Named Geumgangsan (Diamond) for their radiant diamond-like beauty, the Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains, located well within North Korea’s forbidden boundaries, are considered the most spectacular mountains located on the Korean peninsula. This formerly off-limits destination gained international popularity three years ago when it began accepting visitors from South Korea on unprecedented cruise ships that sailed between the two countries. Now tour programs to Mt. Geumgangsan have expanded, and an overland bus tour has also recently become available for visitors of all nationalities.

The land tour, conducted in a private bus, passes directly through the Demilitarized Zone into North Korean territory, and the tour lasts 2 nights and 3 days. The program includes a stop at one of North Korea’s hot springs resorts, as well as a tour of the Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains, and a gyoye (acrobatic show) performance by North Korean artists. Cr

In addition to the land tour, cruises to Mt. Geumgangsan still depart on a regular basis for South Korea’s eastern seaport of Sokcho. With the exception of the means of transportation, the two tour programs have identical itineraries while in North Korea. Rates for these packages vary by season and the type of accommodation. For more information, contact the KNTO website at www.tour2korea.com.