Nestled within the boundaries of Meixian County in Shaanxi Province, Mount Taibai National Forest Park (太白山国家森林公园, Taibai Mountain) is a majestic treasure located at the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains, home to the primary peak of the range, Mount Taibai. Rising to an impressive elevation of approximately 3,767 meters, Mount Taibai exhibits a stunning and imposing presence. The park boasts breathtaking natural scenery, with its summit often covered in snow even during the peak of summer. Looking out from the Guanzhong Plain, the snow-covered summit creates an enchanting and picturesque vista.
The park predominantly features lush forests, adorned with rugged mountain peaks, clear streams, and historical sites. The towering peaks of the park reach up into the clouds, making it a renowned tourist destination in Shaanxi. Due to its complex terrain, the park is particularly suitable for nature enthusiasts and outdoor hiking enthusiasts who seek an authentic and unspoiled experience. Mount Taibai offers numerous routes for climbers, with paths ascending from both the north and south sides of the mountain, including cable car and hiking options.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Mount Taibai National Forest Park
- Vlog about Mount Taibai
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Mountains near Xi’an
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.tbpark.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | About 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 90 RMB (1st March – 30th November) 54 RMB (1st December – 28th February the next year) |
| Shuttle Bus Ticket | 120 RMB for round trip |
| Opening Hours | 08.00 – 16.00; Last admission: 15.00 |
Location and Transportation
Mount Taibai is situated in the southern part of the Qinling Mountains, in the northern part of Shaanxi Province. Specifically, it lies in Mei County, Baoji City, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away from Xi’an, the capital city of Shaanxi.
To get to Mount Taibai from Xi’an, you can take the express coach at Xi’an Bus Station, opposite Xi’an Railway Station. It takes about 2 hours and costs 37.5 RMB.
Highlights of Mount Taibai National Forest Park
Mount Taibai
Mount Taibai is the highest peak in the Qinling Mountain range, and it stands as the tallest mountain to the east of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Its lofty elevation and rugged terrain have made it famous for its natural beauty, characterized by its height, coldness, danger, uniqueness, fertility, and mystique. Mount Taibai’s stunning landscapes make it not only a popular tourist destination but also a significant site for Daoist activities. Since the Tang and Song dynasties, numerous scholars and literati have visited this mountain, leaving behind a wealth of famous poems and writings.
Rich Biodiversity
The vegetation on Mount Taibai is categorized into several zones, including deciduous broadleaf forests, coniferous forests, high-altitude shrub zones, and alpine meadows. The mountain’s unique environmental conditions have allowed rare and unique plant species to thrive, including the solitary-leaved plant, a plant species that exists nowhere else on Earth and is considered a national treasure. In terms of rare and endangered wildlife, Mount Taibai is home to several species, including giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, takins, and the Taibai tiger (a subspecies of the Siberian tiger). Additionally, it is home to nationally protected species such as the Reeves’s pheasant.
Temple Complex
Mount Taibai boasts an exceptional collection of ancient temples and structures, a rarity in the history of Chinese architecture. These include the Sha Po Temple, Jiaolong Temple, Heihu Pass, Songping Temple, Zhongshan Temple, the Grand Hall, Doumu Palace, Ping’an Temple, Mingxin Temple, Fangyang Temple, Wengong Temple, Sanguan Temple, Yaowang Palace, Lianhua Temple, and Taibai Temple, among others. Many of these temples and structures are built with iron tiles, and the statues of deities are often made of iron or wood carvings. The harsh climate at the mountain’s summit, with its icy peaks and snowy terrain that persists throughout the year, creates a mesmerizing and spectacular landscape that stretches for miles, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Ba Xian Terrace
The Ba Xian Terrace is the highest point on Mount Taibai. Looking up from below, the temple on the peak appears to float in the sky, perched on the edge of a sheer precipice. However, upon reaching the summit, a spacious and level platform is revealed. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On clear summer days, the view to the north offers a sight of the Guanzhong Plain, with the Wei River winding like a ribbon through the landscape, creating a mesmerizing pattern of fields and roads. Villages, towns, and factories can be seen in the distance. During sunset or sunrise, the mountain is bathed in hues of red and gold, casting a surreal and awe-inspiring glow across the rock walls and cliffs.
Outdoor Activities
Mount Taibai offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Mount Taibai include hiking, trekking, and camping (Taibai Mountain Traverse). The mountain has numerous trails that offer varying levels of difficulty, allowing visitors of all fitness levels to enjoy the scenery. In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and skiing during the winter months. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, the cable car ride to the summit of the mountain offers panoramic views of the area.
Vlog about Mount Taibai
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Bring Your Own Food: While there are food vendors on the mountain, prices are significantly higher than in the city, approximately four to five times more expensive. It’s advisable to bring your own food to save money and ensure you have snacks or a meal readily available.
Portable Oxygen Tanks: Oxygen canisters are available for purchase, with prices varying depending on the location. Be prepared to spend around 50 to 90 yuan for a portable oxygen tank. These can be useful, especially if you experience altitude sickness or difficulty breathing due to the thin air at higher elevations.
Wear Suitable Footwear: Proper footwear is essential for hiking Mount Taibai. The terrain is rugged and rocky, and inappropriate shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, or even injuries. Ensure you wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots to prevent foot problems during your hike.
Be Cautious on Trails: The trails in the natural reserve area can be challenging, with narrow paths and steep cliffsides. If you’re afraid of heights or not accustomed to strenuous hiking, proceed with caution. Some sections may require you to use your hands and feet for stability, making it physically demanding. Take breaks when needed and assess your energy levels before continuing.
Consider Overnight Stay at Da Ye Hai: If you plan to hike to Da Ye Hai (Big Grandpa Lake) and find the journey exhausting, consider staying overnight at the campsite there. Accommodations include bunk beds, and there are shops and Wi-Fi available for a fee. It’s wise to carry cash as there may be no cellular signal on the mountain.
