Ningshan County Travel

Southern Shaanxi Ningshan — Central Park of Qinling, National Ecological Civilization Construction Demonstration Area. Discover the ecological miracle along the north-south dividing line of China, and experience the wellness journey of a "natural oxygen bar". 3-day in-depth tour includes forest exploration, alpine wetlands, canyon rafting and mountain delicacies.

96%
Forest Coverage
7
National Nature Reserves
1800+
Plant Species
300+
Wild Animal Species
Sea of clouds and primeval forest landscape at Ningshan Shangbahe Forest Park
Shangbahe National Forest Park - Qinling Alpine Wetland
One of the most complete biodiversity areas in central-western China, known as the "Green Lung of Qinling"

Ningshan County Three-Day Two-Night Ecological Secret Realm Journey

Explore the green lung of Qinling, stroll through cloud meadows, challenge canyon rapids, taste wild mountain delicacies, and experience Ningshan's unique ecological charm

Duration
3 Days / 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Shangbahe Forest Park, Youran Mountain Scenic Area, Qinling Canyon Park
Suitable For
Nature lovers, outdoor sports enthusiasts
Budget per person
¥900-¥1500
01
Green Lung Exploration
Shangbahe National Forest Park · Alpine Wetland · Primitive Fir Forest
Highlights

Arrive in Ningshan, check into forest cabin then visit Shangbahe National Forest Park, explore the alpine wetland at 2300 meters altitude, trek through primitive fir forest, and observe wildlife activity traces in the evening.

Attractions
Shangbahe National Forest Park
National 4A scenic area, total area 201 km², featuring the best-preserved primitive forest ecosystem in Qinling and Quaternary glacial relics.
Alpine Wetland
The highest wetland group in Qinling, composed of 7 glacial cirque lakes, inhabited by crested ibis, red-bellied tragopan and other rare birds, covered with alpine rhododendrons in summer.
Wildlife Observation Point
Hidden observation station deep in the forest, equipped with infrared devices to observe nighttime activities of giant pandas, golden monkeys, takin and other "Qinling Four Treasures".
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Shangbahe Forest Cabin
  • Ningshan Eco Hotel
  • Farmstay Homestay
Gear Recommendations
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Jacket
  • Binoculars
  • Telephoto camera
Eco Code
  • Do not pick plants
  • Keep quiet when observing animals
  • Take all trash with you
02
Cloud Stroll
Youran Mountain Scenic Area · Cloud Meadow · Star Camp
Highlights

Full-day tour of Youran Mountain Scenic Area. Morning traverse the 10,000-mu cloud meadow, afternoon visit Qinling Nature Education Base, and stay overnight at the star camp for stargazing.

Attractions
Youran Mountain Alpine Wetland Scenic Area
National 4A scenic area, featuring rare 10,000-mu alpine meadow and 18 glacial lakes in Qinling. Average summer temperature 22°C, a popular summer retreat.
Cloud Meadow
Alpine meadow at 2400 meters altitude, covered with wildflowers from June to August. Offers distant views of Qinling's main peak Taibai Mountain, known as "Garden in the Sky".
Qinling Nature Education Base
Science pavilion showcasing Qinling geological evolution and ecosystems, featuring animal and plant specimen halls and a 4D ecological cinema.
Practical Info
Special Experiences
  • Meadow horseback riding
  • Alpine kite flying
  • Plant rubbing
  • Star photography
Altitude Sickness Prevention
  • Avoid strenuous exercise
  • Carry oxygen canister
  • Replenish sugar appropriately
Transportation Tips
  • Electric carts available in scenic area
  • Hiking routes divided into 3 difficulty levels
  • Last shuttle departs at 17:00
03
Canyon Thrills
Qinling Canyon Park · Rafting Experience · Souvenir Shopping
Highlights

Morning experience exciting Qinling canyon rafting, afternoon visit Ningshan mushroom cultivation base, purchase mountain specialties, ending your ecological journey.

Attractions
Qinling Canyon Rafting
The canyon rafting with the greatest drop in Northwest China (8km length, 158m drop). Dual routes "Warrior Drift" and "Carefree Drift" cater to different needs.
Ningshan Mushroom Base
Origin of China's National Geographical Indication product. Visitors can observe the log-grown mushroom cultivation process and experience the fun of picking and roasting mushrooms.
Qinling Mountain Goods Market
Large market specializing in Ningshan specialties, offering tasting and mailing services for mushrooms, fungus, honey and other agricultural products.
Practical Info
Rafting Preparation
  • Bring change of clothes
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Wear strap sandals
  • Sunscreen essential
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Ningshan Log-Grown Mushroom
  • Qinling Wild Honey
  • Aged Cured Meat
  • Gastrodia Elata
Return Suggestions
  • Hot shower needed after rafting
  • Specialties can be vacuum-packed
  • Allow 2 hours for return trip

Must-Try Foods in Ningshan County

Ningshan Mushroom Feast

Using the national geographical indication product "Ningshan Mushroom" as main ingredient, it can be made into mushroom stewed chicken, braised mushroom, mushroom dumplings and other whole-mushroom dishes, rich and savory.

Qinling Aged Cured Meat

Free-range farm pigs smoked with cypress branches, firm texture with strong smoky flavor. Can be steamed, stir-fried or stewed in various ways.

Potato Ci Ba

Ningshan specialty snack: potatoes are steamed, mashed into a paste, served with pickled vegetables and chili oil, soft and appetizing with a sour-spicy kick.

Immortal Tofu

Green tofu made from wild immortal tree leaves found in Qinling, refreshing and smooth, a perfect summer health delicacy.

Ningshan County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Best season for summer escape and rafting
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Photography season with colorful forests
  • May: Alpine rhododendron blooming
Must-Try Experiences
  • Shangbahe nighttime animal observation
  • Youran Mountain meadow horseback riding
  • Qinling canyon rafting
  • Mushroom picking experience
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx ¥250
  • Accommodation: ¥200-500/night
  • Meals: ¥80-150/day
  • Experience activities: ¥200-400
  • Total: ¥900-1500
FAQ
  • Will I get altitude sickness? → Elevation 2000+m requires caution
  • Is rafting dangerous? → Professional gear and instructors provided
  • Can I see wildlife? → 60% chance at observation points
  • Suitable for elderly? → Easy routes available

Explore Districts and Counties of Ankang City