Laojun Mountain 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Mountain Views + Golden Summit Sunset

Morning: Departure and Ascent

1. Transportation Recommendations

· Self-drive: Navigate to "Laojun Mountain Scenic Area," approximately a 3-hour drive from Zhengzhou/Luoyang.

· Public Transportation: Luoyang High-Speed Rail Station/Airport → Luanchuan (2.5-hour bus ride), transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus (CNY 10) to the cable car station.

· Tickets: CNY 100 (half price for students), round-trip cable car ticket CNY 130 (recommended to save energy).

2. Cable Car + Hiking Route

· Take the Zhongling/Yunjing Cable Car (approximately 15 minutes) to Zhongtian Gate.

· Hike or transfer to the Fenglin Cable Car (CNY 45 one-way) to the entrance of the Ten Mile Painting Gallery. Walk for 1.5 hours through the hanging plank road, enjoying the karst peak forest spectacle.

Afternoon: Summit and Sunset

· Arrive at the Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex (Jade Emperor Peak, Liangbao Terrace, Laojun Temple), and take photos of the golden halls and the sea of clouds.

· It is recommended to reach the summit before 3pm, allowing time to visit the three golden halls and wait for the sunset (approximately 6:30pm-7pm in summer).

· Mid-mountain: Stay at a guesthouse near Zhongtian Gate (CNY 200-300), requiring an early start the next day to take the cable car up the mountain.

Dinner

· There are small shops on the summit (instant noodles CNY 15, free hot water). It is recommended to bring high-calorie foods such as chocolate and beef jerky.

Day 2: Sunrise and Sea of Clouds + Exploring Dream Valley

Morning: Sunrise and Descent

· Sunrise time: Approximately 5am-5:30am in summer. Arrive 1 hour in advance to secure a good viewing spot. Best viewing points: Mazong Ridge, Jade Emperor Peak.

· Descent route: Return to Zhongtian Gate via the same route and take the cable car down (approximately 1 hour).

Morning: Dream Valley Leisure Tour

· After descending, head to Dream Valley (admission included in the scenic area ticket). A 2-hour hike will take you to:

· Waterfall Cluster: Laolongwo Waterfall, Longyin Pavilion.

· Popular attractions: High-altitude glass slide (CNY 60), Flying Carpet (CNY 30).

Lunch

· Recommendations in Luanchuan County:

· Tiexie Mutton Soup (CNY 25 per person)

· Luanchuan Eight Bowls (CNY 50 per person, try the sour soup fried meatballs and acorn jelly).

Afternoon: Return or Extend to Nearby Attractions

· If time permits, you can visit:

· Jiguan Cave (30-minute drive, karst cave)

· Chongdugou (1-hour drive, a summer retreat with bamboo forests and streams).

Important Notes

1. Equipment: Lightweight backpack, windproof jacket (temperature difference on the summit is 10°C+), trekking poles, power bank.

2. Weather: Check the official WeChat account of "Laojun Mountain Scenic Area" for live updates to avoid rainy or foggy days.

3. Money-saving tip: From Luoyang, you can book a one-day tour (CNY 200 including round-trip transportation + admission ticket).

4. Winter tips: From December to February, the snow scenery is stunning. Wear ice grips for anti-slip protection. Cable cars may be suspended due to wind and snow.

Route Highlights: The first day focuses on the core landscape and sunset, while the second day offers a relaxed itinerary with staggered visits, balancing physical exertion and in-depth experience. Leave a message if you have other needs or require adjustments!