Yuanmou Earth Forest
Discover a surreal landscape of towering earth pillars, sculpted by nature over millennia. A unique geological wonder in Yunnan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Yuanmou Earth Forest
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a surreal landscape of towering earth pillars, sculpted by nature over millennia. A unique geological wonder in Yunnan.
"It feels more spectacular than the Stone Forest. "
Train Schedule is Key
Book train tickets in advance, especially for return trips, to avoid long waits. :train_2:
Capture the Golden Hour
Visit in the late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views that illuminate the earth pillars. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eroded Earth Pillars
The main forest area
Towering, sculpted earth formations that resemble a surreal, alien landscape. Truly unique!
Sunset Views
Throughout the scenic area
Witness the earth pillars glow in the warm, golden light of the setting sun. Magical!
Ancient Skeletons Display
Near the entrance/visitor center
Discover ancient hominid fossils, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life in the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Train & Bus Combo
Best Time for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Train Schedule is Key
Book train tickets in advance, especially for return trips, to avoid long waits. :train_2:
Capture the Golden Hour
Visit in the late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views that illuminate the earth pillars.
Consider a Taxi
While buses are available, taxis offer more flexibility and comfort for exploring the area. :taxi:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Train Schedule is Key
Book train tickets in advance, especially for return trips, to avoid long waits. :train_2:
Capture the Golden Hour
Visit in the late afternoon for breathtaking sunset views that illuminate the earth pillars.
Consider a Taxi
While buses are available, taxis offer more flexibility and comfort for exploring the area. :taxi:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Yuanmou Earth Forest to be a charming and unique natural attraction, often compared favorably to more famous sites like the Stone Forest or Cappadocia. While it's considered less developed, its distinct earth pillar formations and the opportunity for stunning sunset photography are major highlights. Some note that it's not as famous as other attractions, but its charm and geological significance make it a worthwhile visit.
"not very famous spot"
XU SONG
"Depart from Kunming on the 8:00 AM train, get off at Yuanmoshe Station at 9:30 AM, and take a taxi to Tolin. After exploring Tolin, take the 2:28 PM train from Yuanmoshe Station and arrive in Kunming."
정경철
"From Kunming Station, take the train to Yuanmoshe Station. Take Bus No. 2 to the bus terminal in front of the station for 3 yuan (about $3 USD). (There are taxi drivers available—roundtrip fares range from 200 to 230 yuan, including a two-hour wait.) The bus arrives at the terminal in about 20 minutes. Take the Yuanmoshe round-trip bus at 9:20 AM (return at 12:30 PM for 12 yuan). It takes about 50 minutes to reach the terminal. Admission is 75 yuan, and the bus ride inside costs 10 yuan. Board the bus at the parking lot. While still underdeveloped, it's still quite charming. The cave's skeletons appear to be above ground."
김영환
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is to take an 8:00 AM train from Kunming Station to Yuanmoshe Station, arriving around 9:30 AM. From Yuanmoshe Station, you can take Bus No. 2 to the bus terminal, then a bus to the Earth Forest, or arrange a taxi for a round trip.
From Yuanmoshe Station, you can take Bus No. 2 to the bus terminal, then a dedicated bus to the Earth Forest (approx. 50 minutes). Taxis are also available for a round trip, typically costing between 200-230 yuan and including a waiting time.
Yes, there are scheduled buses from the Earth Forest back to Yuanmoshe Station, with return times usually around 12:30 PM. It's advisable to check the schedule upon arrival.
Yes, driving is an option. The scenic area is located about 40 minutes from Yuanmou city.
The train journey from Kunming to Yuanmoshe Station takes about 1.5 hours. The subsequent bus or taxi ride to the Earth Forest adds another 20-50 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is approximately 75 yuan.
Yes, there is a bus ride inside the park that costs around 10 yuan.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or with your tour operator for the most up-to-date information.
Online ticket purchasing options are not widely advertised. It's recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the park entrance.
📸 📸 Photography
The late afternoon, especially nearing sunset, offers the most spectacular lighting for capturing the earth pillars.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the formations, while a telephoto lens can help isolate interesting details. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots.
Drone regulations can change and vary by location in China. It's advisable to check with park authorities or local regulations before flying a drone.
The main area with the towering earth pillars and any vantage points offering panoramic views are highly recommended for photography.
Photography of the ancient skeletons is generally permitted, but always be respectful of the exhibits and any posted signage.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The terrain can be uneven with some rocky and sandy paths. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the main areas and take photos. If you're keen on photography, especially during sunset, plan for longer.
Basic facilities are usually available within the scenic area, including restrooms. Food options might be limited, so consider bringing snacks.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the unique landscape, but adult supervision is recommended due to the terrain.
Its distinct, sculpted earth pillars create a surreal, almost alien landscape that is different from typical karst formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water, as facilities might be basic. The opportunity to see ancient fossils also adds an educational element to the visit, making it a fun and informative outing for the whole family. Planning the trip around train schedules is key to avoid overtiring little ones.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grand scale of the landscape and a telephoto lens to focus on intricate details of the formations. +1Experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the surreal beauty of the site. The Yuanmou Man fossils also present unique photographic subjects, offering a blend of natural history and geology.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvel: The Earth Pillars
+1Visitors often compare it to surreal landscapes found elsewhere in the world, such as Cappadocia in Turkey or parts of the American Southwest, but with its own distinct charm. The sheer variety in shapes and sizes of the pillars makes for endless photographic opportunities.
The area is also significant for its paleontological discoveries, including the famous Yuanmou Man fossils, providing a glimpse into early human history in the region. Exploring the Earth Forest involves walking along designated paths that wind through these natural sculptures. The experience is often described as feeling like you've stepped onto another planet.
The scale and artistry of nature on display here are truly captivating, making it a worthwhile detour for those interested in natural landscapes and unique geological phenomena.Planning Your Day Trip from Kunming
Public buses are a budget-friendly option, but they operate on a schedule, so it's crucial to be aware of the departure and return times to avoid missing your train back to Kunming. Taxis offer more convenience and flexibility, allowing you to spend more time at the site, but at a higher cost.
To make the most of your day, aim to arrive at the Earth Forest by mid-morning. This allows ample time to explore the formations and capture photographs, especially if you plan to stay until late afternoon to witness the sunset. Remember to factor in the travel time back to Yuanmoshe Station to catch your return train to Kunming.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit