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Visit the karst formations, explore the unique geological landscapes, and hike through the picturesque valleys. The geopark is known for its limestone mountains, caves, and natural bridges, making it ideal for both nature walks and photography. There are also several rivers and waterfalls to visit, offering peaceful scenery.
Shuanghe Cave, a National Geopark, was recently surveyed at a length of 238.48 kilometers in 2018, making it the longest cave in Asia and the sixth longest in the world. Located in Wenquan Town, Suiyang County, Zunyi City, Guizhou Province, Shuanghe Cave National Geopark is China's largest karst cave complex. It is also known as the "world's longest dolomite cave" and the "world's largest lapis lazuli cave."
Shuanghe Cave has a complex structure, with both water caves and dry caves coexisting. It is over 550 meters deep and consists of 8 main caves in four layers, more than 200 branch caves, 5 underground rivers, and 34 cave entrances. It can be said that there are caves next to each other, caves connected to caves, caves above caves, caves below caves, and caves within caves. It is known as the "Karst Natural Cave Museum".
The area has a mid-subtropical humid monsoon climate with distinct microclimates. The cave environment is pleasant, with carbon dioxide levels typically between 350 and 400 ppm, temperatures generally remaining constant at 13 to 15 degrees Celsius year-round, and humidity between 85 and 98 percent.
Underground Fissures, Twin River Valleys, Crystal Flower Cave, and Shanwang Cave
Underground fissure scenic area 120
Shuanghe Valley Scenic Area Sightseeing Bus (one way) 10
Double Valley Underground Valley Scenic Area Ticket (Adult Ticket) 130
The first bridge in northern Guizhou - Gongguan Bridge is free
Underground Fissure Scenic Area: 8:30-17:30 (April 1st - October 7th) 9:00-17:00 (October 8th - March 31st of the following year)
Shuanghe Valley Scenic Area: 8:30-16:30 (April 1st - October 7th) and 9:00-16:00 (October 8th - March 31st of the following year)
Shuanghedong National Geopark is renowned for its geological importance, featuring limestone formations that date back millions of years. It is a key location for understanding karst topography, offering a rich biodiversity and serving as a protected area for rare species. Its unique landscape is a significant natural heritage of China.
Shuanghedong National Geopark is located in Zunyi, Guizhou Province, China. The park is accessible by car from Zunyi city, which is well connected by bus and train to other parts of Guizhou. There are no metro stations, but taxis and local transport services are available to reach the park entrance.
The park is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Avoid summer months due to heat and possible rainfall.
The entrance fee is typically around 80-100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park or through local travel agents. It's not common to buy tickets online, though some agencies may offer online booking options.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but if visiting during peak tourist seasons (holidays or weekends), it is recommended to book tickets at least a day in advance to avoid long queues.
To fully explore Shuanghedong National Geopark, plan to spend at least 4-6 hours if you wish to hike and visit all the main geological features and scenic spots. A full day may be ideal if you want to experience all the major attractions and take your time.
Must-see highlights include the famous karst formations, caves, and waterfalls. The natural bridge and the "Shuanghe Cave" are among the top attractions. The unique geological features and lush surrounding landscapes are perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some guides offering services in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may be available at some key points in the park, but English options are limited. It’s advisable to check in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
The best viewpoints for photography are near the park's geological formations, especially the caves and natural bridges. The panoramic views from the top of the karst mountains offer sweeping landscapes. The waterfalls are also great for capturing dramatic shots, particularly after rainfall.
A recommended itinerary is to start with a visit to the main geological features, such as the caves and natural bridges, followed by a hike to the top for panoramic views. You can also explore the park's waterfall and river areas, where you can take a rest and enjoy the scenery. A full day’s itinerary is ideal for a relaxed visit.
Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows in the park. However, the park is an excellent location for stargazing due to its remote location and clear skies. Special guided tours may be arranged during the day to explore specific geological features or biodiversity.
The park is moderately crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons like late autumn or early spring.
Basic facilities like toilets, small food stalls, and rest areas are available at key points in the park. It’s recommended to bring sufficient water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the entire park. Small souvenir shops are available near the park entrance.
The park is not entirely accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to its uneven terrain and the nature of the hiking trails. Some parts of the park, particularly around the caves and natural bridges, may be challenging for young children and the elderly. It is advisable to consult with local guides for more accessible routes.
Cash is still the most commonly accepted payment method in the park, especially for tickets and small purchases. Some places may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay, but it’s safer to carry cash for smaller transactions.
There are a few local restaurants and food stalls near the park entrance offering traditional Guizhou dishes. For more variety, you can travel to Zunyi city where you'll find larger restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the local restaurants. However, vegan and halal food may be harder to find, and it's recommended to check in advance with local eateries for such options.
There are a few small hotels and guesthouses near Zunyi city that offer basic accommodation. For more comfortable options, it's best to stay in Zunyi city, which is a 30-minute drive from the park.
Nearby attractions include the Zunyi Conference Memorial, which holds historical significance in China’s Communist Party history. The town of Zunyi offers additional cultural and natural attractions worth visiting in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the entrance selling local handicrafts, such as ethnic textiles, pottery, and souvenirs related to the park’s geological features. Traditional Guizhou tea and herbal products are also popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options to continue your trip include taxis or rental cars back to Zunyi city, where you can take buses or trains to other destinations in Guizhou or beyond. Public transportation is available but may not be as frequent.
