Tucked away in the rugged landscapes of Xingyi City, Guizhou Province, the Malinghe Canyon Scenic Area is a breathtaking national geopark often dubbed the “Most Beautiful Scar of the Earth.” This 74.8-kilometer-long rift valley, carved by the turbulent Malinghe River, boasts dramatic cliffs, over 100 cascading waterfalls, karst caves, and lush subtropical vegetation. Renowned for its thrilling whitewater rafting and stunning natural beauty, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to one of Guizhou’s most spectacular destinations.
A Travel Guide to Malinghe Canyon Scenic Area
Why Visit Malinghe Canyon Scenic Area?
Malinghe Canyon is a geological masterpiece, formed by tectonic movements and river erosion, featuring a unique karst landscape with calcified waterfalls, steep cliffs, and vibrant greenery. Its narrowest point is just 50 meters wide, while its deepest reaches up to 500 meters, creating a dramatic “slit in the earth.” The Tianxing Gallery, a 1.7-kilometer stretch with over 20 waterfalls, is a highlight, offering jaw-dropping views. Beyond its natural splendor, the canyon is steeped in cultural charm with ancient bridges, temples, and remnants of historical postal roads. It’s also a hub for adventure, hosting China’s first International Kayak Rafting Competition in 1998 and remaining a top rafting destination.
How to Get There
Malinghe Canyon is located about 4–10 kilometers northeast of Xingyi City, in Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, approximately 334 kilometers southwest of Guiyang, Guizhou’s capital. Here are your transportation options:
From Guiyang to Xingyi: By Train: High-speed trains from Guiyang North Station to Xingyi Station take about 2–3 hours, with tickets costing ¥100–150. Regular trains are slower (4–5 hours) but cheaper (¥50–80). By Bus: Long-distance buses from Guiyang’s Jinyang Bus Station to Xingyi take 4–5 hours, costing ¥80–120. By Car: Driving from Guiyang to Xingyi (300 km) takes about 4–5 hours via the G60 Shanghai-Kunming Expressway. Car rentals are available in Guiyang for ¥200–400/day.
From Xingyi to Malinghe Canyon: By Bus: Take city bus No. 4 or Xingyi Tourist Bus Line 1 from downtown Xingyi to the canyon’s entrance. The fare is ¥2–5, and the ride takes about 20 minutes. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Didi): A taxi from Xingyi downtown costs ¥20–30 and takes 10–15 minutes. By Car: The canyon is a short 8-minute drive from central Xingyi. Parking is available at the entrance (¥5–10).
From Other Cities: Trains or buses from Kunming (Yunnan, ~4 hours), Guilin (Guangxi, ~6 hours), or Nanning (Guangxi, ~7 hours) connect to Xingyi, followed by a local bus or taxi to the canyon.
Tip: Renting a car or booking a private tour from Xingyi or Guiyang offers the most flexibility, especially for combining Malinghe with nearby attractions like Wanfenglin or Wanfeng Lake.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August): The wet season brings the most powerful waterfalls and lush greenery, making it ideal for rafting and photography. The river’s strong currents and cooler temperatures (average 22–25°C) enhance the adventure. However, heavy rain can make trails slippery, so caution is advised.
Spring and Autumn (April–May, September–October): Mild weather (15–20°C) and moderate water levels offer a balance of scenic beauty and comfortable hiking conditions. Autumn foliage adds vibrant colors to the landscape.
Winter (December–February): The dry season reduces waterfall intensity, but the canyon remains scenic, and crowds are smaller. Temperatures range from 3–10°C, so dress warmly.
Photography Tip: For the best shots, visit from April to October when waterfalls are fuller and the light enhances the calcified rock formations.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily (last entry at 5:00 PM). Rafting and elevator hours may vary slightly.
Ticket Prices: General admission (Tianxing Gallery, including cable car): ¥110; Rafting: ¥138 (upper section), ¥168 (middle or lower section); Wanfenglin (western section): ¥100; Wanfeng Lake and Wanfenglin (eastern section): ¥140; Sightseeing elevator: ¥20–30 (optional, one-way); Discounts: Children under 1.2 meters and seniors (60+) may receive reduced rates.
Booking: Tickets are available at the entrance or through tour agencies like Wendy Wei Tours or China Xian Tour. Book rafting in advance during peak seasons (summer and holidays).
Note: Prices may vary slightly; check with official sources or tour operators for updates.
What to See and Do
Malinghe Canyon offers a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and cultural exploration:
Hiking the Canyon Trail: A 2–3-hour circular trail along boardwalks and plank paths takes you through the canyon’s core, including the Tianxing Gallery, where over 20 waterfalls cascade down calcified cliffs. The trail involves steps and some slippery sections, so wear sturdy shoes. Highlights include the Jiangxin Iron Cable Bridge and Haishi Bridge, offering stunning views. Tip: Start at the sightseeing elevator (75 meters down) and walk counterclockwise (left after exiting the elevator) for fewer uphill steps.
Whitewater Rafting: Malinghe is China’s premier rafting destination, with over 50 kilometers of rapids, 80 dangerous shoals, and 70 deep pools. The 20-km drifting section features 4 large and 20 small rapids, with a 200-meter drop, guided by professional rafters. The journey takes about 2 hours and passes ancient bridges, temples, and colorful calcified “frescoes” on cliffs.
Sections: Upper Section (Qingshui River to Maling Ancient Bridge, 26 km): Gentle rapids, ideal for beginners and families. Middle Section (Tianxing Gallery to Zhaojiadu Bridge, 22 km): Thrilling rapids with scenic views, suitable for adventurers. Lower Section (Zhaojiadu Bridge to Wanfeng Lake): The most challenging, open only to professional rafters. Cost: ¥138–168/person. Safety gear is provided, but bring a change of clothes.
Photography: The canyon’s karst peaks, calcified waterfalls, and lush bamboo groves are a photographer’s dream. The Colourful Corridor and Pearl Gorge are particularly photogenic, with sunlight creating rainbows in the mist. Protect cameras from water splashes on the trail.
Cultural and Historical Sites: Explore remnants of ancient postal roads, bridges, and temples along the river, reflecting the area’s historical significance. The canyon also holds fossils from the Mesozoic Triassic period (240 million years old) and cultural sites like Han tombs and the former residence of He Yingqin.
Nearby Wanfenglin (Ten-Thousand-Peak Karst Forest) features bizarrely shaped karst peaks, ranked among China’s six most beautiful peak forests. Wanfeng Lake, an artificial lake with karst islands, resembles a natural bonsai.
Kayaking and Adventure: The canyon is Guizhou’s only whitewater kayaking training base, attracting thrill-seekers. Guided kayak tours are available for experienced adventurers (book through local operators).
Where to Eat
On-Site: The scenic area has limited dining options, with small kiosks near the entrance offering snacks, drinks, and simple meals like noodles or rice dishes (¥10–30). Bring your own food for picnics to enjoy by the river.
In Xingyi: Return to Xingyi downtown (10–15 minutes away) for a wider range of restaurants. Try local Guizhou specialties like sour soup fish, spicy noodles, or Buyi-style grilled meats at restaurants near Jushan Square. Expect meals to cost ¥30–80/person.
Tip: Stock up on water and snacks in Xingyi, as options within the scenic area are basic.
Where to Stay
Since Malinghe Canyon is a day trip from Xingyi, most visitors stay in the city:
Luxury: Wanda Realm Xingyi (4-star, ~10-minute drive): Modern amenities, starting at ¥300–500/night. Mid-Range: Xingyi Aviation Hotel (3-star, ~8-minute drive): Comfortable and central, around ¥150–250/night.
Budget: Hostels or Guesthouses: Options near Xingyi’s bus station offer rooms for ¥80–150/night. Check Ctrip or Booking.com. Camping: Not officially offered within the scenic area, but nearby Wanfeng Lake has areas suitable for camping (arrange with local guides).
Booking Tip: Book accommodations in advance during summer and National Day (early October) to secure availability.
Tips for a Great Visit
Wear Appropriate Gear: For hiking, use non-slip hiking shoes due to wet and slippery trails. For rafting, bring quick-dry clothes, water shoes, and a waterproof bag for valuables. Safety First: Follow guides’ instructions during rafting, and avoid leaning over railings on the trail. The river can be dangerous during heavy rain.
Protect Equipment: Waterfalls and mist can wet cameras and phones; use waterproof cases or store them securely. Combine Your Trip: Pair Malinghe with Wanfenglin (30-minute drive) or Wanfeng Lake for a full day of exploration. The LY2 tourist bus shuttles between these sites (¥5–10, 6:30 AM–7:00 PM).
Avoid Peak Crowds: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid summer and holiday crowds (e.g., May Day, National Day). Eco-Friendly Practices: Do not litter or disturb the natural environment to preserve the canyon’s pristine ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Malinghe Canyon Scenic Area is a hidden gem in Guizhou, offering a thrilling blend of natural wonders and adventure. Whether you’re rafting through rapids, hiking alongside thundering waterfalls, or marveling at ancient karst formations, the canyon delivers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit during the wet season for maximum impact, pack for adventure, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of this “Beautiful Scar of the Earth.” Combine it with nearby attractions for a deeper dive into Guizhou’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Happy travels!
