Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is surrounded by a wealth of natural beauty just waiting to be explored. If you’re planning a self-driving trip or seeking an escape from the city, these five scenic mountain routes around Xi’an are perfect for those who appreciate breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the joy of the open road. From rolling hills to ancient temples, here’s your guide to the most picturesque mountain drives in the region.
1. Lishan Mountain Scenic Drive (骊山盘山公路)
Driving Route: Xi’an City — Qianhu Village (千戸村) — Hongqing (洪庆) — Shuiquanzi Village (水泉子村) — Renzu Temple (人祖庙) — Lishan Astronomical Observatory (骊山天文台) — Lishan Peony Gate (牡丹门, west of Huaqing Pool)
Main Attractions: Renzu Temple (人祖庙), Beacon Tower (烽火台), Astronomical Observatory (天文台), Old Mother Temple (老母殿), Ming Sheng Palace (明圣宫), and Huaqing Palace (华清宫)
This route is one of the most beautiful mountain drives around Xi’an, connecting Lintong with Baqiao Hongqing Town. The total distance is about 42 kilometers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. During autumn, the famous “Lishan Evening Glow” (骊山晚照) is an absolute must-see, with the golden sunset casting a magical glow over the mountain. This drive is not only perfect for self-driving, but it’s also a haven for cycling and motorcycle enthusiasts.
2. National Route 210
Driving Route: Xi’an — Lantian (蓝田) — Shangluo (商洛) — Zhashui (柞水) — Guanghuojie (广货街) — Xi’an
Main Attractions: Weiziping (喂子坪), Jiulongtan (九龙潭), Guangxinyuan (广新园), Wanhua Mountain (万花山), Shiyang Pass (石羊关), Xiaobagou (小坝沟), Dabagou (大坝沟), Jiwozi (鸡窝子), Dongfogou (东佛沟), and Fen Shui Ling (分水岭)
This national highway cuts through the Qinling Mountains, connecting the northern and southern regions of Shaanxi Province. The route offers a variety of scenic spots, from tranquil mountain lakes to colorful forests, and is a favorite for self-drive travelers.
3. Shanyang Cliff Road (山阳挂壁公路)
Driving Route:
- One-Day Self-Driving Route: Xi’an — Kangjialing Village (康家岭村) — Yaoping Water Power Station (腰坪水电) — Guabi Road (挂壁公路) — Moon Cave (月亮洞) and Jia Shi Gorge (夹石峡) — Manchuan Ancient Town (漫川古镇) — Moon Bay Waterfall (月亮湾大瀑布)
- One-Day Scenic Route: Xi’an — Kangjialing Village — Tianpeng Mountain Village (天蓬山寨)
- Classic Two-Day Route: Xi’an — Tianzhu Mountain (天竺山) — Qinlingyuan Town (秦岭原乡小镇) — Manchuan Ancient Town (漫川古镇, overnight stay) — Moon Cave (月亮洞) and Guabi Road (挂壁公路)
Main Attractions: Moon Cave (月亮洞), Manchuan Ancient Town (漫川古镇), Muwang Forest Park (木王森林公园), Zhashui Cave (柞水溶洞)
Winding along the Jin Qian River, this mountain road is one of the most unique driving experiences around Xi’an. The road takes you through several caves, and every time you pass through one, the scenery changes, giving you a sense of “changing landscapes with each step.” The Moon Cave (月亮洞) and Jia Shi Gorge (夹石峡) are especially spectacular, offering a fascinating natural wonder, while Manchuan Ancient Town (漫川古镇) adds a touch of historical charm to the journey.
4. National Route 108
Driving Route: Xi’an — Zhouzhi (周至) — Mazhao Town (马召镇) — Foping (佛坪) — Yangxian (洋县) — Hanzhong (汉中) — Ningqiang (宁强)
Main Attractions: Xianyou Temple (仙游寺), Heihe Reservoir (黑河水库), Heihe Forest Park (黑河森林公园), Foping Panda Valley (佛坪熊猫谷), Chenggu Orange Orchard (城固桔园)
Known as the “Shangri-La of the Qinling Mountains” (秦岭里的香格里拉), this route takes you through pristine, untouched nature. On one side, you’ll find the towering Qinling cliffs, while the other side offers the gentle flow of the Heihe River. Autumn is the best time to visit, with the mountains covered in vibrant red leaves and colorful forests. The route is also home to Foping Panda Valley (佛坪熊猫谷), where you can catch a glimpse of the endangered giant pandas in their natural habitat.
5. Gaojiang Road (高江路)
Driving Route: Xi’an — Xi’an Ring Expressway (西安绕城高速) — Xihan Expressway (西汉高速) — Shitian Expressway (十天高速) — Fulan Line G316 National Highway (福兰线G316国道) — Bao Xie Ancient Road (褒斜古道) — Shimen Reservoir (石门水库) — Zhang Liang Temple (张良庙) — Chaiguanling (柴关岭) — Gaoqiao Entrance (高桥铺入口)
Main Attractions: Millennium Ginkgo Trees, Ziba Mountain (紫柏山), Liuba Old Street (留坝老街), Zhang Liang Temple (张良庙), Bao Xie Ancient Road (褒斜古道)
Gaojiang Road is one of the most picturesque mountain roads in the Qinling range, stretching 39 kilometers from the town of Gaoqiaopu (高桥铺) in Feng County (凤县) to Jiangxiying Village (江西营村) in Liuba County (留坝县). Along the way, you’ll encounter water cedar trees, colorful forests, and the iconic millennium-old ginkgo trees, which are particularly stunning in autumn.