How To Get To Stone Forest From Kunming: Car, Bus & Train

Q: How far is Kunming from the Stone Forest?

Its about 80 to 90km. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the city center, or a 20-minute ride if you take the high-speed train to Shilin West.

Q: How do I go to the Stone Forest from Kunming Airport?

The simplest way is the direct airport shuttle bus (about 2 hours). For more speed, a taxi or private car can reach the park in approximately one hour.

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Stone Forest?

The main ticket is 130 RMB. We suggest adding 25 RMB for the internal electric shuttle to save energy. Transport from Kunming typically costs between 18 and 60 RMB.

Q: How long should I spend at the Stone Forest?

Plan for 3 to 4 hours inside the park. Most travelers visit as a comfortable day trip from Kunming.

Kunming to Stone Forest: Car, Bus & Train | Updated 2026

Expert Reviewed

Written by Dean|Updated: 2026-03-26|Reading Time: 6 min

How to to Get to Stone Forest from Kunming? You can reach Stone Forest from Kunming by Bus or train, with Car to Stone Forest being the best choice.

The whole journey from Kunming to Stone Forest is about 80km or 50 miles in distance, and would take 30 minutes to 2.5 hours to get there, and travel cost ranges from RMB 40 to RMB 200 depending on travel style.

Check what's the best way for you to get to Stone Forest, the Karst Landscape wonder from Kunming. The Best Way, the straightforward way, the budget way to Stone Forest, the choice is yours!

Let's get into the details of Kunming to Shilin Stone Forest!

5 Kunming to Stone Forest Key Takeaways

Private car service is the most convenient option for groups, providing direct hotel-to-park transport without the hassle of transfers.
The high-speed train reaches Shilin West in 30 minutes, but you will still need a 30–60 minute taxi or bus to reach the actual park entrance.
If arriving from the airport, the direct shuttle bus (2-2.5h) is the best "one-seat" journey to avoid navigating multiple connections.
Arrive before 10:00 AM to explore the limestone peaks before the peak crowds and midday heat arrive.
Entry is 130 RMB; be sure to buy the 25 RMB internal shuttle ticket to save your legs in this massive park.

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Location, Kunming to Stone Forest Distance & How to Get There from Kunming
#1. Best Option from Kunming to Stone Forest: Get to Stone Forest By Car
#2. How to Get to Stone Forest By Train: High Speed Train & Bus Combo
#3. Kunming Airport to Stone Forest by Bus: Straightforward Way
#4. How to Get to Stone Forest from Kunming City by Bus: Connect via the Airport Shuttle
How to Get Around in Stone Forest Scenic Area
How to Plan a Kunming to Stone Forest Tour
Visit Stone Forest Kunming, Journey to Permian Period with Asia Odyssey Travel

Location, Kunming to Stone Forest Distance & How to Get There from Kunming

Stone Forest, Once Submerged Under an Ancient Sea

Where is the Stone Forest located? How long is the Kunming to Stone Forest distance?

The Stone Forest, or Shilin (石林), is located in the Yunnan Province, Southwestern China, approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of the provincial capital, Kunming.

You can reach Stone Forest from Kunming by bus or train, with car being the best choice.

The Stone Forest, the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site with dramatic landscape and ethnic cultural value, draws tourists thanks to its proximity to Kunming, making Kunming to Stone Forest a popular side trip.

Here's an overview of ways to get to the county, Shilin, where Stone Forest is located, from Kunming.

Transportation	Distance	Travel Time	Travel Cost (RMB)	Note
Car (Rental or Tour Arranged)	80 km (50 miles)	1 - 1.5 hours	Varies	Best direct option
Bullet Train (Kunming South Railway Station)	81 km (50 miles)	30 minutes (1.5h total)	¥28 - ¥39 (total)	Fastest, but not direct
Regular Train (Kunming Railway Station)	81 km (50 miles)	1 - 3 hours (2 - 4h total)	¥24.5 - ¥55.5 (total)	Budget
Bus from Kunming Changshui Airport	90 km (56 miles)	2 - 2.5 hours	¥60	Direct service
Bus from Kunming East Coach Station	85 km (53 miles)	2.5 - 3 hours	¥65	Connect via airport shuttle

#1. Best Option from Kunming to Stone Forest: Get to Stone Forest By Car

Our Customers in Stone Forest, Yunnan

As you can see above, getting to Stone Forest from Kunming is not that far in distance.

However, there would be some transfer involved which would result in a bit challenging scenarios with language barrier and varying schedules for buses and trains from Kunming to Stone Forest.

The private car would be your BEST option to go to Stone Forest. You can rent a car and drive from Kunming to the Stone Forest. The drive takes approximately 1 - 1.5 hours via the Kunming-Shilin Expressway (G85).

Alternatively, join a Kunming tour offered by Asia Odyssey Travel to enjoy hotel-to-attraction transportation for hassle-free travel all the way to the Stone Forest.

#2. How to Get to Stone Forest By Train: High Speed Train & Bus Combo

Kunming South Railway Station

You can take a train (high speed or regular) from Kunming to Shilin County, then switch to a bus to Stone Forest Scenic Area.

The whole journey with the LATEST high speed train and bus from Kunming to Stone Forest shall take about 1.5 hours and less than RMB 60,which is a pretty beginner friendly Yunnan High-Speed Train Tours.

Here are the 2 train options from Kunming to Shilin county.

Travel Method	Departure	Arrival	Travel Time	Ticket Price (RMB)
Regular Train	Kunming Station (昆明火车站)	Shilin Station (石林站)	30 minutes	¥14.5 - ¥45.5
Bullet Train	Kunming South Station (昆明南站)	Shilin West Station (石林西站)	1 - 3 hours	¥18 - ¥29

As you can see in the table, taking the bullet train is faster than the regular train.

However, Kunming Station (昆明火车站) is more conveniently located if you're staying in Kunming city center. Kunming South Station is farther from the city center but offers a much faster travel time.

Also, keep in mind that the high-speed train from Kunming to to Shilin County doesn't drop you right at the park. You will arrive at Shilin West Railway Station (石林西站), and from there, you’ll need a local transfer to reach the scenic area:

By Local Bus: Take Shilin Bus No. 99. This takes 10 RMB for one person. It’s a budget-friendly ride that takes about 1 hour to reach the Stone Forest entrance.

By Taxi: A quicker alternate option is to grab a taxi or use a ride-hailing app. This takes about 30 minutes and is much more direct.

Tips for the Train & Bus Combo

Train and bus combos require transfers in Shilin West Railway Station (石林西站); allow for extra waiting time when planning your journey.
For seamless transportation, consider joining our 3-Day Kunming to Stone Forest Tour hassle-free.

#3. Kunming Airport to Stone Forest by Bus: Straightforward Way

Bus from Kunming to Stone Forest

The straightforward way to travel from Kunming to Stone Forest is by taking a direct shuttle bus from Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水国际机场) to Stone Forest Scenic Area Bus Station (石林景区客运站).

The journey from Kunming to Stone Forest by shuttle bus is approximately 2.5 -3 hours and costs RMB 60. The distance from the airport of Kunming to Stone Forest is about 85 kilometers, or 53 miles.

To reach Stone Forest from Kunming Airport, you can board the Airport-Stone Forest Shuttle (空港石林专线). There are 6 buses from Kunming to Stone Forest each day, with service times at 09:30, 10:30, 12:00, 15:00, 16:30, and 18:30.

Consider our 3-Day Kunming to Stone Forest Tour for a hassle-free trip with private transport and a local guide to eliminate research and language barriers.

4 Steps to Get to Stone Forest from Kunming Airport by Shuttle Bus

Step 1. Start your journey at Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水国际机场), located in Changshui Village, Guandu District, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China (昆明市官渡区长水村).

Step 2. Purchase your tickets at the counter located in Kunming Airport. Don't forget to bring your ID for check-in.

Step 3. Board the shuttle bus to Stone Forest Scenic Area Bus Station (石林景区客运站). The bus departs at the following times: 09:30, 10:30, 12:00, 15:00, 16:30, and 18:30.

Step 4. After a bus ride from Kunming of around 2.5 - 3 hours, you will arrive at the Stone Forest Scenic Area Bus Station. From there, you can walk to the Stone Forest Scenic Area.

#4. How to Get to Stone Forest from Kunming City by Bus: Connect via the Airport Shuttle

The Latest Bus Info from Kunming to Shilin

If you are staying in Kunming city area, taking a bus is another way to get from Kunming to the Stone Forest.
Traveling from downtown Kunming to Stone Forest now requires a quick connection via the airport shuttle. This takes 2.5 - 3 hours and costs RMB 65 in total.

Step 1: Get to the Changshui Airport from Kunming East Coach Station

First, you take the subway (e,g. Metro Line 6) from Kunming East Coach Station (昆明市东部汽车客运站) to the Airport Center Station (机场中心站).

Just buy tickets at the counter and bring your ID for check-in. The subways run frequently (about every 10 minutes) from 06:32 until 23:07.

Upon arrival at the airport, exit through Exit B.

Step 2: Take the Airport Shuttle to Stone Forest Park

Once at the airport, hop on the Airport-Stone Forest Shuttle (空港石林专线) to reach the Stone Forest Scenic Area Bus Station (石林景区客运站). The shuttles depart at 09:30, 10:30, 12:00, 15:00, 16:30, and 18:30.

Upon arrival, walk to the park entrance, taking about 4 minutes.

You can also consider joining a Kunming tour for a hassle-free travel to Stone Forest, with private transport and an insightful local guide. No research needed, no language barrier to worry about!

How to Get Around in Stone Forest Scenic Area

There are two main areas to explore in Stone Forest:

Greater Stone Forest (Da Shilin, 大石林): The most popular and largest area with the tallest stone formations.
Lesser Stone Forest (Xiao Shilin, 小石林): A smaller, less crowded area with unique rock formations.

Best Way to Get Around in Stone Forest:

Walking: Most of the classic route can be comfortably covered on foot.
Shuttle Bus(RMB 25 p/p): Use the internal shuttle buses for longer distances or to save time.
Guided Tour: Guided Yunnan Tours offered by Asia Odyssey Travel are available and can provide detailed information about the geology, history, and folklore of the area.

Check detail on How to Visit the Stone Forest.

How to Plan a Kunming to Stone Forest Tour

Yi Minority People dance in Stone Forest

Kick off your Yunnan adventure in Kunming, the "City of Eternal Spring." Immerse yourself in its mild climate and explore captivating attractions before venturing out to the awe-inspiring Stone Forest.

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming

Arrive in Kunming, the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province. Settle into your accommodation and freshen up.

Depending on your arrival time, immerse yourself in Kunming's bustling atmosphere. Explore local markets, indulge in delicious Yunnan cuisine, or unwind in the serene Green Lake Park.

Day 2: Journey to the Stone Forest

Gear up for an adventure! The awe-inspiring Stone Forest (Shilin) lies approximately 81 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Kunming.

Upon arrival at the Stone Forest Scenic Area, embark on a journey through a mesmerizing landscape. Witness towering limestone formations sculpted by nature over millions of years, resembling a petrified forest.

Day 3: Exploring Further or Relaxing in Kunming

Return to Kunming: Relax and delve deeper into Kunming's cultural offerings.

Visit historical sites like Yuantong Temple. Savor a traditional Yunnan lunch near the Stone Forest and experience the unique local flavors, the refreshing food in Yunnan.

3 Days Kunming World Heritage Tour: Explore the Spring City & Stone Forest

Kunming - Stone Forest - West Hill

Minority Culture

3 Days

3 Places View Detail

Yuanyang Rice Terraces (2-3 Days): Hike or take best photo with great views of the Terraces.

Dali (2-3 days): Explore the Nanzhao Kingdom and Erhai Lake.

Lijiang (2-3 days): Hike Tiger Leaping Gorge (optional) or see Lugu Lake.

Shangri-La (2-3 days): Visit Songzanlin Monastery.

8 Days Classic Yunnan Group Tour: Kunming Dali Shangri-La Lijiang

Kunming - Dali - Shangri-La - Lijiang

8 Days

5 Places View Detail

Xishuangbanna (1-2 days): Explore rainforests and Dai villages.

Optional destinations: Tengchong (hot springs), Pu'er (tea). Consider Laos and Southeast Asia via new China-Laos Railway.

4 Days Xishuangbanna Tour: Tropical Rainforest, Wild Elephants & Dai Enthic Culture

Xishuangbanna

4 Days

1 Place View Detail

Visit Stone Forest Kunming, Journey to Permian Period with Asia Odyssey Travel

Kunming, the City of Eternal Spring in China, welcomes you any time. Experience the awe-inspiring Stone Forest dating back to Permian Period, take a leisurely stroll around Dianchi Lake, or capture the stunning views from Western Hills.

Open your horizon by embracing the culture of 25 ethnic groups - explore the Yunnan Ethnic Village or the historic sites at Kunming Western Hill.

270 million years history of Stone Forest, 25 ethnic groups, all in Yunnan!

Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel - Walk into Permian Stone Forest

Authentic Experience: Discover the Most Unique Yunnan Cuisines with local guides
Genuine Service: Personalized itinerary, lock the Besttime to visit Yunnan
Skip the Tourist Routine: Walk into Everlasting Spring, live like a local
Exclusive Access: Secure your tickets and beds even in high seasons
Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities - all taken care of!
24/7 Support: Peace of mind throughout your trip

Asia Odyssey Travel, leading your Asia Adventure Since 2011. What's your travel idea? Let's talk!

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All

Is Shilin Stone Forest worth visiting? +

Yes! It is a UNESCO site with spectacular karst formations that look like a petrified forest. It is a world-class natural wonder and a must-see in Yunnan.

How far is Kunming from the Stone Forest? +

It’s about 80 to 90km. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the city center, or a 20-minute ride if you take the high-speed train to Shilin West.

How do I go to the Stone Forest from Kunming Airport? +

The simplest way is the direct airport shuttle bus (about 2 hours). For more speed, a taxi or private car can reach the park in approximately one hour.

How much does it cost to visit the Stone Forest? +

The main ticket is 130 RMB. We suggest adding 25 RMB for the internal electric shuttle to save energy. Transport from Kunming typically costs between 18 and 60 RMB.

How long should I spend at the Stone Forest? +

Plan for 3 to 4 hours inside the park. Most travelers visit as a comfortable day trip from Kunming.