Live Your Best Lives
Dawa Mountain stands 3,236 meters above sea level on the north bank of the Jinkou Grand Canyon on the Dadu River in Leshan City, Sichuan Province. Its summit is covered in basalt and dolomite deposited by Paleozoic volcanic eruptions.
This is the world's largest solitary flat-topped mountain, composed of Permian basalt. From the summit, visitors can admire the sunrise, sea of clouds, and Buddha's light. To the south, they can overlook the majestic Grand Canyon, while to the north, they can gaze upon the Golden Summit of Mount Emei.
Viewed from the summit of Mount Emei, Dawa Mountain resembles a giant Noah's Ark, its sides towering amidst a sea of clouds. Dawa Mountain is the only flat-topped mountain of its height in China, comparable only to Venezuela's Mount Roraima. It is a rare natural wonder.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
free
All day
Dawa Mountain is a sacred site for Buddhists in the Leshan area. It has long been a place of pilgrimage, with temples and shrines dating back centuries. The mountain is not only a natural wonder but also a spiritual hub, attracting those seeking peace and meditation.
Dawa Mountain is located in Leshan, Sichuan. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transport options, such as buses, may also be available from the city center. There is no metro service directly to the mountain.
The mountain is open year-round, typically from 7 AM to 6 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit, as the area is less crowded, and the temperatures are more comfortable for hiking.
The entrance fee to Dawa Mountain is around 50-100 RMB, depending on the season and specific access areas. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site, but it is advisable to check if online bookings are available, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required but is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to explore the main temples, hike to the summit, and enjoy the views. If you plan to meditate or explore the surrounding trails, you may want to allocate an entire day.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in English or other languages may not always be offered, so it is advisable to bring your own translation tool if needed.
Start at the base of the mountain, explore the temples along the lower trails, and then ascend towards the summit for the best views. Conclude your visit by exploring the surrounding natural areas.
There are no night visits or light shows. The best time to experience the mountain is during the day, especially in the early morning or late afternoon for a more serene visit.
The mountain can be quite crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the mornings before 10 AM or late afternoons after 4 PM.
While the mountain is accessible to elderly visitors and children, the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to steep paths and uneven surfaces. It is recommended to check the specific routes before visiting if accessibility is a concern.
Cash is commonly used in the area, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at most locations. Credit cards may not be as widely accepted.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the base of Dawa Mountain, serving traditional Sichuan food. It's recommended to try local specialties like hotpot or noodles.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It is advisable to check with the restaurant beforehand if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several guesthouses and budget accommodations near the base of the mountain, as well as more upscale hotels in Leshan city center. It's best to book in advance during peak seasons.
There are souvenir shops near the base of the mountain selling Buddhist items, local crafts, and mountain-themed memorabilia, such as paintings, sculptures, and prayer beads.
