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Xiaocaoba Provincial Scenic Area is located in Xiaocaoba Town, the origin of Gastrodia elata in the world. Xiaocaoba Provincial Scenic Area is a famous tourist attraction in Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. The scenic area is located in the northeast of Yiliang County, Yunnan Province, 29 kilometers away from Yiliang County, more than 420 kilometers away from Kunming, 103 kilometers away from Zhaotong City, about 460 kilometers away from Chongqing, and about 208 kilometers away from Yibin, Sichuan. The scenic area covers an area of 163 square kilometers, spanning two counties (Yiliang County and Yanjin County) and four townships (Xiaocaoba Town, Lianghe Town, Longhai Town, and Miaoba Township).
The scenic area includes the Chaotianma Provincial Nature Reserve, boasting a forest coverage rate of 87.6%. The Xiaocaoba Provincial Scenic Area is a masterpiece of nature, integrating pristine forests, rivers, unique peaks, streams, waterfalls, cascading waterways, ponds, and stone forests, along with the customs of the Miao and Yi ethnic groups. It boasts a majestic, unique, dangerous, secluded, beautiful, and simple landscape. Not only is the area diverse in vegetation and biodiversity, but it also boasts numerous rare plants and animals, including over 1,200 species of higher plants and 96 species of wild vertebrates. There are 29 nationally protected rare and endangered plants, such as Davidia involucrata and Tetranychus chinensis; five provincially protected plants; 10 nationally precious tree species, such as Basswood and Taxus chinensis; and 16 nationally protected wildlife species, including black bears, macaques, and Golden Pheasants.
Xiaocaoba is the most beautiful paradise bestowed upon mankind by nature, a poetic "paradise on earth", a spiritual paradise for us to return to nature, and one of the preferred destinations for tourists. The ink-like landscape of Xiaocaoba is the essence and concentrated representative of Yunnan's tourism resources. With its distinctive and unique attraction, it will become a shining pearl of Yunnan's tourism industry in the 21st century.
Xiaocaoba boasts a subtropical plateau monsoon climate. Its scenery is captivating. In spring, you can admire the breathtaking beauty of flowers and the Ten-Mile Flower Stream. In summer, you can admire the cascading waterfalls, which are truly captivating. In autumn, you can enjoy the vibrant crimson leaves of the five-tooth maple forest. In winter, you can enjoy the enchanting sight of snow-covered rime and icicles. It's a great place to visit in all four seasons.
Chaotian Horse, Niujiao Rock Waterfall, Tianmen Pigeon Tree, Yanyan Rock Peak, Fairy Bathing Pool, etc.
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
68 yuan/person
7:00-17:00
Xiaocaoba Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty, combining lush greenery, rivers, and hills. The area is significant for its role in local culture and its importance as a tourist destination in Zhaotong, offering visitors a chance to explore both nature and history.
Xiaocaoba Scenic Area is located in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking to the site is possible if you are nearby, but it is more practical to use public transport or hire a car.
The area is open year-round, with opening hours typically from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local ticketing services, but online booking may also be available.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. You can buy tickets at the entrance or through online platforms a few days in advance.
A visit to Xiaocaoba Scenic Area typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the trails, cultural sites, and viewpoints.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides in other languages may not be provided, so hiring a local guide is advisable if you require information in other languages.
Start your visit with a walk through the main entrance and follow the scenic trails toward the viewpoints. Take time to explore the temples and cultural areas. End your visit with a peaceful boat ride if available.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Xiaocaoba Scenic Area. The area is primarily a daytime destination focused on outdoor activities.
The area can get moderately crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring.
There are basic facilities such as restrooms and water stations. Food and snacks may be available at local kiosks, but it's advisable to bring your own supplies if you plan to spend a long time exploring.
The area is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some of the trails may be steep. It might be challenging for those with disabilities, as some paths may not be fully accessible.
Cash is recommended for small purchases and donations, as not all vendors may accept cards or mobile payments, especially in more remote areas of the scenic area.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance to Xiaocaoba Scenic Area, offering traditional Yunnanese dishes. More dining options can be found in Zhaotong city center.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at local restaurants. Halal food may also be found in restaurants that cater to the Muslim community in Zhaotong.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Zhaotong city, which is a short drive from the scenic area. For more upscale accommodations, you can find options in the city center.
There are small souvenir shops selling local crafts and items, such as handmade jewelry, textiles, and traditional Yunnanese goods.
