Shilin Stone Forest in Kunming, China 2024-2025

Shilin, meaning "Stone Forest," is a remarkable natural wonder spanning 300 square kilometers in China's Yunnan province near Kunming. This unique area is entirely covered with nature-shaped karst formations, resembling a forest of stone. Scientists believe these towering, stalagmite-like pillars were formed over 270 million years ago through geological activity. Shilin comprises several distinct stone forests, with Naigu Stone Forest and Suogeyi Village being the most famous. Both sites are part of the South China Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best Season To Visit

For the best experience, it is recommended to visit Shilin Stone Forest between November and April, as the drier weather during this period makes it easier to explore the area. Conversely, the rainy season from May to October is a worse option due to heavy rains that can hinder exploration. Additionally, Shilin tends to be particularly crowded and expensive during peak times, such as the week-long Torch Festival in July or August, as well as the Labor Day (May 1st to 7th) and National Day (October 1st to 7th) holidays. Planning your visit outside these times ensures a more enjoyable and peaceful experience.

Location

Shilin Stone Forest is located in Yunnan province, China, about 78 kilometers from Kunming city center. By train, you can take a high-speed ride from Kunming South Station to Shilin West Station, which takes about 20 minutes. From there, Bus No. 99 will take you to the scenic area in 45-60 minutes for CNY 10 per person, or you can take a taxi for about 35 minutes at CNY 50. If traveling by bus, there are frequent services from Kunming East Bus Station to Shilin Scenic Area, taking around 1.5-2 hours and costing CNY 19 per person. The most convenient option is a private vehicle, which takes about 1.5 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off services.

Tickets & Open Hours

Shilin Stone Forest is open from 8 am to 6 pm from March to November and from 8 am to 5:30 pm from December to February. The typical visiting time is 3-4 hours. Tickets cost CNY 130 per person, and a battery car ride is available for an additional CNY 25.

The Greater and Lesser Stone Forests

The Shilin Scenic Area features stunning karst landscapes, with the Greater and Lesser Stone Forests at its core. The Greater Stone Forest is known for its towering stone peaks, while the Lesser Stone Forest offers intricate formations, including the iconic Ashima Statue. To the east, Bushao Hill is the highest peak, offering panoramic views and marine fossils. About 10 kilometers away, the Naigu Stone Forest is renowned for its gray-black stone peaks and pristine caves. The Changhu Scenic Area, 26 kilometers away, is a peaceful lake surrounded by mountains and forests, hosting local Yi festivals.

Torch Festival

The Torch Festival is a major celebration for the Yi people, held annually on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month in Shilin Yi Autonomous County. The festivities last for about three days and provide a deep dive into Yi culture, as well as the legends and history of the Stone Forest. During the celebration, visitors can enjoy a fire-lighting ritual and cultural performances and participate in lively bonfire parties with locals, complete with singing and dancing. Traditional competitions such as horse racing, bullfighting, archery, and wrestling also take place. The festival, typically celebrated in July or August, attracts large crowds, making exploration more challenging and accommodations more expensive.

Ashima Stone Legend

Ashima Stone is one of the most famous attractions in Shilin Stone Forest, named after a local legend. The story tells of a beautiful girl named Ashima who fell in love with a boy her family disapproved of. The couple eloped to the forest, where they were turned into stones. Ashima Stone is believed to be a sculptural likeness of the lovestruck girl. Visitors to Shilin Stone Forest can explore not only Ashima Stone but also a variety of other natural wonders, including limestone passages, caves, waterfalls, a pond with an island, and an underground river.