Gyeryongsan | Mountain | K-Travel Mate

[The foremost sacred mountain and famous mountain of Chungnam] Gyeryongsan is the most renowned mountain in Chungnam, known for its beautiful mountain scenery, the sacred site of Sindoan, and several historic temples. It was already one of the five sacred mountains during the Silla period and, in the Joseon era, it was a sacred mountain where mountain spirit rituals were held alongside Myohyangsan and Jirisan. The ridge extending from the main peak, Cheonhwangbong, to Ssalgabong is unmatched in beauty. The name Gyeryong, meaning 'rooster dragon,' comes from the ridge's shape resembling a rooster's comb, with a dragon's head like a cockscomb in the center. Notable sites such as Yongyuso, Iilcheon, Baekryonggang, Dalmuntaek, Gunjataek, Myeongwoldam, Gyeryongmyeongam, and Sujeongbong are scattered throughout. The mountain's valleys are also outstanding, as seen in the Eunsun Waterfall, one of the Gyeryong Ten Scenic Spots, the Yongmun Waterfall in Gapsa Valley, which is popular for shamanistic ceremonies due to its spiritual significance, and the Yongchu Waterfall in Sindoan. Gyeryongsan, harmonizing waterfalls and rugged cliffs, is also famous for its autumn foliage. The best viewing spots are the Donghaksa Valley, Nammaetap, Sambulbong, and Gwaneumbong, reaching their peak in late October. The temples surrounding the mountain—Donghaksa to the east, Gapsa to the west, and Sinwonsa to the south—house many cultural assets. Among them, Gapsa, which holds one national treasure and four treasures, the Samunggak shrine dedicated to three loyal officials from the late Goryeo period, and Donghaksa are must-visit sites.