Daban Mountain Viewpoint
达坂山观景台
A high-altitude viewpoint on G227 as it crosses Daban Mountain into Menyuan, overlooking the flower fields of the Menyuan Basin, the Haimen River valley, and the distant Gangshika snow peaks.
Daban Mountain is a branch of the eastern Qilian Mountains, with Datong County to the south and Menyuan County to the north. National Highway G227 passes through the mountain via the Daban Mountain Tunnel, at an elevation of about 3,790 meters. Heading down from the tunnel on the Xining side, you'll soon reach the Daban Mountain Viewpoint right by the road, where you can look out over the entire Menyuan Basin. In late July, the rapeseed flowers in the Haimen River valley spread out in golden ribbons, and to the north the Lenglong Ridge and Gangshika snow peaks line up in a row. It's the classic first photo spot on the way into Menyuan. The viewpoint is free, and a stop of about 20 to 30 minutes is typical. Note: the altitude is high, so move slowly when getting out of the car to avoid altitude sickness. Mountain weather changes quickly, with frequent hail and low cloud. Roads can ice over in winter and spring, so drive with caution. Parking spaces at the viewpoint are limited. During peak season, park safely and never stop on a bend to take photos.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea
- Menyuan Railway Station
- Menyuan Ancient City
- Gangshika Ski Area
- Gangshiqia Snow Peak
- Xianmi Monastery
- Xianmi National Forest Park
- Zhugu Monastery