Stone Forest Scenic Area

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Scenic Spot Introduction

The Stone Forest is the world’s most typical karst landform, renowned for its geological wonders such as peak clusters, karren, caves, and underground rivers. Listed as a World Natural Heritage site, it is known as the “First Wonder of the World” and serves as an important carrier of Yi culture.

Formed 270 million years ago during the Paleozoic era, the Stone Forest has undergone a long geological evolution, resulting in the spectacular landscape that covers 400 square kilometers today. The scenic area is divided into several zones, including the Big Stone Forest, Small Stone Forest, and Naigu Stone Forest, each with its unique geomorphic features. The Big Stone Forest is famous for its dense clusters of stone peaks, the Small Stone Forest for its elegant stone pillars, and the Naigu Stone Forest for preserving the most primitive landform characteristics.

As the settlement of the Yi Sani people, the Stone Forest is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure. Here, the touching legend of Ashima is told, and the grand Torch Festival is celebrated every year on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. Traditional Yi dwellings, costumes, and song and dance performances can be seen everywhere in the scenic area, providing a valuable window into Yi culture.

The Stone Forest is rich in biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species growing in the region, including rare species such as Yunnan pine and Chinese photinia. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including macaques and pangolins. Multiple karst lakes, such as Yue Lake and Jianfeng Pool, dot the landscape, their clear waters reflecting the surrounding stone forests in a harmonious display.

Visiting the Stone Forest offers a multi-faceted experience: feel the grandeur of the standing stone peaks in the Big Stone Forest, admire the elegance of the stone pillars in the Small Stone Forest, and explore the mysteries of the primitive landform in the Naigu Stone Forest. The scenic area is equipped with various viewing platforms and trails, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the Stone Forest from every angle.

Spot Introduction

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, take sun protection measures, reasonably arrange their visiting time, and fully experience the unique charm of this natural wonder.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Dashilin Scenic Area
  • Lion Pavilion
  • Ashima Stone
  • Suggested visiting time: 180 minutes
  1. Xiaoshilin Scenic Area
  • Sword Peak Pond
  • At Stake
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes
  1. Naigu Stone Forest
  • Primitive Stone Forest
  • Yi Ethnic Culture
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
  1. Yuehu Lake
  • Karst Lake
  • Viewing Platform
  • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
  • Dashilin → Xiaoshilin
  • Naigu Stone Forest → Yuehu Lake
  • It is recommended to visit according to the scenic areas.
  1. Visiting Schedule
  • Depart in the morning
  • Visit during off-peak hours
  • Take adequate rest
  1. Practical Tips
  • Sun protection is essential
  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Bring enough drinking water

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: Kunming Changshui International Airport
  • High-speed train: Shilin West Railway Station
  • Bus: Shilin special line
  • Self-drive: About 2 hours from Kunming
  1. Shilin Grilled Fish
  2. Yi Ethnic Ham
  3. Steam Pot Chicken
  4. Wild Mushrooms

Special Reminders

  1. Sun protection is essential
  2. Pay attention to safety
  3. Bring enough drinking water
  4. Prevent getting lost
  5. Bring a map
  6. Suitable for photography
  7. Avoid rainy days
  8. Book tickets ahead of time.