Nestled in the outskirts of Chongqing, the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley (武陵山大裂谷) is a geological masterpiece that spans an impressive 29.96 square kilometers. This stunning landscape is a prime example of the unique karst topography found in the southern part of China, featuring a myriad of cliffs, dramatic peaks, and deep crevices. At its core lies a pristine, 10-kilometer-long natural canyon with a river meandering through the valley floor, where an assortment of bizarre rocks and natural wonders unfold. The region is also known for its extensive underground caves and subterranean rivers, contributing to the mystical and awe-inspiring aura.
The Great Rift Valley of Wuling Mountain is a testament to the remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty of this region. This area thrives under a subtropical humid monsoon climate, characterized by mild winters with average temperatures above freezing in January, and pleasant, cool summers with July temperatures hovering around 22 degrees Celsius. This climate provides the perfect backdrop for visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders throughout the year.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of the Great Rift Valley
- Vlog about Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Fuling District
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 145 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 15.30 (1st November – 31st March) 8.30 – 16.00 (1st April – 31st October) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-023-72701503 |
Location and Transportation
The Wuling Great Rift Valley is situated within the territory of Wuling Township, approximately 40 kilometers to the southeast of Fuling District in Chongqing, China. This stunning location can be found at the northwest tip of the Wuling Mountain Range, on the eastern bank of the lower reaches of the Wu River (乌江).
To get to the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley in Chongqing:
- Start at Chongqing Jiangbei Hongqihegou Bus Station.
- Take a long-distance bus to Fuling Passenger Transportation Center (approximately 90 minutes, with buses departing before 18:30).
- Transfer to a Wuling Mountain Tourist Area special shuttle bus or take a Wuling Mountain Township bus to reach the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley.
Highlights of the Great Rift Valley
Small Kuimen
One of the most iconic landmarks in the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley is “Small Kuimen” (小夔门). Situated in the eastern part of the park at an elevation of 1,200 meters, Small Kuimen is a testament to the power of wind and water erosion on limestone rock formations. The cliff faces resemble meticulously carved stone, exhibiting a stunning array of colors, including white, red, yellow, and brown. These hues, combined with the interplay of the morning and evening light, create a visual spectacle that leaves visitors in awe. The juxtaposition of the vibrant colors with the backdrop of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and skylines is truly a sight to behold.
Mangshe Mountain
“Mangshe Mountain” (蟒蛇山), located in the middle section of the valley, at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 meters, is another remarkable feature. The mountain, aptly named due to its resemblance to a giant python, showcases the differential weathering of various rock types. Softer mudstone and mud-gray limestone erode more easily, creating recessed terrain, while harder limestone exhibits excellent resistance to weathering, resulting in protruding features that form undulating mountain peaks resembling a giant snake.
Copper and Iron Wall
One of the most captivating spectacles in the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley is the “Copper and Iron Wall” (铜墙铁壁), located in the eastern section of the park on Bodaoling Mountain. This extraordinary geological formation is a fault within the karst landscape, characterized by its iron-colored cliffs. When bathed in sunlight, these cliffs glisten with a brilliant golden sheen, thus earning their poetic moniker. The cliffs themselves rise vertically for thousands of meters and possess a knife-edge smoothness that is a rare sight in China. Additionally, embedded within these walls are marine fossilized shells, further attesting to the geological history preserved in this area.
Qingtian Gorge Fissure
The “Qingtian Gorge Fissure” (青天峡地缝) is another geological wonder within the valley. This winding chasm stretches for 1,500 meters, with its narrowest section being less than 2 meters wide. Towering cliffs on either side of the fissure reach heights of 300 to 700 meters, creating a breathtaking, almost claustrophobic atmosphere. The gorge is adorned with peculiar rock formations and countless stalactites, some areas separated by mere feet. On clear days, when the rain has passed and the midday sun shines brightly, the sunlight piercing through the fissure creates a mesmerizing “One-Meter Sunshine” phenomenon as it refracts off the flowing water and the walls of the chasm. This extraordinary display of light and shadow is a testament to the enchanting natural beauty found within the Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley.
Vlog about Wuling Mountain Great Rift Valley
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Estimated Duration and Distance: Plan for about four to five hours to explore the entire area. The total walking distance is approximately 12 kilometers, including a segment where you’ll take a cable car, an electric car, and two shuttle buses. Prepare comfortable walking shoes and adequate water for the journey.
Encounters with Wildlife: While trekking along Yunmeng Creek, you may encounter sporadic appearances of wild monkeys. These monkeys are generally not aggressive towards humans and won’t attempt to block or rob you. However, maintain a respectful distance and avoid provoking them.
Transportation from Fuling (Gaoshan Bay Hub) to Wuling Mountain: The journey from Fuling to Wuling Mountain takes about 90 minutes. There are several departure times for buses:
- Departures to Wuling Mountain: 8:20 AM, 9:50 AM, 1:20 PM, 4:20 PM
- Returns to Fuling: 6:20 AM, 7:20 AM, 10:20 AM, 1:50 PM
Weather Considerations: On clear days, the scenery is spectacular. Even on rainy days, the landscape transforms into a different kind of beauty, resembling a fairyland with miniature waterfalls scattered throughout the valley.
Facilities and Services: The valley is equipped with amenities such as food stalls and service areas spaced at regular intervals along the route. Restrooms are also strategically located for convenience.
