Nestled in the heart of Yunnan, Ailao Mountain (哀牢山) boasts an array of breathtaking landscapes that include a mesmerizing sea of clouds, untouched forests, and cascading waterfalls. This guide offers a two-day itinerary packed with stunning views and must-visit locations, making your trip unforgettable. From sunrise vistas to lush trails and delicious local cuisine, Ailao Mountain is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
- Duration: 2 Days
- Driving Distance: Kunming (昆明) to Ailao Mountain (哀牢山) (Approx. 300 km)
- Two-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Kunming (昆明) → Nanuo Waterfall (南恩瀑布) → Shimen Gorge Scenic Area (石门峡风景区) → Jinshan Pristine Forest Park (金山原始森林公园) → Tea Horse Ancient Trail (茶马古道)
- Day 2: Cloud Sea Sunrise Viewing Platform (云海日出观景台) → Swallow Cliff Waterfall (燕子崖瀑布) → Longxi Shijia Tusi Mansion (陇西世家土司府) → Kunming (昆明)
- Ailao Mountain’s charm lies in its iconic cloud sea, sunset views, waterfalls, and ancient forests, which are the essence of its beauty and a must-see for visitors.
Cloud Sea: A Magical Sunrise Experience
Stay overnight at one of the guesthouses near the Cloud Sea Sunrise Viewing Platform (云海日出观景台), so you can conveniently head to the platform early in the morning. From here, you’ll feel as though you’re walking among the clouds, surrounded by ethereal beauty.
- What to Expect: The area offers breakfast options, coffee, seating, and even campfires (available for a fee). To access the best viewpoints, there are special observation areas costing as little as ¥3 or ¥5. It’s worth paying these small fees for a closer, unobstructed view of the clouds.
- Pro Tip: The platform gets crowded, so arrive early for the best spot. The quality of the cloud sea depends on nature’s whims, so consider it a gift when you witness a spectacular view.
- Best Viewing Time: October to March, from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Sunset and Pristine Forests
There are multiple spots to enjoy the sunset and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Ailao Mountain’s forests:
- Jinshan Pristine Forest Park (金山原始森林公园) (Entry fee applies). Explore the park on foot, which takes about two hours for a full circuit.
- Jinshan Pass Viewing Platform (金山垭口观景台) (Free). A drive brings you directly to this scenic spot.
- Tea Horse Ancient Trail (茶马古道) (Free). This trail, which leads to a glass skywalk, offers increasingly expansive views as you ascend. Note that this trail is not part of the Tea Horse Ancient Trail Scenic Area but rather a smaller, less developed section.
Shimen Gorge: A Hidden Gem
Dubbed the “Yunnan version of Qingcheng Mountain,” Shimen Gorge Scenic Area (石门峡风景区) is a must-visit. With minimal development, the gorge features light trails, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear streams. It’s a serene spot to stroll and connect with nature.
Waterfalls: Two Unique Experiences
- Nanuo Waterfall (南恩瀑布): Easily accessible by car, this waterfall has a dirt path on its right side that leads to the midsection of the cascade.
- Swallow Cliff Waterfall (燕子崖瀑布): Located opposite the Cloud Sea Viewing Platform (云海日出观景台), this waterfall offers a more dramatic experience but requires effort to reach. The round-trip involves a 6-kilometer hike with a total duration of approximately four hours.
Where to Eat: Local Delicacies in Gasa Town
On your way back, stop by Gasa Town (嘎洒小镇), known for its delicious beef soup pot dishes. Highly recommended is the Gasa Soup Pot King (戛洒汤锅大王), which serves beef soup pots, fried beef skin, and a variety of wild vegetable dishes. The restaurant is conveniently located less than 100 meters from the local market, making it easy to explore the area after your meal.