Taiping National Forest Park

Introducing Taiping National Forest Park

Taiping Forest Park, located in Taiping Valley, Huxian County, southwest of Xi'an, about a two- hour drive from Xi'an, is part of the Qinling Mountains. The scenic area is divided into five zones: Shimen, Huangyangba, Yuegongtan, Qinling Ridge, and Hualinwan. The most popular areas are Shimen, near the main gate, and Huangyangba, home to a concentration of waterfalls.

Aside from a cable car connecting Sun Moon Lake and Yanxia Waterfall, the rest of the scenic area is comprised of walking trails. The trails are relatively simple, forming a "Y" shape. Simply follow the signs and climb the trails.

Taiping Forest Park is renowned for its waterscapes and its natural redbuds, stretching over 10,000 acres. The park boasts rare deep mountain waterfalls in Northwest China, including the highest, Rainbow Falls, which plunges over 160 meters. The water cascades down from the sky, filling the valley with mist for dozens of meters, sometimes even creating a rainbow of colors under the sunlight. Seven or eight waterfalls are scattered throughout the Huangyangba area, their cascading waters forming streams.

Climate and best time to travel

Summer is a good time to escape the heat. Every April , the entire scenic area is covered with natural redbud flowers that are bright and beautiful, and the fragrance is fragrant.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: half a day to 1 day

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (March 1st - October 31st ) : 8:00-17:30

Off - season ( November 1st - February 28th ): 8: 00-16 : 30

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Most Popular FAQs for Taiping National Forest Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Taiping National Forest Park is a key ecological and conservation area in Xi'an, known for its rich biodiversity. The park plays a significant role in preserving the natural environment, providing a peaceful retreat and educational opportunities on environmental conservation and forestry.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Taiping National Forest Park is located in the suburbs of Xi'an, about 40 kilometers from the city center. It can be accessed by taxi or private car. Public transport options are limited, so a taxi or guided tour is the most convenient way to reach the park.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty is at its peak with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some online platforms may offer ticket reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended to do so during the high tourist season or weekends. Booking a day or two in advance ensures a smoother visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors usually need 2 to 4 hours to explore the park thoroughly, depending on the trails you choose and how much time you spend at each scenic spot.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see areas include the Taiping Lake, various hiking trails, and the viewpoints offering sweeping views of the surrounding forest and mountains. The lush forest and rich biodiversity are the main attractions here.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer basic information in English. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin for a more independent experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints include the high points along the hiking trails where you can capture panoramic views of the forest and the surrounding landscape. Taiping Lake, with its serene waters, is also a great photography spot.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the main entrance and take the scenic walking trails around Taiping Lake. Then, venture onto the more challenging hikes that lead to elevated viewpoints, offering the best views of the forest and surrounding area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available. The park is best experienced during daylight hours, with its main activities focused on hiking, nature exploration, and photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the spring and autumn. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls selling snacks and drinks. There are no large restaurants or shops within the park, so it’s a good idea to bring your own supplies.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The park has some accessible paths for elderly and children, though certain areas and hiking trails might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's best to consult the park authorities for specific accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards may not be as commonly accepted in smaller shops, so carrying some cash is a good idea for minor purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside the park, but you can find small local eateries nearby offering traditional Chinese meals. For more dining options, Xi'an city has a wide variety of restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes are available at some local restaurants near the park, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s advisable to check with the restaurants ahead of time.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are hotels in Xi'an city, located around 40 kilometers from the park. You can find budget to mid-range hotels in Xi'an, with some higher-end options near the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Terracotta Army, which is about 1-2 hours away by car. You can also explore the ancient Xi'an city walls and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, which are iconic landmarks in the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The park has a small souvenir shop offering nature-related items like postcards, local handicrafts, and forest-themed souvenirs. For more shopping, Xi'an city has a variety of markets and shopping streets where you can find souvenirs like terracotta replicas and local handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis and private cars are the best transportation options for continuing your trip. From Xi'an city, you can use the bus or metro to travel to other attractions like the Terracotta Army and the ancient city walls.