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Written by Dean | Updated: 2025-06-30
The Stone Forest (Shilin, 石林), located southeast of Kunming, is one of Yunnan’s most captivating natural wonders. For travelers seeking a faster alternative to buses without the cost of a private car, taking a train — especially a high-speed train — combined with a short bus or taxi ride, offers an efficient and budget-friendly solution.
Train Options from Kunming to Stone Forest (Shilin County)
You can reach the Stone Forest by taking a train from Kunming to Shilin County, followed by local transport to the scenic area entrance. Depending on your schedule and location in Kunming, you can choose between a regular train or a high-speed bullet train.
| Travel Method | Travel Time | Ticket Price (RMB) |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Train (Kunming Railway Station) | 1.5 – 3.5 hours | ¥18.5 – ¥142.5 |
| High-Speed Train (Kunming South Railway Station) | 18 – 20 minutes | ¥18 – ¥45.5 |
Regular Train from Kunming Railway Station
- Departure station: Kunming Railway Station (昆明火车站), centrally located and convenient if you’re staying downtown.
- Travel time: 1.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Cost: RMB 18.5 – 142.5 depending on train type and seat class.
This option allows a slower, more scenic ride and is suitable if you prefer departing from Kunming’s city center without traveling far to the station.
High-Speed Train from Kunming South Railway Station
- Departure station: Kunming South Railway Station (昆明火车南站), located farther from downtown but well-connected by metro and taxi.
- Travel time: Only 18–20 minutes to Shilin West Railway Station (石林西站).
- Cost: Approximately RMB 18 – 45.5.
This is the fastest way to reach Shilin County, making it ideal for travelers who want to minimize travel time and maximize exploration at the Stone Forest.
Onward Travel from Shilin Stations to Stone Forest Scenic Area
From Shilin Station (Regular Train)
- Distance: About 3 kilometers to Stone Forest Scenic Area.
- Transportation: You can walk if you enjoy a gentle stroll or take a quick taxi ride (about RMB 10).
From Shilin West Station (High-Speed Train)
- Distance: Around 22 kilometers to the Stone Forest entrance.
- Transportation: Take a public bus (route A2 or 99), which takes about 1 hour, or hire a taxi for faster travel.
Travel Tips for 2025
- Transfers Required: While the train options are fast, you’ll need to factor in additional time for local transfers from the station to the scenic area.
- High-Speed Train as an Attraction: Since 2025, China’s high-speed trains have become a highlight for many travelers themselves. However, note that the journey from Kunming to Shilin West is quite short, so it won’t give you the full experience of a long high-speed rail journey.
- Ticket Booking: It’s recommended to book your train tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Bring a valid ID for check-in at the station.
Seamless Travel with LuxTourCN
For travelers seeking a completely hassle-free experience, LuxTourCN offers curated Stone Forest trips with private transportation, professional local guides, and personalized itineraries. No transfers to figure out, no language barriers, and more time to immerse yourself in the magic of Yunnan’s limestone labyrinth.
Final Thoughts
Taking a train from Kunming to the Stone Forest is an excellent way to balance speed, cost, and local adventure. Whether you choose the budget-friendly regular train or the lightning-fast high-speed option, your journey promises stunning scenery and the chance to witness one of China’s most remarkable geological wonders.
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