Granite peak cluster known as the Monkey King mountain, about 25 km west of Suiping; the nearest real hill hiking to Luohe.
Chaya Mountain (Chayashan) Rock Trails wind through the Chayashan Scenic Area (嵖岈山风景区) on Suicha Road in Suiping County, Zhumadian, Henan Province, China. The area is a cluster of granite peaks and weathered outcrops, widely known as the Monkey King mountain, and is the nearest real hill hiking to Luohe. The scenic area lies about 25 km west of Suiping town and roughly 57 km in a straight line from central Luohe.
Trailhead access takes some planning. Visitors can take a high-speed train from Luohe West to Zhumadian West, then continue by taxi, DiDi or bus to Suiping and on to the scenic area. A 2023 traveller report indicated that no public bus reaches the gate directly, so a taxi for the last stretch is the safer option. Entry is through the main scenic-area gate, where a ticket is required; visitors should confirm the current price on arrival. Parking is available for those who drive.
The paths form a network of stepped routes rather than a single trail, and listings advise allowing at least one day to see the whole area. Distances are not published, but the elevation is moderate, with stepped climbs over granite outcrops. The technical difficulty is manageable for reasonably fit walkers, although some sections have steep stone steps and rock surfaces that can be slippery when wet. Surfaces are granite, stone steps and some dirt sections. Exposure is moderate on the higher outcrops, where there is little shade, while lower sections pass among trees.
Key landmarks are the granite peaks and rock formations that resemble animals and figures, which gave the area its Monkey King association with the classic novel Journey to the West. Turn-around points are easy to choose because the network allows shorter loops, and tired hikers can descend by the same stepped paths. Water and snacks should be carried, since supplies inside the area are limited and priced for tourists, and shelter is mostly in pavilions and visitor buildings rather than refuge huts.
Spring and autumn bring the most comfortable hiking conditions, with clear days and moderate temperatures. Summer is hot, and winter can be cold, with icy steps in places.
| Distance | Network of stepped paths; listings advise at least one day for the whole area |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full day |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | High-speed train Luohe West to Zhumadian West, then taxi/DiDi or bus to Suiping and on to the scenic area (no public bus reaches the gate according to a 2023 traveller report); about 57 km straight-line from central Luohe |
| Best season | April-June, September-November |
| Address | Chayashan Scenic Area (嵖岈山风景区), Suicha Road, Suiping County, Zhumadian |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Suiping County, Zhumadian
What to bring
- Hiking shoes with grip
- Water
- Snacks
- Sun hat
Location
Chayashan Scenic Area (嵖岈山风景区), Suicha Road, Suiping County, Zhumadian
33.1329, 113.7244 View on map
Highlights
- Granite peak cluster known as the Monkey King mountain
- Network of stepped paths over weathered rock outcrops
- Nearest real hill hiking to Luohe, about 57 km in a straight line
- Flexible loops that allow half-day or full-day outings
Tips for visiting
- Wear shoes with good grip, because granite steps are slippery when wet.
- Arrange a taxi for the last stretch from Suiping, since no public bus was reported to reach the gate.
- Allow a full day to cover the area and start early to avoid the midday heat.
- Carry water and snacks, as supplies inside the scenic area are limited.
- Skip the rock sections after rain or in icy winter conditions.
When to visit
April to June and September to November give the most comfortable temperatures and clear views. Start early in the day to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Accessibility
The routes consist largely of stone steps and rock surfaces, so they are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Visitors with limited mobility can stay on the lower, flatter sections near the entrance.
Frequently asked questions
How do visitors travel from Luohe to Chayashan?
A high-speed train runs from Luohe West to Zhumadian West, followed by a taxi, DiDi or bus to Suiping and on to the scenic area. The site is about 57 km in a straight line from central Luohe.
How much time is needed?
Listings advise at least one day to see the whole area, though shorter loops are possible.
Is the hike difficult?
The climbs are moderate, with stepped paths over granite outcrops. Reasonably fit visitors can manage it at their own pace.
Why is it called the Monkey King mountain?
The granite formations are associated with the Monkey King from the classic novel Journey to the West. The area is also known for peaks that resemble animals and figures.