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At Nangong Mountain, visitors can hike through beautiful forested paths, explore scenic viewpoints, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The mountain offers opportunities for photography, nature walks, and a peaceful escape from city life. The area is also perfect for a picnic, enjoying nature’s tranquility. Be sure to visit the highest peaks for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Shaanxi Nangongshan National Forest Park is located in Langao County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. It belongs to the Hualong Mountain branch of the Daba Mountain Range. It is 33 kilometers away from the county seat and 71 kilometers away from Ankang City. It has an operating area of 7,648 hectares.
Nangongshan National Forest Park comprises five scenic areas: Erlangping, Golden Summit, Volcanic Rock, Alpine Oak, and Lotus Village. It is renowned for the remains of the renowned monk Hongyi, traces of multiple Paleozoic volcanic eruptions, Quaternary glacial relics, and pristine secondary forests. With the support of provincial, municipal, and county leaders, and after 13 years of development by the Langao County State-Owned Forestry Farm, the park has achieved remarkable success in developing tourism infrastructure, service facilities, and attractions. It has become a popular destination for sightseeing, leisure vacations, and summer retreats in neighboring areas of Shaanxi, Sichuan, Hubei, and Chongqing.
A Taoist temple was first built on the mountain in 1126 AD, the second year of the Jingkang reign of the Northern Song Dynasty. It gradually became a Buddhist sanctuary during the Qing Dynasty. On the second day of the seventh month of the 25th year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty (1820 AD), the eminent monk Hongyi passed away in a lotus basin on the golden summit, adding a profound mystical aura to Nangong Mountain.
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is humid and mild, with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a long frost-free period. Its characteristics are cold and dry winters, rainy summers with frequent summer droughts, warm and dry springs, and cool and moist autumns with frequent periods of rain. The best time to travel is from March to November.
Erlangping, Golden Summit, Volcanic Rock, Alpine Oak, Lotus Village;
Recommended 1-day tour
Peak season (March 1st - end of November): 100 yuan/person
Off-season (December 1st to the end of February of the following year): 60 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Nangong Mountain holds cultural significance as a natural landmark in Shaanxi. It is historically associated with ancient local legends and has been a retreat for those seeking peace and inspiration. The area also features rich biodiversity and is part of eco-tourism efforts in the region.
Nangong Mountain is located in Ankang, Shaanxi, China. The easiest way to reach the mountain is by taxi or private car from Ankang city. Public transportation options are limited, so it’s best to hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services. Once there, you can explore the mountain by walking along the established trails.
Nangong Mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring snow, but both seasons offer unique scenic views.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It’s advised to check if any online booking options are available, especially during peak seasons, to avoid long waits.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors. However, if you’re planning to visit during peak times, such as weekends or holidays, booking a few days ahead can help secure entry and avoid crowds.
You should plan to spend around 3-5 hours to fully explore Nangong Mountain, especially if you plan to hike to the higher points and enjoy the views. If you prefer a more relaxed visit with photography breaks, 4 hours should suffice.
The main highlights include the mountain’s summit, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. The trails leading through lush forests and the nearby streams also provide picturesque spots for nature lovers and photographers.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. If you prefer a guided experience, you can hire a local guide upon arrival. Audio guides might be available, but they are likely to be in Chinese, so it’s a good idea to check ahead if you require an English guide.
The best viewpoints are from the summit and along the higher trails, where you can capture sweeping views of the mountains and valleys. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best photography conditions.
Start by taking the main trail from the entrance, which leads to the base of the mountain. Hike up to the higher viewpoints for the best views. If you have time, explore some of the smaller trails around the area to discover hidden scenic spots. Plan your visit to include a picnic or rest at one of the scenic spots along the way.
Night visits are not available as the park typically closes in the evening. There are no light shows or special tours at night. However, the mountain is a peaceful retreat, perfect for daytime exploration.
The mountain can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. Weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls, are available at the entrance. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to hike, as food options inside the park are limited.
The main trail is accessible to families with children and elderly visitors, but some of the steeper trails may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check trail conditions before visiting if you have elderly or disabled visitors in your group.
Cash is accepted at the entrance and for food purchases. Mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, though it’s always good to carry some cash just in case.
There are no large restaurants inside the park, but you can find small food stalls selling snacks and drinks. For a full meal, you can head to Ankang city, where numerous restaurants offer local cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Ankang city, but within the park, the choices are limited. Halal food options may be found in specific restaurants in Ankang city catering to Muslim visitors.
There are budget hotels and guesthouses in Ankang city, which is about a 30-minute drive from the mountain. For more upscale options, you can stay in mid-range hotels like Ankang International Hotel.
Nearby attractions include Baihe River Scenic Area and Fuxi Temple. These sites offer a mix of cultural and natural experiences and can be easily combined with a visit to Nangong Mountain for a full day of sightseeing.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, postcards, and nature-themed souvenirs. Popular items include wood carvings, local pottery, and herbal products.
After visiting, taxis or public transportation can take you back to Ankang city, where you can continue your journey by bus, train, or taxi to other nearby destinations.
