Mount Fanjingshan: Where adventure meets altitude

KUALA LUMPUR: Mount Fanjingshan, located in Tongren City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, covers an area of 775 square kilometres and serves as an important window for the geological evolution in south China and a crucial ecological barrier for the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

According to a statement, in 2024, the mountain gained international recognition, being named one of the top global mountain travel destinations by the International Mountain Tourism Alliance.

It was also included in the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Recognised as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site and a national 5A-level scenic area, Mount Fanjingshan boasts pristine natural landscapes, abundant biodiversity, and well-preserved ecological resources.

Iconic landmarks such as the 10,000-metre Sleeping Buddha and mushroom-shaped stone have attracted a large number of tourists to visit and take photos.

The mountain is home to a typical mid-subtropical primitive forest ecosystem, making it a vital conservation area for beech trees in Asia. It is also one of the most diverse regions globally for gymnosperm species in the world.

Ancient relict plants, endangered wildlife, and rare flora and fauna thrive here--totalling over 7,900 wild species. Notably, Fanjingshan is the sole habitat of the rare Guizhou snub-nosed monkey and the Fanjingshan fir.

To attract more visitors, Guizhou currently offers a 240-hour visa-free entry policy, allowing travellers to stay for up to 10 days. With the seasonal bloom of dove trees and azaleas, now is an ideal time to explore Mount Fanjingshan's natural beauty and unwind in its serene environment.

-- BERNAMA