1 Day The Stone Forest Tour From Kunming

The Stone Forest (Shilin 石林), one of Yunnan’s most popular tourist attractions is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, about 90 kilometers southeast of Kunming, in Yunnan Province, China.  It’s renowned for its striking Karst landscape, featuring towering limestone formations that resemble petrified trees, creating a “forest” made of stone, also rich in local culture. It is home to the Yi ethnic group, whose legends and folklore are deeply intertwined with the landscape. The site offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and opportunities for hiking and exploration. Stone forest offers you a surreal, otherworldly experience, with stunning views and a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Unique Karst Landscape: The primary highlight is the stunning array of limestone pillars and spires, which rise like trees from the ground, creating a dramatic “forest” of stone. These formations are over 270 million years old and have been shaped by erosion and weathering over time.
  • Exploring the Paths: Wander through the labyrinthine pathways between the towering formations, some reaching heights of over 30 meters. These unique geological structures are perfect for exploration, photography, and taking in panoramic views.
  • Main Scenic Area: The largest and most famous section of the Stone Forest, with the most iconic formations. It’s known for its dense concentration of limestone pillars, making it the heart of the area.
  • Pavilion Views: There are pavilions strategically placed throughout the park where visitors can pause, rest, and enjoy sweeping views of the Stone Forest.
  • Yi Ethnic Group Culture: Learn about the local Yi ethnic minority whose folklore, traditions, and legends are tied to the Stone Forest. Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. Some tours include visits to local Yi villages where you can interact with the community.
  • Legends and Myths: Local myths tell of the Stone Forest being formed by petrified trees and mythical stories about the landscape. These cultural insights are woven into the tour, adding a layer of storytelling to the experience.
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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Kunming-Stone Forest-Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: Stone forest

Morning: After enjoying the breakfast in Kunming, your day will begin with a transfer from Kunming to Stone Forest Scenic Area.

Exploration:The Stone Forest is primarily divided into two main areas: Da Shilin (Major Stone Forest), the more popular section with expansive rock formations, and the Naigu Shilin (Minor Stone Forest), which is quieter and offers a more secluded experience. Visitors can explore these areas by foot, following trails that take them through narrow passages, around jagged peaks, and up to scenic viewpoints that offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon: Return Back to Kunming

  •  In the late afternoon, drive back to Kunming

Service Included:

  • All land transfer and transportation;
  • Entrance fees and activities as listed in the program.
  • A Skilled driver& An Experienced English-speaking guide;
  • Two bottles of water each day each person;

Service Excluded:

International Train Tickets/Flight Tickets;

  • Meals not mentioned;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Personal Travel Accident Insurance;
  • Any optional programs/activities;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Personal Consumption;
  • Tips (150CNY/day to Guide; 100CNY/day to Driver);
  • Bank Charge of remittance;
  • Accommodation with breakfast.

Travel Tips:

  • Visitors are advised to always carry changes of clothing due to the large variations in temperature between day and night.
  • The climate is relatively dry, so drink more water every day.
  • Protecting oneself from strong UV radiation at high altitude.
  • Protecting oneself from altitude sickness. Lessen the effects of altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise and have plenty of rest.
  • Respect local customs , habits, and religious beliefs.
  • Situated on the northern edge of the tropical zone, Xishuangbanna area is hot, humid and rainy; don’t forget to take an umbrella or a raincoat when go out.
  • When take photos, please pay attention to your safety, do not shoot in dangerous areas.
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