Mt Emei, China is an area shrouded by clouds, thick forest, and religious history. The trek to the top will allow you to follow the steps of millions of Buddhist pilgrims before you and show you the rich history of their religion.
The day started off cold, cloudy and wet. Not raining but so humid you could practically taste the moisture. The trek takes two plus days to the top but we only had one so the bus took us half of the way. Our guide, Nathan, was older but spry and full of happy energy. He expertly guided us through our fantastic journey up this historic and religiously significant mountain. Many legends, tales, myths, and historical stories entertained us as we walked up the paths that so many had taken before.
There were approximately 6 monistarys on the journey to the top. Each increasingly difficult to reach, and each more fantastic than the last. Nathan was able to explain the significance of each one but the experience and excitement was so overwhelming that much of what he said was lost. The path was paved with stones years ago, he explained as we walked, because so many pilgrims came here that the mountain was being destroyed. Each of the large pave stones were hand carried from the base to be placed as road access to much of the mountain is limited. The same is true for the building materials used for the farms, monistarys, and temples. Everything has been carried to these places for hundreds of years.
Once we neared the top the climate changed as a humid and wet environment turned to a snow packed landscape. Temperatures began to fall as did snow. The trail became ice and snow covered and the top was a virtual ice rink. Lucky we came prepared with crampons or shoe spikes. How the monks deal with the lack of support day in and out is astounding. Unfortunately the snow never let up and we were unable to see the sunrise or buddha’s light. But the experience was unforgettable as was the trek down in the snow.
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