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In Maolan Karst Forest Reserve, visitors can explore the unique karst landscape, hike through the forest, and enjoy the biodiversity of the area. Popular activities include trekking along scenic trails, visiting caves, and birdwatching. The reserve is perfect for nature lovers and photographers, offering stunning views and a tranquil environment.
Maolan, located in Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province, has a karst landscape that is unique in my country and even in the world. The various mountain and water scenes, underground caves and green forest scenery blend together to present a perfect natural scenery, earning it the reputation of "mountain and water aristocracy".
Over 500 tree species grow here, including rare species such as the living fossil ginkgo and tulip tree. In addition to these rare plants, the area also preserves numerous ancient wildlife, including musk deer, macaques, musk deer, and South China tigers. Beyond the scenic mountain scenery, the Yao Ancient Village, the Buyi Village, and the Laqiao Water Village are scattered throughout, offering authentic ethnic customs and performances. In winter, Maolan is bathed in the vibrant colors of plum blossoms.
Best in summer
The reserve also includes Xiangshui River Waterfall, Xiaoqikong, caves, Yuanyang Lake, Daqikong, Yao ethnic customs, and scenic spots such as crossing the primeval forest.
Recommended number of days for visiting: 1-2 days
Tickets: 50 RMB (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
Half-price tickets: Students, senior citizens over 60 years old, and active military personnel
Free of charge: Press card holders, travel agency general manager qualification holders, tour guides, persons with disabilities, senior citizens over 70 years old, and children under 1.2 meters in height are exempt from the ticket.
Tips:
Insurance 5 yuan
8:00-18:00
The Maolan Karst Forest Reserve is famous for its unique karst topography and diverse ecosystem. It is an important ecological and scientific reserve, contributing to biodiversity conservation in the region. The reserve is home to rare species of flora and fauna and provides valuable research opportunities for karst landforms and ecosystems.
Maolan Karst Forest Reserve is located in Guiding County, Guizhou Province, China. The reserve is accessible by taxi or private vehicle from nearby cities like Libo. Public transportation options may include buses, but they can be less frequent. It’s recommended to hire a local guide for ease of navigation in the rural area.
The reserve is open year-round, but the best times to visit are from April to October, when the weather is mild and the flora is at its most vibrant. Avoid the rainy season (June to August), as trails may become slippery and difficult to navigate. The best time for photography is early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting.
The entrance fee to Maolan Karst Forest Reserve is typically around 40-50 CNY, depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some local travel agencies may offer packages that include transportation and guided tours.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, as the reserve is not usually crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons (such as the Chinese National Holiday in October), it's advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines and ensure availability for tours.
To fully explore the Maolan Karst Forest Reserve, visitors will need at least a full day (6-8 hours). This allows time for hiking, visiting the main attractions, and exploring the surrounding landscape. If you plan to visit the caves or take part in specialized tours, additional time may be needed.
The must-see highlights of Maolan Karst Forest Reserve include the karst peaks, lush forests, and the unique limestone formations. The reserve is also known for its rich biodiversity, including rare plants and bird species. Other notable spots include the Maolan Village and the nearby caves that offer fascinating geological formations.
Guided tours are available and highly recommended for those looking to learn about the geological formations, biodiversity, and the area's history. Guides are typically available in Mandarin, but some may offer tours in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are not commonly offered.
The best viewpoints in the reserve are from the karst peaks, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding forest and limestone formations. The caves and rock formations also offer dramatic backdrops for photography. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for landscape photography.
Start by exploring the main entrance and walking along the designated trails. The routes will take you through the forest, offering opportunities to observe the karst landscape and wildlife. A popular route includes a visit to the caves, followed by a trek up to a viewpoint for stunning views of the entire area. Finish your visit by exploring Maolan Village.
Night visits are generally not available at Maolan Karst Forest Reserve, as the park is designed for daytime exploration. However, you can enjoy the tranquility of the forest during the evening if you're staying in nearby accommodations. Special tours may be available for larger groups or educational purposes, but they are not typically offered to individual visitors.
The reserve is generally not very crowded, except during national holidays or peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or off-season months (March-April or November-December). Early mornings or late afternoons are also quieter times.
The park has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas along the trails. Food and water can be purchased at the entrance or from vendors near Maolan Village. There are no large shops inside the reserve, so it’s recommended to bring your own supplies, especially if you plan to hike extensively.
The trails at Maolan Karst Forest Reserve can be challenging, with uneven terrain and steep sections. Therefore, the reserve may not be very suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are shorter and less strenuous trails near the entrance that can be accessed by families with young children.
Cash is still widely accepted in the reserve, especially at smaller vendors. However, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used at ticket counters and larger stores in nearby areas, making it easier for visitors who prefer not to carry cash.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the reserve itself. However, the nearby Maolan Village offers several local restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Guizhou cuisine, including rice noodles, spicy dishes, and local snacks.
Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants near Maolan Village, although vegan options may be limited. Halal food may be harder to find, as the area is not known for serving this type of cuisine.
There are a few guesthouses and eco-lodges near Maolan Karst Forest Reserve, offering basic amenities and local-style accommodations. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Libo or nearby cities like Guiyang, which are well-connected by transport.
Nearby attractions include the Libo Scenic Area, known for its beautiful landscapes and water features, as well as the Libo Waterfall. You can also explore the nearby ethnic minority villages to experience local culture and traditions.
There are small souvenir shops near Maolan Village where visitors can purchase traditional crafts such as handwoven baskets, embroidered textiles, and local snacks. The area also offers natural products like herbal teas and medicinal herbs.
After visiting the reserve, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey. Libo, which is about an hour’s drive away, offers bus services to major cities like Guiyang, which is a transportation hub for Guizhou Province.
