Forest Malong · Wellness Paradise

Qujing Malong District — the area with the highest forest coverage in central Yunnan. A 2-day-1-night itinerary drifting through Ma Guo River Canyon, hiking Xianglu Mountain alpine meadow, and exploring Yehua Valley primeval forest. Feel the perfect fusion of plateau forest wellness and outdoor sports.

54.8%
Forest Coverage
2,000m Elevation
Plateau Oxygen Bar
160,000 Mu
Natural Grassland
Central Yunnan Gateway
Transport Hub
Malong Xianglu Mountain
Malong District Xianglu Mountain Alpine Meadow Scenery
An ecological painting composed of plateau meadow and wind turbine arrays

Malong District Two Days One Night Forest Wellness Journey

Canyon drifting + alpine hiking + forest exploration, experience the charm of central Yunnan's green lung

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Ma Guo River Scenic Area, Xianglu Mountain, Yehua Valley, Zhuge Nanshan
Suitable For
Outdoor Enthusiasts, Wellness Travelers, Photography Lovers, Families
Per Capita Budget
¥450-¥750
01
Canyon Wonder Experience
Water Sports
Itinerary Highlights

Drift Ma Guo River in the morning, summit Xianglu Mountain in the afternoon.

Attractions
Ma Guo River Scenic Area
A provincial-level scenic area, famous for canyon drifting. The river course spans 12 km, traversing 3 gorges and 9 rapids, with over 90% primeval forest coverage on both banks.
Xianglu Mountain
An alpine meadow landscape in central Yunnan, with the main peak at 2,010 meters above sea level, featuring 160,000 mu of alpine grassland and wind turbine arrays. Sea of clouds and sunrise can be viewed from the summit, with wildflowers covering the mountains in summer.
Malong Forest Park
The ecological heart of the city, a 3,000-mu natural oxygen bar featuring forest trails, viewing platforms, and outdoor adventure bases, showcasing the plant diversity of central Yunnan.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • Bring waterproof bags for drifting
  • Protect against UV at high altitudes
  • Bring a windproof jacket
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Xianglu Mountain stargazing tents
  • Ma Guo River forest cabins
  • Urban wellness resort hotels
02
Primeval Forest Exploration
Nature & Ecology
Itinerary Highlights

Hike Yehua Valley in the morning, savor Malong cuisine in the afternoon.

Attractions
Yehua Valley
A provincial-level nature reserve, a primeval forest canyon secret realm with crisscrossing streams and numerous waterfalls. Over 2,000 plant species grow here, earning it the title of "Central Yunnan Plant Gene Bank."
Zhuge Nanshan
An alpine meadow scenic area, legend says it was where Zhuge Liang stationed troops during his southern campaign. It now features ten-thousand-mu grasslands and a wind power generation field, where visitors can experience grass sliding and kite flying.
Malong Tusi Culture Garden
An Yi ethnic culture exhibition center, recreating the Tusi yamen architectural complex from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, displaying ethnic costumes and production tools. The Torch Festival celebration is held regularly.
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Forest stream tracing adventure
  • Grassland horse riding experience
  • Yi ethnic embroidery DIY
Return Trip Suggestions
  • Allow time for souvenir shopping
  • Wild mushroom dried gift boxes
  • Plateau honey souvenirs

Malong District Must-Try Foods

Shengou Chicken

A National Geographical Indication product, a unique native chicken breed from Malong, free-range in deep mountain valleys. The meat is firm and flavorful, suitable for braising, stewing, or steaming in an earthenware pot.

Malong Buckwheat Noodles

An intangible heritage traditional food, made from tartary buckwheat into thin strands, served cold or in soup. Rich in rutin, it is certified as a "Famous Yunnan Snack."

Wild Mushroom Hot Pot

A plateau specialty dish, featuring over 20 varieties of wild mushrooms including termite mushrooms and boletus, simmered in a broth made with Shengou Chicken. Rich, savory, and aromatic — a seasonal delicacy.

Malong District Travel Tips
Best Seasons
  • May-October: Best drifting season
  • July-September: Wild mushroom foraging season
  • March-May: Alpine meadow wildflower season
Ecological Protection
  • Do not pick protected plants
  • No fire or smoking during forest fire season
  • Do not disturb wildlife habitats
Outdoor Safety
  • Bring trekking poles for canyon hiking
  • Protect against UV at high altitudes
  • Hire a professional guide for exploration
Transportation Guide
  • Kunming to Malong: 1-hour expressway drive
  • Charter vehicle recommended between scenic spots
  • Sightseeing shuttles available at Forest Park
  • Off-road vehicle required for Yehua Valley