Jiuding Mountain (九顶山) is situated in the southern part of Maoxian County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. With its nine peaks, shrouded in snow throughout the four seasons, it is colloquially known as Jiuding Shan or Nine Summit Mountain. The highest peak reaches an elevation of 4,989 meters, making it the highest point in the Longmen Mountain Range.
The unique scenery of Jiuding Mountain seamlessly blends grasslands, snow-capped peaks, pristine forests, natural phenomena like Buddha’s light, illusions, and seas of clouds. Visitors can challenge themselves by climbing to the summit or simply stroll around, enjoying the breathtaking views. The area is also popular for skiing during the winter.
At an altitude of about 3,200 meters within the scenic area, there’s Bai Long Chi (White Dragon Pool), surrounded by lush vegetation and clear waters, providing picturesque views and opportunities for camping under the starry night sky. For those with some mountaineering experience, the higher-altitude Hei Long Chi (Black Dragon Pool) is accessible, boasting clear yet mysteriously dark waters. In winter, the pool freezes, and it’s said that even yaks can walk on the ice.
Jiuding Mountain offers a harmonious blend of natural landscapes, geological formations, and celestial phenomena, providing a diverse and enchanting experience for visitors throughout the year.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Jiuding Mountain
- Video about Jiuding Mountain
- Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 days |
| Ticket Price | 70 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0837-8709999 |
Location and Transportation
Jiuding Mountain is situated in the enchanting county of Maoxian, which is about 100 kilometers to the northwest of Chengdu. Tourists from Chengdu can take the express coach to get there, which operates from 7.00 am to 4.30 pm.
Highlights of Jiuding Mountain
Breathtaking Scenery
Jiuding Mountain’s scenery is a mesmerizing canvas of nature’s grandeur. Towering peaks crowned with glistening snow, lush green forests, and serene alpine lakes create a breathtaking panorama. Cascading waterfalls add a touch of enchantment to the landscape. The tranquil ambiance, accentuated by the occasional fluttering of prayer flags, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a spiritual journey. Amidst the pristine wilderness, rare flora and fauna thrive, adding to the mountain’s ecological charm. Whether trekking along picturesque trails or basking in the peaceful serenity, Jiuding Mountain captivates with its awe-inspiring beauty and offers an unforgettable escape into nature’s embrace.
Hiking and Trekking
Hiking and trekking in Jiuding Mountain offer an exhilarating adventure amidst nature’s splendor. The region presents a diverse array of well-marked trails, catering to both seasoned hikers and beginners. Ascending through lush forests and meandering alongside pristine lakes, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls. The trekking routes also pass by ancient temples and shrines, infusing the journey with cultural and spiritual experiences. Whether seeking a challenging expedition or a leisurely hike, Jiuding Mountain promises an immersive encounter with ecological diversity and an opportunity to rejuvenate the soul in the tranquil and picturesque surroundings.
Tranquility and Solitude
Tranquility and solitude embrace those who venture into the serene realm of Jiuding Mountain, Sichuan. This remote haven offers a rare escape from the chaotic world, inviting visitors to bask in its undisturbed calmness. The tranquil ambiance is amplified by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant echoes of prayer chants from ancient temples. Far from the city’s hustle, the mountain’s vast expanse evokes a profound sense of solitude, allowing one to disconnect and connect with nature’s harmony.
Streams and Lakes
Jiuding Mountain in Sichuan, China, boasts a splendid array of streams and pristine alpine lakes that add to its scenic allure. Sparkling like jewels amidst the verdant landscape, these water bodies offer a sense of tranquility and serenity to all who visit. Crystal-clear streams meander through the mountain’s undulating terrain, nourishing the diverse flora and fauna along their path. The glistening lakes reflect the towering peaks and the surrounding lush forests, creating postcard-worthy vistas. As trekkers explore the well-marked trails, they encounter these breathtaking water features, providing opportunities to rest, reflect, and immerse in the natural splendor of Jiuding Mountain’s picturesque streams and lakes.
Video about Jiuding Mountain
Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
Challenging Hike and Altitude Considerations: The initial part of the climb from LiLi to JiZhaoPeng is referred to as “Desperation Slope,” and it gets steeper as you progress. Individuals with limited exercise routines or health issues should carefully consider whether to attempt the climb, as altitude sickness is a real concern. Climbing too quickly can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, headache, and nausea. It’s suggested to climb slowly to acclimatize.
Horse Riding Option: If climbing becomes too challenging, there’s an option to ride a horse. However, the price for horse riding varies from 350 to 500 yuan, and bargaining with the operators is recommended.
Cold Weather Preparation: Jiuding Mountain can be very cold, and visitors are advised to bring a down jacket. While campsites provide sleeping bags and moisture-proof mats, the sleeping bags may not be very thick, and most people may still feel cold.
Basic Campsite Facilities: Campsite toilets are described as not very clean and quite primitive. However, the main concern is the cold weather, especially at night, which might discourage trips to the outdoor toilets.
Weather-Dependent Experiences: The visibility of sunrise and stars is weather-dependent. Stars are generally visible around 3 AM, while sunrise can be seen if you start heading to HeiLongChi (Black Dragon Pool) before 5 AM.
Lack of Connectivity: There is no mobile signal on the mountain. Visitors are advised to carry some cash and download entertainment content on their phones, as the nights can be long and challenging without connectivity.
Limited Campsite Capacity: Campsite accommodations are limited, and it’s recommended to bring your own food due to the limited reception capabilities. Planning and bringing necessary supplies are crucial for a comfortable stay.