Taroko National Park is an absolute must-visit if you're planning a trip to Taiwan. It's a beautiful nature reserve that's located on the east side of the island, and it's full of towering mountains, sweeping valleys, and crystal-clear streams. The best thing about this park is that it's accessible to everyone - you don't need to be a hardcore hiker or nature enthusiast to appreciate the beauty of Taroko.
There are plenty of hikes and trails to choose from within the park, ranging in difficulty from easy walks to challenging treks. One highlight of the park is the visually stunning Taroko Gorge, which is made up of towering cliffs and rushing waters that will take your breath away. Another popular attraction is the Swallow Grotto, which is a winding path that hugs the rocky cliffs and offers some amazing views.
In addition to all the natural beauty, Taroko National Park also offers plenty of cultural experiences. There are several indigenous tribes that call the area home, and you can learn about their history and traditions at the park's visitor center. You can also visit several temples and shrines that are scattered throughout the park.
Overall, Taroko National Park is a destination that shouldn't be missed if you're in Taiwan. It's a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
The nearest airport to Taroko National Park is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei. From there, you can take a train to either Hualien or Xincheng Station, which are both near Taroko. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Taipei to Hualien and switch to a local bus to Taroko. There are also taxis and rental cars available.
The best time to visit Taroko National Park in Taiwan is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is cool and dry, and the park is less crowded. Avoid visiting during the typhoon season from June to August, as heavy rains and strong winds can be dangerous and disrupt travel plans.
Taroko National Park experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 36°C (97°F) with high levels of humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. However, the park's mountainous terrain does provide some relief from the heat.
In the fall (September to November), temperatures begin to cool down, with average temperatures around 22°C (72°F). This is also a popular time for visitors to see the park's stunning fall foliage.
Winter (December to February) can bring occasional snowfall to the higher elevations of the park, but overall temperatures remain mild, with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).
Spring (March to May) sees warmer temperatures return, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). This is also a great time to see the park's diverse flora in bloom.
Food:
1. Local Taiwanese cuisine at a restaurant: NT$150-NT$300 (US$5-10)
2. Street food from night markets: NT$50-NT$150 (US$2-5)
3. Western-style fast food chains: NT$100-NT$200 (US$3-7)
4. Food from convenience stores: NT$50-NT$100 (US$2-3)
Accommodation:
1. Hostels and guesthouses: NT$500-NT$1000 (US$17-33) per night
2. Budget hotels: NT$1000-NT$2000 (US$33-67) per night
3. Luxury resorts: NT$5000-NT$10000 (US$167-333) per night.
Taroko National Park is generally considered safe for tourists. Taiwan has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in the region. Violence and theft targeting tourists are uncommon, but petty crime can occur in crowded areas. Women can generally travel safely alone or in groups, and Taiwan is known for being a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers. The country has made significant progress in promoting tolerance and inclusivity towards all communities. However, incidents of discrimination against racial minorities can still occur, though they are relatively rare. Overall, Taroko National Park and Taiwan as a whole are considered safe destinations for travelers.
The population at Taroko National Park is relatively small as it is a protected area focused on preserving natural beauty and wildlife. However, the nearby town of Hualien, which serves as a gateway to the park, has a diverse demographic with a mix of indigenous Taiwanese people, Han Chinese, and a growing number of immigrants from Southeast Asia. The primary religion is Buddhism, followed by Taoism and Christianity. Mandarin Chinese is the official language, although many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien and indigenous languages. Gender norms in Taiwan are generally egalitarian, and there is no notable gender disparity in Taroko National Park. As for racial breakdown, the majority of the population is Han Chinese, with smaller populations of indigenous Taiwanese and other ethnic minorities.
Hiking, sightseeing, cycling, taking scenic drives, visiting shrines and temples, exploring waterfalls and gorges, and admiring the park's natural beauty are some of the common activities for tourists at Taroko National Park in Taiwan.