The Stone Forest, also known as the Shilin in Chinese, is a vast natural landscape of limestone formations located in the Yunnan province of China. It is a popular tourist destination and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.
The Stone Forest covers an area of over 400 square kilometers and is made up of thousands of tall limestone pillars, some of which reach up to 30 meters in height. The pillars have been formed over millions of years through the process of erosion, as rainwater dissolved the soluble rock and formed deep fissures and caverns. As the water table lowered, the pillars were exposed and further shaped by wind and rain.
The Stone Forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey and the black-necked crane. There are also several ethnic minority groups who live in the area, including the Sani people, who have a rich cultural heritage and unique customs and traditions.
Visitors to the Stone Forest can explore the various scenic areas on foot or by electric shuttle bus, and there are several viewing platforms and walkways that provide stunning views of the landscape. There are also several cultural shows and performances that showcase the local music, dance, and handicrafts.