Located in Xingyi City, southwest Guizhou Province, the Malinghe River Gorge Scenic Area is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Guizhou. Known for its dramatic canyon landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, karst formations, and rich subtropical vegetation, it is often regarded as one of China’s most beautiful natural wonders.
The scenic area consists of three major sections:
* Malinghe River Gorge
* Wanfeng Forest
* Wanfeng Lake
Together, these attractions showcase the unique geological beauty and natural diversity of the Xingyi region.
Malinghe River Gorge – A Masterpiece Created by Nature
The Malinghe River Gorge is located in the northeastern part of the scenic area and is the highlight of the destination. The Malinghe River, a tributary of the Nanpanjiang River, flows through the canyon, creating a spectacular landscape of deep valleys, steep cliffs, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams.
Originating from Baiguo Ridge of the Wumeng Mountains, the Malinghe River stretches for more than 100 kilometers and has carved a magnificent canyon through the eastern plateau of Xingyi.
The gorge is famous for its powerful natural scenery. Waterfalls cascade down from the cliffs, sometimes appearing to fall directly from the sky. Numerous karst caves can be found behind waterfalls or hidden within the cliffs, while lush subtropical vegetation covers the riverbanks.
Because of its extraordinary scenery, some travelers describe Malinghe Gorge as “the most beautiful scar on Earth”—a natural masterpiece created by millions of years of geological evolution.
Tianxing Gallery – The Most Beautiful Section of the Gorge
The most spectacular part of Malinghe Gorge is Tianxing Gallery (Heavenly Star Gallery), a scenic route approximately 2 kilometers long with an average depth of around 200 meters.
Along the canyon walls, countless waterfalls and streams flow down the cliffs, creating a breathtaking landscape of water, rocks, and forests. The combination of towering canyon walls and cascading waterfalls creates a scene that many visitors find even more dramatic than famous waterfall destinations.
To explore Tianxing Gallery, visitors usually walk down into the canyon, follow the trail along the river, and then climb back up through another exit. The complete sightseeing route takes about 2.5 hours.
Comfortable hiking shoes are highly recommended, as the trail includes steps and uneven paths. Visitors who prefer a more relaxing experience can also take the cable car, which is available at an additional cost.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Highlights
Besides Tianxing Gallery, Malinghe Gorge features several other attractions, including:
* Chelang Hot Spring
* Colorful Corridor
* Tianxing Gallery
* Zhaojiadu Ferry Crossing
The winding river, steep canyon walls, and fast-flowing water also make Malinghe Gorge an excellent destination for white-water rafting and outdoor adventures.
Best Time to Visit Malinghe River Gorge
The best time to visit Malinghe River Gorge Scenic Area is from April to September when the weather is comfortable and the vegetation is lush.
The waterfalls are especially spectacular during June and July, when rainfall increases the water flow and creates a more dramatic canyon landscape. However, visitors should take care when walking near the river during the rainy season, as water levels can rise quickly.
How to Visit Malinghe River Gorge
Malinghe Gorge is located only about 3 miles (5 kilometers) east of Xingyi City, making it very convenient to visit. It takes only about 8 minutes by car from downtown Xingyi to reach the scenic area.
For travelers exploring western Guizhou, Malinghe River Gorge is a must-see destination. Combined with nearby attractions such as Wanfeng Forest and Wanfeng Lake, it offers an unforgettable experience of Guizhou’s dramatic karst landscapes and natural beauty.