The story appears on

Page B2

September 30, 2015

GET this page in PDF

Free for subscribers

View shopping cart

Related News

Home » Feature » Travel

Chilling out in Taihang Mountains

EDITOR’S note

The term “national park” in China covers a wider range of places than in many other countries. Chinese national parks, also known as “national scenic and historic interest areas,” include both the country’s areas of scenic beauty and its historic preservation sites. From magnificent snow-capped mountains to sunny beaches, emperors’ mausoleums to a 2,000-year-old dam, China has 225 national parks. This column brings them to you, with all their natural beauty and historical legends.

Lush foliage, sheer cliffs, gorgeous waterfalls, mysterious karst caves and sedate temples have attracted travelers from all over the world to the Taihang Mountains Grand Canyon.

Spanning over the border of Henan and Shanxi provinces, the Taihang Mountains Grand Canyon National Park covers 120 square kilometers, 90 percent of which is covered with vegetation. Featuring a well-protected ecosystem and abundant tourist resources, the Taihang Mountains are sometimes referred to as a “natural oxygen bar.” The area has 44 scenic spots.

Taohua Valley is a tranquil dream-like world famous for its peculiar peaks and mounts. Taohua Stream meanders around the terrain to add an additional layer of beauty. On both sides of the stream, trees and bushes stretch out as far as the eyes can see. The waterfalls are especially popular.

Sitting north of Linzhou City, Taihangping Lake is a nice place for relaxing since it’s hidden in the mountains. The waves approaching the sloped shore provide some impressive scenery. Around the lake, Xiandan Cave, Water World, Fishing Bay and Tiantan Peak are all popular places with tourists. Trying the local snacks, singing and dancing with friends, or fishing are among the preferred activities.

Yue Fei Temple is famous for its architecture and historic records. The temple was built to commemorate national hero — Yue Fei. The temple details his eventful life and features some of his calligraphic works and carvings. Yue was best known for his loyalty to China and the temple has been named a Patriotism Education Base in Henan Province by the Chinese government.

Travelers can get their pulses racing at the International Base of Paragliding in Linlu Mountain. The base is at an elevation of about 1,600 meters and covers an area of 16,000 square meters. Up to 30 paragliders, from beginners to seasoned vets, can be accommodated at one time. Paragliding is available from April to November, when the weather is optimal. For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, they can sit back and watch their friends or family members give it a shot.




 

Copyright © 1999- Shanghai Daily. All rights reserved.Preferably viewed with Internet Explorer 8 or newer browsers.

沪公网安备 31010602000204号

Email this to your friend