Over 3,000 meters high, the alpine rhododendrons are stunningly beautiful — Flower season in full bloom on Hehuan Mountain and Little Qilai

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

As the weather warms up, flowers are blooming all over Taiwan, and even the high-altitude flora on Hehuan Mountain are gradually coming to life. Within the Hehuan Mountain National Forest Recreation Area, the Yushan rhododendrons located 700 meters above Little Qilai have entered their peak blooming period, with pink, white, and red flowers covering the mountainside. The Dongshi Forest District Office reports that the best time to view the flowers is from now until the end of May.

▲Yushan rhododendrons in full bloom on Hehuan Mountain at an altitude of 3,000 meters. (Photo / Provided by Dongshi Forest District Office)

The Dongshi Forest District Office states that ascending Hehuan Mountain, which stands over 3,000 meters above sea level, offers absolutely breathtaking alpine flora. In addition to Little Qilai, the rhododendrons along the trails to East Peak and Main Peak are also budding and will gradually bloom from late April to May. To adapt to the harsh alpine environment, Yushan rhododendrons have developed thick, tough, leathery leaves with a shiny, waxy surface — features not seen in lowland rhododendrons.

The forest district office also reminds visitors that when coming up the mountain to enjoy the flowers, they should not litter. In line with government policy, smoking is currently completely prohibited within the recreation area.