Journey to southwest China and escape from the searing heat of summer and the frozen chill of winter, with a region that offers perennial springtime. Known as the Spring or Flower City, Kunming is covered with fragrant blossoms all year round and never gets too hot or too cold.
The landscape in Kunming is spectacular, offering a dramatic contrast between deep caves and towering mountain peaks. The red land, snowy summits and soft floral scenery are so beautiful, they attract photographers from all over the globe.
Kunming has far more than just a memorable vista though, with a stone forest, ancient Buddhist temple and bamboo forest all among its top attractions.
Sandhills Travel can help you to plan the perfect trip around Kunming, wherever you want to visit. Whether you’re hoping for unique photographic opportunities in Dongchuan Red Land or the chance to meditate in Yuantong Temple, an expert tour guide can create a personalised itinerary for your pleasure.
Indulge Your Senses
Kunming is a treat for the senses. The soft fragrance of the blooms combined with the quiet tranquility of bamboo forests and the eerie red landscape make the whole area feel almost otherworldly. The Stone Forest Geopark is the only karst stone forest to exist in a subtropical plateau region anywhere in the world. With karst caves, giant stone formations and waterfalls, the forest won’t just appeal to fans of geology.
The shapes of the stones are intricate and fascinating. You’ll find mushrooms, cones, pagodas and even animals and human figures all shaped out of stone. Legend says that a beautiful girl, Ashima, was swept away by a flood, turned into stone and now guards over the local people in the form of Ashima Rock.
If you’re spending a day in central Kunming, Green Lake Park is a must-see. A real emerald rising out of the metropolis, there are four islands and lakes, each with their own distinct character. Feed the koi carp, watch traditional plays or stroll through the bamboo forest – it’s the perfect spot for a picnic!
Culture vultures and history buffs will love Yuantong Temple in the northern part of Kunming. An ancient Buddhist temple that was built during the Tang Dynasty, it is particularly unusual as the great hall is the lowest point and visitors pass through the main entrance from above.
Avoid the Crowds
As Kunming offers a spring climate all year round, you can choose when to visit. A tour guide will help you avoid the crowds at popular locations such as the temple, and also navigate through the vast landscapes to find the most striking views to enjoy.