Darong Mountain National Forest Park

Darong Mountain National Forest Park is located in Beiliu City, Yulin, Guangxi. It's famous for its alpine meadows, sea of clouds at sunrise, wind turbine clusters, and European-style landscapes, making it an ideal destination for road trips, camping, and photography enthusiasts. Here's a detailed guide based on firsthand experience and the latest information: I. Core Highlights and Must-Do Activities Southeast Guangxi's Highest Peak (Lotus Peak) - At 1,275.6 meters above sea level, you can overlook rolling clouds and endless mountains. During sunrise, sunlight penetrates through the clouds, creating the "Tyndall effect," which is a golden opportunity for photographers. - Recommendation: Set out before 5 AM and hike to the summit observation deck (about 30 minutes). Bring a tripod for time-lapse photography. Small Lotus Pond and European-Style Church - Popular photo spot: Green lawns, red-roofed church, and wind turbines create a "Nordic atmosphere," perfect for wedding photography and picnics. - Activities: Boating (60 yuan/30 minutes), camping (campsite reservation required), frisbee games. Lotus Waterfall - Nine-tier waterfall cluster with a 520-meter drop. Powerful water flow during rainy season; during dry season, you can explore the stream upstream. - Tip: About a 1-hour hike from the Great Lotus Pond. Anti-slip shoes recommended. Alpine Meadows and Wind Turbine Clusters - Wind Turbine Point No. 5: Get up close to giant wind turbines and feel the power of wind energy against a backdrop of rolling meadows. Great for aerial photography. - Seasonal highlights: Lush green grass in summer, golden reeds in autumn, and occasional rime ice in winter. II. Suggested Itineraries One-Day Tour (Compact Version) - Route: Visitor Center → Nine Waterfall Valley (1-hour hike) → Lotus Scenic Area (Small Lotus Pond, Church) → Southeast Guangxi's Highest Peak (cloud sea viewing) → Return - Schedule: Enter at 8:00 AM, leave before 6:00 PM. Suitable for visitors from nearby cities. Two-Day Tour (In-Depth Version) - Day 1: Camp at Small Lotus Pond upon arrival, photograph the church at sunset, and stargaze at night (minimal light pollution). - Day 2: Climb to the summit before dawn to watch the sunrise, visit Lotus Waterfall in the morning, and return in the afternoon. - Accommodation recommendations: Lotus Scenic Area Campsite (tent rentals available), Alsophila Valley Resort Hotel (upscale homestay). III. Practical Information Tickets and Transportation - Admission: 60 yuan for adults, 58 yuan for online purchases; 30 yuan for students/seniors; parking fee 20 yuan/vehicle. - Self-driving: Navigate to "Darong Mountain National Forest Park West Gate." About 1.5 hours from Yulin city center. The last 15 kilometers are winding mountain roads; beginners should drive cautiously. - Public transportation: Take the "Yulin-Beiliu" bus from Yulin Bus Terminal to Beiliu Bus Station, then transfer to the "Beiliu-Darong Mountain" special line (3 buses daily, confirm schedule in advance). Packing List - Basic gear: Windproof jacket (windy at the summit), hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent. - Camping essentials: Moisture-proof mat, sleeping bag (low nighttime temperatures), headlamp, power bank. - Photography equipment: Wide-angle lens (for wind turbines and meadows), telephoto lens (for compressed perspective of cloud sea). Dining and Supplies - In the scenic area: Lotus Restaurant (Chinese cuisine), convenience store (snacks, water), coffee cart (popular photo spot). - Recommended to bring: High-calorie snacks, drinking water (prices are higher in the mountains). IV. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls Weather Warning: Mountain weather is changeable. Check real-time cloud maps before departure and be cautious on rainy days (slippery mountain roads). Safety Tips: - Do not enter undeveloped areas (such as wild waterfalls or cliff edges). - When camping, stay away from water sources to avoid encounters with wildlife (such as wild boars). Environmental Notes: Take your trash with you when leaving and do not make fires in non-designated areas. V. Nearby Attractions Cultural Experiences: After descending, visit "Goulou Cave" (karst cave) in Beiliu City or "Yuntian Cultural City" (Southeast Asia's largest single building) in Yulin City. Food Recommendations: Beiliu cold jelly, Yulin beef brisket rice noodles, Luchuan roast suckling pig. VI. Seasonal Features Spring (March-May): Rhododendron sea, tea picking in highland tea gardens. Summer (June-August): Cool camping, playing in waterfalls. Autumn (September-November): Reed photography, Wind Turbine Festival. Winter (December-February): Rime ice spectacle (if lucky), hot spring experience (around Beiliu City). Darong Mountain National Forest Park positions itself as a "hidden gem," combining natural wilderness with cultural landscapes, suitable for travelers seeking in-depth experiences. Following this guide will help you efficiently unlock its core attractions and avoid the regrets of "check-in tourism."