How to Choose Tianmen Mountain Route A/B/C: One Chart Explains Your Up and Down Options
Tianmen Mountain has three routes—A, B, and C—differing in how you go up and come down. Choose wisely for shorter queues and a smoother experience.
Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park (Yongding District) offers several combinations for going up and down the mountain, usually divided into three routes: A, B, and C:
- Route A: take the high-mountain cable car (from the city center directly toward the summit) up the mountain, then take the express cable car/eco-bus down via Tianmen Cave. It saves energy and suits most visitors and elderly travelers.
- Route B: first go up the mountain via the Tianmen Cave side, then take the cable car down, suitable for guests who want to experience the 999-step "Heavenly Ladder" stairs or take the escalator up.
- Route C: round trip by express cable car, without passing through the city-center large cable car, commonly used by self-driving visitors or those with special arrangements.
Classic highlights:Tianmen Cave (a rare high-altitude natural karst cave that pierces through the mountain), Tongtian Avenue (a winding mountain road with 99 bends), the glass skywalk (shoe covers are purchased voluntarily), the Guigu Plank Road, and the high-mountain cable car that offers a panoramic view of the winding mountain road.
Tips:In peak season, be sure to make a reservation in advance; the temperature at the summit is lower than in the city center, so keep warm; cable car service may be adjusted due to strong winds/maintenance, subject to the scenic area's announcements on the day.
(Routes and prices are subject to the scenic area's official information; this article does not provide specific prices.)