Babaoshan

Babaoshan

Babaoshan is located to the west of Hualong County and on the banks of the Yellow River. It can be directly accessed via the Linping Highway and is about 90 kilometers from the provincial capital, Xining. It is one of the more well-known mountainous scenic spots in Hualong County.

The main peak of Babaoshan rises 4,404 meters above sea level, with steep cliffs and rugged rocks towering dramatically over the landscape, providing a sweeping view of Hualong, Guide, Huangzhong, Ping'an, and Xining. A folk rhyme says, “Babaoshan, Babaoshan, half of it still touches the sky.” Babaoshan is revered as the screen mountain of the Tibetan Buddhist holy site Ta'er Monastery. The mountain features a clear, mirror-like pool known as the “Dragon King Spring,” whose depth is unfathomable and water level remains constant regardless of drought or flood. The summit is often shrouded in clouds and mist, with snow covering it year-round. The mountain is named Babaoshan (meaning “Eight Treasures Mountain”) because it contains eight kinds of mineral resources, including gold, copper, iron, and others. The beauty of Babaoshan lies in its surrounding jagged peaks and secluded valleys. Other attractions include Ebao Ridge, Shimen (Stone Gate), Yaoshui Rock, and Little Wharf.