Climb Up the 999 Steps to Visit Heaven's Gate
After finishing the stairway to heaven, you can finally reach the Tianmen Cave, known as "Heaven's Gate." Carved naturally through the mountain, it is about 131.5 meters tall, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep. Legend has it that the mountains have existed since 263 AD. However, to truly understand how old Tianmen Mountain is, we need to delve into its geological history.
Geological Formation of Tianmen Mountain
Tianmen Mountain is a part of the Wuling Mountains, a mountain range located in south-central China. These mountains are fold mountains, meaning they were formed by the collision of tectonic plates.
The story of Tianmen Mountain begins hundreds of millions of years ago during the Precambrian Era. During this time, the Earth's landmasses were vastly different than they are today. The area we now know as Tianmen Mountain was submerged under a vast ocean.
| Era | Period | Geological Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Paleozoic | Cambrian-Permian (541-252 million years ago) | Deposition of sedimentary rocks like sandstone and limestone on the ocean floor. |
| Carboniferous-Permian (359-252 million years ago) | Formation of coal deposits due to dense vegetation. | |
| Mesozoic | Triassic-Cretaceous (252-66 million years ago) | Uplift of the Wuling Mountains due to the collision of the Eurasian and Indian Plates. The collision folded and faulted the sedimentary rocks, leading to the formation of mountains. |
| Cenozoic | Paleogene-Neogene (66-2.6 million years ago) | Continued uplift and erosion shaping the landscape, including the formation of Tianmen Cave. |
| Quaternary (2.6 million years ago - present) | Ongoing weathering and erosion by wind, rain, and ice continue to shape the mountain. |
The Legend of Tianmen Mountain
While geologists trace the mountain's origins back millions of years, local legend offers a more recent and dramatic explanation for the formation of Heaven's Gate.
According to legend, in 263 AD, during the reign of Emperor Wen of the Wei Kingdom, a massive rockslide split the mountain open, creating the iconic archway we see today. The emperor interpreted this event as a sign from heaven, hence the name "Tianmen," meaning "Heaven's Gate."
Visiting Tianmen Mountain
Whether you're drawn to its ancient geological history or captivating legends, Tianmen Mountain offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. As you climb the 999 steps to Heaven's Gate, ponder the immense stretches of time that shaped this majestic mountain.
FAQs
What type of rock is Tianmen Mountain made of?
Tianmen Mountain is primarily composed of sandstone and limestone, sedimentary rocks formed from the accumulation of sediments over millions of years.
How long does it take to climb the 999 steps to Heaven's Gate?
On average, it takes about 20-40 minutes to climb the 999 steps. However, this can vary depending on your fitness level and the number of breaks you take.
Are there other ways to reach the top of Tianmen Mountain besides the steps?
Yes, you can also reach the top of Tianmen Mountain by taking a cable car, which is considered one of the longest passenger cableways of its kind in the world.