Thailand Travel Pages - Victoria Peak and the Peak Tram, Hong Kong Island

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Victoria Peak and the Peak Tram, Hong Kong Island:

With an altitude of 552 m (1,810 ft), Victoria Peak (also known as Mount Austin) is technically not tall enough to be called a mountain; however it is the highest point on Hong Kong Island and its location in the western half of the Island makes it a fantastic place to get some pretty stunning views of central Hong Kong, Victoria Harbor and the surrounding islands.

Victoria Peak or The Peak (as it is usually referred to) is the place where everyone heads to (the summit of Mount Austin is occupied by telecommunications aerials and is closed to the public). Half of the fun is getting there. You can grab a cab or take a bus, or drive yourself up the Peak Road. If you’re feeling energetic you could also walk up via the steep Old Peak Road, which starts near Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, but by far the most enjoyable way of getting to The Peak is to take a scenic ride on the Peak Tram.

Having been in service since 1888, The Peak Tram is one of the world’s oldest funicular railways. It climbs nearly 400 meters (about 1,300 feet) above sea level and covers a distance of 1.4km. Although the ride is not very long it is so steep that all the skyscrapers pass by at a weird angle, looking more like books leaning on a shelf than buildings. A ride on the Peak Tram is an unforgettable experience (although if you are frightened of heights, you may prefer to take the bus).

However you reach Victoria Peak, you will not be disappointed that you made the trip. Not only are there those fantastic panoramic views from the Sky Terrace, there are also restaurants, an art gallery (The Sky Gallery) and two major shopping malls: you can’t fail to miss Peak Tower, with its top resembling a slice of watermelon, and the Peak Galleria, which is situated next door.

If you're not into shopping, there are also some wonderful walks and nature trails around The Peak that will take you away from the hustle and bustle and offer you some more wonderful views of Hong Kong Island below.