Shimen Gorge in Xinping County, Yuxi

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Shimen Gorge (石门峡) is located in Gasa Town (嘎洒镇), Xinping County (新平县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Nestled in the mid-mountains on the eastern slope of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山), this hidden gem lies at the transportation junction of three prefectures—Yuxi City (玉溪市), Chuxiong Prefecture (楚雄州), and Pu’er City (普洱市)—and five counties—Xinping (新平县), Yuanjiang (元江县), Mojiang (墨江县), Zhenyuan (镇沅县), and Shuangbai (双柏县). It is approximately 65 kilometers from Xinping County’s downtown.

Cultural and Historical Background

Gasa Town (嘎洒镇) is known as the “Home of the Huayao Dai Ethnic Group (花腰傣族)”, with a long history and rich cultural heritage. Shimen Gorge (石门峡), celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty and untouched landscapes, is often referred to as the “Jiuzhaigou (九寨沟) of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山)”.

Local Customs

Gasa Town (嘎洒镇) is a major settlement area for the Huayao Dai people (花腰傣), where residents maintain ancient traditions and distinctive handicrafts such as weaving, embroidery, and decorative needlework. The town also hosts vibrant cultural festivals, including the famous Water Splashing Festival (泼水节).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Gasa Town (嘎洒镇) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild temperatures. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is comfortable and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration

Shimen Gorge (石门峡)
Named after the five naturally formed stone gates in the canyon, Shimen Gorge boasts crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. A paradise for nature lovers.
Suggested visiting time: around 2 hours

Nanen Waterfall (南恩瀑布)
Located near Gasa Town, this powerful and majestic waterfall is one of the most famous natural sights in the Ailao Mountains.
Suggested visiting time: around 1 hour

Dabinglangyuan Village (大槟榔园村)
An ecological and cultural village where tamarind, mango, and lychee trees flourish. The villagers still preserve ancient customs and ways of life.
Suggested visiting time: around 1 hour

Tickets

Entrance fee to Shimen Gorge (石门峡) is 40 RMB per person.

Transportation

Self-Drive
From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to the Xinping (新平) exit, then follow Provincial Road 307 (省道307) to Gasa Town (嘎洒镇).

Public Transport
From Kunming (昆明), take a long-distance bus to Xinping County (新平县), then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Gasa Town (嘎洒镇).

Local Cuisine

Specialties in Gasa Town (嘎洒镇) include bamboo tube rice (竹筒饭), grilled fish (烤鱼), and sour soup (酸汤), all reflecting the Dai ethnic flavors.

Shopping

Local handicrafts such as Huayao Dai embroidery (花腰傣刺绣) and silver jewelry are popular souvenirs.

Accommodation

Hotels in County Center
Xinping County (新平县) has a range of hotels with moderate prices.

Homestays
Gasa Town (嘎洒镇) offers unique homestays that allow visitors to experience the local way of life.

Travel Tips

Environmental Protection
Do not litter in the scenic area. Help protect the natural environment.

Safety Tips
Be cautious near cliffs, streams, and waterfalls. Follow all safety instructions and scenic area rules.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Arrive at Xinping County (新平县) and travel to Shimen Gorge (石门峡) in Gasa Town (嘎洒镇)
• Afternoon: Explore Shimen Gorge—enjoy the clear waters and dramatic waterfalls

Day 2

• Morning: Visit Nanen Waterfall (南恩瀑布) and experience its powerful flow
• Afternoon: Explore Dabinglangyuan Village (大槟榔园村) and immerse yourself in the local culture

Shimen Gorge (石门峡), with its breathtaking natural scenery and deep cultural roots, draws countless visitors every year. We hope your journey through Xinping (新平) leaves you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Shimen Gorge.