Paragliding at Niaodiao Mountain in Eryuan, Dali
Overview of Niaodiao Mountain (鸟吊山)
Niaodiao Mountain, located about 20 kilometers southwest of Eryuan City in Dali, is a breathtaking mountain range with stunning highland views. The landscape offers a mesmerizing blend of rolling hills, lush forests, cascading mountains, and picturesque valleys filled with terraced fields and winding rivers. In the lower regions, herds of cattle and sheep graze peacefully, creating a scene reminiscent of a paradise on earth. This mountain is known for its extraordinary feature: “one mountain, four seasons, and different skies above and below.”
Part of the Luo Ping Mountain Range (罗坪山) in Yunnan Province, Niaodiao Mountain’s elevation varies between 1550 and 3460 meters, offering a diverse range of scenery. The summit is often covered in snow, while the mid-level forest blooms with flowers and the lower slopes are adorned with vibrant rapeseed fields. This unique landscape has earned it the nickname of “a mountain of four seasons,” which can only be found in high-altitude regions.
The Legend and Natural Beauty of Niaodiao Mountain
Niaodiao Mountain is steeped in the legend of the “Hundred Birds Worshiping the Phoenix” (百鸟朝凤). According to the ancient text Shui Jing Zhu, the mountain is said to be the site where a golden phoenix died after saving other birds from a snowstorm. In honor of the phoenix, birds gather here each year in a grand display. This spectacular event, known as “Hundred Birds Worshiping the Phoenix,” attracts thousands of birds from various regions, creating a colorful and vivid scene in the sky.
At night, lighting a bonfire on the eastern slope of Niaodiao Mountain causes hundreds of birds to flock to the flames in a mysterious and awe-inspiring display. For many years, people were puzzled by this behavior until researchers discovered that migrating birds, guided by the moon and stars, were misled by the bonfire. The region’s frequent rain and fog obscure these natural navigation cues, causing the birds to veer off course and head towards the light.
Niaodiao Mountain lies along the migratory route of birds, making it a perfect stopover for migrating birds from places such as Qinghai Lake. Its rich biodiversity and suitable climate contribute to the high concentration of birds in the area, making it a prime destination for birdwatching.
Paragliding Experience at Niaodiao Mountain
In addition to its birdwatching fame, Niaodiao Mountain has become a popular spot for paragliding. The paragliding base is located near the mountain pass at an altitude of around 3000 meters, with a 900-meter descent to the main landing zone. The location’s consistent winds from the west and south provide ideal conditions for paragliding, making it a top choice for adventure enthusiasts.
Paragliding, which originated in Europe in the early 1970s, has become an accessible and thrilling sport. For beginners, the experience is simple and safe, as international instructors guide participants through the takeoff and landing processes. All you need to do is follow the instructor’s instructions, run with them during takeoff, and prepare for landing.
Once in the air, you can enjoy panoramic views of Dali’s Eryuan region. The breathtaking scenery includes the Lancang River, Yulong Snow Mountain, the wind turbines atop Niaodiao Mountain, terraced fields, and serene villages nestled in the valley below. The leisurely flight offers a sense of freedom, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape from a bird’s-eye perspective.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Paragliding at Niaodiao Mountain in Dali is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique opportunity to soar through the skies and view one of China’s most stunning regions from above. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or seeking tranquility, this thrilling adventure promises to be an extraordinary memory. Come to Niaodiao Mountain and let the paragliding experience take you on a journey through the clouds, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the world below.
