Kunming
Attractions Kunming 5 min read
Stone Forest day trip
A 270-million-year-old limestone maze 90 km from Kunming — how to get there, when to go, and how to dodge the crowds.
What it is
The Stone Forest (石林) is a 270-million-year-old limestone maze 90 km from Kunming — pillars like a petrified woodland, sacred to the Sani Yi people.
Getting there
Take the direct tourist bus from Kunming East Bus Station (昆明东部客运站), ~90 minutes, ¥30. Not a taxi — the bus is faster and a fraction of the cost.
Timing
- Arrive at 8:00am opening and walk the back loop first — tour groups hit the front and clear out by lunch
- Budget 3-4 hours; the major and minor stone forests are both worth it
Tickets
Bring your passport — it's required for entry, and for student/senior discounts if you qualify.
Locals' Tip
Arrive at 8am and walk the back loop first — tour groups hit the front and exit by lunch.
Locals' Crowd