NGONG PING 360

Ngong Ping 360 tops the table of Hong Kong’s chief attractions. This 5.7-kilometre-long cable car ride presents some breath-taking views of all the surrounding beauty. Ngong Ping cable car or gondola cable car connects Tung Chung Town Centre with Ngong Ping Village.

As the cable car glides over towering mountains and the Lantau Island, passengers are treated to stunning views of the South China Sea, the Hong Kong International Airport, and, on clear days, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. For a more exciting experience, visitors can book the Crystal Cabin which features a glass floor and provides a bird’s-eye view of the lush landscapes below.

Upon reaching Ngong Ping Village, visitors step into a paradise of Chinese cultural aesthetics along with modern conveniences. Highlights here include the Bodhi Wishing Shrine, where guests can make wishes beneath the legendary Bodhi Tree. 

From here, the journey continues to iconic landmarks like the Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. The 34-meter-tall bronze Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. Visitors will need to climb more than 200 steps to its base for sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Beyond its cable car ride, this destination offers unforgettable moments for every visitor, making it one of Hong Kong’s most cherished attractions

Places to Visit Near Ngong Ping 360

1.Tian Tian Buddha: Also known as the Big Buddha, the Tian Tian Buddha is a must-visit destination when exploring Ngong Ping 360 on Lantau Island. Towering at 34 meters, this majestic bronze statue represents harmony between humans and nature. Accessible via cable car and bus, the Buddha sits atop a lotus throne, with statues of 6 priests offering prayers in front of him. Visitors can climb 268 steps to reach its base, where Chinese zodiac carvings and peaceful surroundings create a spiritual atmosphere.

2.Po Lin Monastery: This 115-year old monastery is famous for its iconic architecture and intricate carvings. Its sprawling halls, ornate statues and the scent of incense wafting through the air adds up to the experience. The monastery is home to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha, a symbol of harmony and peace. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas. You can also savor a traditional vegetarian meal prepared by the monks. 

3.Ngong Ping Piazza: Ngong Ping Piazza is one of the most popular cultural and spiritual attractions of Ngong Ping 360. Located near the cable car terminal, the Piazza sets the tone for a peaceful journey with its beautiful Chinese architectural elements.

The Bodhi Path, lined with stone statues of the “Twelve Divine Generals” and lotus-shaped lanterns, leads visitors toward the renowned Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. The piazza’s Wisdom Path is a must-see, featuring giant wooden columns inscribed with verses from the Heart Sutra.

4.Bodhi Shrine: A visit to Ngong Ping 360 isn't complete without stopping at the Bodhi Wishing Shrine, located beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree. This tree, also known as the Bo Tree, holds deep significance as the place where Siddhartha Gautama meditated and attained Enlightenment, becoming the Buddha. It's believed that wishes made here have a special chance of coming true, so many visitors take the opportunity to write their wishes on cards and place them at the shrine. 

Hiking Places Near Ngong Ping 360:

1. Nei Lak Shan Country Trail: This trail is a 5km long trail and is generally considered to be the best one for novice hikers. Your path will commence from East Mountain Teaching arch and ends at the Ngong Ping 360 cable car station. As you keep on trailing further, you will be trespassing the Sunset Peak which is entirely covered by silver grass.

In the presence of sunlight, this grass shines golden. If you want, you can further continue to make your way to the Ngong Ping Village by joining Ngong Ping Trail.

2. Lantau Trail: The Lantau Trail offers an exciting 70-kilometer loop that takes hikers through diverse landscapes and challenging terrains. Starting and ending in Mui Wo, this trail is divided into twelve sections. The first half features a demanding climb, including ascents of Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak, the second and third highest mountains in Hong Kong. 

3. Ngong Ping Trail:  The Ngong Ping Trail is a scenic and culturally enriching hiking route that connects the Tung Chung MTR station to the Ngong Ping village. Stretching about 5.7 kilometers, the trail is moderately challenging, with a gradual ascent. It takes hikers through narrow streams, and bamboo groves, paired with beautiful views of the Lantau Island countryside.

Places to Shop in Ngong Ping 360

Besides its scenic biodiversity, Ngong Ping 360 has a lot to offer for the real shopaholics. There are shops selling both international branded items and Ngong’s hand-preserved speciality. Here’s a quick tour of some shops in Ngong Ping 360 -

1. Pop Vague:  Pop Vague in Ngong Ping 360 is a must-visit for those looking to buy unique souvenirs and trendy gifts. Located near the iconic Ngong Ping Village, this stylish store offers a variety of fashion items, accessories, and quirky memorabilia. Whether you're looking for clothing inspired by the local culture or unique keepsakes to remember your trip

2. Citygate Outlet: This shopping outlet is adjacent to the Terminal of Tung Chung Cable Car. Citygate Outlet accounts as Hong Kong’s only outlet mall. You will find the presence of more than 70 internationally recognized brands. Being people’s first choice for an incredible shopping experience, Citygate Outlet offers a huge discount every day. There are local and international brands of sportswear, children’s clothes, branded handbags, cosmetics, and accessories.

3. Tai O Dried Seafood Market: If you are amongst seafood lovers, this place is meant for you to crawl for long hours. At one of the oldest fishing villages of Hong Kong, you are surely going to find a lot to satiate your hunger for some exceptional quality seafood. Aromatic salted fishes, shrimp pastes, dried seafood, textiles, herbs, and fruits are some of the critical products of this seafood market.

4. Hong Kong Market – Yat Tung: Hong Kong Market is a recent one in Ngong Ping 360. No sooner you step in the market, you will mark the presence of numerous paper planes flying here and there. These are exclusive creativities of the local paper-craft masters. Throughout the Hong Kong Market, there are road signs, signboards, school advertisement, street posters, and so on. There’s a mini food square next to this market where you can find some delicious and inexpensive food to eat.

Places to Eat in Ngong Ping 360

1.Zaks: This fresco dining area provides the best dining option in town with some splendid sea views and ocean-side dining experience. There are long wooden benches, love seats, sun chairs, and family areas to drive you back to the traditional era of Hong Kong. Tropical cocktails served here are delicious. Innovative fusion cuisines are their chief serving and ZAKS Surf & Turf, and baby back ribs are their signature dishes.

2. Koh Tomyums: To have your meal here; first, you need to head towards the Discovery Bay’s D Deck zone. Koh Tomyums features a traditional style of Thai architecture with some contemporary panoramic views for a relaxing dining experience. This restaurant’s cuisines present a perfect blend of local herbs and spices which imparts a deep flavour to your ordered food. Fresh seafood is their prime centre of attraction. If your tummy still has some space left, do go for a Thai contemporary fusion serving.

3. Carampa Mexican Cantiana: Carampa Mexican Cantiana has a casual ambience with sun-washed colours. You sit on the natural woods here amidst some upbeat music to make your presence lively and energetic. Guests love to couple their Mexican food with some unique drinks served here.

4. Midam Korean Restaurant: Midam Korean Restaurant is a perfect place to replenish and recharge after a cumbersome and stressful Ngong Ping village visit. The venue is quite spacious with tall ceilings, where you can witness sunlight peeping in through the window panes to warm your heart. There’s a wide array of authentic servings here with Korean Kimchi Wraps being their signature dish. Ginseng and Chicken soup is yet another side serving to try here.

5. Po Lin Monastery: Po Lin Monastery is a place where you get to see the blend of traditional architecture and sculptural arts with a tinge of Buddhist culture. Vegetarian delicacies and tea are best to try here. To enjoy their regular or VIP meals, you need to purchase a meal ticket before climbing the steps that lead your way to the Tian Tian Buddha. Soup, vegetable, rice, and deep-fried delicacies usually combine to form their menu. Occasionally, you may have pastries, sweets & savouries, and noodles coupled with it.

6. Tai O Crossing Boat Restaurant: For some novel Lantau food dishes, Tai O Crossing Boat Restaurant is a place for you. The aroma of their steam cooked rice wrapped in lotus leaf leaves you craving for some more food to try. Baked seafood pumpkin, cuttlefish patties, charcoal roasted goose, and rice cooked in the bamboo steamer are their unique servings.

If you are here in Ngong Ping for a more extended stay, you may try one restaurant at one time. The above list is just a glimpse of what Ngong Ping wants to feed you. There are more additions to the list where you can enjoy some international flavoured cuisines too. Solo Balcony, Ki Kei, Shrimp Pastes, Speciality Seafood, Giant Cuttlefish in Marinated Sauce are some of them.

Hotels near Ngong Ping 360

1. Regal Airport Hotel: Regal Airport Hotel is the best stay place near Ngong Ping 360. This hotel is well-equipped with some stylish rooms and state-of-art technology. There’s air-conditioned access to lead you directly to the Hong Kong International Airport Passenger Terminal. Restaurant, bar, and pillarless banquet hall forms the central attractions of this hotel. Luxury spa rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pool and massage centres add on to complete their recreational facilities.

2. Hong Kong Sky City Marriott Hotel: This hotel is recognized as an award-winning hotel situated on Lantau Island. All its 658 rooms offer stunning views of the South China Sea. You can even schedule your corporate events here as this hotel homes to some 11 corporate meeting rooms. Besides, there are 5 restaurants, a 27-meter swimming pool, Spring Spa centre, 24/7 fitness centre, and some other facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for you.

3. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: This is yet another luxurious stay destination of Lantau Island. This resort homes to three themed hotels – Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, and Disney Discovery Park for your pleasant stay. Furthermore, you have conference venues, dining options, and entertainment and event spots.

4. Silvermine Bay Hotel: This hotel is at a distance of 5 minutes from the Mui Wo Ferry Terminal. With your accommodation here, you can enjoy some beautiful sights of the sparkling beaches. Facilities such as outdoor swimming pools, sauna, and steam bath centre club to make this hotel a peaceful stay place.

5. Return to the Countryside: Return to the Countryside offers you some sophisticated rooms well-equipped with everything you need to feel the comfort of your own home. The staff here is quite co-operative and renders excellent hospitality service. You will witness the bliss of Nordic minimalist décor here.

6. Hong Kong Young Women’s Christian Association Liang Shaorong Resort: This place provides a tranquil environment where you can enjoy your holiday with some adventurous fun. Rock climbing, archery, rope nets and so on are their chief outdoor adventurous interests. For added fun, be a part of their camping activities.

Besides those mentioned above, Silver View Resort, Hong Kong Discovery Bay Hotel, Ngong Ping Davis Youth Hostel, Novotel Citygate City, and Tai O Heritage Hotel are some more accommodation options to explore.

Essential Information

Location: Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Timings: Ngong Ping 360 is open 24/7 for visitors. However, if you are planning to go for a Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ride, you will have to be present between 10:00 am to 06:00 pm on weekdays and 09:00 am to 06:30 pm on weekends.

Best Time to Visit Ngong Ping 360

Peak Season (October to February): This is the most popular time to visit, thanks to the mild and pleasant weather. Temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Expect clear skies perfect for taking in the panoramic views from the cable car and hiking the Ngong Ping Trail. However, be prepared for crowds, especially around holidays and weekends.

Shoulder Season (March to May): Spring offers blooming landscapes and temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. This is a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and comfortable weather. It is also the ideal time for activities like exploring the Po Lin Monastery and walking through Ngong Ping Village.

Waning Season (June to September): Summer brings higher temperatures (25°C to 32°C) and occasional rain. While it’s quieter, you must prepare for hot and humid conditions. Early mornings are ideal for enjoying the attractions such as the Tian Tian Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery. 

How to reach Ngong Ping 360:

By Taxi: First, you need to ride a blue Lantau taxi to reach Tung Chung Cable Car Station. This station is located at Ngong Ping 360. Your journey from Airport to Tung Chung Cable Car Station will last for around 10 minutes, and you need to pay 40 Hong Kong dollars (366.96 INR) per head for the same.

By Bus: You have four bus alternatives before you – S1, S56, S64, and S64 X to travel from Hong Kong International Airport. These buses will drop you at Tung Chung Bus Stop which is situated close to the Tung Chung Cable Car Station. Your entire journey shall last for around 10 minutes.