Danxia Geological Park: colorful hills in China. colored mountains of china
Danxia landscape in China is a unique type of land surface, which is characterized by red sandstones and steep cliffs created by nature. colorful mountains in China are found on the territory of several provinces in the southeastern and southwestern parts countries. The world famous Danxia landscape is the object world heritage UNESCO.
Danxia landscapes got their name in honor of the eponymous, located in the Chinese province of Guangdong.
The colorful mountains in China were formed from red sandstones and conglomerates from the Cretaceous period (from about 120 million years ago to about 65 million years ago). They contain many dinosaur fossils and plant remains from that period.
Steep cliffs were formed both due to external influences (erosion, weathering and other forms of influence environment) and internal growth.
Observation deck:
Natural influences, layering on each other, formed patterns of bizarre shapes, reminiscent of sea waves, on every mountain, on every ledge.
Many centuries ago, this place was the richest in China. The Great Silk Road passed through it. But, gradually with the fading of trade in this direction and the emergence of new routes, the province fell into decline. The most beautiful landscape was also forgotten local mountains in China.
It's been a long time and it's unusual place became popular again after the release of the 2009 film directed by Zhang Yimou with the ornate title "A Simple Noodle Story". Although not particularly popular, the film nevertheless rediscovered the beauty of the red sandstone relief to the whole world.
The place experienced its second birth, and caravans of tourists again came here to see the colorful landmark with their own eyes.
The "young" Danxia landscapes have deep and narrow valleys. As such valleys "age", they expand, and isolated peaks, towers and ridges appear on their territory.
Another characteristic feature of the Danxia landscape is the appearance of numerous isolated and narrow caves of various sizes and shapes. Despite the lifelessness, there are many forests in which the most different types plants and animals. 400 species of living organisms in Danxia landscape areas are considered rare or endangered.
In August 2010, six Danxia landscape areas that are in southern China, have been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites under common name"The Danxia Landscape in China". These six districts include Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, Lan Mountain in Hunan Province, Longhu Mountain in Jiangxi Province, Jianglang Mountain in Zhejiang Province, Chishui District in Guizhou Province, and Taining in Fujian Province.
You can wander through the colorful mountains, there are special paths here:
Gansu) located in the northwest of China has amazing beauty and geological features place. Colored mountain hills, located near small town Zhangye (Zhangye). Mountains 400 meters high, with multi-colored soil of inexpressible beauty, create landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Vibrant reds, pinks, chocolates and oranges intertwine here, creating colorful panoramas. This landscape, consisting of red gravel, sandstone and mudstone, was named Danxia Landform (Denxia), which means pink cloud.
The main reason for the emergence of such elegant, rich landscapes is the sediments of a heterogeneous type with the presence of centuries of soil erosion. In addition, there is a large accumulation of red sandstone in this area. Over the centuries, the soil has been layered and as a result formed magnificent patterns on the hills, reminiscent of waves on the sea.
At the junction between ordinary and colored hills
Looking at the mountains one day, it becomes immediately clear why millions of tourists annually come to the small Chinese town of Zhangye, which has no remarkable architecture, famous temples or entertainment night complexes. Stunning multi-colored mountains that take away dreams and dreams - that's what really interests them. Terracotta, lemon, turquoise, sand, emerald and dark blue shades can be seen in the landscape of the mountains. Such a vibrant palette, created only by weathering, oxidation, inspires many artists, poets and writers who come here every year from all over the world.
However, this was not always the case - the beautiful Denxia was re-popularized only at the end of the last century. Earlier, the city of Zhangye was one of the prosperous places in China, the famous Silk Road passed through it. At that time, the city prospered and was famous as the most rich place. Then, the city became less populated and over time, the amazing colored mountains were forgotten.
The second revival of the mountains was given by a Chinese director who shot mesmerizing landscapes in one scene of his film. In 2010, the mountains were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Colored soil up close
According to scientists, this mountain landscape was formed in the Mesozoic era and therefore harbors many fossils of that period - dinosaurs, plants. This version has been repeatedly confirmed by numerous archaeological excavations in this territory.
According to the data obtained, it was found that 100 million years ago there was a large inland basin in this territory. Carrying silt from the surrounding area, the water accumulated and as a result, the dried-up pool, together with all its contents, began to oxidize, taking on multi-colored shades of red. 30 million years later, a reddish layer of oxidized sediment became 4,000 m thick. peaks from 200 to 1000 m high.
Then, during the period of 30 million years, the landscape of this territory changed many times. Water streams that flowed through the cracks in the sedimentary rocks skillfully carved the slopes, while changing the reddish hue to a more muted one.
Close-up on most geological park
The scientists also noted that the formation of the Danxia Mountains is not yet complete. They vary in both color and height. Every 10 thousand years, the mountains increase by 0.9 m, and their color becomes brighter.
Of course, a similar landscape exists in Australia, and in Europe, America, but with the Chinese Danxia, in terms of color saturation, they are not comparable.
Anyone can visit the colored mountains. It should only be taken into account that the territory of Danxia Landform is divided into three main parts:
1. National geological park located in a picturesque area Linze Danxia. Zhangye Danxia Landform Park and pay a symbolic 40 yuan entrance fee. It is here that 4 hiking trails with viewing platforms are laid for tourists who decide to visit given place:
Among the shades there are also green with brown
· the first trail (main) is only 1 km (10 minutes walk) from the entrance to the park;
· the third path leads to the mountain rainbow. It is here that the 7 primary colors of the mountain peaks are clearly visible;
fourth - the longest in relation to the distance, provides an amazing opportunity to capture beautiful sunsets, sunrises.
The total distance between the 4 sites is 8 km. On average, viewing the territory takes no more than an hour if you use a sightseeing car. It is also possible to carry out a hang-gliding flight over multi-colored mountain ranges. The cost of such an excursion, depending on the flight time, varies between 300-500 yuan. And a leisurely walk in the park can be replaced with a tour in a mini-bass, which costs 20 yuan. Having paid once, you can move around the entire territory of the park an unlimited number of times, thereby having time to consider these mountains from all angles. The only thing to consider is that the last bus (in summer) leaves at 20:30 from the 4th observation deck. The park is open 7 days a week, in summer from 05:30 to 20:30, in winter from 08:00 to 14:00.
Not all places in the park can be reached on foot.
2. The Sunan Danxia area has no sightseeing trails, but the scenery is still breathtaking. Entrance fee: 40 yuan.
3. Binggou Danxia has an unusual geological content. In addition to colorful mountains, here is located ancient palace and a temple.
The mountains are bright, like the robe of a Buddhist monk. Multicolored like a rainbow - terracotta, turquoise, lemon, emerald, sand, dark blue. Hypnotizing, like a painting by an abstract artist.
Nature draws here. If you do not believe the photos, write down the address: China, Gansu Province. Zhangye city, Danxia. In general, the word "danxia" ("pink cloud") is called in China "red" sandstone mountains. But we are talking about Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park. It is here that the mountains shimmer with all the colors of the spectrum, introducing even seasoned travelers into a reverent trance.
Geologists believe that such formations appear as a result of movements of the earth's crust. Layers of rocks of different colors, textures, shapes and sizes are exposed. This is also facilitated by the fragile structure of sandstone, centuries-old weathering and washing out of the soil. The process began back in the Mesozoic, so it is quite possible that somewhere under a thin layer of soil lie the remains of a relic dinosaur.
Since 2010, the Colored Mountains of China have been added to the UNESCO fund as a World Heritage Site.
WHERE TO WATCH Especially for tourists laid hiking trails and built viewing platforms. There are four of them in the geopark. The first is located a kilometer from the entrance. The second one seems to be nearby, but it will take at least half an hour to get to it: there are more than 600 steps to be overcome. From the third you will see the famous mountain "rainbow", but the fourth gives you the opportunity to capture the unique sunsets and sunrises. For 200-500 yuan, you can admire this splendor from the air by renting a hang glider. If you are going to move exclusively on the ground, then it is most convenient to do this on a mini-bus, which carries tourists along the route (travel is included in the price of the entrance ticket, and the entrance ticket is 60 yuan).
ADVICE The weather in the Geopark is mostly dry and sunny, but even on a cloudy day the mountains do not lose their charm. However, if you want good photos come by in the afternoon. Best time for shooting - two to three hours before sunset.
HOW TO GET
- with the help of organized tour;
- by taxi from Zhangye city: it will cost 150-180 yuan round trip, plus they will wait for you on the spot;
- The bus ride costs 10 yuan, but there may be problems with the schedule - they usually run only until lunch. There are buses from Zhangye City Western Station to Sunam County Station, then you need to transfer to a taxi.
FACT The Colored Mountains served as an impressive cover for a 2009 Chinese-style theatrical gore action film directed by Zhang Yimou. "A Simple Noodle Story", a story about a small noodle shop lost somewhere far away in the mountains - our answer to Chamberlain, American history Joel Coen's Just Blood (1984).
Joecool 10 China My wife and I joined a hiking group with a local guide and walked around the mountains for five hours. It was amazing... Stunning scenery, great local guide. Bring along food, snacks (there's nothing around), bring a wide-angle lens and catch the weather - when it's sunny around, the colors come to life.
Massimo R, Italy Just amazing place! You won't believe it can exist until you see it for yourself. hilly area shows an incredible variability of colors, often the pattern is formed in vertical and horizontal stripes, sometimes in spots. Tourist work is well organized: small buses move you between the main stops. You have to go up and down the stairs, but all efforts are rewarded. The views are breathtaking! This place, which is located 60 km southwest of Zhangye, is a must-see if you are traveling along the Silk Road!
Danxia landscape in China is a unique type of land surface, which is characterized by red sandstones and steep cliffs created by nature. Multi-colored mountains in China are found on the territory of several provinces in the southeastern and southwestern parts of the country. The world famous Danxia Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Danxia landscapes got their name in honor of the eponymous, located in the Chinese province of Guangdong.
The colorful mountains in China were formed from red sandstones and conglomerates from the Cretaceous period (from about 120 million years ago to about 65 million years ago). They contain many dinosaur fossils and plant remains from that period.
Steep cliffs were formed both by external influences (erosion, weathering and other forms of environmental influences) and by internal growth.
Observation deck: 
Natural influences, layering on each other, formed bizarre patterns, reminiscent of sea waves, on every mountain, on every ledge.
Many centuries ago, this place was the richest in China. The Great Silk Road passed through it. But, gradually with the fading of trade in this direction and the emergence of new routes, the province fell into decline. Was forgotten and the beautiful landscape of the local mountains in China.
After a long time, this unusual place became popular again after the release of the 2009 film directed by Zhang Yimou with the ornate title "A Simple Noodle Story". Although not particularly popular, the film nevertheless rediscovered the beauty of the red sandstone relief to the whole world.
The place experienced its second birth, and caravans of tourists again came here to see the colorful landmark with their own eyes.
The "young" Danxia landscapes have deep and narrow valleys. As such valleys "age", they expand, and isolated peaks, towers and ridges appear on their territory.
Another characteristic feature of the Danxia landscape is the appearance of numerous isolated and narrow caves of various sizes and shapes. Despite the lifelessness, there are many forests in which there are a variety of plant and animal species. 400 species of living organisms in Danxia landscape areas are considered rare or endangered.
In August 2010, six Danxia landscape areas in southern China were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the title of "China's Danxia Landscape". These six districts include Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, Lan Mountain in Hunan Province, Longhu Mountain in Jiangxi Province, Jianglang Mountain in Zhejiang Province, Chishui District in Guizhou Province, and Taining in Fujian Province.
You can wander through the colorful mountains, there are special paths here: 
In addition to China, this type of landscape can be found in the western part North America, Central Europe and Australia. But more on that another time.
Today, tourists from all over the world flock to Chinese province Gansu to admire the local unusual landscape. The main local attraction is a unique geological formation called the Danxia Landform.
These rock formations are a unique type of petrographic geomorphology that can only be found in China. The colored rocks are composed of red sandstones and conglomerates mostly from the Cretaceous period.
The formation of this beauty began many millions of years ago as a result of the accumulation a large number sands and other mineral rocks. Under the influence of air and water, these rocks slowly oxidized, which was the reason for such an unusual color of sandstones. Layering and interacting with each other, various breeds formed patterns of bizarre shapes. At first glance, it seems that this is the creation of an artist's brush.
Research shows that there was a huge inland pool here about 100 million years ago. The water carried silt here from those around. As a result of global high temperatures, the basin dried up and in these arid conditions the sediment oxidized and took on the color of rust. Approximately 70 million years ago, a red layer 3,700 meters thick formed in a pool known as the chalk bed. At the top was a hard layer 1,300 meters thick, a layer of the Cretaceous period system, from which the peaks of Mount Dunxia gradually formed.
Since 30 million years ago, mountain building has changed the landscape of the basin many times. Water flowing down through cracks in the cut and eroded sedimentary rock carved the slope, leaving red fragmentary rocks behind. Now we see nothing more than the outlines of the Danxia land.
According to experts, mountain formation is still going on in the area, with an average rise of 0.87 meters every 10,000 years over the past 500,000 years.
The height of these fantastic hills is less than 1000 meters (average 300-400 m). And they were formed, according to scientists, back in the Mesozoic period and store many fossils of ancient animals and plants: the remains of dinosaurs, the fossilized eggs of huge reptiles.
The Red Sandstones of China literally means "cinnabar" and got its name from Mount Danxia in Guangdong Province. The age of Mount Danxia is during the Cretaceous period (about 120 million to 65 million years ago), and the steep cliffs are created by forces both exogenous (erosion and weathering) and endogenous (uplift). Another feature of this relief is the existence of numerous isolated and small caves of various sizes and shapes.
Previously, Gansu Province was extremely popular all over the world, and the town of Zhangye was one of the richest cities in China. And all because hundreds of years ago the Silk Road ran here. Thousands of travelers and merchants daily admired this unearthly beauty.
But not only China can boast of such unusual landscapes. Such hills are also common in Australia, South America and Central Europe. But none of the countries can compete in the number of amazing hills with China.
