Niubei Mountain (牛背山, Bull Back Mountain), located in Yingjing County, Ya’an City, Sichuan Province, was originally known as Dakuang Mountain or Wild Buffalo Mountain. Acting as the watershed between the Qingyi River and Dadu River, its summit stands at an elevation of 3,666 meters. The mountain gained its name due to a prominent cliff on one side resembling a bull’s head, while its ridgeline resembles the back of a bull.
In 2009, Niubei Mountain garnered attention from the National Geographic Magazine, earning the title of “China’s largest panoramic viewing platform” with a 360-degree view. Renowned among outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, mountaineers, and photographers, Niubei Mountain is also a favored location for astronomers chasing celestial wonders.
Despite the challenging and strenuous ascent, the reward at the summit is unparalleled. Majestic snow-capped peaks, sea of clouds, and divine light create a breathtaking panorama that must be experienced firsthand. The grandeur of the scenery eliminates the need for excessive post-processing; a simple click of the shutter captures the awe-inspiring beauty of Niubei Mountain. The journey to the top is physically demanding, but the unrivaled natural wonders and the sense of accomplishment make it a worthwhile adventure for those seeking a truly immersive and picturesque experience.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transporation
- Highlights of Niubei Mountain
- Video about Niubei Mountain
- Useful Tips from genuine Reviews
- Other Attractions in Ya’an
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Over 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 160 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.30 |
| Shuttle Bus Hours | 8.30 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0835-3573666 |
Location and Transporation
Niubei Mountain is located in Xingjing County (荥经县), Yan’city (雅安市), in Sichuan Province, China. It lies within the western part of the province, approximately 241 kilometers northwest of Chengdu, the provincial capital.
To get there from Chengdu, you can first take a high-speed train at Chengdu East, South, or West Railway Station (depending on the specific trains), and then transfer to coach at Ya’an. The whole journey takes about 4 hours.
Highlights of Niubei Mountain
Breathtaking Scenery
Niubei Mountain in Sichuan boasts breathtaking scenery that captivates the senses. Its majestic peaks, often adorned with snow, command awe and admiration. The landscape is a masterpiece of nature, with deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and verdant alpine meadows. Towering cliffs and thick forests create a dramatic backdrop. The panoramic views from the mountain’s slopes are simply awe-inspiring, offering a visual feast of natural wonders. With each step, visitors are immersed in a world of unparalleled beauty, where serenity and grandeur merge harmoniously.
Trekking and Hiking
Niubei Mountain in Sichuan is a paradise for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. It offers a range of exhilarating trails that cater to different skill levels. Adventurers can embark on thrilling journeys through rugged terrain, conquering challenging ascents and descending into picturesque valleys. The trails wind through enchanting forests, across crystal-clear streams, and alongside cascading waterfalls. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and vibrant alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers.
Potography Opportunities
Niubei Mountain in Sichuan presents an absolute paradise for photography enthusiasts. The stunning landscapes offer a myriad of captivating opportunities to capture nature’s beauty. From the majestic peaks reaching towards the sky to the enchanting alpine meadows, every corner holds a picture-perfect moment. The changing light of sunrise and sunset bathes the mountain in a golden glow, creating a surreal atmosphere. Photographers can capture the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests that adorn the landscape. The diverse flora and fauna, along with the rich cultural heritage, provide endless subjects to tell captivating visual stories. Niubei Mountain is a photographer’s dream come true.
Video about Niubei Mountain
Useful Tips from genuine Reviews
Best Viewing Period:
The optimal time for enjoying Niubei Mountain is from November to May of the following year. Winter offers a high probability of clear weather, making it ideal for photography. However, in summer, frequent rainfall reduces the chances of seeing snow-capped mountains. Checking the weather forecast is crucial for planning.
Photography Timing:
Sunrise and Golden Hour: Around 6:20 AM.
Sunset and Evening Glow: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Stargazing and Milky Way: After 10:00 PM.
Safety Concerns and Altitude Sickness:
If experiencing severe altitude sickness, it’s advisable to descend promptly rather than pushing through. After 5:00 PM, there are no shuttle buses down the mountain, and arranging transportation through hotels can be both expensive (around 500 yuan for a one-way trip) and potentially unsafe due to the dark and winding roads.
Food Suggestions:
Bring self-heating food items like hot pots or meals that can be warmed up. This can be particularly useful if you plan to spend an extended period on the mountain. While there are restaurants at the mountaintop, they may offer poor value for money, so bringing your own food is recommended.
