Have you ever heard of ‘Gateway to Heaven’. Yes, there is a 1640-foot-long steeped path opened for visitors to climb the Tianmen Mountain in China. Since the ladder-like passage was opened to visitors, many people have described the climb as a game of ‘human domino’.
At about 5,000 feet above sea level, Tianmen Cave is the highest naturally formed arch in the world — which has given the landmark its famous moniker. The impressive views and unique formation are the reason most people trek up the mountain.
To reach the fantastic landmark, visitors must walk up 999 steps on the “stairway to heaven.” Nine is a lucky number in Chinese numerology, representing good fortune and eternity.
Many people in China have vowed to make the journey but the more cautious majority questioned its safety.
The cave itself is about 430 feet tall and 190 feet wide. It used to be a fairly ordinary cave until the year 263 A.D., when one side of the mountain’s cliff collapses and created the portal to heaven. Some believe that the cave’s creation is a mystery, which only strengthens its Tianmen’s reputation as a holy mountain.
It’s also possible to walk around the surrounding park for equally incredible views. There are a few cliff-hanging walkways (including three made of glass) where visitors can get closer to the geopark and the sacred Chinese mountain.
