Lantau is a gem of an island well worth a visit for Hongkongers in the mood for some outdoor exploration. That's right, on top of its reputable restaurants and cool cafes, there's an array of enchanting landscapes and spiritual features for you to explore whilst keeping your distance from people. Read on for our list of some inspiring outdoorsy things to do on Hong Kong's largest island.
RECOMMENDED: For those who want to see HK's nature at its most breathtaking, check out our list of Hong Kong's epic waterfalls.
Walk along the mystical Wisdom Path and get in touch with your spiritual side. This path, which is just a short walk from the Big Buddha and Po Ling Monastery, traces 38 wooden monuments towering up out of the hillside. The monuments contain verses from the centuries-old Heart Sutra, and the pillars, arranged in the shape of the infinity symbol, to represent universal continuation.
What is Lantau famous for, if not for picturesque peaks and hills? Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or just doing it for the ‘gram, you won’t be disappointed here. We especially recommend challenging yourself to climb up to Sunset Peak. The views from atop Hong Kong's third highest mountain are some of the best to be had anywhere on the island. This is a tough – if very rewarding – trek though, so pace yourself!
Cool off at Mui Wo’s Silvermine waterfalls and stream, a famed spot for hikers, day-trippers, and picnic-goers. A few steps up the hill from the falls is Silvermine Cave, these falls are majestic and offer some refreshing views – especially in the heat of Hong Kong's summer! The trek up here is around half an hour from the Mui Wo ferry terminal.
Find your tranquillity in this busy city through the multitude of Buddhist meccas around Lantau – including Dhamma Mutta Vipassana Meditation Center, Kwun Yam Temple and Ling Yan Monastery. If you're looking for something less off the beaten path, nestled in the clouds is Ngong Ping Village with Tian Tan Big Buddha sitting at the top, along with the tranquil Po Lin Monastery and Lotus Temple nearby (though we can’t guarantee the line-ups to Ngong Ping will inspire zen).
A declared monument in Hong Kong, the Tung Chung Fort dates all the way back to 1832. It's been used for different purposes since then, including as a police station and a school. A visit to the fort will have you picturing yourself in a bygone era, complete with an ancient Chinese fort and Qing-era cannons. For the history buffs, be sure to make a second stop to the nearby Tung Chung Battery.
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