Moli Waterfall in Ruili City, Dehong

Hidden deep within the lush tropical rainforest of northeastern Ruili, Yunnan Province, Moli Waterfall is a spectacular natural gem along the China-Myanmar border. Known as “the highest waterfall in Southwest Yunnan” and a “natural oxygen bar”, it combines dramatic scenery, pristine jungle, and spiritual heritage.

🌄 Highlights

🏞️ Waterfall Wonder

With a drop of about 60 meters (some records say 40m) and a width of 30 meters, Moli Waterfall cascades down like a giant curtain of silk. The thunderous roar and misty spray often create vivid rainbows, offering a surreal view described as “layered water like cotton.”
Beneath the waterfall lies a natural hot spring with water temperatures around 50°C, adding to the site’s uniqueness.

🌴 Tropical Rainforest

The area boasts a 96% forest coverage, home to over 1,500 plant species, including rare “living fossils” such as tree ferns and strangler vines. With up to 35,000 negative oxygen ions per cubic centimeter, it’s one of China’s richest oxygen zones and a paradise for eco-lovers.

🛕 Buddhist Heritage

According to legend, the Buddha once bathed here, leaving behind a 96cm-long footprint (called Zha Duo in Dai language), now enshrined in a golden pavilion. The surrounding Dai-style temples come alive during Buddhist festivals, where visitors can join local blessing ceremonies.

🚶‍♂️ Visiting Experience

🥾 Hiking Trail

• Distance: Approx. 4 km round trip, through the heart of the rainforest.

• Duration: Around 2 hours on foot.

• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly, with mostly flat paths.
  Along the way, enjoy scenic views of streams, mini waterfalls, and unique rock formations.
  The highlight is a gentle stroll along the Zha Duo River, where bird songs and murmuring brooks create a true “Lost World” atmosphere.

🕒 Best Time to Visit

• Ideal hours: Before 8:00 AM or after 4:00 PM, for softer light and better chances of rainbow sightings.

• Best season: Summer for roaring water volume; Winter for quieter, mystical vibes.

  

⚠️ Travel Tips

🎫 Tickets & Opening Hours

• Entrance: ¥35 (discounted ¥18); free for seniors 70+, military personnel (with valid ID).

• Opening hours: 08:00 – 18:00

🚗 Getting There

• By car: About 30 minutes from Ruili city center. Use navigation: “Moli Tropical Rainforest Scenic Area”.

• By taxi or private hire: Round-trip chartered car costs around ¥100.

🎒 What to Bring

• Non-slip shoes: The rainforest paths can be slippery.

• Rain gear and spare clothes: The waterfall’s mist can soak you.

• Water & snacks: No shops inside the scenic area—come prepared.

💎 Experience Summary

Hike through the jungle, hear the roar of falling water, see the sacred Buddha footprint, soak in rich oxygen, and catch rainbows at sunset—all in one unforgettable journey to a hidden paradise on the China-Myanmar border.