Shilin World Geopark Tour

Kunming Shilin Yi Autonomous County — the essence of world karst and treasury of Yi culture. A 2-day-1-night itinerary experiencing geological wonders, ethnic customs, and hidden alpine lakes.

World Heritage

Geopark

Yi Ethnic Culture

Cultural Experience

Hidden Lake

Changhu Scenery

270 Million Years

Karst Landscape

Stone Forest Scenic Area

World Natural Heritage, World Geopark

Shilin Two Days One Night Themed Tour

Geological wonders + Yi ethnic culture + hidden lake exploration, feel the magic of Shilin

                    
Duration
2 Days 1 Night

                    
Main Destinations
Stone Forest, Naigu Stone Forest, Changhu Lake

                    
Suitable For
Geology Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Photography Lovers

                    
Per Capita Budget
¥700-¥1,200

Stone Forest Wonders

Stone Forest + Naigu Stone Forest

Itinerary Highlights

Explore the main scenic area in the morning, discover Naigu Stone Forest in the afternoon.

Attractions

Stone Forest Scenic Area

A World Natural Heritage and World Geopark, featuring typical karst landscape formed 270 million years ago, with iconic landmarks such as "Ashima" — hailed as the "First Wonder Under Heaven."

Naigu Stone Forest

The "sister scenic area" of Stone Forest, featuring black stone formations on a grand scale with primitive and rugged shapes — known as the "Museum of Ancient Stone Forest," with relatively fewer tourists.

Practical Information

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable shoes — the scenic area involves long walks
Yi ethnic guides are available for hire
Bring sun protection

Accommodation Recommendations

Yi-themed hotels within the scenic area
Shilin County town hotels
B&Bs and guesthouses

Culture & Hidden Gems

Changhu Lake + Yi Ethnic Village

Itinerary Highlights

Visit Changhu Lake in the morning, experience Yi culture in the afternoon.

Attractions

Changhu Lake Scenic Area

A plateau karst lake approximately 3 km long and only 300 m wide, with crystal-clear water surrounded by dense forests. It served as a filming location for the movie "Ashima" and is revered as the "Sacred Lake of the Yi People."

Yi Ethnic Village

An authentic settlement of the Yi ethnic Sani people, where visitors can experience traditional Yi architecture, costumes, song and dance, and participate in folk activities such as the Torch Festival.

Practical Information

Experience Suggestions

Boat rental available for lake tours
Experience Yi ethnic embroidery
Taste Yi specialty cuisine

Return Trip Suggestions

Yi handicrafts available for purchase
Allow sufficient time for return journey
Respect local ethnic customs

Shilin Yi Autonomous County Must-Try Foods

Yi Cured Pork

A traditional Yi cured meat, made from locally raised free-range pork using a unique curing and smoking process, featuring firm texture and distinctive flavor.

Shilin Milk Cake

A Shilin specialty dairy product made from goat's milk, with a delicate texture that can be pan-fried, steamed, or eaten raw — a signature local souvenir.

Shilin Yi Autonomous County Travel Tips

Best Seasons