Wulingyuan

Walk Summary

"One of the most remarkable geomorphogical  spectacles existing on earth", claims the United Nations. And they are not exaggerating. This 260 sq.km World Heritage Site is home to more than 3,000 Cretaceous sandstone towers and spires up to an extraordinary 300m high, as well as karst limestone features such a vast caves, sinkholes and chasms.

The area has been so remote (a 3 km tunnel has been built to give access) that it is a haven for rare plants and trees and an exciting selection of animals.

While it is now heaving with mainly local tourists, the area is so large that you can still get away to wander around the base of these weird formations and contemplate the wonders of nature in near peace.

It has to be said that Wulingyuan is a credit to the authorities, who have nurtured the area with great care as they brought it from its remote slumber. Unlike so many if China's great sites which have been wrecked - new understanding and sensibilities appear to be prevailing!

Not to be missed! Wulingyuan lies in the north-west of the central Hunan province, east of Chonqing and some 270km westward from Changsha.

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