the water. Visit the local Tibetan monasteries to experience the culture, and end your day with a visit to one of the villages to learn about traditional farming practices.
Night visits are not available in Liupan Mountain, as the area is generally not open for night-time activities. The best time to explore is during daylight hours when the natural beauty of the landscape is most visible.
Liupan Mountain is generally not overcrowded, but it can get busy during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon during off-peak seasons like spring and autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at key points in the area, including near the reservoir and monasteries. Small food stalls and local shops offer snacks and souvenirs, but it is recommended to bring your own water and food for longer excursions.
Liupan Mountain has some accessible paths near the main attractions, but certain hiking trails and areas can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check the accessibility of specific areas in advance, especially if traveling with young children or elderly family members.
Cash is still commonly used in the area, especially in remote spots. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at major sites, but it's a good idea to carry cash for purchases in smaller villages and food stalls.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside Liupan Mountain, but you can find local food stalls offering simple meals like noodles and snacks. In nearby towns, there are a few family-run restaurants serving local Chinese and Ningxia cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the local food stalls near the monasteries, offering vegetarian Tibetan dishes. Halal food is available in nearby towns, as Ningxia has a significant Hui Muslim population.
Accommodation options near Liupan Mountain are limited, with small guesthouses and basic hotels available in nearby towns such as Guyuan. For more comfortable stays, you may choose to stay in Guyuan city, which offers a variety of hotels and lodging options.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in nearby towns offering local handicrafts such as Tibetan-style jewelry, prayer beads, and traditional fabrics. You can also find locally made food products like dried fruit and Tibetan butter tea.
The best way to continue your journey after visiting Liupan Mountain is by taxi or bus back to Guyuan city, where you can catch a train or bus to other cities in Ningxia or neighboring regions. Taxis and private cars are also available for those wishing to continue their travels independently.