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Explore the stunning cave formations inside Zhaotong Lotus Cave, known for its unique stalactites and stalagmites. The cave offers a fantastic experience for adventurers and photographers, with opportunities for cave trekking and capturing the intricate natural formations. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and take a boat ride if available.
Lotus Cave is located on the banks of the Baishui River, 28 kilometers outside Yanjin County, Zhaotong City, along the Shizi-Niujie Road. Key attractions include Lotus Cave and Yuquan Palace. Lotus Cave is named for a massive jade lotus-shaped stalactite hanging from the cliffs. The cave's entrance resembles the heavens, while the grounds are flat and spacious, accommodating a hundred people. The cave is over 800 meters deep. Key attractions include the "Dragon Palace," the "Jade Golden Basin," the "Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon," the "Double Mountains Locking the Moon," and the "Viewing Hall."
Yuquan Palace: Located approximately 100 meters from Lotus Cave, it comprises three sections: the Yiqing Hall, the Hongzhu Ridge, and the Yaochi Palace. After entering the cave, descend a spiral staircase about 100 meters to the boundary between the Big and Small Yuquan Springs. Following the Small Yuquan Spring, visitors will find themselves surrounded by natural cliffs and stalactites. Entering through a natural stone gate reveals a spacious palace of stalactites.
Temperate monsoon climate; all seasons are suitable for travel.
Lotus Cave, Yuquan Palace;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Zhaotong Lotus Cave is famous for its exceptional karst limestone formations. It is believed to have formed over millions of years and holds significant geological importance. The cave’s name comes from the lotus-like shapes formed by stalactites and stalagmites, making it a unique natural wonder in the region.
Zhaotong Lotus Cave is located in Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. You can reach the cave by taxi or private car from Zhaotong’s city center. There are no metro services, and public buses may be limited, so a taxi is the most convenient option.
The cave is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during weekends or public holidays.
The entrance fee is generally around 50-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the cave or in nearby ticket booths. There is no option for online ticket booking at this time.
Advance booking is not necessary unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons. It’s usually fine to buy tickets on-site, but booking in advance is advisable during holidays or peak travel times to avoid long queues.
You can explore Zhaotong Lotus Cave in about 1 to 2 hours. The duration depends on how thoroughly you explore the cave’s different chambers and formations. If you’re also doing a boat ride, you may need additional time.
The main highlight of Zhaotong Lotus Cave is the impressive lotus-shaped stalactites and stalagmites that give the cave its name. Don’t miss the central cavern, which offers breathtaking views of the formations. The deeper chambers have more intricate formations, and some areas feature clear pools of water.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide detailed explanations of the cave’s geological formations. Audio guides are not commonly available, but a local guide can help enhance your visit by explaining the significance of various formations.
The best photography spots are at the central cavern and near the lotus-like formations. The lighting inside the cave can be dim, so it's recommended to bring a camera with good low-light capabilities for the best shots.
Start at the entrance and follow the marked path through the main chambers, taking your time to appreciate the unique formations. If a guide is available, consider following their recommended route for a more in-depth experience. End your visit with a stop at the boat area for a serene ride, if offered.
There are no night visits or light shows at Zhaotong Lotus Cave. The cave is primarily a daytime attraction, and lighting inside is natural or minimal, meant to highlight the formations without overpowering them.
The cave is generally not very crowded except during national holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas near the entrance. No food or drinks are typically available inside the cave, so it’s recommended to bring your own water or snacks if needed.
The paths inside the cave can be uneven and narrow in some places, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The cave is more suitable for visitors who are able to walk on uneven terrain.
Cash is commonly accepted at the ticket booth, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are often available in the nearby areas. It's advisable to carry some cash just in case.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the cave. However, Zhaotong city offers a variety of restaurants, including local Yunnan cuisine, which can be found just a short drive away from the cave.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most restaurants in Zhaotong. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found at select restaurants catering to Muslim dietary preferences.
There are several hotels in Zhaotong, ranging from budget to mid-range options. These are a short drive away from the Lotus Cave and offer convenient accommodation for visitors.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaotong Museum and several local parks. The nearby caves and natural reserves also make for great day trips if you’re interested in exploring more natural wonders.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the cave. However, in Zhaotong city, you can find local handicrafts, Yunnan tea, and other regional items as souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Zhaotong Lotus Cave is by taxi or private car. Public transport is available, but it may not be as convenient for tourists looking to explore other attractions in the area.
