A Guide to the Great Wall of China and Some advice

The Great Wall of China- one of the wonders of the world and a sought after tourist attraction, has history which dates back to 2000 years ago. This great Wall is a most wonderful man made creation in the world. Though in recent times most part of the Wall lies in state of ruins, some parts are renovated and well maintained for tourists and visitors. The sections of the Wall which are most visited by tourists lie in and around Beijing.

Various sections lying in and around Beijing

Main sections of the Great historical Wall visited by tourists are in Badaling, Huanghuacheng, Jiankou, Jinshanling, Mutianyu, Simatai, Gibeikou, Huangyaguan and others. Among these Badaling is the most crowded section around the year. During the Great Wall Beijing Tours you get to see fortresses, strategic passes, temples, lofty watch towers, steep stairs and military section in and around these sections. It is said that it can be seen from the moon and seems like a dragon meandering up and down the plateaus, mountains, grasslands, deserts etc and giving you the taste of all the geographical features in one place. Each section has a unique feature of its own and boasts of its own historical values. Tourists not only visit the Wall for mere sightseeing but love to go on the adventurous hiking tours, soaking in the Chinese beauty and culture along the way.

Other attractions along with the Wall tour

You may enjoy the temples or visit the great Wall museum near the Badaling section in the course of Great Wall Beijing Tours. Some tourists love to get the feel of the village life and can explore an authentic peasant life and stay over in a village overnight, along many sections of the great Wall. There is Xisan Minu at the feet of Mutianyu Great Wall or Gubeikou Hexi village near Wohushan Great Wall. You may go hiking in the mountains, passing through small villages. One can visit the Forbidden City and temples and museums in more populated areas of Beijing.

Few tips for the first timers

Since visiting the wall is not like visiting any other normal tourist spot you need to consider certain points before going on the tour:

  • Elderly tourists and sick people need to think twice or take necessary precautions while going on this tour as it may be tedious and tiring.
  • Carry your own bottled water, necessary shades like caps, sun glasses and gloves, small torch, light snacks and emergency medicines. Travel light.
  • One should be properly clothed according to the season and wear shoes with proper grip to avoid slipping or falling.
  • Avoid running, walking fast or leaning on any wall as the structure is quite primitive and can be weak enough to break loose in any parts.
  • Do not walk too close to the edge of the wall and follow all the warning signs posted on the way.
  • When you are in a group it is necessary to stay together and maintain your safety and well being all the time.