Mount Emei is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains of China and the one most associated with Samantabhadra, the bodhisattva of practice. The main peak, Wanfo Crest, reaches 3,099 metres above sea level, and the mountain rises from subtropical forest at its base to cold, often cloud-wrapped summits, so the scenery changes dramatically on the way up. Temples have stood here since the Eastern Han dynasty, and by the Ming and Qing periods there were more than 150 of them; several working monasteries survive among the trees, along with waterfalls, pavilions and lively troops of macaques that have learned to expect snacks. Emei was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1996, together with the Leshan Giant Buddha, which lies about an hour away and is often visited in the same trip. Most visitors combine buses, cable cars and a few hours of walking, rather than climbing the whole mountain on foot.
How to visit
Mount Emei is about 160 kilometres southwest of Chengdu. High-speed trains reach Emeishan city in roughly an hour, followed by a bus to the scenic area. Inside the area, shuttle buses and cable cars carry visitors to the upper sections. A very long day trip is possible, but an overnight on the mountain or in the town at its foot is far more rewarding and allows a sunrise at the Golden Summit.
Entry to the scenic area is ticketed, with separate charges for buses and cable cars, so check the current terms before you go.
What to expect
The lower trails, around Baoguo and Wuyou, are gentle and wooded, ideal for a half-day. The upper reaches are cold and misty even in sunshine, and winter brings ice and snow, when some trails may be closed or slippery. Monkeys are bold and will snatch food or bags, so keep everything zipped and never feed them.
Making the most of it
Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for sightseeing, according to the tourism guidance, and visibility on the summit is never guaranteed whatever the month. Bring warm layers, a waterproof and good walking shoes even in November.
Planning tips
Choose between the lower temples and the summit rather than trying to do both in one day. If you do only a single day, aim for the lower temples and forest paths, travel by train, and keep some time in hand for the return journey.
What to expect
The experience
A high-speed train to Emeishan, a bus into the scenic area, then temples, forest paths and optional cable cars toward the summit.
Best time
Spring and autumn, on a weekday; clear mornings give the best chance of views from the upper mountain.
How long
A full day at the lower temples, or an overnight to reach the Golden Summit for sunrise.
Tips
Dress in layers, protect food and bags from the monkeys, check cable car and bus operations before you set out, and avoid public holidays.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Hikers, temple lovers and travellers who want a mountain landscape after the city.
- Families
- The lower forest trails and cable cars suit older children, but the cold and the monkeys need care.
- Couples
- Stay overnight on the mountain and wake early for the sunrise above the clouds.
- Pair with
- The Leshan Giant Buddha on a two-day trip from Chengdu.
- Time needed
- At least a long day, and an overnight if you want the summit.
Good questions
How far is Mount Emei from Chengdu?+
It is about 160 kilometres southwest of Chengdu, roughly an hour by high-speed train to Emeishan city, followed by a bus into the scenic area.
Can you do Mount Emei in a day?+
You can, as a very long day focused on the lower temples and forest trails. An overnight stay is much better if you want the summit and the sunrise.
How high is Mount Emei?+
The main peak, Wanfo Crest, reaches 3,099 metres above sea level. The upper mountain is much colder than Chengdu.
Are the monkeys on Mount Emei dangerous?+
They are bold and may grab food, drinks or bags. Keep items zipped away, do not feed them and do not make eye contact in a threatening way.
When is the best time to visit Mount Emei?+
Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Winter brings ice and snow at altitude, and the summer holidays are crowded.
