Kongtongshan National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kongtongshan National Park with our comprehensive travel guide, including information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, safety, and transportation logistics.


Introduction to Kongtongshan National Park

Kongtongshan National Park is a beautiful destination located in Gansu, a province in Northwest China. The park is home to stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and a range of outdoor activities. The park’s numerous temples, museums, and historical sites make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Chinese culture and history. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit in the park, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation logistics.

List of Places to Visit in Kongtongshan National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Five Immortals Temple: A historic temple complex that has been beautifully preserved over time. It is one of the most significant Taoist temples in China and features stunning carvings, paintings, and sculptures.

  • Yuhuang Pavilion: A pavilion built on a cliff, providing a panoramic view of Kongtongshan National Park. Legend has it that a goddess once lived there, and the pavilion is considered a must-visit destination for couples, as it is believed to be a love landmark.

  • Kongtongshan Grottoes: Featuring over 160 caves and thousands of Buddhist statues and murals, the grottoes are a significant cultural heritage site in Kongtongshan National Park.

Natural Attractions of Kongtongshan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sky Bridge: A pedestrian suspension bridge spanning 330 meters across two scenic spots: Nantianmen and Jintianmen. The bridge provides an extraordinary bird’s-eye view of the national park.

  • Cattle Track Cliff: A 600-meter-long hiking trail on a 90-degree cliff, which features beautiful scenic views of the park.

  • Zhonghe Valley: A picturesque valley that features sparkling rivers and waterfalls, lush forests, and beautiful plant species unique to the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kongtongshan National Park

  • Heilongtan Biking Trail: A 20-kilometer-long mountain bike trail with 32 turns, passing through deep mountains and breathtaking countryside.

  • Zhonghe Valley Hiking Trail: A 5-kilometer-long hiking trail that offers a glimpse of the park’s natural scenery, including glistening waterfalls and pools.

Best Things to Do in Kongtongshan National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Temple tours: Take a guided tour of some of the park’s most historic and culturally significant temples, including the Five Immortals Temple and Kongtongshan Grottoes.

  • Rock climbing: Experience the thrill of rock climbing in the park’s beautiful and rugged mountain terrain.

  • Camping: Enjoy a night under the stars in one of the park’s designated camping areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kongtongshan National Park

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, check-in at hotel or hostel, and explore
Day 2 Visit Five Immortals Temple and Yuhuang Pavilion
Day 3 Hike Zhonghe Valley Trail and Sky Bridge
Day 4 Rock climbing and outdoor activities
Day 5 Visit Kongtongshan Grottoes and nearby local markets
Day 6 Camping and stargazing
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kongtongshan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lanzhou Beef Noodles: A famous local dish made with stewed beef in a fragrant soup, served over handmade noodles.

  • Ganbao Chicken: A spicy chicken dish that features diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, dried chili peppers, and garlic.

Local Beverages

  • Baijiu: A strong, clear spirit made from fermented grains, similar to vodka.

  • Huangjiu: A traditional Chinese rice wine with a sweet and mellow flavor.

Where to Stay in Kongtongshan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kongtong Mountain-Shang Villa: A luxury hotel located near the park entrance, with modern amenities, beautiful views, and a full range of services.

  • Kongtongshan Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option that provides clean, comfortable rooms and basic amenities.

  • Kongtong Mountain-Shang Youth Hostel: An inexpensive hostel with a lively atmosphere and great communal space for backpackers.

What to Buy in Kongtongshan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Luminous Sticks: These glow-in-the-dark sticks are popular souvenirs for tourists visiting the park.

  • Handmade Crafts: Kongtongshan National Park is home to many skilled craftsmen who produce beautiful, traditional crafts such as paintings, pottery, and calligraphy.

Local Culture and Customs of Kongtongshan National Park

  • Respect for the elders and authority figures is a critical aspect of Chinese culture. Visitors to Kongtongshan National Park should be mindful of this and show proper respect.

  • Removing one’s shoes inside buildings or homes is a common practice in China.

Best Time to Visit Kongtongshan National Park

The best time to visit Kongtongshan National Park is during the autumn season, from September to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring is also a good time to visit as the flowers bloom, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kongtongshan National Park

Do:

  • Take photos to capture the park’s beauty and unique cultural heritage.

  • Be respectful of the park’s religious and cultural sites.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the park’s natural environment.

  • Dress immodestly when visiting culturally significant sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kongtongshan National Park

  • Be aware of trail conditions and wildlife hazards while hiking and biking.

  • Use caution when swimming in natural pools and rivers.

Health in Kongtongshan National Park

  • Drinking bottled water is highly recommended to avoid gastrointestinal issues.

  • Bring necessary medication for allergies or other medical conditions.

Getting to Kongtongshan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kongtongshan National Park

  • Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport: Located in Lanzhou, approximately 270 kilometers from Kongtongshan National Park.

  • Xi’an Xianyang International Airport: Located in Xi’an, approximately 500 kilometers from Kongtongshan National Park.

Bus Stations Near Kongtongshan National Park

  • Pingliang City Bus Station: Located in Pingliang City, approximately 38 kilometers from Kongtongshan National Park.

  • Kongtongshan Scenic Area Bus Station: Located in Kongtongshan National Park.

Other Options

  • Driving: Visitors may choose to rent a car and drive to the park.

How to Get Around in Kongtongshan National Park

  • Hiking and Biking: Walking and biking are the most popular ways to explore the park’s terrain and natural beauty.

  • Shuttle Bus: A shuttle bus system is available to help visitors travel around the park easily.

Where to Go Next from Kongtongshan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Maijishan Grottoes: Another significant Buddhist grotto site located approximately 100 kilometers from Kongtongshan National Park.

  • Xian: A famous Chinese city located approximately 500 kilometers from Kongtongshan National Park, featuring the Terracotta Warriors.

Conclusion

Kongtongshan National Park is a beautiful destination with stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and a range of outdoor activities. Visiting the park is a must for anyone interested in traditional Chinese culture and history. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors will have all the information they need to plan the perfect trip to Kongtongshan National Park.