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Reasons to Visit Stone Forest in Kunming
The Stone Forest in Kunming, Yunnan, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a mesmerizing landscape of limestone formations shaped over millions of years. The Stone Forest in Kunming is not only a geological wonder but also highlight in cultural heritage, home to the Sani people(撒尼), an Yi community(彝族) and their folklore, such as the tale of Ashima(阿诗玛), a symbol of love and freedom who transformed into a stone pillar here, is celebrated, preserving the unique heritage of this ethnic group.
Located conveniently near Kunming, the Stone Forest is an accessible escape that combines natural beauty with educational value, making it perfect for photography, exploration, and understanding karst topography. The Stone Forest in Kunming is an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and a deep dive into one of China's most unique natural landscapes.
So if you are planing a Yunnan trip Stone Forest near Kunming City is not to be missed!
Shilin Stone Forest Facts: 270 Million Years Old Landscape with Beautiful Folk Tales
Location: The Stone Forest, or Shilin(石林), is located in the Yunnan Province of China, approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan.
Size: The Stone Forest covers an area of over 400 square kilometers (150 square miles)
Formation: The Stone Forest is a spectacular set of limestone formations that are over 270 million years old.
Cultural Significance: The Stone Forest area is home to the Sani people, a branch of the Yi (彝族)community, who have rich traditions and folklore associated with the forest, such as the story of Ashima.
Places to Visit in Stone Forest: The Greater Stone Forest, Lesser Stone Forest, and Naigu Stone Forest, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.
Travel Highlights of Stone Forest: Ashima Rock (阿诗玛石), Sword Peak Pond (剑峰池), Long Lake (长湖), Lotus Peak (莲花峰) & More
Things to Do in Stone Forest: Guided tours链接, photography, hiking, cycling & more
Best Time to Visit Stone Forest: The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for the most comfortable weather. But just like the Best Time to Visit Kunming, it's basically year-round.
What to See at Stone Forest: Karst Landscape, Waterfall, Caves & More
| Attractions | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Greater Stone Forest (大石林) | Dense stone peaks, breathtaking landscape |
| Lesser Stone Forest (小石林) | Sparser, delicate stone formations |
| Naigu Stone Forest (奈古石林) | Spiky stones, karst caves, grassland, volcanic causeway |
| Ashima Rock(阿诗玛石) | Beautiful Folk Tale of Yi People |
| Zhiyun Cave (芝云洞) | Underground stone forest |
| Long Lake (长湖) | Karst lake, underwater formations |
| Moon Lake (月湖) | Largest lake in Shilin Stone Forest Scenic Area |
| Dadieshui Waterfall (大叠水瀑布) | Iconic waterfall in China |
| Qifeng Cave (奇风洞) | Breathing cave (rocks resemble human breathing) |
Karst Landscape to Admire in Stone Forest
Greater Stone Forest (大石林): If you only have time to visit one area in Stone Forest then go to Greater Stone Forest (大石林), the most iconic area for Karst Landscape.
Known for its dense stone peaks, the Greater Stone Forest in Shilin offers a unique and breathtaking landscape. The highest rock pillar in the Shilin Greater Stone Forest can reach over 40 meters (approximately 131 feet).
Lesser Stone Forest (小石林): Lesser Stone Forest (小石林) stands as a delicate smaller version of Greater Stone Forest.
Compared to the Shilin Greater Stone Forest, the Shilin Lesser Stone Forest is sparser and more delicate. Wide and thick stone walls divide this area of the Shilin Stone Forest into several small parks.
Naigu Stone Forest (奈古石林): Naigu Stone Forest (奈古石林) offers a whole different experience from Greater Stone Forest & Lesser Stone Forest.
Unlike the limestone at Greater Stone Forest and Lesser Stone Forest, Naigu Stone Forest features a dolomite formation which looks darker in color. Naigu Stone Forest in Shilin is older and quieter than the Shilin Greater and Lesser Forests.
Ashima Rock(阿诗玛石): Admire Ashima Rock, a pillar named after a legendary Yi rebel who transformed into stone to defy an arranged marriage. Look for its resemblance to a woman's silhouette.
Note: The routes in the Stone Forest can be a bit puzzling while many karst wonders in the Stone Forest come with beautiful folk tales. So a local guide would greatly enhance your travel experience.
Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel . Our local guide will lead your way while providing cultural insights for your Kunming Stone Forest Tour.
Caves to Explore in Shilin Stone Forest
Zhiyun Cave (芝云洞): Zhiyun Cave is a small show cave located close to the Shilin Stone Forest. It is often mentioned together with the Shilin Stone Forest and is called an underground stone forest.
Qifeng Cave (奇风洞): Qifeng Cave, situated within the Shilin Stone Forest, is noted for the rocks in there that can breathe just like humans, so people refer to it as the breathing cave.
Water Splendors in Stone Forest for a Refreshing Breeze
Long Lake (长湖): Long Lake is a karst lake that is three kilometers (approximately 1.86 miles) long but only 300 meters (approximately 984 feet) wide, located near the Shilin Stone Forest. The lake features underwater stalagmites and stalactites.
Moon Lake (月湖): Moon Lake is located in the Shilin Stone Forest Scenic Area, named after its shape like a crescent moon. It is the largest lake in the Shilin Stone Forest Scenic Area.
Dadieshui Waterfall (大叠水瀑布): Dadieshui Waterfall is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in China, located near the Shilin Stone Forest.
Best Time to Visit Stone Forest: Year-round, Spring & Autumn Especially
Just like Kunming, it's always a good time to visit Stone Forest, including summer and winter. Here's the detail of what to expect visiting Shilin Stone Stone Forest.
Visit Stone Forest in Spring (March to May)
Stone Forest Weather in Spring: Mild and comfortable with blooming flowers adding to the scenic beauty of the Stone Forest.
Travel Highlights: The landscape of the Stone Forest is lush and green, and the weather is perfect for hiking and photography in the Stone Forest.
Visit Stone Forest in Autumn (September to November)
Stone Forest Weather in Autumn: Cool and dry, with clear skies.
Travel Highlights: The stone formations in the Stone Forest are beautifully highlighted by the autumn light, and the weather is ideal for walking around the extensive Stone Forest park.
Visit Stone Forest in Summer (June to August)
Summer can be high-season in for Kunming, but the weather is pretty much pleasant year round in Kunming and its nearby areas.
And when you walk into the shades of majestic Stone Forest in summer it would actually feel even cooler. So winter and summer can also be the good time to visit Stone Forest.
Best Festival to Visit at Stone Forest: The Torch Festival at Stone Forest illuminates the night with vibrant torch-lit parades, traditional Yi dances, and music, creating a mesmerizing cultural spectacle amidst the stunning limestone formations.
The Torch Festival at the Stone Forest isn't on a fixed date. It's celebrated on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month according to the Chinese calendar, which typically falls in August.
If you have specific travel interests for Yunnan like local festivals, certain flora or fauna, do Contact your travel expert in Asia Odyssey Travel for detailed planning to Stone Forest & whole Yunnan!
How to Plan a Kunming to Stone Forest Tour
Kick off your Yunnan adventure in Kunming, the "City of Eternal Spring." Immerse yourself in its mild climate and explore captivating attractions before venturing out to the awe-inspiring Stone Forest.
Day 1: Arrival in Kunming
Arrive in Kunming, the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province. Settle into your accommodation and freshen up.
Depending on your arrival time, immerse yourself in Kunming's bustling atmosphere. Explore local markets, indulge in delicious Yunnan cuisine, or unwind in the serene Green Lake Park.
Day 2: Journey to the Stone Forest
Gear up for an adventure! The awe-inspiring Stone Forest (Shilin) lies approximately 81 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Kunming.
Upon arrival at the Stone Forest Scenic Area, embark on a journey through a mesmerizing landscape. Witness towering limestone formations sculpted by nature over millions of years, resembling a petrified forest.
Day 3: Exploring Further or Relaxing in Kunming
Depending on your travel style and pace, choose from these options:
- Return to Kunming: Relax and delve deeper into Kunming's cultural offerings. Visit historical sites like Yuantong Temple. Savor a traditional Yunnan lunch near the Stone Forest and experience the unique local flavors of Yunnan Food.
More Options from Kunming to Stone Forest & Beyond:
- Yuanyang Rice Terraces (2-3 Days): Hike or take the best photo with great views of the Terraces.
- Dali (2-3 days): Explore the Nanzhao Kingdom and Erhai Lake.
- Lijiang (2-3 days): Stroll the Lijiang ancient town with snow-capped Jade Dragon mountain in sight, embrace the fascinating culture of Naxi People.
- Shangri-La (2-3 days): The one and only serene escape, visit Songzanlin Monastery.
- Xishuangbanna (1-2 days): Explore rainforests and Dai villages.
- Optional destinations beyond: Tengchong (hot springs), Pu'er (tea). Consider Laos and Southeast Asia via the new China-Laos Railway.
Visit Stone Forest Kunming, Journey to Permian Period with Asia Odyssey Travel
The Kunming Stone Forest in Yunnan, China, is a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its towering karst formations reaching over 30 meters high, offers an otherworldly landscape that's a photographer's dream.
Just imagine! This Forest of Stone used to be the bottom of the ocean in ancient times. As you navigate the labyrinth of stone pillars in the Kunming Stone Forest, you'll be immersed in a rich tapestry of Yunnan's history and ethnic culture. The Kunming Stone Forest is a highlight of any trip to Yunnan, China. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore one of nature's most stunning masterpieces!
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel - Walk into Permian Stone Forest
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