Situated in a national park on Taiwan’s east coast, Taroko Gorge is Taiwan’s most popular tourist attraction, and we can see why. Magnificent and splendid – exactly what the word “taroko” means – legend has it that the gorge was named by a local Truku tribesman who was awed at its beauty, and exclaimed “taroko!”.
Getting There
The quickest way to reach Taroko Gorge from Taipei is to catch the train down the east coast to Hualien. Return tickets are reasonably priced at about $25, depending on the season, and you can purchase them online. Make sure you reserve in advance – seats are known to sell out fast especially during the school holidays. Nab the window seats if you can to get the best views of Taiwan’s east coast along the way.
To get to the gorge, you can either hire a car, or check with your hotel’s concierge if a day trip or transfer can be arranged.
Taroko Gorge (left) and Tianfeng Pagoda (right)
Stay and Eat
There aren’t many hotels within the park or the gorge; so many choose to stay in the nearby town of Hualien. If you want to get away from hustle and bustle of the town, Silks Place is a great five-star accommodate to enjoy the park in peace.
Nestled within the gorge, the resort-style hotel is a 30-minute drive into the park. Rooms are large, and the restaurants within the property serve great choices of Western and Chinese food. There’s also a nightly barbeque dinner under the stars, where you can also catch a film on their outdoor screen.
Don’t forget to hit up the rooftop pool, which offers jaw-dropping views of the quiet, lush surrounds. Lie back, soak up the sun after a hike and take in the 360-degree views of the gorge. As if this isn’t enough to help you relax, the hotel also has a Yoga Retreat and spa to melt away stress.
Taroko Gorge
Do
Pack your hiking boots: there are various walking trails you can venture on within the gorge whatever your abilities. Walking is a great way to take in the scenery and fully appreciate the sheer scale of this place. Make sure you also have water, a hat and a torch!
Sights
Lots of unique sights abound at the park, pretty cliff-top temples, waterfalls and cheeky monkeys, so keep your eyes peeled, but watch your step! Taroko Gorge is also home to a famous swallow’s grotto. This is a popular spot for tourists, and a great place to get some snaps of the park.
Silks Hotel at Taroko Gorge
Best Time to Visit
Consider flying up to the country from October to January, when the heat and humidity are bearable. It’s also wise to avoid visiting during school holidays, or public holidays – that’s when the national rail is busy and booked out.
Be sure to read the first part of this guide, which highlights Taipei.
Top image: Taroko Gorge
This article was contributed by the very talented Nicola McMahon of Brightstar Photography.