We visited Lantau Peak via the Pak Kung Au trail, and then traversed to Ngong Ping Village, where the famous Big Buddha is located, passing through the ‘Wisdom Path’ along the way.
Lantau Peak stands at an elevation of 934 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in Hong Kong and the highest point on Lantau Island, just 23 meters shorter than Tai Mo Shan.
The Pak Kung Au trail is well-established and clearly marked, so it wouldn't be difficult for first-timers. There are signages along the way to guide hikers, ensuring that it's easy to follow even for those unfamiliar with the route (This is what I personally love with Hong Kong's trail routes.)
The hike itself was a real challenge, especially considering the adverse weather conditions. It was drizzling when we started the hike after alighting the bus at the Pak Kung Au bus stop, but that didn’t deter us.
Halfway up the trail, heavy rain began pouring down, and strong winds made the conditions even harsher. Honestly, I was quite concerned for our safety. I felt a strong sense of responsibility, especially for my sister, and knew I had to stay calm and focused. At the summit, I began to feel mild hypothermia setting in. Thankfully, there was a temporary refuge at the top, which allowed us to take shelter and regain our body heat. We had lunch there—Onigiris we’d bought at the MTR station—and it really helped us recharge.
Despite the challenging conditions, the experience was unforgettable, and I would definitely return whenever I...
Read moreMost people only visit Big Buddha and monastery. But if you're already there you have to climb this mountain. On a paper it doesn't look like a particularly high peak. Just 934 m above the sea but I climbed peaks over 1000 m that were lot easier with flat sections. This climb is not for everyone because it's quite steep, with hundreds of stone steps leading up. You have to be in the decent shape. Bring good shoes, clothes made from breathable fabric to not get drenched in sweat, water and some protection against the weather. I climbed in hot, humid, sunny conditions. Only briefly before the summit there was a bit of fog but it quickly disappeared. Then it was burning hot sun all the way up. Great views over the island from up there and escape from hords of visitors in the Ngong Ping village. Right now cable car is closed for maintenance so the only way to get to Ngong Ping was bus no. 23...
Read moreBeautiful scenery as most part of the trail from Pak Kung Au is on top of the mountain. Quite a hard hike compared to others in Hong Kong as it’s literally all steps. If you are afraid of heights, you may find the last part of the trail scary. But you are greeted with amazing views of the peaks of the other mountains. You can see big Buddha, airport, Tung Chung from here.
To get here, take 11 from Tung Chung. You can start from Pak Kung Au or Shek Pik Reservoir. Or you can also start from Ngong Ping Big Buddha.
Pak Kung Au has better views than from Shek Pik and Ngong Ping. But it’s sunnier as the sun is directly shining on you. Highly recommend to hike down to Pak Kung Au though, as it’s very beautiful to see the sunset. Many hikers will hike up from Pak Kung Au and down...
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