Buzz
Travelling to Truong Gia Gioi has emerged as a trending destination in recent years. This place captivates tourists with its majestic and breathtaking natural scenery. If you're someone who enjoys exploration and adventure, you simply cannot miss out on this place. So, what makes Truong Gia Gioi so appealing to visitors? To find out, let's delve into the following article!
Where is Truong Gia Gioi in China?
Truong Gia Gioi is located in the northwest region of Hubei Province. This place is often likened to a fairyland with its picturesque hills and unique karst topography. The area boasts over 3,000 mountains, many of which feature peculiar shapes. Among them, there are 243 peaks towering above 1,000 meters above sea level.
This destination plays a crucial role in Chinese tourism. It is home to a significant number of ethnic minorities, and it was once a revolutionary base for many soldiers from Hubei and Trung Khanh. Thanks to this, you'll have the opportunity to explore the diverse culture and unique cuisine here.
Truong Gia Gioi, a place boasting picturesque natural scenery (Image Source: Collection)
Formerly known as Dayong, this place was renamed Truong Gia Gioi in 1994. The name originates from a small village within its jurisdiction and remains popular to this day. In 1992, the Vulingyuan Scenic Area was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you've watched Avatar, you'll recognize the familiar landscapes here. The geological formations, created during the Earth's crustal movement, have formed towering sandstone pillars. Thanks to this uniqueness, this place was chosen as the backdrop for the once-famous film.
The Best Time to Visit Truong Gia Gioi
You might be curious about the ideal time to visit Truong Gia Gioi for the best experiences. This city is surrounded by mountains and enjoys a subtropical climate. Summers are not excessively hot, and winters are not overly cold. Therefore, depending on your preferences and schedule, you can plan your trip accordingly.
You can explore Truong Gia Gioi at any time of the year (Image Source: Collection)
- Spring in Truong Gia Gioi lasts from February to May. During this time, the natural scenery is beautiful, flowers bloom vibrantly, and birds sing cheerfully. The weather is slightly cool with mist, adding a mysterious touch to the scenery.
- Summer temperatures here increase but remain pleasant. The lush greenery is full of life, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cable car rides, and glass bridge walks.
- In autumn, Truong Gia Gioi adorns itself with a romantic allure. The forests take on a cozy, tranquil vibe, and the weather is refreshingly cool and gentle.
- Winter here often sees snowfall, with temperatures dropping very low and a chilly climate. You'll have the opportunity to experience thrilling snow activities. Don't forget to bring warm clothes to protect yourself from the harsh weather conditions!
What to Prepare for Your Truong Gia Gioi Trip?
Are you wondering what you need to prepare for your trip to Truong Gia Gioi, China? Your journey will be smoother and more enjoyable with proper preparation. Let's take a look at the essential items and equipment you shouldn't forget to bring on your trip!
A well-prepared trip will provide you with the best experiences (Image Source: Collection)
- Personal identification documents (ID card/passport), passport, and visa. These are essential items for every overseas trip. Make sure to check the expiration date of your passport and apply for a visa well in advance!
- Clothing. Depending on the time of year, pack suitable attire. Since the terrain mainly consists of hills and mountains, prioritize comfortable and active wear. Also, opt for sneakers or shoes with non-slip soles for easy movement.
- Other necessary items. Such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, insect repellent, basic medical supplies, etc.
- Basic medications. You might need cold medicine, pain relievers, headache medicine, etc.
- Budgeting for your trip and preparing the corresponding amount of cash. You can exchange money in Vietnam before your trip. Avoid carrying too much cash to prevent loss or theft. For convenience, you can also bring an ATM card for peace of mind.
How to Reach Truong Gia Gioi
According to the travel experience of Truong Gia Gioi, there are numerous ways to reach this destination. Let's explore the transportation options below to find the most suitable one for you!
1. Bus
A notable aspect is that you can entirely reach Truong Gia Gioi by bus. Some bus lines in Hanoi such as Tiep Mai and Ninh Quynh will take you to Huu Nghi border gate. Upon arrival, you'll take another electric bus to the Chinese border gate and go through immigration procedures.
Next, you'll catch a bus to reach Nam Ninh station. If you're traveling alone, you'll share the ride with others. But if you're with a group of friends or family, it's better to rent the whole vehicle. This way, the cost will be cheaper as it's divided among each person. It will definitely save you quite a bit of money for your trip.
Busy traffic at Huu Nghi border gate (Image Source: Collection)
After arriving at Nam Ninh station, you'll proceed to buy tickets to Truong Gia Gioi. At this point, you can take a quick rest to recharge for your journey. Traveling to China by road will surely be a memorable experience for you.
2. Train
Taking a train to Truong Gia Gioi will take quite a bit of time. However, if you're not concerned about time, this journey is definitely worth trying. You can purchase a ticket from Gia Lam station to Nam Ninh for approximately 800,000 VND. The total travel time will be around 12 hours.
With this option, when you reach Dong Dang station, you'll need to disembark for exit procedures. And at Bang Tuong station, you'll need to disembark again for entry procedures. So, remember to pay attention to this and don't fall asleep!
Upon reaching Nam Ninh, you'll proceed to purchase tickets to Cat Thu - Truong Gia Gioi station. At this point, you'll need an additional 15 hours. Upon arrival, you'll take another bus ride to reach Truong Gia Gioi. This travel distance is approximately 50 km.
3. Flight
There's still another 'fast and convenient' option for those living far from Hanoi and looking to save time. That is to fly to Truong Gia Gioi. This mode of transportation is extremely convenient and highly favored. However, our country has not yet opened direct flights to Truong Gia Gioi.
Flights are the most popular choice for travelers to reach Truong Gia Gioi (Image Source: Collection)
In this case, you'll fly to Guangzhou first. Then from Guangzhou, you'll take another flight to Truong Gia Gioi. Some airlines flying to Guangzhou that you can consider are Vietnam Airlines, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, etc.
Beautiful and Famous Destinations in Truong Gia Gioi
There are plenty of beautiful spots in Truong Gia Gioi for you to explore and enjoy. To fully discover all the highlights here, you'll probably need 2 or 3 days to leisurely wander around. Let's see what this land has to offer!
1. Thien Mon Son National Forest
Thien Mon Son National Forest is a must-visit destination when you come to Truong Gia Gioi. The unique experiences here will provide you with a full range of emotions.
Admire the 99-bend Pass
To reach the summit of Thien Mon Son, you must pass through the 99-bend Pass. It can be said that, despite being only about 11 km long, this is one of the most dangerous roads in the world. These bends reach a height of 1,300 meters above sea level, making them a huge challenge for drivers.
This structure was built in 1998 but wasn't completed until 2006. From above, you'll see these 99 bends winding like a dragon flying around the mountain. Through this, you'll seemingly witness part of humanity's desire to conquer nature.
Image of the perilous 99-bend Pass when viewed from above (Image Source: Collection)
If you see it from above, you'll surely be amazed by the grandeur and magnificence of this place. To ensure safety, according to the regulations of the Chinese government, only vehicles are allowed to travel on this route. Many believe that these 99 bends symbolize the 9 layers of clouds in heaven.
After completing the 99-bend Pass, you must ascend 999 stone steps to reach the Sky Gate. These steps are entirely made of stone with 3 lanes for movement and handrails. It's considered the transit point to take you to the Sky Gate of Thien Mon Son.
Thien Mon Son Cable Car
If you lack the courage to conquer the 99-bend Pass, there's still another way to reach Thien Mon Son. To facilitate tourists' sightseeing journey, there's a cable car system and escalators here. It's worth noting that this is the longest cable car in the world, stretching up to 7,455 meters.
Thien Mon Son Cable Car with fluffy clouds beneath (Image Source: Collection)
The cable car, with its station at Truong Gia Gioi, ascends to the mountain peak with a total of 98 cabins. Looking down from the cabin, you'll have the opportunity to admire the entire 99-bend Pass amidst the vast mountains. Upon arrival, you must take 12 escalator loops to reach the destination.
Thien Mon Son Sky Gate
Arriving at Thien Mon Son, you'll be mesmerized. The Sky Gate, towering 130 meters high and spanning 57 meters wide, is a natural wonder. According to legend, it was formed after a great flood. The collapsing limestone mountains formed a natural arch, hence named the Sky Gate (Thien Mon). The mountain peak is called Thien Mon Son.
Thien Mon Son Sky Gate with its magnificent beauty (Image Source: Collection)
Stepping foot here, you'll feel like you're in a fairyland, gently touching the clouds. The temperature here is quite chilly, so remember to bring a warm jacket!
Dao Kinh Hotel
Although both are glass bridges, don't confuse it with the Van Thien Bridge also in Truong Gia Gioi, okay! Van Thien Bridge connects the mountain peaks. Whereas the Dao Kinh Hotel is a glass cliffside pathway of Thien Mon Son mountain. This conquest journey is only for the truly brave and courageous.
The challenging cliffside glass pathway testing the 'courageous' hearts of travelers (Image Source: Collection)
The Dao Kinh Hotel spans about 60 meters with a width of approximately 1.5 meters, made of glass, protruding over wooden planks, connecting to the mountain wall. Most who pass through here can't help but feel their heart race as they glance down at the deep abyss below. Setting foot here gives you the sensation of walking amidst the clouds.
Thien Mon Son Temple
Thien Mon Temple is located near the cable car station to the mountain peak. This temple was built about thousands of years ago, from the time of the Tang Dynasty. The space around the temple is almost entirely enveloped in mist. This has made the spiritual destination even more mystical and sacred.
A corner of Thien Mon Son Temple with the beauty of snow in winter (Image Source: Collection)
This destination welcomes millions of visitors each year for blessings and pilgrimage. If you have the chance to visit Truong Gia Gioi, Thien Mon Son, don't miss out on this place! The thick incense smoke in the temple will bring you a sense of peace and tranquility.
2. Vu Lang Nguyen Scenic Area
The Vu Lang Nguyen Scenic Area has always been a famous destination in Truong Gia Gioi. There are many prominent spots here for you to stop by, let's see what those landmarks are!
2.1 Truong Gia Gioi National Garden Park
Truong Gia Gioi National Forest Park boasts magnificent and breathtaking natural scenery. This will undoubtedly be a journey filled with fascinating and unforgettable experiences.
Bach Long Elevator
When you visit Truong Gia Gioi, you'll have the opportunity to experience the Bach Long Elevator. Situated next to the mountain wall, it's known as the tallest elevator in the world. True to its name, from a distance, the elevator resembles a dragon soaring straight into the sky. This will surely be a valuable experience in your journey to explore Truong Gia Gioi!
This artificial structure amidst the majestic nature leaves visitors impressed (Image Source: Collection)
This structure has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the tallest and fastest elevator in the world. It only takes about 2 minutes to reach the foot of the mountain. At first glance, the elevator may seem incompatible with the natural landscape. However, the Bach Long Elevator has somewhat demonstrated the intelligence and strength of humanity.
Van Thien Do Glass Bridge
It can be said that this is one of the most famous structures in Truong Gia Gioi. The Van Thien Do Glass Bridge is also known by names such as the Dai Hiep Coc Glass Bridge, or the Truong Gia Gioi Glass Bridge. This transparent glass bridge is 536 meters long and 280 meters high from the valley floor.
Despite its fragile appearance, you can completely feel at ease when stepping onto it. The glass bridge is made of three layers of toughened glass with an extremely sturdy steel frame. At the same time, the structure can withstand the weight of over 800 people. If you're daring enough, you can experience bungee jumping here.
The long glass bridge is a favorite check-in spot for tourists (Image source: Collection)
Walking on the bridge, you'll have the opportunity to admire the valley and deep abyss beneath your feet. It feels like walking in the air, incredibly novel and remarkable. To ensure safety, before its inauguration, a test was conducted. Thirty men simultaneously smashed the glass surface with hammers. Then, a two-ton SUV was driven across the bridge.
Truong Gia Gioi, renowned for the Hallelujah Peak
One of the highlights when visiting Truong Gia Gioi is the Hallelujah Peak. This place is also known as Thanh Nham Mountain with over 3,000 unique-shaped stone columns. Formerly known as the 'Southern Pillar of Heaven,' it was renamed Hallelujah after the movie Avatar became famous in 2010.
The towering, majestic mountains have become the focal point of this place (Image source: Collection)
Amidst these rocky blocks is a stone bridge formed naturally, connecting two mountain peaks. Although the bridge is only a mere 50 meters long, it reaches a height of 400 meters. This structure is also romantically known as the 'twin bridge' or the 'first bridge below heaven.'
Maoyan River
For those who enjoy conquering and outdoor activities, Maoyan River is an ideal destination. This river runs deep within the mountain gorge. Along the riverbank are numerous waterfalls and rocky cliffs... forming a chain of breathtaking landscapes. This terrain also facilitates the development of boating activities.
That's truly an exciting experience you should try at least once. The water fluctuates between calm and swift, causing your boat to bob up and down incessantly. This will surely make you unable to resist cheering with excitement.
2.2 Sach Khe - Famous Natural History Museum Area
This destination might seem unfamiliar when mentioning Truong Gia Gioi. However, if you mention Bao Phong Lake, you'll feel more familiar. The conservation area of Sach Khe or Tac Khe, if transliterated into Tho Gia language, means 'mountain village in the mist.' The two most valuable attractions here are Bao Phong Lake and Hoang Long Cave.
Bao Phong Lake
This lake is nestled amidst the scenic area of Truong Gia Gioi, 1.5 km from Vu Lang Nguyen. With its romantic and charming beauty, the lake is dubbed the 'most beautiful lake in the world.' The water has a jade-like green color, hidden amidst the mountain passes and misty haze.
Bao Phong Lake with its tranquil and serene beauty (Source: Collection)
Visiting here, you can sit on a boat to admire the scenery on the river. This peaceful and poetic scene will make your worries seem to vanish. The pristine beauty of the mountains and forests will be vividly depicted before your eyes.
Hoang Long Cave
Hoang Long Cave is also known as the Golden Dragon Cave. It is regarded as the most beautiful cave in China. The scenery inside the cave is truly mesmerizing. With an area of 100,000 square meters, a length of 7,600 meters, and a maximum height of 400 meters.
Hoang Long Cave with its impressive beauty (Source: Collection)
Here, you'll find a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, stone columns, rock flowers, and more. Inside, there's also an underground river system and waterfalls. It can be said that this is the largest limestone cave in the world. When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Thien Tan Waterfall, Dragon Dance Palace, Golden Dragon Palace, Fairy Palace, and more.
What to Eat in Truong Gia Gioi?
During your independent trip to Truong Gia Gioi, don't miss the chance to savor the distinctive cuisine here!
Braised chestnut chicken is a nutritious dish you shouldn't miss (Source: Collection)
- Sanxia Guo. This dish is made from three main ingredients: tofu, smoked meat, and turnips. However, to add variety, locals often include many other ingredients such as beef, pork, lamb, fresh vegetables, etc.
- Braised chicken. Duck meat can be used instead of chicken. The best time to enjoy this dish is during winter. It will help warm your body after a long journey exploring Truong Gia Gioi.
- Braised chestnut chicken. Chinese chestnuts are known to be very nutritious and are often used in cooking. It can be said that chestnuts are a specialty of Truong Gia Gioi and grow abundantly in the forests.
- Smoked tofu. Smoked tofu is a must-try dish when visiting Truong Gia Gioi. The dish is made from tofu, pork, pepper, chili, salt, etc.
Things to Know When Traveling to Truong Gia Gioi
There are some things you should keep in mind when visiting Truong Gia Gioi. These will greatly benefit your trip. Let's quickly go through some information to see what those points are!
1. Avoid visiting Truong Gia Gioi during peak season
If possible, you should visit Truong Gia Gioi during the off-peak season. Exploring during peak season might not provide the best travel experiences. Also, service prices and tourism costs here tend to be higher compared to normal days. Therefore, visiting during the off-peak season allows you to enjoy the space here more fully.
2. Avoid overexertion during the sightseeing process
As seen, most places in Truong Gia Gioi will require quite a bit of walking. However, you can assess your strength and move by cable car or elevator. Explore with a relaxed mindset, unwind, and don't forget to admire the surrounding scenery.
The path to the gate of the Heavenly Gate Mountain (Source: Collection)
3. Remember to bring food and drinks with you on your exploration journey
During the tour, you can stop and rest whenever you feel tired. And don't forget to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration because you will be moving quite a bit. It's best to prepare some light snacks and fresh fruits to replenish energy anytime.
4. Avoid excessive closeness with monkeys in the tourist area
During your trek through Truong Gia Gioi, you may encounter monkeys, which is quite normal here. However, it's best to keep your distance as some species can be aggressive. Especially when you have food or objects in your hand, some monkeys may attempt to snatch them from you.
Remember to carefully store your belongings during the tour!
5. Challenge your bravery during the exploration journey
If you've made it to Truong Gia Gioi, then embrace the 'challenges' on your exploration journey! One of them is walking on those glass bridges! It's truly an amazing experience you shouldn't miss. Perhaps, it will even become one of the most memorable moments in your travel journey.
6. Don't expect too much from accommodation in Truong Gia Gioi
The truth is, the hotel quality in Truong Gia Gioi won't match up to that of Beijing, Shanghai... To have the best experience, opt for a five-star hotel near Truong Gia Gioi National Park. This will also save you time and money on transportation fees.
The information about Truong Gia Gioi provided above will give you a broader perspective of this place. Hopefully, you'll have a delightful trip with fantastic experiences. If you lack experience in traveling to China, a self-guided trip might be challenging. You can book a tour for a safe and worry-free journey. Contact Mytour now via hotline Mytour to book a tour today!
