Canyon Hiking Secret Spot Recommendation

Tunbang Skylight: A Fantastic Journey Through the Gate to the Earth's Core 1. Why Tunbang Skylight? In Libo County, Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou, lies a wonder known as the "Earth's Most Beautiful Scar"—Tunbang Skylight. It is not a traditional skylight but a huge karst collapse sinkhole, about 300 meters in diameter and 280 meters deep, surrounded by sheer cliffs. At the bottom, the water is as clear as a mirror, resembling a sapphire embedded among the mountains. This place is not yet widely known to the general public but has long been famous in the adventure and photography communities. 2. Preparation: Safety and Experience in Balance Best travel time: April to October, avoid the rainy season (pay attention to weather changes in July and August). Transportation: Self-driving: About 4 hours from Guiyang, navigate to "Dongpeng Village, Limingguan Shui Ethnic Township, Libo County." Public transport: Take a bus from Guiyang Bus Station to Libo County, then charter a car to Dongpeng Village (about 1.5 hours). Equipment checklist: Essentials: Non-slip hiking shoes, headlamp/flashlight, waterproof backpack, quick-dry clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, safety whistle, some dry food and water. Optional: Drone (must be reported in advance), diving gear (requires professional guide), rope equipment (requires professional team). Safety notes: The skylight area has complex terrain; do not go alone. It is recommended to hire a local guide (contactable in Dongpeng Village). Water levels rise rapidly during the rainy season; avoid approaching the water's edge. Protect the environment by taking all trash with you. 3. Exploring the Skylight: An Adventure to the Earth's Core First stop: The top of the skylight (panoramic view) Hike about 1 hour from Dongpeng Village to the edge of the skylight, passing through pristine forest and enjoying the fresh air rich in negative oxygen ions. Stand at the cliff edge to overlook the entire skylight, where the clear water and cliffs create a strong visual impact. Drone aerial shots are excellent here. Second stop: The Earth's Core Entrance (cave exploration) With a guide, descend along the cliff path to the bottom of the skylight (about 1 hour). Along the way, see stalactites, underground rivers, and other karst wonders. The bottom pool is crystal clear, with sunlight shining through the cave opening, creating a dreamy light and shadow effect, perfect for snorkeling or free diving (water temperature is low, so keep warm). Third stop: Tracing the Underground River (underground world) The bottom of the skylight connects to a vast underground river system. Professional adventure teams can explore deep caves, experience underground rafting, rappelling, and other extreme activities (advance booking with professional organizations required). 4. Nearby Activities: Deeply Experience Qiannan Culture Dongpeng Village Buyei Culture: Stay in local homestays, taste specialties like sour soup fish and five-color glutinous rice, join bonfire parties, and feel the enthusiasm of ethnic minorities. Maolan Karst Forest: A World Natural Heritage site, hike through the primeval forest to find rare flora and fauna. Libo Xiaoqikong: A mature scenic area famous for waterfalls and lakes, suitable for family outings. 5. Photography Tips: Capture the Magical Light and Shadow Best spots: Skylight edge: Use a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots. Bottom pool: Use water reflections to create symmetrical compositions. Inside the cave: Use long exposure to capture the flowing underground river. Best times: Before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m., when sunlight slants into the skylight, creating the "Jesus light" effect. During the rainy season (with caution), water volume is abundant, making waterfalls more spectacular. 6. Special Tips: Tunbang Skylight is currently semi-developed with limited infrastructure; be mentally prepared. Respect local customs; do not enter villagers' private areas without permission. Some adventure activities carry risks; always choose reputable organizations and purchase professional insurance. Tunbang Skylight is a journey of courage and exploration. It awakens our reverence for nature with the most primitive geological wonders. When you pass through the darkness and reach that blue sea at the earth’s core, all hardships will turn into awe and emotion.