Cheva Mountain offers scenic hikes and the chance to explore natural beauty, including picturesque peaks and valleys. Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird watching, and visiting the local temples. It's a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those seeking spiritual reflection.

Xuewa Mountain, part of the Jiaowutai Mountains, is the western peak of Jiaowutai and its true highest point. Tourists generally visit the Dragon Head area. However, Xuewa Mountain is rarely visited, and the approach is extremely treacherous. Those with acrophobia are advised not to venture there. A quicker route to Xuewa Mountain is to take bus 923 and disembark at Jiaowutai Station. From the top of the Dragon Back Trail, there's a signpost and a fork in the trail, though it's not very noticeable. Follow this path. Shortly thereafter, a path will fork to the right. Avoid this path. The summit of Xuewa Mountain takes about half an hour. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, making it a truly wonderful destination, though it's relatively under-known and underdeveloped. The summit is over 1,900 meters above sea level. The elevation gain from the summit point to here is nearly 1,500 meters, making the mountain truly majestic.
Best time to travel: All year round
Recommended play time: 1 day
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All day
Cheva Mountain has a rich history tied to Taoism and Buddhism, with several ancient temples and shrines located along its slopes. It is considered a spiritual site where pilgrims come to pray and seek tranquility. The mountain also has historical significance for its role in local culture and its strategic position in the region.
Cheva Mountain is located on the outskirts of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. The best way to get there is by taxi or local bus from Xi'an city center, which takes about 40 minutes. Hiking paths are available for those who want to walk up from nearby areas.
The mountain is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild. The temples and surrounding areas are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The entrance fee is around 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various local platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues. Booking a day in advance is generally sufficient.
It typically takes around 3-4 hours to explore the main areas of the mountain, including the hike, temple visits, and scenic views. For a more relaxed visit, a full day is recommended.
The must-see highlights include the Cheva Temple, the various Taoist shrines along the hiking trail, and the panoramic views from the summit. The lush forests surrounding the mountain are also a key highlight for nature enthusiasts.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance and are available in multiple languages, including English and Mandarin.
The summit of the mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, which are perfect for photography. Other good spots include the Cheva Temple and the forested areas along the trail.
Start at the base and hike up to the Cheva Temple, stopping along the way to take in the views. After visiting the temple, continue towards the summit for the best panoramic views before returning down the main trail.
Night visits are not common, and light shows are not offered. However, the serene atmosphere of the mountain at dusk is highly recommended for a peaceful experience.
The mountain can be crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in spring and autumn. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays helps avoid the crowds.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small local shops are available at the base and near the temple. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the hike.
The mountain has some steep sections that may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the hike, but supervision is advised, especially on the more challenging sections.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when buying tickets or small souvenirs at local shops.
There are a few local eateries near the base of the mountain that serve traditional Shaanxi food. For more dining options, you can head back to Xi'an city center.
Vegetarian options are available, but halal food is less common near the mountain. It's best to visit Xi'an city center for a wider range of halal food options.
There are a few guesthouses near the mountain, but for better accommodations, it's recommended to stay in Xi'an city center, which offers a wide variety of hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Terracotta Army and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Both are easily accessible from Xi'an and can be visited together in a day trip.
Souvenir shops near the base offer local handicrafts, such as traditional Chinese teas, Taoist-themed items, and pottery. You can also find small religious artifacts as souvenirs.
Taxis, local buses, and private tours are available for continuing the trip to nearby attractions or back to Xi'an city center.