Chengkou, Chongqing

Chengkou Daba Mountain: A Biological Gene Bank and The "Sky Ranch" of Chongqing

📸Photography 🧗Adventure 🏕️Camping 🛤️Highland Aesthetics(高原美学)

Altitude

2,350m

Best Time

🌸 ☀️ 🍂

Ticket

Free

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.Chengkou Daba: Mountain is located in the northernmost part of Chongqing, situated at the junction of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Chongqing. It serves as the core and essence of the broader Daba Mountains range. Covering a vast area of over 3,000 square kilometers, the region features an average altitude between 1,500 and 2,500 meters, with the highest peak reaching 2,685 meters. Although it is not a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is recognized as a "China Biological Gene Bank" and a "Natural Oxygen Bar," holding a high reputation among deep travelers and nature enthusiasts for its seclusion and pristine beauty.

2.The ecological significance of Chengkou Daba: Mountain is profound. It is a key ecological barrier in the Chengdu-Chongqing region, boasting a forest coverage rate of over 70% and an extremely high concentration of negative oxygen ions, making it a veritable "lung" of the region. Geologically, it sits at the intersection of the North-South Seismic Belt and the Daba Mountain Arc Fold Belt, creating a diverse landscape of deep canyons, mysterious sinkholes (tiankeng), magnificent meadows, and meandering rivers.

Culturally, this land is steeped in the ancient "Ba" culture and was historically a strategic military passage connecting Sichuan and Shaanxi. It is also a significant "Red Tourism" destination; Chengkou was the first liberated county in Chongqing and a crucial part of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Revolutionary Base. Visitors can explore historic ruins and memorial sites nestled in the mountains. The local folk culture is equally vibrant, with traditions such as the Bashan Dance and the unique architectural style of Tujia stilted buildings preserved in the countryside. The region is also famous for its Chengkou Old Bacon (La Rou), a culinary staple that represents the flavor of the mountains. Whether you are seeking a retreat from the summer heat, a photographic journey through alpine meadows, or a historical exploration of revolutionary sites, Chengkou Daba Mountain offers a poetic dwelling far from the city's hustle and bustle.

✨ Why Visit Chengkou Daba Mountain

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Huang'an Dam Alpine Meadow

Known as the "Sky Ranch" at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, it is the largest alpine meadow in Chongqing, offering spectacular views of seas of clouds, starry skies, and grazing herds against a backdrop of vast forests.

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Kang Valley (Kanggu)

A 35-kilometer-long ecological corridor often called "Little Zhangjiajie," featuring 90% forest coverage, crystal clear streams, and a habitat for wild monkeys, perfect for hiking and summer retreats.

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Bashan Lake National Wetland Park

A serene high-gorge flat lake surrounded by verdant mountains, ideal for fishing, camping, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

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Red Culture Heritage

As part of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Revolutionary Base, the area hosts the Chengkou Memorial Hall and various historic ruins, offering a deep dive into the revolutionary history of the Red Army.

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Biological Diversity

A "Natural Museum" teeming with wildlife, including rare species like the golden eagle and clouded leopard, and ancient flora like the dove tree (Davidia involucrata).

Location & Nearby

📍 Chengkou, Chongqing • 🏔️ 2350m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Chengkou Daba Mountain Travel Guide

Where is Chengkou Daba Mountain located?

It is located in the northern part of Chengkou County, Chongqing City, at the border of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Chongqing provinces.

What is the best time to visit? The best time to visit is from May to October. May and June are perfect for viewing mountain flowers; July and August are ideal for escaping the heat with an average temperature of 22°C; September and October offer stunning autumn foliage.

Is there an entrance fee? Some specific scenic spots within the area, like the Kang Valley or Huang'an Dam, may have entry fees or parking fees, but driving through the general Daba Mountain region is often free. It is best to check specific spots upon arrival.

How do I get there? Self-driving is the most recommended way to explore the area due to the vastness of the scenic spots and the freedom it offers to stop and enjoy the mountain views.

What should I bring? The mountain weather is changeable with significant temperature differences between day and night. It is recommended to bring warm clothing, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Chengkou Daba Mountain?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.