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Explore the vast underground tunnels of Swallow Cave, which are renowned for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is perfect for adventurous hiking and photography. Additionally, the area is great for birdwatching, particularly during the swallows' migration season.
Jianshui Swallow Cave, located in eastern Jianshui County, comprises natural woodlands, dry caves, and water caves. The scenic area is primarily known for its natural wonders, diverse stalactites, and the annual migration and return of swallows from May to July. For a breathtaking natural spectacle, Jianshui Swallow Cave is an excellent destination.
The front half of Swallow Cave is an 800-meter-long water cave, offering magnificent scenery and a variety of stalactites. It's the highlight of the scenic area, accessible by boat. As its name suggests, Jianshui Swallow Cave is best known for its swallows. Millions of swifts nest here each year from May to July. During these times, flocks can be seen leaving and returning to their nests before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., truly experiencing the essence of Swallow Cave.
Swallow Cave is renowned for its unique landscapes, including its ancient caves, flocks of swallows, stalactites with hanging plaques, and the art of bird's nest harvesting. Outside the cave, ancient and rare trees grow among the steep cliffs, and over 30,000 square meters of lush natural forest is home to dozens of bird species. Hundreds of thousands of white-rumped swifts nest in the rock faces inside and outside the cave, giving the cave its name. Every spring and summer, flocks of swallows descend like a volley of arrows, filling the cave with a ceaseless chorus of chirping. Their calls, mingling with the gurgling of water, resonate within the cave, creating a symphony of karst cave music that resonates throughout the valley.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for visiting any season, from January to December. The cave is cool and pleasant in the summer, while the warmth in the depths of winter is a hallmark of Swallow Cave.
Lujiang River, karst cave landscape, water cave tour;
It is recommended to visit for half a day
Combination ticket for Confucian Temple, Zhu Family Garden and Swallow Cave: 133 yuan per person
Swallow Cave single ticket 80 yuan/person
09:00-17:00
Swallow Cave is famous for its striking natural rock formations and its role as a habitat for swallows. The cave has been a site of fascination for geologists and tourists alike due to its unique structure and the presence of rich biodiversity within the cave system.
Swallow Cave is located in the Red River region of Yunnan, China. To reach the cave, take a bus or taxi from the nearest town, Gejiu, which is about 30 minutes away. Private cars and taxis are also common ways to reach the site.
The cave is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the cave's interior is accessible and comfortable. Avoid visiting during the rainy season due to potential flooding risks inside the cave.
The entrance fee for Swallow Cave is approximately 50-80 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or online through various travel platforms like Ctrip for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it's recommended during peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese holidays). Booking a few days in advance should suffice, but it’s always safer to confirm availability ahead of time.
You’ll need about 2-3 hours to explore the cave thoroughly, including walking through the cave system, observing the stalactites, and taking time for photography. If you want to explore the surrounding area as well, you may need half a day.
The must-see areas include the main cave chambers filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the birdwatching spots where you can observe swallows in their natural habitat. The cave's entrance and the surrounding rocky formations are also popular for photography.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may offer services in English. Audio guides are also available in Chinese, but for non-Chinese speakers, it is recommended to hire a guide for a more comprehensive understanding of the cave's history and geology.
The best photography spots are near the cave entrance and around the stalactites and stalagmites. Another great spot is where the swallows nest, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography. The surrounding landscape outside the cave also offers stunning views for wide-angle shots.
Start with a visit to the cave's entrance and proceed along the path that leads you into the heart of the cave. Spend time admiring the unique rock formations and stalactites. Afterward, walk towards the birdwatching area to see the swallows in action before exiting the cave. You can also explore the nearby trails for scenic views of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Swallow Cave. The cave is primarily a daytime attraction, with the best time for exploration being during daylight hours. Special tours may be arranged by local tour operators.
Swallow Cave can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit for weekdays or during off-peak months (March, April, or October). Early morning visits also tend to be less crowded.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and water are available at the entrance to the cave. There are no significant shops within the cave itself, so it is advisable to bring snacks and water if you plan on spending an extended amount of time exploring the area.
The cave may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and narrow paths inside. It is advisable for visitors with mobility issues to consult with the site staff before visiting to determine which areas are accessible.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used and recommended for convenience. Credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.
There are a few local restaurants and food stalls near the cave entrance, offering traditional Yunnan dishes. However, dining options within the cave complex are limited, so it is advisable to eat before or after visiting the site.
Vegetarian food options are available in the nearby restaurants, with local vegetarian dishes typical of Yunnan cuisine. Halal food may be limited in the area, but larger towns like Gejiu may offer more variety.
There are a few guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Gejiu, which is the nearest town. For more options, you can stay in larger cities like Kunming, which is about 5-6 hours away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Red River Valley, where you can explore local villages and scenic spots. Gejiu city itself offers cultural landmarks like the Gejiu Museum and local tea plantations. These can be easily combined in a day trip.
Yes, souvenir shops around the entrance sell local crafts, including hand-woven textiles, carved wooden items, and locally made jewelry. Tea and traditional Yunnan ethnic clothing are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Swallow Cave, you can continue your trip to Gejiu city for more sightseeing. From Gejiu, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby towns or catch a bus to Kunming. Private car hire is also an option for greater flexibility.
