Mini Three Gorges in Luoping County, Qujing

The Mini Three Gorges (小三峡, Xiǎo Sānxiá) in Luoping County (罗平县, Luópíng Xiàn), Qujing (曲靖市, Qūjìng Shì) are a stunning natural landscape, serving as a reservoir for the Lubuge Hydropower Station (鲁布革水电站, Lǔbùgé Shuǐdiànzhàn). Originally a perilous section of the Huangni River (黄泥河, Huángní Hé), Lubuge was once an obscure Buyei (布依族, Bùyīzú) village situated 46 kilometers from the county seat, perched on a ridge along the river that forms the border between Yunnan (云南, Yúnnán) and Guizhou (贵州, Guìzhōu) provinces.

Construction History

In June 1981, the national government approved the construction of the 600,000-kilowatt Lubuge Hydropower Station, marking it as a key national project. During preliminary surveys, hydrological experts were delighted to discover that local Buyei residents interpreted “Lubuge” as “a beautiful village with clear mountains and water.” Construction of the station began in November 1982, with water diversion completed in November 1985. The first unit started generating electricity in December 1988, and the project passed national acceptance in 1992.

The construction transformed the dangerous Huangni River into a tranquil reservoir stretching 20 kilometers. The most renowned sections of the reservoir are the Mini Three Gorges, comprising Lion Gorge (雄狮峡, Xióngshī Xiá), Diling Gorge (滴灵峡, Dīlíng Xiá), and Elephant Trunk Gorge (双象峡, Shuāngxiàng Xiá). Towering cliffs flank the gorge, with some rising steeply and others featuring precarious outcrops. Stalactites hang over the water in various forms, resembling giant gourds or clusters of grapes.

Scenic Overview

Traveling by boat across the wide lake, the first gorge encountered is Lion Gorge, which is approximately 30 meters wide at its entrance. On the left bank, massive rocks appear as lions descending from the heavens, gazing down at the shimmering lake. Once past the gorge entrance, the lake opens up again. On the Guizhou side, a large rock resembles a graceful Buyei maiden brushing her hair, preparing to meet her Yunnan beau on the opposite bank. On the Yunnan side, two large rocks resemble a young man returning from collecting firewood, sitting by the river, gazing across, waiting for his lover from Guizhou.

On the left bank, there is a Buyei village with a large tree known as the Time Tree (报时树, Bàoshí Shù). It is said that the tree’s budding, leafing, and flowering reflect seasonal changes, and the local Buyei people observe it to determine their agricultural activities. Ignoring the tree’s signals leads to poor harvests.

As you enter Diling Gorge, the second gorge of the Mini Three Gorges, the waterway narrows to just over 10 meters. Wild ducks and mandarin ducks can often be seen swimming on the calm surface, while small wooden boats are anchored along the rocky edges, used by locals for fishing. The cliffs are splashed with red hues, resembling flames. The immense stone walls feature bizarre rock formations, and dense forests on the cliffs are often home to macaques.

As you exit Diling Gorge, two hillocks resembling elephants drinking water come into view, giving rise to the name Elephant Trunk Gorge. Beyond this gorge, the scenery opens up to a broad expanse of water, where the magnificent Naigesha Waterfall (乃格沙瀑布, Nàigéshā Pùbù) cascades down from over 80 meters, creating a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall.

The Mini Three Gorges is a beautifully crafted natural gallery showcasing the wonders of nature. To reach this scenic area, take the asphalt road from the county seat of Luoping, passing through Xinzhai (新寨, Xīnzhaì), Bajiao Village (芭蕉寨, Bājiāo Zhài), Duoyi (多依, Duōyī), and the Naigesha Dam (乃格沙大坝, Nàigéshā Dàbà), while enjoying breathtaking views of the Ten Thousand Great Mountains (十万大山, Shíwàn Dàshān), local Buyei villages, the Lubuge Hydropower Station, and the Huangni River Canyon.

Attractions Overview

1. Lion Gorge (雄狮峡, Xióngshī Xiá):
   • Features: A striking entrance guarded by lion-like rock formations, symbolizing power and majesty.
   • Activities: Boat tours offer panoramic views and opportunities for photography.
2. Diling Gorge (滴灵峡, Dīlíng Xiá):
   • Significance: Named “Monkey Gorge” in the Buyei language, it’s known for its lush vegetation and wildlife, including golden snub-nosed monkeys.
   • Wildlife Viewing: Ideal for birdwatching and spotting local fauna.
3. Elephant Trunk Gorge (双象峡, Shuāngxiàng Xiá):
   • Unique Features: Characterized by two rock formations resembling elephants drinking from the water, symbolizing harmony and nature’s beauty.
   • Scenic Views: Offers stunning vistas and is great for hiking along the gorge’s edges.
4. Naigesha Waterfall (乃格沙瀑布, Nàigéshā Pùbù):
   • Description: A breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall cascading over 80 meters, surrounded by lush greenery.
   • Photography: Perfect for capturing the beauty of nature and dramatic landscapes.

Address

Location: 087 County Road, Luoping County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China.

The Lubuge Three Gorges is gradually increasing in popularity as an AAAA-rated tourist destination, entering the peak season for visitors.

How to Get There

To reach the Mini Three Gorges, you can travel by road from Qujing or Luoping. Local transportation options include buses or taxis that can take you directly to the scenic area.

1. By Car: The drive from Qujing takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering beautiful landscapes along the way.
2. Public Transport: Regular buses run from Qujing City to Luoping, where local transport can be arranged to the gorges.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, sufficient water, and a camera for stunning views.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Buyei dishes, such as spicy fish and rice cakes, available at nearby eateries.
• Safety Precautions: Always follow safety guidelines when boating or exploring the cliffs, especially during rainy seasons when water levels may rise.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially in Buyei villages, and consider learning a few basic phrases in Buyei for a richer experience.