The Mysterious Mountains of the Southwest: Why Do They Captivate the World?

In the southwestern frontier of our country lies a range of enigmatic mountains, perpetually shrouded in mist with snow-capped peaks that never melt, resembling a fairyland. It carries millennia of history and culture, bearing witness to countless dynastic changes. What secrets does it hold? Today, let me take you into Cangshan Mountain in Dali to explore its unique charm. Cangshan Mountain, also known as Diancangshan, is a UNESCO Global Geopark. It stretches like a giant dragon across the western mountainous area of Dali Ancient Town in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. Cangshan boasts nineteen towering peaks, ranging from Dengchuan in Eryuan County in the north to Tian Sheng Bridge in Xiaguan in the south. Each peak stands over 3,500 meters above sea level, with the highest, Malong Peak, reaching 4,122 meters. The snow on its summit never melts, shimmering brilliantly under the sunlight, creating a dreamlike spectacle. The streams of Cangshan are equally breathtaking. The Eighteen Streams of Cangshan rush down from the mountaintops, serving as the mountain's lifelines and nature's gifts. These streams irrigate the fertile lands of the Haixi region, forming a typical basin-mountain coupling landscape. The crystal-clear waters meander through the valleys, sometimes rushing and sometimes gentle, composing a symphony of nature. Beyond its natural beauty, Cangshan is rich in cultural heritage. It is one of the earliest developed regions by humans, abundant in both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including 12 nationally protected sites, 20 provincially protected sites, 25 prefecture-level protected sites, and 45 county-level protected sites. Walking along the mountain trails, you might stumble upon an ancient temple, where the lingering chime of bells seems to whisper tales of a thousand years. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy. The Ximatan Cable Car is a must-try experience. Stretching 5,555 meters with a vertical drop of 1,648 meters, it offers panoramic views of Cangshan's rugged glacial relics and stunning landscapes. Along the cable car route lies the Qilongnv Pool, a legendary site where the seven daughters of the Dragon King of Erhai Lake bathed and rested. The endlessly flowing stream, crystal-clear waters, and bizarrely shaped boulders create an enchanting scene. For hiking enthusiasts, the Yudai Road on Cangshan is an excellent choice. The 12-kilometer trail can be accessed via the cable car, allowing hikers to enjoy the natural scenery and pass by Zhonghe Temple, immersing themselves in history and culture. For thrill-seekers, the Guanyinqing Rock Climbing is a must-try. Challenge yourself on the steep cliffs and admire Cangshan's beauty from a unique perspective. Travel Routes from Beijing to Cangshan - By Air: Fly directly from Beijing Capital International Airport or Daxing International Airport to Dali Fengyi International Airport, with a flight time of about 4 hours. Upon arrival, take a taxi to Cangshan (about 40 minutes) or an airport shuttle to Dali Ancient Town, then transfer to a bus or taxi to Cangshan Scenic Area. - By High-Speed Rail + Air: Take a high-speed train from Beijing Chaoyang Station to Kunming South Station (about 10-12 hours), then fly from Kunming Changshui International Airport to Dali Fengyi International Airport (about 1 hour). Though time-consuming, this route allows you to enjoy the scenery of different cities and even make a short stop in Kunming to experience the charm of the "Spring City." - By Car: The approximately 2,800-kilometer journey along the Daguang and Hangrui Highways takes about 30 hours. Plan rest stops in advance, but the drive offers the freedom to admire the stunning landscapes and witness the fascinating changes in terrain and climate from the north to the southwest. Recommended Nearby Hotels - Luchun Garden Hotel, Dali Ancient Town: A 5-star hotel that feels like a lakeside garden in Switzerland, offering views of Cangshan and Bai ethnic culture. Price range: 800-1,500 CNY/night. - Atour Hotel, Dali Ancient Town March Street: A 4-star hotel near Dali Ancient Town with convenient access, thoughtful service, and a free fitness room. Price range: 400-800 CNY/night. - Dali Erhai Shiguang Seaview Inn: A charming homestay where you can enjoy views of Cangshan and Erhai Lake at an affordable price of 200-500 CNY/night. Cangshan is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're a nature lover or a history enthusiast, you'll find something to delight in here. It's absolutely worth a visit.