Walking through the site…I am simply marvel and bewitched by the natural stone masterpieces with its intricate formations of vistas and landscapes. All of the stones or rocks over there were strange, steep, elegant, rugged and each is lifelike with its own distinguishing characters. The tall rocks seem to emanate from the ground in the manner of stalagmites, with many looking like petrified trees thereby creating the illusion of a forest made of stones. Hence, the name. There were some animals, plants and even human figures that can be found here if you look at it very closely.
The Stone Forest is divided into 3 zones - Major Stone Forest, Minor Stone Forest and Naigu Stone Forest. This Stone Forest (Shilin) known since during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644 A.D.) as the 'First Wonder of the World.' Geologists say that the Stone Forest is a typical example of karsts topography; a notable set of limestone formations. Approximately 270 million years ago - during the carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era - the region was a vast expanse of sea. Over time, the movements of the lithosphere gradually caused a retreat of the waters and the rise of the limestone landscape. Due to constant erosion by the elements, the area finally developed into the present-day Stone Forest.
Many beautiful legends originate in this magical place, passed along by the native people known as the Sani, a branch of the Yi ethnic group. One particular story is about the faithful love of Ashima, a beautiful, clever and warm-hearted Sani girl; is the most popular and has been told for thousands of years. After falling in love, she was forbidden to marry her chosen suitor and instead turned into a stone in the forest that still bears her name. The Sani people celebrate their national festival - the Torch Festival - every lunar year on June 24th. They take part in traditional performances such as wrestling, bull fighting, pole-climbing, dragon-playing, lion-dancing and the A-xi Moon Dance. During this time, the Stone Forest is alive with a particularly joyful, festive atmosphere, making the area even more attractive than usual. However, the Stone Forest - with its sculptures engraved by nature, herself - is always a true miracle for visitors to behold. The site is classified as a AAAAA-class tourist site. Wow – 5As.
I think this place is very suitable for a Bollywood Production – the lead actor & actress can play hide-and-seek and then roll down together on the grass, accompany by a fast-moving Hindi song :)
1 comment:
Nice blog
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