Gangcha Karst Cave

　　Introduction Gangcha is located in Gangcha Administrative Village, 26 kilometers directly north of Hezuo City, and is known for its unique karst cave landforms and stone forest scenery. Here, peaks and cliffs stand opposite each other, stretching along the valley with rugged mountain shapes and lush pines and cypresses. On some cliff tops, tough pines and cypresses grow deep within crevices, showcasing the wonders of life in nature.

　　Along the Xila Valley, there are seven limestone caves and natural rock caves, all highly distinctive. Two natural caves used for hermitage and meditation were once frequented by many eminent monks for spiritual practice, and meditation platforms used for sitting in contemplation can still be found inside. There are also two through-caves; one legend says it was created when the Divine Mother’s divine power opened up a stove and chimney while cooking, while another tale claims it was pierced through the cliff by the Divine Mother’s magical arrow.

　　The fascinating legends and the surrounding scenery spark the imagination, but two even more spectacular karst caves are truly captivating. One is the Xilanaikang Great Cave, a cave within a cave, with lower caves connected to upper ones, extending diagonally downward with varying widths — some broad like halls, others so narrow that only a single person can crawl through. Deep inside the cave, colorful stones of various shapes, such as grape-like stalactites, create a crystal maze that sparks the imagination and offers a unique experience.

　　The other is the Dripping Rock Cave, about 15 meters deep, with a narrow entrance and a wider interior. Inside the main chamber, there are peculiar stones in the shapes of ancient ape fossils, dinosaur fossils, and more. On the right side is a branch cave, deep within which stalactites form figures of the Eighteen Arhats and Shakyamuni Buddha, together with two stupa-like stone formations at the branch cave’s entrance, creating a natural Buddhist shrine. Inside, stalactites shaped like pig heads resemble offerings, while the cave ceiling resembles strings of pearls and jade — a marvelous sight of strange rocks and beauty that inspires awe.

　　 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province