Chaya Mountain 嵖岈山

About Chaya Mountain

Jagged granite formations give it a markedly different appearance from a simple forested hill.

The rock peaks and irregular boulder shapes are the main subjects of a visit. The scenic name covers a broad area, so choose a managed rock-landscape route from the visitor entrance. Suiping is the relevant local approach, rather than a generic arrival anywhere in Zhumadian.

The mountain, also known as Shihou Xianshan (石猴仙山), Cuo'e Shan (嵯峨山) and Linglong Shan (玲珑山), was designated Henan's first batch of provincial-level scenic areas (省级风景名胜区) in 1987. In 876, during the Tang dynasty, it was held by the rebel leader Shang Rang (尚让), who later that year joined forces with fellow rebel leader Huang Chao (黄巢). It was designated a geopark in 2004 and later rated a national 5A tourist scenic area (国家5A级旅游景区).

Chaya Mountain is a granitic formation composed of Yanshanian granite formed 140 to 120 million years ago, with distinctive geomorphological features. The scenic area covers a total of about 148 square kilometers, with a main scenic zone of about 50 square kilometers; the peaks are locally described as resembling interlocking dog's teeth, a comparison behind the nickname 'Central Plains bonsai' (中原盆景).

What to look for

• Jagged granite peaks and interlocking rock shapes define the scenery.
• The mountain forms part of the eastern Funiu uplands.

Location & getting there

Getting to Chaya Mountain

Approach the Chaya Mountain scenic area through Suiping County, then follow the managed route from its visitor entrance.

• Confirm the selected entrance and current internal access before departure.