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Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the forest, hike the scenic trails, enjoy bird watching, and visit the forested areas that are perfect for photography. There are also peaceful spots for picnicking and relaxing, along with a few temples for cultural exploration.
Nangongshan National Forest Park, located in Langao County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province, is a branch of the Hualong Mountain range in the Dabashan Mountains. It comprises five scenic areas: Erlangping, Jinding, Volcanic Rock, Alpine Oak, and Lianhuazhai. It has been designated a National AAAA-level scenic area, a National Forest Park, and a National Geopark, earning it the reputation of "Pure Land in the Clouds, Utopia on Earth."
Nangong Mountain is known as China's most magical national forest park and China's most magical Buddhist holy land. These have increased the popularity of Nangong Mountain National Forest Park to a certain extent, making it a tourist destination for sightseeing, leisure vacations, and summer vacations in the neighboring areas of Shaanxi, Sichuan, Hubei, and Chongqing.
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is characterized by a humid and mild climate with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a long frost-free period. Its characteristics are cold and dry winters, rainy summers with frequent summer droughts, warm and dry springs, and cool and humid autumns with frequent periods of rain. Spring, summer, and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
The West Stone Forest Scenic Area boasts a diverse array of stone forests formed by ancient volcanic lava and ancient glacial relics, nestled amidst the vast expanse of Cangshan Mountain. Tall trees, intertwined branches of ancient trees, verdant pines and bamboo create a tranquil and serene atmosphere, filtering through countless shadows of sunlight, a rainbow of light. Wild flowers and fruits abound in vibrant colors, their fragrance filling the air. The mountain slopes lead gently, winding through secluded paths, and interspersed with bizarre rock formations. Stone pillars, stalagmites, peaks, and boulders dot the ridges and valleys, their bizarre shapes inspiring endless exploration. There are 21 scenic spots and attractions.
The East Stone Forest Scenic Area is a landscape of ancient volcanic lava. A diverse array of lava forms a forest of rocks scattered across the hillsides and ridges, forming a patchwork of heights and densities. The rocks typically rise 10 to 15 meters, with the highest reaching 30 to 50 meters and the lowest 1 to 3 meters. The unique shapes, with a single stone forming a variety of forms, create a rich and varied landscape, creating a natural spectacle. The vast and widespread stone forest, with its bizarre and lifelike forms, looms amidst the forest, creating a truly spectacular spectacle. Whether viewed in action or still, the scenic area boasts 34 scenic features.
Erlangping Scenic Area boasts picturesque scenery, lush forests and abundant grass. The rustling of trees and the gurgling of water weave through the forests, winding around the foothills, amidst clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and emerald pools. The secluded valley, shaded by tall trees, is lush with grass, a vibrant array of mountain flowers, fragrant wild fruits, dancing butterflies, chirping birds, and dangling vines, creates a fairyland-like experience. From afar, the majestic Nangong Temple, with its two towering peaks—Yitian Peak, Erlang Peak, Dong Peak, and Lianhua Peak—and the scene of two immortals playing chess, creates a majestic spectacle that attracts countless visitors. Up close, the clear streams, pools, and waterfalls, some thundering, others softly whispering, are captivating. Giant salamanders and wild fish roam the waters, while birds and squirrels frolic in the forests, adding to the boundless wildness. There are 21 scenic spots and landscapes.
The Lianhuazhai Scenic Area boasts dense forests, secluded valleys, and abundant wildlife. The scenic area boasts a beautiful natural environment, a vast expanse of forest, and vibrant colors, with each season offering unique scenery. Endangered and rare plants such as the iron oak, weeping spruce, tulip tree, and water ash are also found, along with valuable wildlife such as the Sumatran serow, civet cat, leopard, golden pheasant, and forest musk deer. The area boasts five scenic spots and landscapes.
It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.
Peak season (March 1st - end of November): 90 yuan/person
Off-season (December 1st to the end of February of the following year): 50 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Nangongshan National Forest Park is a natural haven in Shaanxi, known for its rich biodiversity, especially its diverse species of flora and fauna. The park is a vital part of the region’s ecological balance and has historical significance as a preservation area for rare species and as a recreational spot for locals and tourists.
The park is located in Ankang, Shaanxi, approximately 20 kilometers south of the city center. You can get there by taxi or private car. Public transportation options like buses may also be available, but they can be less frequent.
The park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most beautiful.
The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via the park's official website or third-party ticket platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like national holidays. Booking a day or two in advance should suffice.
You will need around 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the park, depending on your pace and the specific trails or areas you visit.
Key highlights include the lush forest trails, the scenic viewpoints, and the peaceful temple areas. The bird-watching zones are also a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be limited. It’s recommended to check availability in advance.
The highest points of the park offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The sunrise and sunset views are particularly stunning, making them prime spots for photography.
Start with the main trail leading to the forest’s core, then explore the scenic viewpoints before heading to the temple areas. You can also follow the designated bird-watching routes.
The park is generally closed at night, and there are no special light shows. However, during certain festivals, there may be evening cultural events or activities.
The park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are toilets and rest areas scattered throughout the park. Small snack shops and water stations are available near the entrance. However, it’s advisable to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
While some areas have paved paths, the park’s terrain can be challenging in certain parts, especially for elderly or disabled visitors. It is best to check with the park ahead of time regarding accessibility options.
Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also widely accepted throughout the park.
There are a few small restaurants near the entrance, offering simple local dishes. For more variety, you can head to the nearby town of Ankang for better options.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants, but vegan or halal options may be more limited. It’s best to check menus beforehand if you have dietary restrictions.
There are several hotels in Ankang, about 20 minutes away from the park, including budget and mid-range options. For a more immersive experience, consider staying at a guesthouse near the park.
Nearby attractions include the Baotianman Scenic Area and the Yangxian Ancient Town. Both can be combined in a day trip for those interested in exploring more of the region.
Souvenir shops inside the park sell local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and nature-inspired items such as dried flowers and herbal products.
The best transportation options are taxis or private cars, especially if you are heading to other nearby attractions. Public buses can be an option but may require transfers.
