Kongtongshan National Park
Understand
Hidden in the mountains near the Gansu-Ningxia border lies Kongtong Shan and the Daoist monastery located atop the mountain. At the base of the mountain is a lake along with several temples also in the area.
History
Formerly the abode of the Eight Immortals and the hermitage of ascetic priests, Kongtong Shan has 42 Qin and Han dynasty temples and pavilions built on high forested cliffs. Spectacular views from the tops of the mountain peaks and the genuinely friendly people make for a very spiritual visit.
Get in
Located 6 mi (9.7 km) west of the town of Pingliang, which can be reached from Lanzhou by train and by bus
Fees and permits
¥60 per person off-season (November-March). ¥120 per person peak-season (April-October).
Do
The traditional Pilgrimage Route involves starting at Qianshan, and climbing roughly 4 km of stairs, stopping at the little temples and shrines to pray. For those who feel that this is too strenuous, a taxi can take you to the Middle Peak via Houshan.