Hiking Lantau Peak: The Ultimate Guide for Nature Lovers
Lantau Peak, also known as Fung Wong Shan, is Hong Kong’s second-highest mountain, standing tall at 934 meters. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves nature, adventure, or simply stunning views that make you forget city life even exists. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or someone looking to add a memorable experience to your bucket list, this guide covers everything you need to know about hiking Lantau Peak.
Why Hike Lantau Peak?
The Views: Lantau Peak’s summit offers 360-degree panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. You can see the South China Sea, lush green valleys, and on clear days, even neighboring islands. For photographers and sunrise chasers, this peak is a dream location.
The Experience: The hike itself is a rewarding challenge. The trail offers everything from steep rocky climbs to gentle forested paths. Every turn reveals a new vista, making the journey as satisfying as the destination.
The Connection with Nature: Lantau Island is home to some of Hong Kong’s most pristine wilderness areas. Hiking here lets you escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
Planning Your Trip
Getting There:
There are several ways to reach the trailhead. The most popular starting point is Ngong Ping Village, home to attractions like the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
- By MTR: Take the Tung Chung Line to Tung Chung Station. From there, catch Bus 23 or take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Ngong Ping Village.
- By Bus: Bus 11 from Tung Chung or Bus 2 from Mui Wo will also get you there.
- By Taxi: For a faster option, taxis are available, but they can be more expensive.
Hiking Routes
Lantau Peak can be tackled via two main routes:
- Ngong Ping Trail (Easier Route):
Starting from Ngong Ping Village, this route is about 4.5 kilometers and takes around 2–3 hours to reach the summit. It’s steep but manageable, making it a great option for most hikers. - Shek Pik Reservoir Route (Challenging):
This trail begins at the Shek Pik Reservoir and is longer and steeper. It’s for those looking for a more intense workout, with a hike duration of 3–4 hours.
For the full experience, many hikers choose to ascend via Ngong Ping and descend towards Pak Kung Au, a mid-point where buses can take you back to Tung Chung.
What to Pack
Packing the right gear is essential for an enjoyable and safe hike. Here’s what I recommend:
- Hiking boots: Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip are non-negotiable.
- Water: Bring at least 1.5–2 liters, especially on sunny days.
- Snacks: Lightweight, high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit are great.
- Clothing: Dress in layers. It can be chilly at the summit, especially in the early morning.
- Sunscreen and Hat: The trail offers little shade, so sun protection is essential.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: If you’re planning a sunrise hike, you’ll need one for the dark early hours.
- Raincoat: The weather on Lantau Peak can change quickly, and sudden rain isn’t uncommon.
Timing Your Hike
Sunrise:
Hiking for sunrise is one of the most magical experiences Lantau Peak offers. To catch the sunrise, start your hike around 4:30–5:00 AM. Arriving at the summit as the first rays of light break over the horizon is a memory you’ll cherish forever.
Daytime:
If you’re not a morning person, mid-morning hikes are great too. The trails are less crowded after the sunrise hikers have left, and you’ll still have beautiful daylight views.
Avoid Summer:
The summer months (June–August) can be brutal due to the heat and humidity. Cooler months, especially between October and March, are ideal for hiking.
Starting your journey to the summit of Lantau Peak feels like embarking on an adventure straight out of a nature documentary. The experience is more than just a hike—it’s a blend of physical challenge, mental grit, and pure awe at the beauty surrounding you. Let me walk you through it!
The Beginning: A Gentle Start
Your hike kicks off at Ngong Ping Village, where the serene atmosphere is already a treat. The fresh mountain air mixed with the faint aroma of incense from the nearby Po Lin Monastery sets the tone beautifully. As you step onto the trail, the initial section feels deceptively easy. The path is wide and slopes gently upward, giving you a chance to warm up your legs and take in the lush green surroundings.
On this part of the hike, you might spot some butterflies flitting around or hear birdsong echoing through the forest. It’s a peaceful introduction that lures you into a false sense of security before the real climb begins.
The Ascent: A Test of Determination
As you leave the gentle inclines behind, the trail starts to get steeper. Stone steps begin to dominate the path, and each step feels like a small victory. This is where you start to feel the burn in your thighs and calves—but don’t let that discourage you. Every few minutes, the trees part, revealing jaw-dropping views of the valleys below and the sea in the distance.
I remember stopping often—not just to catch my breath, but to snap photos and take in the surroundings. There’s a sense of camaraderie among hikers here; you’ll often exchange encouraging nods or smiles with others tackling the same challenge.
The terrain changes as you go higher. The smooth forest trail gives way to rocky sections that require careful footing. it’s a good moment to hydrate and reward yourself with a quick snack. The trail narrows, the incline sharpens, and the wind picks up, adding an exhilarating edge to the experience. Your legs might protest, but the views are all the motivation you need to keep going.
The Summit: A World Above
Reaching the summit of Lantau Peak is nothing short of magical. You’re standing on top of Hong Kong’s world, with the clouds often swirling around you, creating an ethereal effect. If you’ve timed your hike for sunrise, the spectacle is beyond words. Watching the first rays of sunlight spill over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and orange, feels like a reward straight from nature herself.
Take your time to soak it all in. Sit down, snap some photos, and let the cool breeze refresh you. From up here, you can see it all—rolling green hills, the South China Sea, and even the bustling urban skyline far in the distance. It’s a moment to reflect, to breathe, and to feel incredibly alive.
Lantau Peak’s journey is as rewarding as the destination. It’s challenging, yes, but every step brings its own form of joy. Whether you’re hiking to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, or simply witness Hong Kong’s beauty from a unique perspective, this trek offers memories that last a lifetime.
Nearby Attractions
Ngong Ping Village:
Before or after your hike, explore this charming village. It’s home to the impressive Tian Tan Buddha, a massive bronze statue that’s one of Hong Kong’s most famous landmarks.
Po Lin Monastery:
Located near the Big Buddha, this monastery offers a serene spot to relax. You can even grab a vegetarian meal here to refuel after your hike.
Tai O Fishing Village:
If you have extra time, take a short trip to Tai O, a quaint fishing village famous for its stilt houses and fresh seafood.
Tips for an Amazing Hike
- Start Early: The earlier you start, the cooler and less crowded it will be.
- Train in Advance: While it’s not the hardest hike in the world, Lantau Peak is still physically demanding. A bit of cardio training beforehand helps.
- Stay Safe: Always let someone know your plans, and carry a fully charged phone.
- Respect Nature: Don’t litter. Take only photos, leave only footprints.
Whether you’re in Hong Kong for a weekend or a month, a hike up Lantau Peak is an adventure you shouldn’t miss. It’s challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable—a true highlight of any trip to this vibrant city.
