Lunan is a popular tourist destination in Yunnan Province, best known for the nearby Stone Forest, Shilin. It is around 100kms southeast of the provincial capital, Kunming, and is accessed by bus.
There’s no reason for visiting Lunan other than to access the Stone Forest and for somewhere to stay close by. The main attraction is the Stone Forest (Shilin), which was originally on the seabed and was created through tectonic rumblings and subsequent erosion.
The rocks have striking shapes and go from 5 to 30 meters in height, covering an area of around 26,000 hectares. Only 80 hectares are open to the public. Lunan’s Stone Forest rocks come with titles like Ten Thousand Year Mushroom, Camel Riding on Elephant, Buddha Stone, and Rhinoceros Looking at the Moon.
There are three sections to it: the Lesser Stone Forest (Xiao Shilin), near Shilin Lake; the Greater Stone Forest (Da Shilin), to the south; and the Outer Stone Forest (Wai Shilin). Lotus Peak and Sword Tip Pond are the nicest parts, especially at sunset.
Getting There & Away
The G324 and 326 highways serve Lunan from Kunming in about 2 hours by bus. Kunming International Airport is 100kms from Lunan (located southeast of the city) and is a 3-hour flight from Beijing.
Things to Do
Lunan Attractions
- Summit View Pavilion (Wang Feng Ting)
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Has the best views of the stone forest and is an amazing sight at sunset.
- Greater and Lesser Stone Forest
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The two main parts for visitors feature otherworldly shapes and adjoin one another. the lesser stone forest also comes with lawns for sitting.
Side trips from Lunan
- Outer Stone Forest
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More of the same lying farther out, the greater portion of which is inaccessible to tourists. look out for lion hill.
Events
- Torch Festival
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Takes place every june with traditional activities like bullfighting and dancing by the yi minority.