As one of the most renowned karst landform wonders on Earth, it is located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, about 80 kilometers southeast of Kunming, the spring city of Yunnan.
It is officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Global Geopark, and one of China’s top national scenic spots. For hundreds of millions of years, nature has carved this incredible stone kingdom, known as “the No. 1 Wonder Under Heaven”.
Geological Formation
The Stone Forest dates back 270 million years to the Permian Period. Once this area was a vast ocean, covered with thick layers of limestone.
Later, crustal movement lifted the seabed into land. Over millions of years, rainwater, wind and river erosion slowly dissolved and shaped the limestone into countless towering stone pillars, peaks and grotesque rock formations.
The stone pillars mostly stand 20 to 50 meters high, densely distributed like an endless forest, which is why people call it the Stone Forest.
Core Scenic Areas
Major Stone Forest
This is the central and most classic area. You will walk through narrow stone paths surrounded by huge rock clusters. Many stones look like swords, pagodas, lions, elephants and other vivid shapes. The famous ancient stone inscriptions of “Stone Forest” are located here.
Minor Stone Forest
Compared with the Major Stone Forest, it is more delicate and quiet. The rocks are layered and scattered, matched with lakes and pavilions. Reflections of stone peaks in the water create a fairyland-like view.
Ashima Scenic Area
This is the cultural symbol of the Stone Forest. A natural stone pillar stands gracefully, resembling a young Yi girl.
It comes from the famous Yi people’s legend of Ashima—a kind and beautiful local girl who pursues freedom and true love. The touching story has been passed down for generations and becomes the soul of Stone Forest culture.
Naigu Stone Forest
Also called the Black Stone Forest. The rocks are dark in color, grand and primitive, with fewer tourists. It keeps the original wild style of karst landscape.
Ethnic Culture
The Stone Forest is the hometown of the Yi people. You can experience their traditional folk customs here: ethnic costumes, folk songs, dance performances and torch festival culture. Every year on traditional festivals, local Yi people gather here to sing, dance and celebrate, adding strong ethnic charm to the natural scenery.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will walk a long way on stone paths.
The roads are winding and some sections are narrow; please follow the tour route and do not climb steep rocks.
The best travel time is from March to October, with pleasant weather and fresh air.
Keep the scenic area clean and protect the ancient natural rock formations.
The Stone Forest is a perfect combination of amazing natural geology and rich ethnic culture. Please take your time to wander, appreciate the magical craftsmanship of nature, and feel the local Yi folk customs. Wish you a pleasant and unforgettable journey!
