Shanwangping Karst National Ecological Park, Chongqing – Ticket Price, Opening Hours, Transportation, and HIghlights

Shanwangping Karst National Ecological Park (山王坪喀斯特国家生态公园) in Chongqing, China, is a magnificent natural wonder nestled within the boundaries of Shandongping Town in Nanchuan District. It serves as a vital component of China’s Southern Karst World Natural Heritage site, the renowned Jinfo Mountain. With an extensive total planned area of 24,400 mu (approximately 1,626.67 hectares), the park boasts a lush forest coverage of 95.5%.

Situated on the eastern edge of the primary peak, Jinfo Mountain, within the Doulou Mountain range, the park is subdivided into four major regions: the Wangyue Lake – Shenfeng Ridge Area, the Ecological Stone Forest Area, the Forest Recreation Area, and the Camping Area. Its altitude ranges from 1,200 meters to 1,570 meters, featuring a typical dissected plateau topography of the central mountainous plateau type. The park boasts a diverse range of karst landforms, including stone forests, stone cones, caves, water-sunken caves, canyons, and dry valleys.

Within the park’s boundaries, you’ll discover over 1,000 mu (roughly 66.67 hectares) of ecological karst stone forests adorned with an impressive array of plant life. With 1374 different species from 580 genera across 150 plant families, the park is a botanical treasure trove. The unique mountainous forest microclimate here ensures that even in the hottest months, the average temperature hovers at a pleasant 19.7°C.

Basic Information

Location and Transportation

Shanwangping Karst National Ecological Park is situated at the confluence of Shanwangping Town and Sanquan Town, on the eastern foothills of Golden Buddha Mountain, and it is approximately 40 kilometers away from the urban center of Nanchuan District in Chongqing.

To get to Shanwangping Karst National Ecological Park from Chongqing:

1. Begin your journey at Chongqing Nanping Long-Distance Bus Station.
2. Take a bus to Nanchuan, which is approximately 65 kilometers away.
3. In Nanchuan, go to Nanchuan Passenger Transportation East Station.
4. From there, catch one of the two daily buses that travel to Shanwangping.

Highlights of Shanangping

Ecological Stone Forest

The park’s terrain is intricate, marked by deep incisions, abundant karst topography, and natural wonders formed by various types of stone mountains, stone forests, and stalagmites, creating a distinctive natural “ecological stone forest” landscape. These formations are further embellished by diverse and peculiarly shaped flora, including rare flowers and exotic trees, often entwined with millennium-old vines, collectively forming innumerable picturesque attractions. These lifelike features paint a natural canvas that evokes endless imagination and wonder, akin to a natural bonsai garden.

Lush Vegetation

A rare sight in the park is the mountain-top herbaceous swamp, dominated by reeds, an uncommon feature in the central mountains. Additionally, the park hosts the largest and most spectacular mature forest of dawn redwoods and bald cypresses in Chongqing. Particularly during autumn, when the dawn redwoods turn a resplendent golden hue, and the lush green bald cypress trees complement the scene, the view is truly breathtaking. Moreover, the park’s entrance area showcases Chongqing’s most extensive artificial ginkgo forest and a stunning base of jade gardenias, creating a remarkably beautiful landscape.

Camping Experience

For those who seek a more immersive natural experience, the park provides camping facilities where visitors can pitch tents, allowing for a close connection with the environment and a peaceful retreat from the daily hustle and bustle. If you wish to spend the night, the Yunling Mountain Villa is an excellent option. This facility offers cozy cabins and self-service barbecue, enabling you to relish the joys of family bonding amid the serene backdrop of the park.

Vlog about Shanwangping

Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shanwangping is in mid to late November when the colorful cypress trees are in full display. Before November, the leaves may not have turned yellow or red yet, while after November, the leaves may have fallen and there could be snow. Aim to visit around mid-November for the most vibrant colors.

Weather Conditions: For the best photography opportunities, visit on a clear, sunny day. Clear skies will enhance the colors of the foliage and provide better lighting for photography.

Food and Refreshments: Near the entrance of the scenic area, you’ll find many small stalls offering snacks and local delicacies. You can also bring your own snacks and drinks, but there are also vending machines selling water inside the scenic area for convenience.