The ultimate guide to Yuanmou Earth Forest is here!

Yuanmou Earth Forest is a unique geological wonder located in Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is famous for its spectacular earth pillars, vibrant colors, and long geological history. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you better plan your trip:

1. Introduction to Yuanmou Earth Forest
Yuanmou Earth Forest is a columnar landform formed by natural weathering and water erosion, with a history of 1.5 million years. It is known as one of the "Three Forests of Yunnan" alongside the Xishuangbanna Tropical Rainforest and Lunan Stone Forest. The Earth Forest is mainly divided into three major scenic areas:
- Wumao Earth Forest (Hutiao Beach Earth Forest): A national 4A-level scenic spot, featuring castle-shaped and screen-shaped earth pillars, with the tallest reaching 42 meters.
- Langbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest): A national 3A-level scenic spot, with well-developed conical earth pillars, the tallest reaching 42.8 meters, and rich colors.
- Banguo Earth Forest: Not fully developed, preserving its original appearance, and was a filming location for the movie "The Promise."

2. Best Time to Visit
- Best season: November to May (dry season), with dry climate and vivid earth forest colors.
- Recommended months: November to March (warm and comfortable, ideal for avoiding cold) or April to May (strong sunlight, great for photography).
- Avoid the rainy season (June to October): Rain soaks the earth forest, affecting the scenery and making roads muddy.

3. Tickets and Opening Hours
- Ticket prices:
- Wumao Earth Forest: ¥70 (adult), ¥35 (children/students/seniors).
- Langbapu Earth Forest: ¥50 (adult), ¥25 (discounted ticket).
- Banguo Earth Forest: ¥12 (not fully developed).
- Opening hours: 08:00-18:00.

4. Transportation Guide
- From Kunming:
- Train: From Kunming Station to Yuanmou Station (about 4 hours), then transfer to a tourist shuttle bus to the Earth Forest.
- Bus: Direct bus from Kunming Northwest Bus Station to Yuanmou (about 2.5 hours), then transfer to a minibus or small bus to the Earth Forest.
- Self-driving: Kunming → Jingkun Expressway → Yuanmou (about 3 hours), the scenic area is 12-38 km from the county town.

5. Recommended Routes and Attractions
- Wumao Earth Forest:
- Main Shaqing, Yougu, Marshal’s Mansion Earth Forest (animal-shaped), Eurasian Wonder (castle-shaped earth forest).
- Langbapu Earth Forest:
- Conical earth pillar clusters with layered colors (purple-red, gray-white, yellow), perfect for photography.
- Banguo Earth Forest:
- Pristine natural scenery, with quartz sand and agate pieces sparkling under the sunlight.

6. Accommodation Recommendations
- Near the Earth Forest scenic area:
- Yuanmou Earth Forest Hotel (inside Wumao Earth Forest scenic area).
- Langbapu Earth Forest Hotel (near Langbapu scenic area, highly rated).
- Yuanmou County Town:
- Wumao Business Hotel, Zhenghe Hotel, etc.

7. Notes
- Sun and sand protection: UV rays are strong; it is recommended to wear hats, sunglasses, and high-top shoes to prevent sand.
- Water and clothing: The climate is dry, bring enough drinking water; temperature difference between morning and evening is large, keep warm.
- Photography tips: Soft light in the early morning and late afternoon is ideal for shooting; avoid moisture damage to equipment during the rainy season.

8. Local Cuisine
- Yuanmou Cold Chicken: A local specialty, but taste varies by person.
- Mutton Soup Pot: Stewed black goat meat, no gamey taste, fresh soup and tender meat.
- Qiaobaba dipped in honey: A traditional Yi ethnic food, fragrant and sweet.

9. Nearby Attractions
- Yuanmou Man Museum: Learn about the history of Yuanmou Man from 1.7 million years ago.
- Jinsha River Scenery: Can be combined with the Earth Forest tour to experience the blend of nature and culture.

Summary
Yuanmou Earth Forest is a tourist destination that combines geological wonders, a photography paradise, and a winter retreat. The best visiting season is winter and spring. It is recommended to spend 1-2 days touring both Wumao and Langbapu Earth Forests to experience the marvels of nature.