For two years in a row now, I’ve transited through Hong Kong during the Chinese Lunar New year. With several hours to while away before catching a connecting flight to India, joining in the festivities seemed like a good plan.
Looking for something that would allow me to enjoy the natural beauty of Hong Kong, as well as the lively atmosphere of traditional celebrations, a cable car ride to Ngong Ping village on Lantau Island seemed just the ticket. It’s a stunning 5.7 km ride that swoops over Tung Chung Bay, forested mountains and park lands.
Once there, you’ll need more than a few hours to soak in the diverse sights and sounds of the place, which is why I chose to return there for a second time this year. It’s a fantastic blend of fairground attractions, complete with toy sellers, fast food vendors, slick shops and dining, and multimedia presentations covering a range of subjects.
Strong mountain breezes carry the sweet scent and smoke from thousands of incense sticks lit by people offering prayers at the Po Lin monastery. And, atop the peak, circled by hundreds of chattering sightseers and devout pilgrims, the magnificent Big Buddha sits in serene, meditative silence.
Here are a few images from my visits. I’d recommend a visit here to anyone who has a long layover of half a day or more. I can’t wait to go back!
Kung Hei Fat Choy! Happy Year of the Goat/Sheep!
