China’s giant sinkholes, especially in Guangxi province, have gained massive popularity among tourists eager to explore their pristine ecosystems. But while these natural wonders offer a unique glimpse of Earth’s past, experts warn that the influx of tourists could threaten the fragile habitats hidden within these sinkholes.
Ranging in depth from 100 to 300 metres, these sinkholes – known locally as “tiankeng” or “heavenly pits” – have long been shrouded in myth. Ancient local beliefs held that the mist rising from the depths was caused by demons and ghosts, adding an air of mystery to an already dangerous area. But now, these sites have become increasingly accessible, with guided tours and even extreme sports activities like abseiling attracting tourists from all over the country.
Rui, a tourist from Shanghai, expressed her excitement at the discovery of one such sinkhole. “I have never done this kind of work before,” he told the BBC. This is great. This will be the first time but not the last time.”
Fee Gay, a tour guide in his 50s who, as the BBC reports, was one of the first discoverers of these sinkholes, recalls the legends surrounding the pits. “We thought that if humans went into the sinkhole, the monsters would bring strong winds and heavy rain. We thought the ghosts had brought mist and fog,” he said.
His curiosity led him to become one of the early explorers of these sites, and eventually introduced scientists to the region. His discoveries were unprecedented, identifying rare and previously unknown species of plants and animals, including orchids, white cave fish and many types of spiders and snails.
China is home to about two-thirds of the world’s more than 300 sinkholes, and there are more than 30 in Guangxi alone. These sinkholes form in limestone-rich areas where underground rivers slowly erode the rock, forming huge caverns that eventually collapse, leaving deep holes. Back. These pits are isolated from the outside world, allowing ecosystems to flourish, largely untouched by human activity.
Sinkhole researcher Dr. Lina Shen highlighted the importance of preserving these unique habitats. “We must better protect such habitats. Sinkholes are havens for many rare and endangered plant species. Dr. Shen suggested that measures such as “hot air balloons, drones for aerial photography, and suitable trails for remote observation” could help reduce human impact on these fragile sites, while preventing people from “sinkholes.” Can allow close but distant viewing.
