Lushan

Introducing Lushan

Lushan, also known as Frog Mountain, is located 5 kilometers south of Xichang City, bordering Qionghai Lake. Rising from the ground, Lushan, with its imposing presence like "half its cliff supports the sky, Ningcheng stands as a picturesque screen," forms a major scenic spot in southwestern Sichuan, earning it the nickname "Southern Sichuan Scenic Spot."

Mount Lu, at an altitude of 2,317 meters above sea level, borders the mirror-like waters of Qionghai Lake to the east, the winding and picturesque Anning River to the west, the historic city of Xichang to the north, and the towering Luoji Mountain to the south. The mountain is dotted with towering ancient trees, especially pine trees. Ancient people used the phrase "pine wind, water, and moon" to describe the scenery of Mount Lu and Qionghai Lake, referring to the pines of Mount Lu, the wind of the Anning River, the water of Qionghai Lake, and the moon of Xichang.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical plateau monsoon climate;

It is recommended to travel in summer and autumn when the temperature is suitable

Tickets

Tickets are 5 yuan; one-way cable car is 20 yuan, round-trip is 25 yuan; one-way slide is 25 yuan, round-trip is 30 yuan; Guangfu Temple ticket is 3 yuan, Yi Slave Society Museum ticket is 30 yuan

Attraction opening hours

09:00~18:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Lushan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lushan is a historically and culturally significant site in Liangshan, Sichuan, known for its beautiful landscape and the preservation of Tibetan culture. It is a sacred place for many Tibetan people and has served as a center for Tibetan Buddhism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Lushan is located in the Liangshan region of Sichuan. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Xichang, the nearest city. Public transportation is limited, so driving is recommended. You can walk within the area, especially on hiking trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Lushan is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can also be a good time, but it may be crowded with tourists.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance to Lushan is free. There are no official ticket prices for visiting the natural areas, although some specific attractions or cultural sites in the region may have small fees. Tickets can be purchased locally at the entrance to these attractions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary as most areas in Lushan are free to visit. However, for special attractions or guided tours, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Lushan and enjoy its natural beauty, plan for a visit of 1-2 days. If you're hiking or visiting local villages, you may need more time depending on your pace.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the beautiful mountain trails, the serene rivers, and the traditional Tibetan villages in the region. The Lushan Temple and its surrounding areas are also popular with visitors seeking cultural experiences.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available through local agencies, typically in Mandarin. However, English-speaking guides might be less common. Audio guides are not usually available in this area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography include the mountain summits, where you can capture panoramic shots of the valleys below, as well as the riverbanks and forests that surround the region. Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful times to photograph the landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Lushan Temple and then hike the main trails around the area, focusing on the valley and river views. Be sure to visit a Tibetan village to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available in Lushan. The area is best experienced during the day, with the natural beauty being the highlight of the visit.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Lushan is generally not overly crowded, but it can get busy during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available, though not abundant. There are limited food options, so it’s best to bring your own water and snacks. Small souvenir shops may be found in the nearby towns.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain of Lushan can be challenging with uneven paths and steep slopes, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the area with adult supervision, especially along the gentler trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment in most places around Lushan, especially in smaller shops and rural areas. However, mobile payments may be accepted in the larger towns nearby, like Xichang.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited restaurants in the area, mostly serving traditional Tibetan food like yak meat, butter tea, and noodles. Some guesthouses offer meals to their guests. For more variety, visit Xichang, where there are more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available in some local restaurants, though vegan options may be limited. Halal food is uncommon in the area, but some larger towns may have more variety.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns like Xichang. These accommodations offer basic services and are a good base for visiting Lushan.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the scenic Erhai Lake and the Xichang National Forest Park. These can easily be visited in a day trip along with Lushan.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops in the area sell Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, jewelry, and traditional clothing. These make for popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue your trip after visiting Lushan are private cars or taxis. Buses to nearby towns and cities are available, but schedules may be limited. From Xichang, you can find transport to other regions in Sichuan.