Mount Emei

Mount Emei is a mountain in Leshan that rises to 3099 meters above sea level and ranks among the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism. Its forested slopes shelter several dozen monasteries and temples connected by an extensive network of stone staircases and paths.

The first Buddhist structures were built here in the 1st century CE, when monks began erecting monasteries and hermitages in the upper zones. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the number of religious buildings grew considerably, and the mountain developed into a major destination for Buddhist pilgrimages.

The Sichuan snub-nosed monkey reserve along the trails shows wild monkey groups that have grown accustomed to human presence and are known among hikers. Pilgrims and tourists meet on the same paths, with many visitors setting out early in the morning to watch the sunrise above the sea of clouds from the summit.

The ascent on foot typically takes two to three days, with overnight options at several monasteries along the route. Cable cars shorten the climb considerably and bring visitors to the upper plateaus in a few hours.

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Location: Leshan

Elevation above the sea: 3,099 m

Part of: Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area

GPS coordinates: 29.52002,103.33217

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:37