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Explore the Nanshan Transnational Cave's impressive rock formations, visit the underground river, and take a guided tour to learn about the cave’s geology and history. It's a great place for hiking, photography, and nature walks in the surrounding forest.
Nanshan Transnational Cave, located 3 kilometers southeast of the national second-level port of Nanshan, is a major cave in the Shihuaping Cave complex. It's named because it spans two countries. The cave stretches 2 kilometers and boasts a unique and captivating landscape. About 2 kilometers inside, you'll reach the exit to Kokang County, the first Shan State Special Administrative Region of Myanmar.
Outside the cave, mountains stretch in all directions, ravines are deep, and vegetation is dense. Inside, the scenery is colorful, with strange rocks and unique natural landscapes. It is a rare karst cave in the world. Due to its unique geographical location and strong viewing value, it is known as the "Underground Dragon Palace" and contains countless alluring reverie.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate has a small temperature difference between the four seasons, distinct dry and wet seasons, and significant vertical changes. There is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
The Nanshan Transnational Cave has five sub-caves: Pipa Cave, Gengma Cave, Princess Cave, Mubang Cave, and Mali Cave. Princess Cave crosses the border, leaving two caves (Pipa Cave and Gengma Cave) in China and two (Mubang Cave and Mali Cave) in Myanmar. The cave is 2 kilometers long and boasts a unique landscape with numerous unusual rock formations and a unique natural landscape.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
20 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
The Nanshan Transnational Cave is a natural limestone cave known for its stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. It holds historical significance as a geological wonder and a prime example of karst topography in the region.
The cave is located in Nanshan, Lincang, Yunnan Province. You can reach the site by taxi or private vehicle from Lincang city, which is approximately an hour away. There are no direct metro or bus routes to the cave.
The cave is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry months (autumn and spring) when the weather is mild. Avoid peak tourist seasons (summer and national holidays) for a more relaxed experience.
The entrance fee is approximately 60-80 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. Online ticket booking may also be available through local tourism platforms.
Booking in advance is not required but recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead should suffice to secure your visit.
You can explore the Nanshan Transnational Cave in 1 to 2 hours. If you're planning to hike or take photographs of the surrounding forest, allow for additional time.
Highlights include the main cave chamber with stunning stalactites, the underground river, and the narrow passageways. The formations are particularly beautiful, making for excellent photography opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may speak basic English. Audio guides may not be available, so it’s recommended to join a group tour for the best experience.
The best photography spots are the large chambers with stalactites and stalagmites, especially when illuminated by the cave’s lights. The entrance to the cave also offers great views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Start at the cave entrance and follow the marked pathways to the main chamber. Take time to explore the smaller passageways and admire the unique formations along the way. The underground river can be visited at the end of the tour.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered. However, the cave’s internal lighting creates a beautiful atmosphere for photography during daylight hours.
The cave can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially in the morning when the cave opens.
There are basic facilities at the entrance, including toilets and small rest areas. You’ll find food stalls offering snacks and beverages. It’s advisable to bring your own water for the cave tour.
The cave has some stairs and narrow passageways, making it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the visit, but should be supervised due to the slippery and uneven ground inside the cave.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller vendors or at the cave entrance, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payments.
There are a few local eateries and tea houses near the entrance to the cave, serving traditional Yunnan cuisine. More dining options can be found in Lincang city.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at nearby restaurants, offering vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited, so it’s best to check with local eateries in advance.
There are several hotels in Lincang city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. You can also find guesthouses closer to the cave entrance for a more authentic experience.
Nearby attractions include Wulaoshan Forest Park and Lushi Ancient Town. Both are easily accessible from Nanshan and can be combined in a day trip for a diverse experience of natural and cultural sites.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the cave entrance selling local handicrafts, Yunnan teas, and small trinkets. Typical souvenirs include hand-carved items and local textiles.
Taxis are the most convenient option for continuing your trip. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or rent a car to explore nearby attractions in Lincang.
