Best Places to Visit in Kunming, China – Highlights of a Breathtaking Region

The intriguing Stone Forest is a wonder of nature located some distance away from the city of Kunming. You will see that this attraction which occupies a large extent of land contains a collection of karst features of many unusual shapes. In fact, these sizable rock formations look as if they protrude out of the ground like stalagmites, creating a distinctive sight for the visitor. The Stone Forest is so called due to the fact that many of these formations resemble trees that have magically turned to stone. These amazing formations are millions of years old and feature in the culture of the local people of the area.

Dianchi Lake is an appealing natural feature that is counted amongst Kunming's popular attractions. You will also encounter a number of interesting features located in proximity to this pleasant lake, including several ethnic villages, pagodas and temples. Dianchi Lake is considered to be one of China's larger freshwater lakes, stretching magnificently from the city to the countryside of Yunnan. During periods of mild weather, small vessels and fishing boats traverse the lake travelling from one village to another. The finest views of this picturesque lake can be obtained from the Western Hills located on its north-western shore.

Your tour of the natural attractions of Kunming would not be complete without visiting the scenic Western Hills. These hills are also known as the 'Sleeping Beauty Hills' and the 'Sleeping Buddha Hills' as they are thought to resemble a reclining figure when observed from some distance. You will find that the Western Hills boasts a pleasant environment featuring lush forestland with luxuriant flowers. The hills provide tourists with the opportunity to enjoy striking scenery and calm tranquillity on their visit to Kunming. Other attractions that you will find near these hills are the Dragon Gate, Huating Temple and Sanqing Pavilion.

If you enjoy cultural and religious attractions you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit the well-known Yuantong Temple. This renowned Buddhist shrine inherits a rich historical legacy, having been initially completed in the 9th century during the rule of the Tang Dynasty. However, the appearance of the temple today with its bridges, splendid halls and enclosed corridors is also the result of refurbishments conducted in later years. This temple is famed for its unusual structure and numerous features of interest. You will also find two mysterious caves in proximity to the temple which extend well into the adjacent mountain. A choice of accommodation to consider from which this temple would be within easy reach would be Grand Park Kunming, which is an easily accessible hotel in Kunming.

In Kunming, you will have the chance to explore the attractive Jiuxiang Scenic Area which is renowned for its distinctive caves, rivers, mountains, deep valleys and the unique culture and customs of the minority peoples who make their home here. The best-known attractions in this area are the Sanjiao Cave, Diehong Bridge, Dasha Dam, Mingyue Lake and the Alulong area where you will find some interesting ancient artworks. Jiuxiang is the native region of the Yi minority people who inherit a rich cultural legacy featuring interesting customs like worship and hunting festivals, bullfighting, love song competitions, dances and wrestling.