Yidule Waterfall in Luoping County, Qujing
Yidule Waterfall (以堵勒瀑布) is located in the Jiulong Waterfall Scenic Area (九龙瀑布群风景区) in Luoping County (罗平县), Qujing City (曲靖市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated 20 kilometers north of Luoping City (罗平县城) in Yidule Village (以堵勒村), this waterfall is on the upper reaches of the Jiulong River (九龙河), a tributary of the Nanpan River (南盘江). Within a one-kilometer stretch of the river, five waterfalls cascade in succession, separated by tranquil pools. Among them, the most spectacular waterfall spans over 40 meters in width and drops more than 30 meters, plunging dramatically into a deep pool.
Every year, on the second day of the second lunar month, young men and women from the Buyi (布依族), Yi (彝族), Shui (水族), and Zhuang (壮族) ethnic groups in the neighboring areas of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi gather by the waterfall in traditional attire for singing and courtship, creating a lively atmosphere.
Main Attractions
The Yidule Waterfall is the most magnificent among the Jiulong waterfalls, with a height of 56 meters and a width of 110 meters. Located about 22 kilometers east of Luoping City, this scenic area is recognized as one of the largest waterfall clusters in China, earning the title “Ten Waterfalls of Jiulong, a Unique Wonder of the South.”
As you enter the scenic area, you will find a concentration of attractions characterized by their unique features and charming landscapes. The interplay of waterfalls, shallow beaches, and deep pools creates picturesque scenes. Each waterfall possesses its distinct shape and allure, with Yidule Waterfall standing out as the most impressive. Standing before the waterfall, you can feel its grandeur and the sheer power of the water. As it cascades from a great height into the deep pool below, the splashes seem to tell the tale of nature’s beauty and mystery.
Additionally, Yidule Village is part of this scenic area. Located under the jurisdiction of the Changdi Buyi Ethnic Township (长底布依族乡) and approximately 8.5 kilometers from Changdi Township (长底乡), the village is surrounded by lush mountains, offering a beautiful natural environment. The residents primarily rely on agriculture and the service industry for their livelihoods, leading peaceful and harmonious lives.
In summary, Yidule Waterfall captivates countless visitors with its magnificent scenery. Whether you wish to admire the beauty of the waterfall or experience the tranquility of the village, this area is definitely worth a visit.
How to Get There
Yidule Waterfall is accessible from Luoping City. You can take a local bus or taxi to reach the Jiulong Waterfall Scenic Area. The journey from the city center to the waterfall takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time is during the rainy season (May to October) when the waterfalls are most powerful and scenic.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially during the morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect.
- Safety: Be cautious near the edges of the waterfalls and in the pools, as the rocks can be slippery.
- Local Culture: Engage with local residents to learn about their customs, especially during the singing festival.
- Amenities: Check for available facilities like restrooms and food vendors in the area, as amenities may be limited.
