Yuanmou Earth Forest (元谋土林) is a stunning example of a water-eroded landform that showcases the intricate interplay of geological and climatic conditions. Over the course of more than 5,000 years, natural processes have sculpted this magnificent landscape into a vibrant and expansive wonder.
The Earth Forest encompasses a wide area with a total of 13 distinct sites. Among these, the Hutiao Beach Earth Forest (also known as Wumao Earth Forest) is the most renowned and commonly referred to when people mention “Yuanmou Earth Forest.” This site features striking geological formations that are particularly well-developed and colorful.
Additionally, the Xinhua Earth Forest (also known as Langbapu Earth Forest) and the Bangguo Earth Forest are notable for being the largest and most spectacular in the Yuanmou Earth Forest community, displaying a remarkable array of colors and typical formations. These unique landscapes attract visitors for their breathtaking beauty and geological significance, making Yuanmou Earth Forest a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Travel Information about Yuanmou Earth Forest
Ticket and Opening Hours
Tickets:
- Hutiao Beach Earth Forest (also known as Wumao Earth Forest): 70 yuan
- Langbapu Earth Forest (also known as Xinhua Earth Forest): 50 yuan
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to explore the Earth Forest is from November to May each year, which corresponds to the dry season. From November to March, the climate is warm and comfortable. In April and May, temperatures can rise and the sunlight is intense, providing excellent conditions for photography, though visitors should prepare for sun protection.
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: West of Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Prefecture.
To Yuanmou: Buses depart daily from Chuxiong City West Bus Station to Yuanmou, located approximately 140 kilometers away. The journey takes about 4 hours.
To Hutiao Beach Earth Forest: There are dedicated tourist shuttle buses from Yuanmou County to Hutiao Beach Earth Forest, departing at 7:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:00 PM, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes.
To Xinhua Earth Forest: Currently, there is only one bus to Xinhua Earth Forest daily, departing at 12:40 PM, with a ticket price of 14 yuan.
To Bangguo Earth Forest: Bangguo Earth Forest is not yet developed for tourism, and there are no direct vehicles to the area. Visitors must hire a car or drive themselves to reach it.
Scenic Rating
- Cultural Experience: ★★★
- Special Features: ★★★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★★★
- Natural Beauty: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★★★
- Adventure: ★★★
Highlights of Yuanmou Earth Forest
Hutiao Beach Earth Forest
Hutiao Beach Earth Forest, also known as Wumao Earth Forest, is renowned for its stunning geological formations primarily located on both sides of the main and tributary ravines. This area boasts the highest quality of earth forest scenery, characterized by rich colors and a strong sense of layering, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
From the mountaintop, the layers of the earth forest create a spectacular view, inspiring awe at the natural wonders formed over millennia. The “trees” within the earth forest rise to varying heights, some reaching dozens of meters, presenting an array of unique shapes and forms that add to the visual intrigue.
The formations in Hutiao Beach Earth Forest primarily take on shapes reminiscent of castles, screens, and curtains, with heights ranging from 10 to 15 meters, and some peaks reaching up to 27 meters. From a distance, the earth forest appears rugged and desolate, resembling an abandoned castle. Upon closer inspection, the landscape reveals itself as a massive and eclectic collection of artistic sculptures created by nature.
Xinhua Earth Forest
Xinhua Earth Forest, also known as Langbapu Earth Forest, is a vital part of the Yuanmou Earth Forest region. It features tall and densely clustered earth pillars with a complete range of types, where conical earth formations are particularly well-developed. The height of these pillars typically ranges from 3 to 27 meters, with the tallest reaching an impressive 42.8 meters, making it the tallest in the Yuanmou Earth Forest.
Surrounding Xinhua Earth Forest are several reservoirs of varying sizes, including the Langbapu Reservoir, which is remarkably clear and mirrors the earth pillars, creating a picturesque scene that resembles a painting. The area is also enriched by several gently flowing streams, resulting in lush vegetation. Bamboo, pine trees, shrubs, and various flowers adorn the spaces between the earth pillars, enhancing the scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot a variety of small animals, including wild rabbits and birds, adding to the area’s charm.
Bango Earth Forest
Bango Earth Forest covers an area of 14 square kilometers, making it the largest earth forest in the Yuanmou Earth Forest region. The earth pillar landscape in Bango is primarily distributed along the sides of the Dashaqing and its tributary gullies, presenting a sparse yet orderly arrangement with various shapes.
In Bango Earth Forest, the distribution of earth pillars is relatively sparse, with fewer clusters compared to other areas. Each small section features a fairly uniform color palette, including white, reddish-brown, brown-yellow, and pale yellow earth pillars. The surfaces of these pillars are interspersed with sparkling quartz sand and agate fragments, giving the appearance of being adorned with gemstones. Under the sunlight, the earth pillars shimmer in a dazzling array of colors, creating a captivating spectacle for visitors.
Related Details:
- Currently, there are no tourism reception or accommodation facilities within the Banguo Earth Forest scenic area. Visitors can find dining and lodging options in the nearby Pingtian (Banguo) township.
- Since the area is still underdeveloped for tourism, it is essential to prioritize safety when entering the scenic area. Visitors should assess their own capabilities and consider hiring a local guide who is familiar with the area to enhance their experience and ensure safety.
Visitor Guide for Yuanmou Stone Forest
Accommodation Near Yuanmou Earth Forest
The Hutiao Beach Earth Forest scenic area, known for being the most developed, offers three hotels operated by the scenic area itself. Guests can check in at the same front desk for all three accommodations, which vary in quality and pricing.
- Youth Hotel (青年宾馆): This is the most affordable option within the Tiger Jumping Beach area, catering to budget travelers. The rooms are clean and include air conditioning.
- Earth Forest Hotel (土林宾馆): A mid-range hotel located next to the Youth Hotel, offering comfortable amenities and a pleasant stay.
- Cave Hotel (窑洞宾馆): This is the highest-end accommodation, featuring some rooms equipped with small refrigerators and computers. It is considered to meet three-star standards.
Photography at Yuanmou Earth Forest
The unique landscapes of the Earth Forest, featuring the bright blue sky and golden sandy soil, create stunning photographic opportunities. For those specifically traveling for photography, it’s recommended to stay a night in Chuxiong or directly at the Earth Forest scenic area. The morning and evening light reveals a mysterious atmosphere within the forest.
Photography enthusiasts should consider visiting during spring, autumn, or winter, as each season offers different visual effects, allowing for diverse and captivating shots.
Tips for Visiting Yuanmou Earth Forest
Avoid the Rainy Season: From June to October, the region experiences heavy rainfall, which makes the soil soft and muddy. The riverbeds and valleys can become difficult to navigate, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
Navigation: It’s crucial to know your way around the Earth Forest. Carrying a compass is recommended. If you get lost, try moving from narrower paths to wider areas to help you find the main gorge more easily.
Protect Your Camera: The sandy conditions can be harsh, so make sure to safeguard your camera equipment. Also, be cautious of the uneven terrain while taking photographs to avoid tripping.