Niubei Mountain

Introducing Niubei Mountain

Niubei Mountain is located at the junction of Yingjing County, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province and Luding County, Ganzi Prefecture. It is part of the Erlang Mountain branch and is the natural geographical dividing line between the Sichuan Basin and the western Sichuan Plateau.

Niubei Mountain is backed by the western Sichuan plain and faces the king of Sichuan mountains, Gongga Snow Mountain, across the Dadu River. The straight-line distance is only 50 kilometers. It is the best viewing platform on the eastern slope of Gongga Snow Mountain to appreciate the main peak of Gongga Snow Mountain.

Thanks to the promotion of China National Geographic magazine and Lü Linglong's picture album, Niubei Mountain is known as "China's largest 360-degree viewing platform". Standing on Niubei Mountain, you can enjoy the sunrise and sea of ​​clouds in the east and overlook the famous mountains in Sichuan such as Emei Mountain and Wawu Mountain; in the west, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the middle section of the Great Snow Mountain Range with Gongga Snow Mountain as the main peak; in the south, you can overlook the Daxiangling (Nibashan) and Xiaoxiangling mountains in the southern part of the Sichuan Basin; looking to the north, Siguniang Mountain and Jiajin Mountain are vaguely visible.

Climate and best time to travel

From October to May of the following year, there is a relatively high chance of seeing sea of ​​clouds, sunrise, golden mountain illuminated by the sun, Buddha's light, and even snow scene (starting from early December).

sea ​​of ​​clouds

The sea of ​​clouds on Niubei Mountain is dense and even, and unlike the sea of ​​clouds in other places, it does not spread out flatly.

The sea of ​​clouds on Niubei Mountain is like a mighty river, descending from the sky, and suddenly encountering a fault at the foot of the mountain, pouring down like a waterfall. Its momentum is in no way inferior to any famous waterfall in the world.

sunrise

The sunrise at Niubei Mountain is born in darkness, stained by the warm horizon of clouds and starry sky. The gestation at 5 o'clock in the morning is like the birth of life!

Looking at the sea of ​​clouds in front of you through the lens, the rising sun adds more splendor and brilliance to the sea of ​​clouds, and the mountains that undulate with the rolling sea of ​​clouds add a bit of charm to this beautiful scenery.

Even professional cameras and photographers can't capture her grandeur. Unless you see it with your own eyes...

Gongga Snow Mountain

Mount Gongga, the king of Shu Mountains, stands at the highest point due west of Niubei Mountain. Standing on the top of Niubei Mountain, you can see the whole picture of the king of Shu Mountains. Niubei Mountain is one of the best places to view the sacred Mount Gongga.

When the weather clears up, Mount Gongga will reveal its majestic figure, and if you are lucky, you can even take a photo of the magnificent golden mountain in the sun.

starry sky

Standing on the top of Niubei Mountain and looking at the starry sky, the sky seems to be within reach, there is a sea of ​​clouds under your feet, snow-capped mountains in the background, and you feel as if you are in the galaxy.

A bottle of beer, a few good friends, and a feast under the starry sky of Niubei Mountain.

360-degree views

In western Sichuan, there has never been a viewing platform that can appreciate most of the famous mountains in Shu at the same time, until Niubei Mountain appeared on our destination list.

Mount Gongga, Mount Siguniang, Mount Emei, Mount Wawu, Daxiangling (Nibashan), and Mount Jiajin...

Walking up Niubei Mountain, you can have a panoramic view of all these famous mountains.

azalea

Niubei Mountain is 3,600 meters above sea level. From the 2,800-meter altitude position on the mountainside to the top of the mountain, there are a large number of rhododendrons concentrated. Every year in May and June, the mountain is covered with pink rhododendrons in full bloom above the sea of ​​clouds, which complement the snow-capped mountains and the sea of ​​clouds, creating a charming scene.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Niubei Mountain

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

Niubei Mountain is a notable natural landmark in Ya’an, Sichuan, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. It is significant for its scenic beauty, ecological importance, and historical temples that reflect local religious and cultural traditions.

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

Niubei Mountain is located near Ya’an City in Sichuan Province. Visitors can reach it via taxi or private car from Ya’an city center (approximately 20–30 minutes). Local buses may drop off nearby, followed by a short walk to the main trailheads.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mountain area is generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when weather conditions are mild and the landscape is particularly scenic.

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

Entrance fees range from 50–80 RMB per person depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local travel platforms.

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

Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays, ideally 1–2 weeks prior, to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit typically requires 3–5 hours, depending on the hiking routes chosen and the time spent at viewpoints or temples.

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

• Niubei Mountain summit viewpoints for panoramic views.
• Waterfall areas along the hiking trails.
• Historic temples and cultural landmarks scattered along the paths.
• Forest trails showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

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

Guided tours may be available in Chinese. English-language guides should be arranged in advance via local tour operators.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main summit lookout for panoramic mountain views.
• Waterfall and stream areas along the trails.
• Temple courtyards and traditional architecture within the forested landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the base, follow the main trail to waterfalls, then proceed to temples and observation decks, and loop back via a scenic forest trail for a complete experience.

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

Night visits are not typically allowed, and there are no regular light shows or special tours.

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

The site is less crowded on weekdays and early mornings, with weekends and public holidays seeing larger visitor numbers.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, small food stalls, water fountains, resting areas, and souvenir shops near the entrance and main trailheads.

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

Main paths are moderately accessible; some steep or uneven areas may be challenging for elderly visitors, children, or those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards may have limited acceptance.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local eateries near the mountain entrance serving Sichuan cuisine.
• Small tea houses or cafés along the road to the base.
• Street food stalls offering snacks and drinks for hikers.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available; vegan and halal options may be limited and should be confirmed in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Ya’an city hotels and guesthouses approximately 15–30 minutes away.
• Local inns and mountain lodges closer to the trailhead.

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

• Bifengxia Panda Base – for wildlife and panda observation.
• Shu bamboo forests – for scenic walks and photography.
• Local temples and cultural sites in Ya’an.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops offer local handicrafts, small toys, postcards, and nature-themed gifts.

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

• Taxi or private car back to Ya’an city.
• Bus services connecting to nearby attractions or regional hubs.
• Arrange a local tour operator transfer for onward travel to Sichuan destinations like Chengdu or Bifengxia.