The Mysterious Landscape of Kunming Stone Forest
The Mysterious Landscape
of Kunming Stone Forest
Experience the surreal landscape of Kunming Stone Forest where strangely-shaped
stone pillars rise across the mysterious landscape. Wander through a labyrinth
of limestone pinnacles and listen to thrilling legends and myths.
WHY THIS TOUR?
Prepare to have your breath blown away as you stand in awe among the incredible Kunming Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s natural wonders. This attraction spans an area of 400 sq-km and it features forested areas and an abundance of scenic spots.
The entire area was believed to have once been submerged below the sea, until the waters receded and exposed the extraordinary landscape. Over a time-span of 270 million years, the terrain has been eroded by the elements into surreal-looking formations, some of which resemble animals, plants and even human figures. As you wander through the maze of giant stalagmites, it is easy to see why the area is teeming with myths and legends.
TRAIL ITINERARY
08:00 - 17:00
In the morning, the driver and guide will collect you from the hotel for the one-hour drive to Shilin county. En route, you can admire the landscape and get a quick glimpse into the local life.
The Kunming Stone Forest is a bizarre and magical place where striking limestone pillars rise up amongst lakes, ponds, forests, caves, underground rivers and waterfalls, to create a unique landscape. Walking through the labyrinth of tightly-packed, natural stone formations will confirm that you are among something remarkable.
You will explore the area by following a series of winding paths, leading from one breathtaking vista to the next. As befits such an enchanted landscape, the region comes with its own fables. According to the Yi people, the forest was the birthplace of a beautiful girl called Ashima who was forbidden to marry her true love and so she chose instead to turn into a stone pillar in the forest. There is even a rock within the forest said to be that of Ashima – it resembles a young girl with a scarf on her head and a basket on her back.
After wandering through these intricate formations, sit and relax over lunch in a local restaurant near the Stone Forest. At the end of the meal, the driver will take you back to the hotel in Kunming.