High above Ngong Ping Village stands Nei Lak Shan. This majestic mountain is the eighth highest peak in Hong Kong. It rises to 751 meters. That’s almost 2500 feet.
Nei Lak Shan’s name translates to “Buddha Mountain”. It’s named after Maitreya the future Buddha. This is fitting. The mountain offers stunning views of the Tian Tan Buddha. This giant bronze statue sits in Ngong Ping.
Imagine hiking Nei Lak Shan. The trail is a loop. It’s about 5 kilometers long. It’s perfect for novice hikers. Even families can enjoy it. The terrain is manageable. There are no rest stops along the way though. So pack water.
As you ascend Nei Lak Shan you’ll pass through shaded paths. You’ll see interesting plants. Some are native to Hong Kong. The views are spectacular. They include Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak. These peaks are sometimes compared to rice bowls that have been turned upside down.
As you approach the 600-meter mark you might hear the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. The contrast between the modern cable car and the natural beauty of the mountain is striking. It makes for a great photo opportunity.
The trail continues along a stone-paved lane. You’ll soon reach the summit. Here you’ll find a transmission station. The 360-degree view from the top is breathtaking. You can see Tung Chung the airport monasteries and temples. You can even see the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge on a clear day.
From the summit you can choose different paths. One path leads to the Ngong Ping 360 Rescue Trail. This trail will take you back to Ngong Ping Village. It includes steep wooden boardwalks.
Another path will take you back down to rejoin the Nei Lak Shan Country Trail. This path is narrower and requires some scrambling. You’ll have to push through tall grass. You will eventually return to Ngong Ping Village completing your loop around Nei Lak Shan. You will never forget the beauty and challenge of your hike around Nei Lak Shan.