Dakatu Mountain Tourist Area

Dakatu Mountain Tourist Area

The Dakatu Mountain Tourist Area is located in Alatartu Sumu in the northwest of Jalaid Banner. It is 85 kilometers from Yende Town and 80 kilometers from Ulanhot City. This is a tourist area in Jalaid Banner that integrates religion, culture, eco-tourism, and sacred springs and holy waters. The entire scenic area spans 18 square kilometers and consists of two east-west trending mountain ranges. The eastern end is open while the western part connects, forming a narrow, elongated “U-shaped valley.” Entering the scenic area from the valley opening at the eastern end, the mountain terrain gradually rises from east to west. Hiking northward along a small path, beneath a protruding stone slab lies a natural cave of about six square meters that can accommodate over ten people. Local herders call it the Immortal’s Cave. Further up from the cave and atop the mountain peak, one can gaze into the distance and take in the full view of the Dakatu Mountain scenery. The mountains are shrouded in white clouds, the forests vast and lush, and the Zuole River flowing at the mountain base resembles a silver ribbon drifting into the distance.

The mountaintop is dotted with towering stone peaks that seem to pierce the sky and clouds. Below the peaks, the rocks are sparsely visible. The slopes are covered with poplar, willow, birch, oak, butterfly trees, mountain ash, and wild grapes. At the foot of the mountain lies verdant grassland. The grassland is covered with small white, yellow, and red flowers, with pairs of colorful butterflies fluttering among them. In front of the mountain, a clear stream meanders gently, and the cold spring water is crystal clear, giving off a refreshing and tranquil vibe.

At the foot of the mountain stands an exquisitely designed hexagonal pavilion supported by six stone pillars, featuring an elegant structure.

The hexagonal pavilion has eaves adorned with carvings of dragons that appear ready to take flight. Not far from the pavilion, within the woods, a clear spring gushes out, which locals call the “Sacred Spring.” Legend has it that this spring was formed after a giant, mist-breathing serpent was subdued by a passing lama using three magical pills and then transformed. The sacred spring water flows down from Dakatu Mountain and runs perennially throughout all seasons.

According to locals, the sacred spring water has curative properties that strengthen the body and aid digestion. Used for bathing, it is said to be highly effective against various skin diseases. Nowadays, people visit year-round to take sips of the water or bathe in it. During the Dragon Boat Festival, the area becomes especially lively, with guests and people from all ethnic groups gathering here, creating a bustling and joyous scene.