Kam Shan Country Park

Kam Shan Country Park, often called Monkey Hill by locals, offers a wild escape from Hong Kong's urban intensity. This 339-hectare park in the New Territories is famous for its troops of wild macaques, scenic reservoirs, and WWII military relics. It's a place where nature and history collide, providing a rugged yet accessible outdoor experience for hikers, history buffs, and families alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Wild Macaques: The park's main draw – hundreds of long-tailed macaques roam freely. Observe from a distance, do not feed them, and keep your belongings secure.
• Jubilee Reservoir (also known as Kowloon Reservoir): A serene, emerald-green reservoir surrounded by lush hills. The dam and spillway are impressive engineering feats from the early 20th century.
• Shing Mun Redoubt: A network of WWII British military tunnels, bunkers, and gun emplacements. Part of the Gin Drinker's Line, this is a fascinating, albeit dark, historical site (bring a torch).
• Kam Shan Hiking Trail: A 5-km loop that connects the main sights. It's moderate with some steep sections, offering panoramic views of the New Territories and Kowloon.
• MacLehose Trail Section 6: A section of Hong Kong's most famous long-distance trail passes through the park, ideal for those wanting a longer walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day (3–4 hours) is ample to explore the main highlights: a loop hike taking in the reservoir, redoubt, and monkey encounters. If you're combining with a visit to nearby Shing Mun or Tai Mo Shan, dedicate a full day to the area. Start early to avoid the heat and the largest crowds of monkeys.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shing Mun Country Park – adjacent to Kam Shan, with a scenic reservoir and the historic Shing Mun Redoubt (accessible via the same trail network).
• Tai Mo Shan Country Park – Hong Kong's highest peak (957 m) offers challenging hikes and cooler temperatures; a 20-minute drive away.
• Sha Tin – a bustling New Territories town with the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum; 15 minutes by taxi.
• Tai Wai – a local neighbourhood with excellent street food and the Che Kung Temple; a short MTR ride from Sha Tin.

Please check official sources for current details.