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Hike along the ancient Tangluo Trail, experiencing both the natural beauty and the cultural history of the area. Visit local landmarks along the trail, such as ancient temples and historical markers. Enjoy photography and the serene environment, particularly at the trail's scenic overlooks.
Tangluo Road is the name of an ancient plank road. It is named because its southern entrance is located at the mouth of Tangshui River in Yang County, Hanzhong, and its northern entrance is located in Xiluoyu in Zhouzhi County.
The Tangluo Road, about 240 kilometers long, is the fastest and most treacherous of the ancient routes, including the Baoxiade Road, Ziwu Road, and Lianyun Plank Road. The flight route from Xi'an to Hanzhong follows the Tangluo Road.
The name Tangluo Road first appeared in historical records during the Three Kingdoms period. In the fifth year of the Zhengshi reign of the Cao Wei Dynasty (244 AD), Cao Shuang led his army to attack Shu. As far west as Chang'an, he "dispatched a large force of 60,000 to 70,000 men, entering through Luogu." Later, in the second year of the Ganlu reign of the Wei Dynasty (257 AD), "Wei General Zhuge Dan rebelled in Shouchun, Huainan. Taking advantage of this, Shu general Jiang Wei marched towards Qinchuan, leading tens of thousands of troops out of Luogu." Towards the end of the Three Kingdoms period, Wei general Zhong Hui led over 100,000 troops, marching through Xiegu and Luogu to annihilate Shu.
Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for all seasons
Recommended 2-day tour
free
Open all year round
The Tangluo Ancient Trail is a historical pathway in Shaanxi, used for trade and transportation for centuries. It played a crucial role in connecting various towns and regions in the past, contributing to the cultural exchange and trade in the region. The trail's historical significance is reflected in its well-preserved ruins and ancient structures.
The Tangluo Ancient Trail is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi from the Hanzhong city center. Alternatively, buses are available, and the route can be explored on foot once you are near the trailhead.
The trail is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and perfect for hiking. Avoid the summer heat, as temperatures can be high in the region.
The entrance fee is generally low, with tickets available for purchase on-site. It is not necessary to book tickets online. Some areas along the trail may have small fees for entry to specific sites, such as temples or landmarks.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required. However, during peak seasons (spring and autumn), it is advisable to check availability and purchase tickets a few days in advance.
You will need approximately 3-4 hours to hike the main section of the trail. If you plan to visit additional landmarks or enjoy leisurely photography, allow for a full day of exploration.
The must-see highlights include the ancient stone inscriptions along the trail, the peaceful riverside views, and the old temples scattered throughout. The scenic overlook points are also highly recommended for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and local guides can provide a rich understanding of the trail's history. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available at the visitor center.
The best viewpoints are along the trail's higher sections, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The temple areas also offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.
Start at the main trailhead and hike towards the temple and inscription areas. Then proceed to the highest viewpoints for panoramic views. Finish your hike by exploring the nearby villages or taking a break by the river.
There are no night visits or light shows along the Tangluo Ancient Trail. The trail is best enjoyed during daylight hours when visibility and safety are optimal.
The trail is not usually crowded, but it can become busier during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially during the off-season (winter).
Basic facilities, such as rest areas and toilets, are available along the trail. However, food and water may not be readily available on the trail itself, so it’s advisable to bring your own supplies. Small shops may be found near the trailhead or at the village stops along the way.
The trail is more suitable for moderately fit individuals, with some sections being steeper or rugged. Elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to navigate certain parts of the trail, but the lower sections are accessible for children and those with moderate mobility.
Cash is commonly used at the trail entrance and nearby facilities, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may also be accepted. It’s a good idea to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases along the trail.
There are no major restaurants directly on the trail, but several local eateries and small cafes can be found in the nearby towns or villages. These offer traditional Shaanxi dishes such as noodles and lamb.
Vegetarian options are available in local eateries. Vegan and halal food may be more limited but can be found in some of the larger towns nearby. It’s best to check before heading out or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
Accommodation options include small hotels and guesthouses in Hanzhong. For a more rustic experience, there are also local inns near the trail that offer traditional Chinese-style rooms.
Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Shrine, which is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, and the Hanzhong Museum. These can be easily combined with a visit to the Tangluo Ancient Trail for a full day of exploration.
There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, local hand-made goods, and souvenirs related to the trail's history, such as wooden carvings and local artwork.
After visiting, taxis and local buses are the best options for continuing your trip. Hanzhong’s train station offers connections to other cities, and buses can take you to nearby attractions like the Wuhou Shrine or Hanzhong city center.
