Plizio Visual Lab
Pyramid Hill
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
peak
Pyramid Hill, known locally as Tai Kam Chung, is one of the most striking geographical features in Hong Kong's New Territories. Its remarkably symmetrical pyramidal shape makes it a standout landmark within the Ma On Shan Country Park. Standing at 536 meters, the summit provides hikers with wide-open panoramic views of the Sai Kung Peninsula, the shimmering waters of Long Harbour, and the surrounding lush mountain ridges. The ascent to the peak is steep and challenging, requiring a scramble over grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, but it remains a favorite for seasoned trekkers. Due to its unique topography and favorable wind conditions, it is a renowned launch site for paragliders, who can often be seen soaring above the valley. Located along the famous MacLehose Trail, Pyramid Hill has a serene escape into nature, showcasing the rugged and untamed beauty that exists just beyond Hong Kong's urban sprawl.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Pig Rock · Canoe Rock · Pyramid Rock
- Nearby: Lam Tin (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 29 | 69 | 109 | 231 | 288 | 197 | 234 | 173 | 56 | 29 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This striking mountain is mostly visited as part of Stage 4 of the MacLehose Trail. A common, albeit strenuous, starting point is Sai Kung village, reachable by various public buses.
Best season
Clear autumn weather in October and November is convenient for viewing the striking pyramid shape and the surrounding panorama. In the wet summer, the steep grass paths here are extremely slippery and risky.
Terrain & paths
The path up the 536-meter, pointed peak is known for its extreme steepness and loose gravel. You sometimes have to use your hands to avoid slipping on the eroded ground.
What to bring
Hiking boots with extreme grip and trekking poles are almost mandatory for the slippery ascent. A large water supply and wind protection on the completely exposed ridge are important.
Parking
Since this tour is ideally planned as a long traverse, having your own vehicle at the starting point makes little sense. Parking options at the isolated Ngong Ping Plateau nearby are practically nonexistent.
Safety
The direct ascent to the mountaintop carries a risk of falling and imperatively requires a head for heights and experience. Alternatively, the actual peak can also be safely bypassed on a flatter path halfway up.
Time needed
Completing the entire MacLehose stage, which includes this mountain, requires between four and five hours. The arduous detour to the peak itself adds about forty minutes to the trek.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 525 m (1,722 ft)
- Granite and rhyolitic tuff
- MacLehose Trail Stage 9 (16 km)
- 19th-century charcoal production hub
- Average temperature: 22 °C (71.6 °F)
- Annual hiker count: approx. 15,000
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Pyramid Hill (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the mountain called Pyramid Hill?
It has an almost first-rate pyramidal shape, especially when viewed from Sai Kung.
Is the climb dangerous?
The grassy slopes are very steep and can be extremely slippery when wet.
What is a popular activity there?
The surrounding slopes are very popular for paragliding.
Which hiking trail leads to the mountain?
It is located on Section 4 of the MacLehose Trail.
Where is the best place to start?
The hike usually starts in Ma On Shan or at Shui Long Wo.
Pyramid Hill: where is it located?
Pyramid Hill is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Pyramid Hill: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pig Rock, Canoe Rock, Pyramid Rock.
Pyramid Hill: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Pyramid Hill: why is it worth visiting?
Pyramid Hill, known locally as Tai Kam Chung, is one of the most striking geographical features in Hong Kong's New Territories.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Hong Kong SAR China →
Nearby cities
Sha Tin
Sha Tin is a major planned new town in the New Territories, situated along the Shing Mun River and known for its residential areas.
Sham Shui Po
Sham Shui Po is one of Kowloon's oldest and most authentic neighborhoods, famous for its street markets and cheap electronics.
Wong Tai Sin
Wong Tai Sin is a residential district in Kowloon named after its famous temple, offering a mix of tradition and modernity.
Tseung Kwan O
This modern planned new town was built on reclaimed land and is now a major residential area with many high-rises and parks.
Tai Po
Tai Po is a residential area in the New Territories with a long history as a market center, providing access to scenic parks.
Ma On Shan
This new town is situated on the Tolo Harbour under the mountain of the same name, known for its promenade and high-rises.
Wan Chai
Wan Chai is a dynamic district on Hong Kong Island known for its nightlife, business buildings, and the convention center.
Nam Cheong
Nam Cheong is a modern residential neighborhood in West Kowloon developed around a major transport interchange.
Mong Kok
Mong Kok is considered one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in the world, famous for its vibrant street markets.
Mong Kok Retail District
One of the most densely populated areas in the world and a hub for small retailers and markets.
Jordan
Jordan is a vibrant neighborhood in Kowloon known for its colorful markets, temples, and diverse dining scene.
Sai Kung
Sai Kung is often called the back garden of Hong Kong, being a hub for seafood lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Yau Tong
Yau Tong is transforming from an industrial area into a modern residential district with direct harbor access.
Lei Yue Mun
Lei Yue Mun is a famous fishing village in Kowloon known for its fresh seafood and the lighthouse at the harbor entrance.
Tai Kok Tsui
Tai Kok Tsui is a rapidly changing neighborhood in Kowloon where old industrial blocks are giving way to new luxury towers.
