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Niubei Mountain Star Camp is perfect for stargazing, hiking, and enjoying nature. Visitors can explore the serene landscape, camp under the stars, and experience outdoor activities like birdwatching and photography. The area offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views, ideal for those looking to reconnect with nature and the cosmos.
Niubei Mountain, located at the junction of Yingjing County, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province, and Luding County, Ganzi Prefecture, is a branch of Erlang Mountain and forms the watershed between the Qingyi and Dadu Rivers. Its summit, at 3,666 meters above sea level, is named for the protruding rock on one side of the cliff that resembles a bull's head, and the slender ridge that resembles a bull's back.
The Niubei Mountain Xingchen Camp is located at an altitude of 3,590 meters. The temperature difference between day and night is large. The ultraviolet rays are strong during the day in summer and the temperature is high under the sun. The temperature is 10-5 degrees at night in summer and ranges from -5 degrees to -20 degrees in autumn and winter.
[Six Wonders of Niubei Mountain]
· 360° View: High altitude, with unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains, providing a panoramic view.
Sea of clouds: Dense and even, it looks like a majestic waterfall falling from the sky.
Sunrise: dyeing the entire sea of clouds and the distant horizon red, the sun shines on the golden mountain, gorgeous and magnificent
Panoramic view of the mountains: Standing on the top of Niubei Mountain, you can enjoy the panoramic view of Gongga Mountain, the king of Shu Mountains, as well as Mount Emei, Mount Siguniang, Mount Wawu, Mount Jiajin, and Mount Erlang.
Starry sky: At night, the stars seem to be within reach, with a sea of clouds beneath your feet and stars overhead. August to February is the best time to photograph meteor showers and the starry sky.
Azalea: Every May and June, from the middle of the mountain to the top, pink azaleas bloom above the sea of clouds.
Subtropical monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
Recommended itinerary:
Day 1: Chengdu - Luding - Niubei Mountain
Day 2: Niubei Mountain - Kangding - Xinduqiao - Yuzixi
Day 3: Xinduqiao - Shangmuju - Lenggacuo Hiking - Shangmuju Village
Day 4: Shangmuju Village - Luding - Chengdu
Follow the WeChat official account of "Niubei Mountain Scenic Area" to make reservations. Reservations will not be accepted after 2 pm on the same day, and tickets will not be sold on site. It is recommended to book tickets in advance.
Full ticket: 160 yuan/person (tourists aged 18-60)
Student ticket: 80 yuan/person
Niubei Mountain Scenic Area Opening Hours: 8:00-17:00
Shuttle bus operating hours:
8:00-17:00 (If you miss the last bus, you can only go up the mountain the next day)
Descend the mountain 9:00-18:00
Niubei Mountain Star Camp is located in the beautiful Ya'an region of Sichuan and is renowned for its clear skies and exceptional stargazing opportunities. The camp provides an immersive experience in nature, away from city lights, allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty of the mountain landscape and starry nights. It’s a growing destination for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Niubei Mountain Star Camp is located in Ya'an, Sichuan. The best way to get there is by car or taxi from Ya'an city center, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Public transportation options are limited, so it's recommended to hire a private vehicle or join a tour group.
The Star Camp is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the skies are clear. Summer is also a popular time, but it can be crowded, while winter may be too cold for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee for Niubei Mountain Star Camp is typically around 50 to 100 RMB, depending on the activities you plan to do. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though some tours may include transportation and entry fees as part of their packages. Online booking is not always available, but it's worth checking tour websites for package deals.
It’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance for general entry, but for guided tours or during peak seasons, it’s recommended to book 1-2 days in advance to secure a spot.
To fully explore Niubei Mountain Star Camp, a half-day visit is typically sufficient, especially if you’re focused on stargazing. For hiking and nature walks, you may need a full day to enjoy the surroundings. For an overnight camping experience, consider staying for at least one night.
The must-see highlights include the starry skies at night, perfect for stargazing and astrophotography. The mountain views, especially during sunrise and sunset, are also breathtaking. Hiking trails around the camp offer a chance to immerse in nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Guided tours are available, and most are conducted in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons, but it’s advisable to confirm ahead of time. Audio guides are generally not provided at the site.
The best viewpoints include the mountain ridges, which provide panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks. The camp’s stargazing area is perfect for astrophotography. Sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning times for photography.
Start by hiking to the highest accessible point for panoramic views of the mountains. Afterward, relax and enjoy the natural beauty around the camp. In the evening, settle in for stargazing, which is the main highlight. If camping overnight, enjoy the tranquility and the starlit sky.
Night visits for stargazing are the main attraction, and the clear skies of Niubei Mountain make it an excellent spot for astrophotography. There are no light shows, but the starlit skies and the peaceful atmosphere create a magical experience.
The Star Camp is generally not crowded, but weekends and public holidays can see more visitors. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays or in the off-peak months of spring or autumn.
The camp has basic facilities such as toilets and water stations. There are no large restaurants, but small eateries or food stalls offering simple meals and snacks are available. Rest areas and picnic spots are also present for visitors to relax in the natural environment.
Niubei Mountain Star Camp has some rugged terrain, making it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to access certain areas. However, the main camp and viewing areas are accessible to children and those who can walk short distances.
Cash is widely accepted at the camp, though mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it's recommended to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are no large restaurants or cafes within the camp itself, but simple local food can be found in nearby villages. For more dining options, consider heading back to Ya'an city, where a variety of restaurants are available.
Vegetarian options are available at the local eateries, especially in the form of simple vegetable dishes. Vegan and halal food may be more limited, but there are some options in the nearby towns.
Accommodations near Niubei Mountain Star Camp include guesthouses and inns in the surrounding villages. For more luxurious stays, Ya'an city offers a range of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the scenic Bifeng Gorge and the famous Ya'an Bamboo Sea. Both locations are easy to combine with a visit to Niubei Mountain Star Camp for a full day of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
There are small souvenir shops near the camp selling local handicrafts such as bamboo items, traditional clothing, and small trinkets. Handmade goods from the region are common souvenirs.
After visiting Niubei Mountain Star Camp, you can take a taxi or car back to Ya'an city for further travel. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is the most convenient choice for continuing your journey.
