Shanghai Disneyland Tickets

4.3/5

China – Chongqing

Cliffside walkway at sunset in Gold Buddha Mountain

Gold Buddha Mountain is a national nature reserve in China, featuring spectacular karst formations, primeval forests, deep gorges with cascading waterfalls, and rare alpine meadows. Nicknamed “Chongqing’s backyard garden” and a “natural oxygen bar,” it offers distinct seasonal scenery: rhododendron blooms in spring, cool retreats in summer, sea of clouds in autumn, and snow-covered landscapes in winter. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and independent travelers, especially ideal for couples, photography enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.

Opening Hours & Visitor Information

  • Address: Gold Buddha Mountain Scenic Area, Nanchuan District, Chongqing

  • Opening Hours: 08:30–17:00 daily (may extend slightly during summer and peak seasons; check official updates before visiting)

  • Suggested Visiting Time: Plan for a full day (approx. 8–10 hours) to enjoy cable cars, trails, attractions, and panoramic views from the summit — from foothill to cloudline in one trip

  • Best Visiting Seasons: Spring and autumn (April–June, September–November) offer the most pleasant weather and clear visibility. Autumn is especially stunning with cloud seas and fall foliage. Winter is also popular for its snow-covered scenery.

  • Other Notes:

    • The scenic area has two main entrances: East Slope and West Slope. West Slope is more popular and better equipped; plan your route accordingly.

    • Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate; advance booking is recommended during peak seasons.

    • Mountain weather is unpredictable — bring warm clothing, non-slip shoes, and rain gear.

    • A cable car (approx. 20 minutes one way) is available. If you’re physically fit, hiking is also an option to challenge yourself.

Ticket Types & Prices

(Ximen) Mountaineering Package (Adult)

  • CNY 40
Check Price

Ticket Information

🚡 Cable Car Pricing:

  • North Slope Cable Car: ¥40 uphill / ¥30 downhill / ¥70 round-trip

  • West Slope Cable Car: ¥50 uphill / ¥40 downhill / ¥80 round-trip
    💡 Tip: Take the cable car up and walk down to save energy while still enjoying the scenic trail and photo spots.

🚌 Scenic Area Shuttle Bus:
Mostly used by visitors entering via the West Gate. Ticket price is ¥20, payable on-site. Be sure to have cash or Alipay ready.

How to Get There

Getting to Gold Buddha Mountain is quite flexible. No matter which part of Chongqing you’re in, you can transfer to Nanchuan Station and then head into the scenic area.

🚍 Lazy Traveler’s Transit Guide:
1️⃣ From Chongqing Main Urban Area → Nanchuan Bus Terminal / Nanchuan West Station
You can catch a bus from places like Sigongli, Chongqing West Station, or Chongqing North Station. Fares are around ¥32. Tickets can be purchased on the “Yuke Xing” WeChat platform (extra ¥2 fee applies). A great option to avoid queues.

2️⃣ Nanchuan West Station → Gold Buddha Mountain (West Slope Entrance)
No online booking needed — just buy your ticket onboard (¥7). If you plan to hike, definitely go through the West Slope for access to trails, cable cars, and shuttle buses.

3️⃣ Nanchuan Central Station → Gold Buddha Mountain (North Slope Entrance)
Fare is ¥15. Again, buy the ticket on-site. The North Slope features cable cars and sightseeing buses but no hiking trails — perfect for easygoing sightseeing without the climb.

⚠️ Reminder: Don’t confuse Nanchuan Central Station with Nanchuan West Station. The North and West entrances are separate! A local bus connects the two stations in about 30 minutes, so don’t panic if you need to switch.

Highlights & Photo Spots

Gold Buddha Mountain has three main entrances, each offering a different experience. Choose based on your physical ability, transport method, and preferences:

⭐ West Gate → Best for hikers
🚶‍♂️ Suggested route: After ticket check, take the shuttle bus → Start hiking at “Bitan Yougu” → Pass landmarks like Shuangye Bridge, Kongmen, Don’t Look Back Point, Golden Turtle Facing the Sun, Swallow Cave, Skywalk, and Medicine King Pool → End at North Gate. Return by bus or cable car + shuttle combo. Challenging but the most scenic!

⭐ North Gate → Classic sightseeing route
🚶‍♀️ Take the cable car up → Follow the path from Yaochiba → Ziyan Pavilion → Tayun Pavilion → Gufo Cave Loop → Skywalk → Golden Turtle → Buddha Viewing Pavilion → Qianniuping → Take the shuttle bus down. Trails are moderate and great for photos.

⭐ South Gate → Best for drivers / road trippers
🅿️ Drive directly to Qianniuping and skip the cable car.
🚶 Suggested route: Qianniuping → Liangjiang Holiday Hotel → Arrow Bamboo Forest → Golden Turtle → Swallow Cave → Lingguan Cave → Ecological Stone Forest → Rhododendron Prince → Yaochiba → Gufo Cave → return to Yaochiba. Full of scenic stops — perfect for photo lovers and flexible walkers.

Narrow cliff trail overlooking distant city view at Gold Buddha Mountain
Scenic high-altitude walkway along cliff edge at Gold Buddha Mountain

Visitor Reviews Summary

Gold Buddha Mountain is a beloved nature destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors frequently praise its pristine environment, expansive views, and diverse seasonal landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the stone forest via trails, admiring the sea of clouds from above, or enjoying snow play during winter, the experience is exceptional. Some visitors note the rapid weather changes and cooler temperatures at the summit — it’s wise to dress appropriately and bring sufficient food and water to enhance comfort during your visit.

Related Guides & Recommended Tours

Want to plan a stress-free day trip to Gold Buddha Mountain? We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide featuring trail comparisons, cable car info, photo-worthy spots, and seasonal travel tips. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing nature retreat or an active hiking adventure, you’ll find the right rhythm for your journey here.

FAQ

Q: Can I buy tickets on-site?
A: Yes, but during busy seasons (e.g., summer holidays and public holidays), it’s best to book in advance via the official platform or travel apps to avoid long lines.

Q: Can I bring food and water into the park?
A: Yes, you can bring your own snacks and bottled water, but please dispose of trash properly. Some areas also have kiosks selling light meals and drinks.

Q: Is Gold Buddha Mountain suitable for children or the elderly?
A: Absolutely. With cable cars available for ascending and descending, you can skip the steeper hiking sections. Most trails are well-built with resting spots and scenic viewpoints, making it family-friendly.

Q: Does it snow in winter? Can I ski there?
A: Yes! From December to February, snow is common at the summit, and ski areas may be open depending on conditions. Please refer to official announcements.

Q: What’s the difference between the East and West Slopes?
A: The West Slope is more popular, featuring cable cars and shuttle buses — suitable for most visitors. The East Slope is more natural and rugged, better suited for experienced hikers.