Guizhou's Most Beautiful Scarred Scenery Opens Free, Hundreds of Waterfalls, Elevator Directly Cuts Through Cliffs
Qiangxian (), inhabited by the Bu Yi and Miao ethnic groups, is one of the nine prefectures of Guizhou Province. Its capital, Xinyi City (), boasts abundant mountain and water tourism resources. The Malang River Gorge is hailed as the most beautiful karst fissure, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and clear waters. It is located in the northeastern part of Xinyi City, originating from the White Fruit Ridge of the Umon Mountains, stretching approximately 1,000 kilometers, with a drop of 1,000 meters, and vertically slicing through the plains, creating deep gorges.
It was my first time visiting Qiangxian, and the Malang River became my first stop for exploration. This is not only the representative of Xinyi National Geological Park but also showcases the karst landform of the Guizhou region. To visit Qiangxian without experiencing the Malang River would be to miss out on the region's mountain and water scenery. The Malang River integrates karst mountains, waterfalls, caves, and ancient trails. It's a summer escape destination for rafting. In the early spring, the beautiful mountain and water scenery of the Malang River is already evident. The entire gorge is constructed with ancient stone trails, forming a continuous loop.
The cliffs on both sides are steep and beautiful, a 'karst scar' of China's most magnificent landscapes. Looking down from above, the grandeur and ruggedness are awe-inspiring, while closer inspection reveals hidden wonders. The gorge is narrowest in places, only 50 meters wide, and widens to over 150 meters. In quiet areas, the water is crystal clear, and in turbulent sections, the water and stone create a stunning visual effect, with numerous springs flowing into sky ditches. Mountains, water, cliffs, and layers are stacked upon each other.
Formed during the Jurassic period, the karst fissures in the 100-kilometer Malang River valley are large, and with the accumulation of a large amount of water vapor, they have created more than 100 waterfalls. These waterfalls plunge from peaks, or flow down as fine streams, or form misty curtains, creating a scene like paradise.
The cliffs on both sides are connected by Malang Bridge, allowing visitors to easily cross between the steep cliffs, traversing the precarious trails. This feels like walking through the heavens. To experience ultimate relaxation, you can try the observation elevator that plunges nearly 100 meters into the mountains. This is a new experience of technology merging with nature in the context of modern development.
Entering the Malang River scenic area, you can follow the ancient trail downwards, passing through the Shuang Hong Bridge (), where you can take a sightseeing elevator to the bottom of the cliff. You can also stroll leisurely along the way, enjoying the beauty of the gorge. Along the way, you'll pass through the Yimiao Gorge (), Huanglong Waterfall (), the Sky Hall (), and the Sea Lion Hall (). Don't miss the 'Unending Immortal Road' () at the Broken Bridge (), which resembles a mythical bridge to another realm.
Continuing along the cliffside caves, you'll reach the 'Ten Thousand Horses Galloping' Waterfall Group (), where the water surges and splashes into crystal-clear streams, without a ripple. Ancient bamboo forests and inverted waterfalls reflect in the jade-colored waters, creating a serene scene like a classic Chinese ink painting.
In the spring, summer, and autumn, the Malang River is at its most beautiful. Once you enter the ancient trail, you've already created an invisible boundary between yourself and the outside world. The deeper you go into the gorge, the more beautiful the scenery becomes, far away from the hustle and bustle, and closer to nature. It's a good idea to come to the Malang River during holidays to enjoy a leisurely and idyllic life.
Transportation: You can take Bus 4 to reach the scenic area or drive yourself.
Tour Duration: 1-2 hours
Ticket Price: Free before March 3, 2020
