Emei Shan, one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, rises to 3,099 metres about 150 km southwest of Chengdu. The mountain has been a pilgrimage destination for 2,000 years and is covered with ancient temples, some of which are still active monasteries. The most famous temple, Baoguo Si at the base, is a good introduction to the mountain's character.
Most visitors take a cable car to the upper slopes and walk from there to the Golden Summit. A proper ascent on foot takes 2–3 days and is rewarding but demanding. The mountain's macaque monkeys are aggressive and will steal food and bags if given the opportunity. Combined with the Leshan Giant Buddha (40 km away), Emei Shan makes a 2-day excursion from Chengdu that should not be missed.