Things to do in Guangnan
Explore top experiences
Top 10 attractions in Guangnan
Bamei Xanadu Scenic Area
Bamei is an idyllic village known for its unique karst landscape and lush green mountains. To access the village, visitors must first travel by horse carriage and then by boat through a network of dark caves. Visitors can explore the picturesque surroundings and experience the traditional lifestyle of the village's residents.Guangnan · 30.2 km from downtown
Sanla Waterfall
Sanla Waterfall is located nearSanla Village, 20 km east of Babao Town, Guangnan County, Wenshan Prefecture. In the Zhuang language, "Sanla" means "the place where three rivers meet," and it was historically known as Xiangquan Waterfall. The Babao River flows through the rugged mountains and rushes here, cascading down from the top of a precipitous cliff over 10 m wide, with a total drop of 120 m across three tiers. The waterfall's current is turbulent, and its roar is deafening. Following the terrain, the waterfall descends in three tiers, with three sheer cliffs, cascading water, and a pool at each level. The first and second tiers are narrower with turbulent water, while the third tier is wider with a drop of over 40 m. In summer, the waterfall surges with a massive torrent, while in winter, it resembles a white silk ribbon hanging in the air.Guangnan · 56.2 km from downtown
Liulang Ancient City Herbal Garden
Liulang Ancient City Herbal Garden is an immersive experience that blends natural ecology with ethnic herbal culture. Instead of grand scenic displays, it weaves a secret landscape of "herbal valleys hidden in stone mountains" through well-preserved primitive vegetation and inherited botanical wisdom. Follow the cobblestone path deep into the fortress to touch the moss-covered stone walls of the ancient garrison, feeling the lingering warmth of border settlement history from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Along the streamside trail, over a hundred types of medicinal herbs native to southeastern Yunnan, such as pseudoginseng and Paris polyphylla, grow on both sides. Scan the QR codes on the identification signs to listen to folk stories behind these plants. If you join a guide, you can also participate in light activities like picking fresh herbs with Zhuang ethnic mothers or crafting herbal sachets, immersing your fingertips in the refreshing fragrance of plants. During the rainy season, crystal orchids dangle from vine-entwined limestone crevices like woodland sprites. On clear days in the dry season, climb to the viewing platform to witness morning mist rising from the valley floor, drifting over terraced herb gardens. Deep in this hidden paradise lies a waterfall spanned by a bamboo bridge. Behind the cascading water, a cave once used by ancient people as a natural storage space for materials now serves as a refreshing retreat from summer heat, blending adventure with natural charm. Liulang Ancient City Herbal Garden doesn't chase the hustle of tourist crowds, but rather invites visitors to slow down and savor nature's rhythm through its herbal wonders. Whether quietly listening to ancient Zhuang folk songs echoing through the valleys or brewing tea with bamboo-cupped mountain spring water, this place always brings a peaceful reconciliation between body, mind, and nature.Guangnan · 16.3 km from downtown
Guangnan Babao Scenic Area
Guangnan Babao Scenic Area is located in Guangnan County, southeast Yunnan, 160 kilometers away from Wenshan. It is mainly composed of peak clusters, peak forests and karst waterfalls. It consists of four areas: Babao, Heye, Tangna Karst Cave and Sanla Waterfall, with a total area of 68 square kilometers. The melting peak is generally 50-100 meters high, in the shape of a sharp cone. There are also a few isolated peaks in the center of the basin, with a height of less than 50 meters. There are 25 large and small rivers in Babao. The Babao River emerges from Hemei Lake and flows slowly from south to north. The river water is clear and transparent. In particular, take a boat from the river to the Bajia section, which is 6.5 kilometers long. Mumei is an ancient Yi village. The Yi people here are good at singing and dancing. Every festival, they dance strings and sing folk songs.Guangnan · 54.2 km from downtown
ba mei cun da rong shu
Guangnan · 29.7 km from downtown
Detian Transnational Waterfall Scenic Spot
The Detian Transnational Waterfall Scenic Spot is located on the upper reaches of the Guichun River along the China-Vietnam border in Guangxi. Here, the boundary river meets a cliff, cascading down in three tiers with a width of over 200 m and a drop of more than 70 m, facing Vietnam's Ban Gioc Waterfall across the cliff. During the rainy season, the two waterfalls nearly merge into one, and their roar can be heard across the valley. This site also served as a filming location for the TV series The Journey of Flower. The highlights of the visit mostly revolve around this border river: after passing through the Detian memorial archway, known as the "transnational gate," you can take a bamboo raft from the shore to the foot of the waterfall, looking up as the curtain of water crashes down from the cliff top, with mist spraying onto your face—effectively "traveling abroad" on the border river. On the river, you'll often encounter Vietnamese locals paddling small bamboo rafts to sell coffee, dried fruit, and other goods, and the haggling adds a fun cross-border market vibe. After disembarking, follow the waterfall-viewing boardwalk and multi-level observation decks to admire the waterfall's full panorama from different heights. Boundary markers No. 53 (erected during the Qing Dynasty and inscribed with "Guangxi, China") and No. 836 are popular photo spots. Along the boardwalk, you'll also find Detian Temple, built by villagers in the 1980s to commemorate the Zhuang historical figure Nong Zhigao—worth a quick visit. The waterfall view varies significantly with water volume: during the summer peak season, the water is torrential and awe-inspiring, while it appears more delicate in the dry season; the bamboo raft dock has long queues in peak season, so it's advisable to arrive early for a close-up view of the waterfall; the rafts get quite misty, so remember to waterproof your phone and camera.China · Daxin
Huangguoshu Scenic Area
The Huangguoshu Scenic Area is located in Anshun, Guizhou, centered around the Huangguoshu Waterfall. Surrounded by deep gorges, dense vegetation, and dotted with limestone caves and stone forests, it is a typical karst landscape area. The waterfall's name originates from the locally abundant "Huangguoshu" (Ficus virens). Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake visited and documented this site, contributing to its fame. The scenic area primarily consists of three main sections: the Great Waterfall, Tianxing Bridge, and Doupotang. Most travelers follow the sequence of Doupotang, Tianxing Bridge, and finally the Great Waterfall, saving the most spectacular view for last. The grand waterfall has a drop of nearly 80 m and a width of over 100 m. The Baishui River plunges from the cliff top into Rhinoceros Pool, creating a vast mist. Multiple viewing platforms around it allow visitors to experience its grandeur, wonder, steepness, and beauty from different angles—above, below, front, back, left, and right. A particularly unique experience lies behind the waterfall: a 100 m long Water Curtain Cave runs horizontally through its midsection, featuring cave windows and halls. Reaching through a window, one can touch the cascading water. The cave served as the filming location for the Water Curtain Cave in the 1986 TV series Journey to the West. Due to the heavy humidity inside, bringing a raincoat in advance is recommended. Tianxing Bridge is renowned for its harmonious blend of rocks, water, trees, and caves—where rocks rise from the water, caves hide within rocks, and trees stand beside caves. The stepping stones along the path are engraved with dates, allowing travelers to find their own "birthday stone." The attraction is divided into upper and lower sections. Many travelers turn back after completing the upper section, missing the Silver Chain Waterfall in the lower part—where water cascades like silver chains into a funnel-shaped pool, the highlight of Tianxing Bridge. The Doupotang waterfall is located approx. 1 km upstream from the grand waterfall. With a width of over 100 m at its crest, the water spreads out smoothly like a beaded curtain. During the high-water season, its deep roar earns it the nickname "roaring waterfall." The scene of the four pilgrims leading their horse across the river in the 1986 TV series Journey to the West was filmed here. In summer and fall, the waterfalls are full and powerful, while in winter and spring, the flow becomes gentler, offering different viewing experiences. Nearby, visitors can also enjoy local snacks like sticky rice, love tofu, and Anshun spring rolls.China · Zhenning
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is also called Kunming Lake. It is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It has the nickname of "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland". The lake is wide and spectacular. Every winter, a large flock of red-billed gulls migrate here from Siberia, making it a good place for bird watching and bird feeding. There are different ways to explore Dianchi lake. You can stroll around the lake, cycle, or ride a boat. You can also climb up to the Dragon Gate overlooking Dianchi Lake to get a better view of the entire lake.China · Kunming
Stone Forest Scenic Area
The Stone Forest Scenic Area is located in Shilin County, Kunming, and is one of the key attractions in the city. This scenic area showcases typical karst landforms, featuring stone peaks, pinnacles, sinkholes, and underground rivers. The towering rock formations take on various shapes—sword-like, pagoda-like, mushroom-like, and more—creating a breathtaking and fantastical landscape. The Stone Forest Scenic Area is divided into several widely spaced sections, with the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest attractions at its core. The Naigu Stone Forest is located approx. 12 km north of the main attractions, while the Dadie Waterfall scenic area sits approx. 29 km southwest. The Changhu Lake area is positioned 26 km southeast of the main site. When visitors refer to touring the Stone Forest, they typically mean exploring the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest sections. The Greater and Lesser Shilin are located in the same area. After purchasing tickets at the main entrance and walking along the path for 20 minutes, you'll find the smaller and more gently sloped Lesser Shilin Scenic Area on your left. Amidst the dense cluster of peaks stands the famous Ashima Stone, where the majestic karst formations resemble a graceful Yi ethnic maiden named Ashima, seemingly waving to visitors—a favorite photo spot for travelers. Beyond the striking Ashima, the Lesser Shilin area features other captivating views like the Steed and Pillar Supporting the Sky, each with unique shapes. This is where your imagination is put to the test. If you find your imagination lacking, we recommend hiring a guide who can offer fresh perspectives on these remarkable formations. As you drive leisurely along the highway, you'll encounter a series of remarkable rock formations lining the roadside—the Tang Monk Stone, Stone Prison, Phoenix Combing Its Wings, and Lingzhi Mushroom Rock—each vividly lifelike and exquisitely crafted by nature's artistry, presenting their unique postures to showcase Earth's wondrous creations. Strolling along the pathway, you'll unexpectedly arrive at the Great Stone Forest Scenic Area. After marveling at wonders like "Two Birds Sharing Food," "Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon," "Lotus Peak," "Shilin Grand View," and "Stone Screen," you might feel slightly fatigued. Take a peaceful break at Lion Pavilion while admiring the inverted peaks reflected in Lion Pool across the way. After prolonged exposure to these karst formations, visual fatigue may set in—making it the perfect moment to shift perspectives. Board a cruise on Shilin Lake, where mountain vistas and water scenery converge into one breathtaking panorama, dissolving all stress and worries. If you prefer not to walk, electric carts driven by Yi ethnic women shuttle between attractions and stop upon request. You can still marvel at the wonders of the Stone Forest Scenic Area, and some friendly drivers may even share interesting local anecdotes along the way. Naigu Stone Forest, also known as New Stone Forest or Mozhai Stone Forest, is located 13 km north of the Stone Forest Scenic Area. It features a landscape composed of stone formations, Baiyun Lake, Shifeng Mountain, and Yougu Xianpu Waterfall. Compared to the Stone Forest Scenic Area, this site offers a distinct style. The towering gray-black stone pillars here are densely packed, resembling castles, towers, and mushrooms. The rugged, primitive rock formations surge skyward like waves, creating a majestic atmosphere. Walking through these dark peaks feels like stepping into a primeval world.China · Shilin
Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area
The Libo Seven Small Arches Scenic Area is located among the karst peaks south of the Libo County urban area. The attraction gets its name from a seven-arched bluestone bridge that crosses the noisy river there. The site incorporates all the beauty of mountains, water, trees, caves, lakes, and waterfalls. This natural splendor has combined with the authentic cultural flavor of the Tujia and Yao people of the area to bring fame to the area. Attractions like the ancient seven-arched bridge, the water forest, the crouching dragon pool, and Mandarin Duck Lake make the area like an earthly fairyland.China · Libo
Free things to do in Guangnan
What travelers say about Guangnan
Lucifer波妞August 13, 2026
4.0
Official pricing is undoubtedly based on cost audits, ensuring operational sustainability. The scenic area relies on waterways for access, subject to capacity limitations to "ensure the experience and control visitor flow." However, it's not without its advantages: the unique "boat-through-cave" experience is truly amazing, and the village's idyllic scenery is tranquil. Personally, I think the pricing, while expensive, is transparent.
In general, the controversy surrounding Bamei's "high prices" stems from the gap between the essential transportation needs arising from its unique geography and tourists' expectations of a "Shangri-La" experience. Whether it's worth it depends on your travel preferences: if you seek unique landscapes and novel experiences and don't mind the higher cost, Bamei's "entry" method remains unique. If you prioritize value for money and a rich array of activities, you might find it falls short of expectations. It's advisable to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Bamei Xanadu Scenic Area
老老倪June 1, 2021
5.0
Sanla Waterfall is located in Sanla Village, Babao Town, Guangnan County, Yunnan Province. It flows from Babao River to Babao Town, forming a waterfall wonder with three terraces, namely Yuping Terrace, Yuyu Terrace and Gonghua Terrace. The total drop is 120 meters, and the length is more than 200 meters. It is not seen in the rainy season. The water column falls straight down, unstoppable, and the water mist splashes like mist and cotton. The sound of water is rumbling, like thunder and tiger roar, deafening. The sound of the water is so deafening that it was called Xiangquan Waterfall in ancient times.
Sanla Waterfall
帝国统帅66November 4, 2025
4.0
Liulangcheng·Xiancao Secret Realm Scenic Area is located in Guangnan County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is a natural health and wellness resort with Dendrobium officinale ecological landscape as its core. The scenic area has a vegetation coverage rate of up to 82% and a negative oxygen ion concentration of 5,000 per cubic meter, making it a suitable tourist destination for health and wellness and family outings.
Liulang Ancient City Herbal Garden
闲事不管饭吃三碗May 27, 2025
5.0
广南巴宝镇风景区特点有：1、峰林地貌，景区峰丛、峰林林立，溶峰高约50-100米，呈尖锥状，青峦叠嶂，形态各异，美不胜收。2、水体景观：巴宝河从河美湖出水，河水清澈透明，由南向北缓缓流过。山水相依。3、溶洞景观，溶洞内曲径通幽，怪石林立，栩栩如生。4、民宿风情，八宝镇有汉、壮、苗、彝、瑶等九个民族。5、特色建筑，壮族十三寨建筑风格独特，四锤檐瓦，有阁楼和抱厦，耳房。5、传统美食，巴宝镇是鱼米之乡，盛产闻名全国的八宝贡米。
Guangnan Babao Scenic Area
189***81October 26, 2026
5.0
Guide Li is excellent and highly recommended! He's very enthusiastic, provides excellent service, is very thoughtful, cares about the elderly, and has great driving skills—I felt very safe driving him! He explained the attractions in detail throughout the journey. Highly recommended!
Detian Transnational Waterfall Scenic Spot
Sunny_SaniOctober 25, 2026
5.0
Huangguoshu was one of my favorite things we did in Guizhou Province! I highly recommend purchasing this ticket. Once at the main Visitor Center, simply present your passport and they will give you the physical ticket. This ticket included the escalator ride and internal bus transportation, but it does not include the water curtain cave so if that is something you want to do, look into booking that in advance. Huangguoshu is a lot of walking with spectacular scenery! Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen and get ready to have an amazing time! ☀️🏞❤️
Huangguoshu Scenic Area
Anonymous userOctober 14, 2026
5.0
Location: Haigeng Park/No. 16 Hubin Road ↔ Xishan Longmen (West Mountain Dragon Gate), not near the old street, you have to go to the Dianchi Lake area.
Experience: Crossing the lake + climbing the mountain, about 20 minutes one way, views of Dianchi Lake, Sleeping Beauty Mountain, and city scenery, great for taking photos.
Ticket Price: One way about 59-60 RMB, round trip about 98-100 RMB.
Advantages: Easy for lazy people to climb West Mountain, no climbing required, unique views; seagulls in winter.
Disadvantages: Stops during strong winds/thunderstorms; long queues during peak season; separate ticket/walking required for Longmen after climbing the mountain; don't confuse with the "Xishan Longmen Cableway".
Conclusion: First time in Kunming, taking the Dianchi-Xishan route → worth it; if just exploring the old street → not worth a special trip.
Dianchi Lake
631***44October 24, 2026
5.0
The Stone Forest Scenic Area is a highly recommended tourist attraction. Its unique underwater topography, combined with the special landforms created by volcanic eruptions, forms a spectacular array of stone formations. The legend of Ashima further enhances the Stone Forest's mystique.
Stone Forest Scenic Area
M58***24October 25, 2026
5.0
Choosing to enter and exit from the East Gate offers a high-value option, allowing you to visit attractions along the way such as the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge, Laya Waterfall, Cuigu Waterfall, Yuanyang Lake, and Wolongtan. On a sunny day, each scenic spot is perfect for taking photos, giving you the feeling of "walking in a painting." It truly deserves to be called "the emerald on the Earth's belt."
Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area
