Stone Forest of Yunnan
By Parveen Ahmed
The Stone Forest, or Shilin, is among the most dramatic attractions in Chinas southwestern Yunnan Province.
It covers an area of 400 square kilometres (96,000 acres) and includes both large and small stone forests, as well as many other scenic spots.
Walking through the site, one cant help but marvel at the intricate formations of the natural stone masterpieces. Stone birds, animals, human figures, even giant knives jutting into the air, all sculpted by nature over millennia, can be discerned here. Some are elegant, some are rugged, but each is lifelike with its own distinguishing characteristics. Just let your imagination run wild!
The splendidly strange and steep landscape creates countless labyrinthine vistas, including Major Stone Forest, Minor Stone Forest and Naigu Stone Forest, all of which feature stones in various formations.
The Stone Forest is a typical example of karsts topography. According to geologists, approximately 270 million years ago - during the carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era - the region was a vast expanse of sea. Over time, the movements of the lithosphere gradually caused a retreat of the waters and the rise of the limestone landscape. Due to constant erosion by the elements, the area developed its present-day appearance.
Known since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) as the First Wonder of the World, Shilin is located in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County, about 120 km from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan.
Photos: PARVEEN AHMED
