Tohamsan Mountain Gyeongju
Hike to breathtaking summit views, explore ancient Buddhist temples, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tohamsan Mountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and cooler temps
Tohamsan Mountain Gyeongju
Best Time
Blossoms and cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to breathtaking summit views, explore ancient Buddhist temples, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tohamsan Mountain.
"The climb is steep but the landscape from the peak is absolutely wonderful and worth it!"
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:
🐍 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of your surroundings; snakes have been spotted on the trails. Keep a safe distance. :snake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tohamsan Summit
Peak of Tohamsan Mountain
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the 745-meter summit. A truly rewarding climb!
Bulguksa Temple
Base of Tohamsan Mountain
Explore this iconic 8th-century Buddhist temple, a masterpiece of Silla architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Seokguram Grotto
Upper slopes of Tohamsan Mountain
Marvel at the serene 8th-century granite Buddhist sanctuary, housing a magnificent statue of the Buddha.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Respect the Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:
🐍 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of your surroundings; snakes have been spotted on the trails. Keep a safe distance. :snake:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on the trails. :droplet:
🚶♀️ Combine with Temples
Many visitors hike Tohamsan after visiting Bulguksa or Seokguram. Plan your itinerary accordingly. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be steep and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:
🐍 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of your surroundings; snakes have been spotted on the trails. Keep a safe distance. :snake:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on the trails. :droplet:
🚶♀️ Combine with Temples
Many visitors hike Tohamsan after visiting Bulguksa or Seokguram. Plan your itinerary accordingly. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from the Tohamsan Mountain summit, calling the climb well worth the effort despite its steepness. The combination of natural beauty with the historical significance of Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto makes for a rich cultural experience. Some hikers note the presence of snakes, advising caution.
"The ascent to the peak is super steep so a good physical condition is required. Climbing to the peak worth it as the landscape is wonderful.
Be careful with snakes, we encountered one which was crossing the path ; not a dangerous and big one but it is good to mention"
Adrien Miquel
"I went for a hike here when I was traveling Gyeongju, and everything was absolutely beautiful, the trees, flowers, especially the scenery from the peak was amazing. I felt like it was higher than I thought, even though it actually did not take that long time to go up to the peak. The trail was well organized that I could manage to make it to the peak with no difficulties."
April Josephine
"this is a worl heritage site, very less known place , i would suggest you to visit for sure, so awesome .It was amazing, with architecture from the 8th century all the way to the 19th century. My favorite place was the Seokguram Grotto and the Bulguksa Temple."
Arslan Asad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Tohamsan Mountain by taking a local bus from Gyeongju city center towards Bulguksa Temple or Seokguram Grotto. From the temple/grotto parking areas, hiking trails lead up the mountain. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct route to the temple entrances.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the base of the mountain, particularly near Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. These lots can fill up, especially during peak seasons.
While the main access points for hiking are often near the temples, some trails might be accessible from other points. However, visiting the temples first is a common and convenient way to start your hike.
From the Seokguram Grotto parking lot entrance, a hiking trail to the summit is directly accessible to the left. This is a popular starting point for reaching the peak.
Local buses frequently service the routes to Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, which are the primary gateways to the Tohamsan Mountain trailheads. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hiking the trails of Tohamsan Mountain itself is generally free. However, there are admission fees for visiting Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, which are located on the mountain.
Tohamsan Mountain is accessible year-round, with trails open during daylight hours. The adjacent temples have specific operating hours, which you should check beforehand.
The hiking trails on Tohamsan Mountain do not typically have an entrance fee. The fees are associated with the cultural sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.
While online booking might be available for some attractions in Gyeongju, it's often easiest to purchase tickets for Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto directly at their respective entrances.
Hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting on the trails. It's best to plan your hike during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and the chosen trail. The ascent is steep but manageable for most.
Tohamsan Mountain stands at 745 meters (approximately 2,444 feet) above sea level.
Yes, the trails are generally well-organized and maintained, making them navigable for hikers. However, some sections are steep and can be uneven.
You'll experience beautiful natural scenery with trees and flowers. The highlight is the amazing panoramic view from the peak, offering a wonderful landscape.
Facilities are limited on the hiking trails themselves. It's advisable to use restrooms and refill water bottles at the temple areas before starting your ascent.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. Don't miss capturing the architectural beauty of Bulguksa Temple and the serene Buddha statue at Seokguram Grotto.
Photography inside Seokguram Grotto may be restricted to protect the artifacts. Check for signage regarding camera use. The exterior and surrounding nature also offer great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the best colors and avoiding harsh shadows, especially for landscape shots from the summit.
Drone usage is likely restricted in and around cultural heritage sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, and potentially within national park areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for the summit views and temple architecture. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you opt for a hike, consider a shorter, less strenuous path or only hiking partway up. The Seokguram Grotto area also offers a more accessible experience with beautiful natural surroundings. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of snacks and water. The historical significance of the temples can also be a great educational element for older children.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are admission fees for Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, these are relatively modest and offer immense historical and cultural value. To save money on transportation, utilize Gyeongju's local bus system to reach the mountain's base. Packing your own food and water will also help keep costs down, as dining options directly on the mountain can be limited and pricier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Tohamsan Mountain: Trails and Tips
When planning your hike, consider starting from the Seokguram Grotto parking lot, as a direct trail to the summit is conveniently located there. This route is approximately 1.5 km from the Seogaya Temple area. While the climb is steep, it's often described as a comfortable walk that doesn't take an excessive amount of time to reach the top. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, carry sufficient water, and be aware of your surroundings, as wildlife like snakes have been spotted on the paths.
For those looking for a more integrated experience, starting at Bulguksa Temple and hiking up to Seokguram Grotto before continuing to the summit is also a popular option. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the historical and natural beauty of the area. The views from the peak are consistently praised as being worth the effort, making Tohamsan Mountain a must-visit for active travelers in Gyeongju.
Exploring the Buddhist Heritage: Bulguksa and Seokguram
Perched higher on the mountain is Seokguram Grotto, a testament to the advanced artistry of the era. This granite sanctuary houses a monumental statue of the Buddha, considered one of the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture in East Asia. The grotto's design and the serene presence of the Buddha create a profoundly spiritual atmosphere. Visiting both sites provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's rich cultural and religious heritage.
These sites are not just historical landmarks but are also integral to the natural beauty of Tohamsan Mountain. The journey to Seokguram Grotto often involves a pleasant walk through forested paths, and the proximity to the hiking trails makes it easy to combine a spiritual pilgrimage with an outdoor adventure. Remember to check the operating hours and admission fees for both Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit