Ailao Mountain (哀牢山), with its breathtaking cloud seas and mesmerizing sunrises, is a must-visit destination in Yunnan, China. While the mountain offers safe hiking trails with clear signs for casual visitors, those seeking adventure into the deeper regions are advised to join guided tours for safety and convenience. For the best views of the cloud seas and sunrise, November and December are ideal months to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Ailao Mountain and want to explore its scenic spots like Swallow Cliff (燕子崖) or Shimen Gorge (石门峡), this guide provides a detailed step-by-step breakdown of how to get there from Kunming using public transportation.
1. Kunming (昆明) to Gasazhen (嘎洒镇)
- Step 1: From Kunming South Railway Station (昆明南火车站), take a train to Yuxi Railway Station (玉溪火车站).
- High-speed train fare: ¥29
- Regular train fare: ¥12.5
- Step 2: Upon arriving at Yuxi Railway Station, take a bus or taxi to Yuxi West Bus Station (玉溪城西客运站) for about ¥3.
- Step 3: From Yuxi West Bus Station (玉溪城西客运站), board the 7:45 a.m. long-distance bus heading to Gasazhen (嘎洒镇). The ticket costs ¥50.
- Travel tip: Inform the driver that you are heading to Ailao Mountain (哀牢山), and they will stop at the appropriate junction. The bus arrives around 10:40 a.m.
2. Gasazhen (嘎洒镇) to Ailao Mountain Scenic Area (哀牢山景区)
- After alighting, cross the pedestrian walkway and walk uphill for approximately 200 meters. Here, you’ll find a dedicated shuttle to Ailao Mountain.
- Shuttle details:
- Departure time: 11:00 a.m.
- Fare: ¥10
- Arrival: Around 12:10 p.m. at the Tianli Convenience Store (添利小卖部) near the viewpoint entrance (you are already in Ailao Mountain, but not yet inside the main scenic spots).
- Alternatively, you can take a motorbike ride to to the Convenience Store for ¥50–¥80.
- Accommodation: Various guesthouses and homestays are available nearby.
Exploring Ailao Mountain’s Attractions
From the Tianli Convenience Store (添利小卖部), buses depart at approximately 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to the following attractions:
- Shimen Gorge (石门峡):
- Distance: 5 km
- Bus fare: ¥10
- Entrance fee: ¥30
- Jinshan Primitive Forest (金山原始森林):
- Distance: 15 km
- Bus fare: ¥10
- Entrance fee: ¥10 (use the adjacent trail for free access, but it may not be safe).
- Motorbike option: You can also hire a motorbike:
- To Shimen Gorge (石门峡): ¥30
- To Jinshan Primitive Forest (金山原始森林): ¥50–¥80
- Tip: Save the driver’s contact details for convenience.
- Returning to Gasazhen (嘎洒镇):
- Afternoon buses return to the Tianli Convenience Store (添利小卖部) at 5:00 p.m.
- If you miss the bus, contact your guesthouse or homestay for assistance with transportation.
Additional Tips
- Public transport to Ailao Mountain is still limited. For more convenience, consider renting a car in Kunming or Yuxi or joining a guided tour.
- Always flag down the bus as it may not stop automatically.
- Avoid visiting Swallow Cliff during the rainy season for safety.