Overview:

Shilin Stone Forest is a scenic and historic site located in the Chinese province of Yunnan about 120 km (75 mi) from Kunming. It is a set of limestone formations in a karst landscape, one of the most famous examples of this type of topography in the world. It is composed of tall limestone pillars, many of which have been eroded into strange shapes and resemble animal or human figures. The site is divided into several scenic spots such as Major Stone Forest, Lesser Stone Forest, High Peak and Water-viewing Cave. It is also home to many species of plants and wildlife. The Stone Forest was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in China
Prominent Features:

The Shilin Stone Forest, also known as the Karst Stone Forest in Yunnan, is one of the most unique geological wonders of the world. Located in the Shilin Yi Autonomous County of the Yunnan Province of China, it is also known as the “First Wonder of the World”. A series of limestone formations resembling a massive stone forest, the Shilin Stone Forest dates back to 200 million years ago. It forms part of the greater Stone Forest Scenic Area, which covers an area of roughly 400 square kilometres. The Shilin Stone Forest is renowned for its unique karst formation, formed by centuries of intermittent wind and rain erosion, turning the otherwise horizontal strata of the limestone bed into towering pinnacles. The formation of this unique stone forest is usually divided into three stages – the Primordial, Middle Summer and Final Eras, representing the various levels of transformation that the limestone bed has undergone over time in order to form its current landscape. The area is home to three distinct ecosystems – the karst lake, the evergreen dry hill and the densely wooded valley. Filled with unique natural scenery, the varied landscape and scenery of the Stone Forest offer visitors a truly captivating experience. The area is home to numerous spectacular sights, including fantastical limestone formations, unique flora and fauna, peaceful karst lakes, crystal-clear rivers and breathtaking vistas. Visitors to the area can also explore the nearby Mu Palace, the legendary home of Meihua, the eighth Tinio Kayan princess. The entire scenic area has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2007. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in China.

History:

The Shilin Stone Forest is a natural limestone formation located in the Yunnan province of China. The formation is believed to be more than 270 million years old and is made up of many rocky spires, cliffs, caves, and strange formations, making it look like a series of stone forests. UNESCO has named the Shilin Stone Forest as a World Natural Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. Legend states that during the reign of the 9th King of the Nanzhao Kingdom (738–902 AD), a group of fairies descended from the sky to the Kunming area. They were so amazed by the beautiful scenery of the area that they decided to stay. But one day, the Lord of Heaven saw them playing and decided to punish them by turning them into stones. The Stone Forest localizes the Kunming people’s legendary love story: in which a beautiful girl named Ashima is kidnapped by a monster and is rescued by her brave beau, Ahei. The romantic tale has been passed from one generation to next and is still celebrated by locals by enacting a play during a festival. The Stone Forest is managed by the Shilin Stone Forest Administration Bureau, a government organization that provides tourism and environmental protection services. Over the years, the Bureau has been involved in scientific research, technical development, and educational activities to further protect and preserve the forest. Visit one of the famous monuments of China with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Shilin Stone Forest is one of the most popular tourist attractions in China's Yunnan Province and it's easy to understand why. It's a beautiful and unique natural limestone formation featuring groups of stirkly limestone pillars and rock formations that resemble a forest of petrified trees. 2. The Shilin Stone Forest is estimated to be over 270 million-years-old. It is said to have formed during the Paleozoic Era in the Early Triassic period. 3. The area has many geographical attractions including mountains, waterfalls and lakes. The Stone Forest is made up of more than 300 different kinds of stone formations. 4. The Stone Forest has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. 5. The area is home to a variety of wildlife including bears, monkeys, pheasants, and a variety of amphibians and insects. 6. There are many legends associated with the Stone Forest, including the legend of Ashima, which tells the story of a beautiful young girl who was turned to stone by a magical power and turned into a pillar of the Stone Forest. One of the historical monuments of China, it tells the story of a bygone era