Wulong Karst National Geology Park (武隆喀斯特地质公园), located in Wulong District, Chongqing, China, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its unique karst geological formations. This park showcases a diverse range of karst features, including mesmerizing limestone caves, expansive sinkholes, winding underground rivers, deep canyons, towering limestone peaks, and lush alpine meadows, creating a comprehensive tapestry of natural beauty.
Wulong Karst National Geology Park isn’t just a geological wonderland; it also offers a plethora of recreational and leisure activities. Visitors can engage in various outdoor pursuits like hiking, trekking, and exploring the extensive network of caves. Additionally, the park celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the region, featuring the unique traditions of ethnic minorities such as the Tujia, Miao, and Gelao people.
This park’s harmonious blend of stunning landscapes, adventure, and cultural diversity makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those interested in experiencing the vibrant traditions of China’s ethnic minorities.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of the National Geology Park
- Map and Recommended Route
- Vlog about Wulong Karst National Geology Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 days |
| Ticket Price | 1st March – 31st October: Furong Cave: 150 RMB Fairy Mountain: 50 RMB Three Natural Bridges: 125 RMB Longshuixia Gap: 105 RMB 1st November – 28th February: Furong Cave: 135 RMB Fairy Mountain: 50 RMB Three Natural Bridges: 95 RMB Longshuixia Gap: 85 RMB |
| Opening Hour: | Furong Cave: 8.30 – 17.00 (1st May – 31st August) 8.30 – 16.30 (1st September – 30th April the next year) Fairy Mountain: 8.30 – 16.30 Three Natural Bridges: 8.00 – 17.00 (1st March – 31st October) 9.00 – 16.00 (1st November – 28th February) Longshuixia Gap: 8.30 – 17.00 (1st May – 31st May) 8.00 – 17.00 (1st June – 31st August) 8.30 – 16.30 (1st September – 30th April the next year) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-4000235666 |
Location and Transportation
Wulong Karst National Geology Park is situated in the Wulong District of Chongqing Municipality, which is located in the southwestern part of China. Chongqing is a major city with provincial-level administrative status and is known for its unique geography, nestled between steep mountains and the Yangtze River.
Tourists from Chongqing can first take a high-speed train or coach to Wulong and then transfer to a local bus to the Fairy Town Tourist Center (仙女镇游客中心), which takes about 50 minutes. Here, shuttle buses will take you to the different attractions. Or you can sign up for a one-day tour at a travel agency and leave everything to it.
Highlights of the National Geology Park
Furong Cave
Furong Cave, located within Wulong Karst National Geology Park, is a natural wonder spanning 2,700 meters in length. It is renowned for its remarkable features, including a multitude of vertical shafts, diverse cave formations, pristine textures, and impeccable shapes. What sets Furong Cave apart is its extensive collection of vertical shafts, making it the largest vertical shaft cluster ever discovered worldwide. Visitors to Furong Cave can explore its mesmerizing underground world, marveling at the intricate limestone formations and the awe-inspiring beauty created by millions of years of geological processes. This subterranean adventure offers a unique and captivating experience within the enchanting Wulong Karst landscape.
Fairy Mountain
Fairy Mountain, nestled within Wulong Karst National Geology Park, covers an expansive 8,910 hectares and boasts an average elevation of 1,900 meters, with its highest peak reaching 2,033 meters. This natural gem is celebrated for its enchanting high-altitude meadows, rare southern snow-covered forests, and the serene beauty of lush greenery. Often dubbed the “Eastern Switzerland,” Fairy Mountain offers a unique allure with its cool climate, consistently 15 degrees cooler than Chongqing’s urban center. This has earned it the nickname “Mountain City Summer Palace,” making it a popular destination to escape the heat and revel in the picturesque landscapes of the Wulong Karst region.
Three Natural Bridges
Wulong Karst National Geology Park is home to three magnificent natural bridges: Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge. These awe-inspiring stone arch bridges are celebrated as one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in Asia and constitute the largest cluster of natural bridges on the continent.
Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge showcase the grandeur of nature’s craftsmanship, formed over millions of years through geological processes. Their sheer size, spectacular arches, and the lush surroundings make them a breathtaking sight to behold and a testament to the stunning karst landscapes found within Wulong Karst National Geology Park. Visitors are captivated by the beauty and scale of these natural marvels.
Longshuixia Gap
Longshuixia Gap, located within Wulong Karst National Geology Park, is a geological marvel shaped by ancient tectonic movements millions of years ago. This 5-kilometer-long canyon plunges to depths of 200 to 500 meters, showcasing quintessential karst topography. On either side of the gap, towering cliffs and precipitous rock walls create a dramatic and breathtaking landscape. The vegetation is lush and thriving, contrasting with the rugged terrain. Longshuixia Gap is famous for its incredibly narrow crevices, adding an element of thrilling adventure for those who explore this extraordinary natural wonder. The gap’s geological history and stunning vistas make it a must-see attraction within the park.
Map and Recommended Route
To visit Wulong Karst National Geology Park, you can choose from two main routes:
- Easy Route (A Line):
- Tian Sheng San Qiao (Natural Three Bridges)
- Xian Nv Mountain National Forest Park
- Wujiang Gallery Viewing Platform
- More Intense Route (B Line):
- Tian Sheng San Qiao (Natural Bridges)
- Longshuixia Gap
- Wujiang Gallery Viewing Platform
The best times to visit Wulong are during the spring and autumn seasons, specifically from March to May and September to November. During these periods, the climate is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and providing the best overall experience.
Vlog about Wulong Karst National Geology Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Accommodation: There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels in Xianv Town, making it convenient for accommodation. Ensure to book in advance for a comfortable stay.
Check Weather Forecast: Weather in Wulong can be unpredictable and varies with seasons. Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for fluctuating temperatures. Bring extra layers of clothing to stay warm, especially if the weather turns unexpectedly cold.
Sightseeing Sequence: Start your tour by visiting Tiankeng Three Natural Bridges before exploring Longshuixia Gap (Dragon’s Sinkhole) to avoid doubling back. Buses are available to transport visitors from Tiankeng Three Bridges to Longshuixia, and the fare is typically included in the ticket price, making it convenient and efficient.
Group Tours: Joining a guided tour can be advantageous, especially if you’re traveling from out of town to Xianv Town Visitor Center. Guides typically arrange accommodation and transportation from the visitor center to nearby hotels. Once settled, you’ll have the freedom to explore the attractions at your own pace, using public transportation or private vehicles.
