Located in northern Xixia County, Nanyang City, Henan Province, Laojieling is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and core area of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering approximately 153 square kilometers, its main peak - Jijiaojian - stands at 2,212.5m, the highest point of Funiu Mountain range, renowned as "The Ridge of Central China." Straddling the Yangtze-Yellow River watershed and China's north-south climate transition zone, it's famed for four natural wonders: spectacular peaks, sea of clouds, sunrise, and vast forests.
History and Culture
Formed 800 million years ago in the Neoproterozoic era as part of the Qinling orogenic belt, it became a UNESCO Global Geopark core area in 2006.
The area preserves historical relics including Chu Great Wall remnants (Warring States Period) and Yunyan Temple (Tang Dynasty). Legend says Laozi preached here, leaving Taoist sites like Laojun Terrace.
It's also a revolutionary base where the Western Henan Anti-Japanese Vanguard established footholds during WWII.
Main Attractions
Jijiaojian Peak
The 2,212.5m summit offers panoramic views where "one foot stands on two cities, one gaze covers three counties." Its observation deck is perfect for sunrise and cloud sea views, with both Yangtze and Yellow River basins visible on clear days.
Continental Divide
Marked by a monument, this geographical wonder shows northern slopes draining into the Yellow River while southern slopes feed the Yangtze - a unique watershed spectacle.
Immortal Peaks
A group of fantastically-shaped rock formations, the tallest resembling a celestial guide. Often shrouded in mist, it's a photographer's paradise.
Cloud Sea Spectacle
With over 200 cloudy days annually (best summer-autumn), peaks emerge from rolling clouds like fairyland islands.
Virgin Forest
Pristine ecosystem with 98% forest coverage ("natural oxygen bar"), featuring ancient trees including rare Taxus chinensis and ginkgos.
Recommended Tour Route
Main entrance → Shuttle to cable station → Cable car up → Continental Divide → Immortal Peaks → Jijiaojian (sunrise/clouds) → Virgin Forest → Return. Fit visitors can hike instead.
Travel Tips
- Plan 1-2 days (summit lodging for sunrise views)
- Wear anti-slip hiking shoes and bring trekking poles
- Prepare for changeable weather (rain gear/warm layers)
- Photographers: pack wide-angle lenses and tripods
- Protect environment - no picking plants/animals
- Book limited summit accommodations early in peak season
Precautions
- Some trails are dangerous - stay away from cliffs
- No littering - preserve pristine environment
- Stay in designated areas
- Heart patients should avoid strenuous activity
- Suspend hiking during thunderstorms
- Inform family of itinerary due to spotty cell service
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Zhengzhou via Zheng-Luan Expressway to Xixia exit, then 30km north on G311 highway
- Bus: Tourist shuttles from Nanyang Bus Station
- High-speed rail: To Nanyang East Station, then transfer to scenic area shuttle (~2 hours)
- Air: Nearest airport is Nanyang Jiangying (~2.5 hours by car)
Opening Hours
Open year-round: 7:00-18:00 (peak season), 8:00-17:00 (off-season). Allow 4-6 hours (full day recommended).
Ticket Information
The admission ticket is 100 yuan per person (including sightseeing bus).
You can search for the official WeChat public account "河南老界岭" on WeChat to get the latest updates or purchase tickets online.
Online Booking
Click here to jump to the Trip.com ticketing platform for ticket purchase.