China Danxia Facts: Things To Know About The Rainbow Mountains

Gincy Alphonse
Oct 05, 2022 By Gincy Alphonse
Originally Published on Mar 11, 2022
Edited by Pete Anderson
Fact-checked by Niyati Parab
In this article, we will discuss some interesting China Danxia Facts.
?
Age: 3-18
Read time: 3.4 Min

Looking at the rainbow range of mountains, one might think they are in a fairytale world.

The colors are so bright and intense that it is hard to believe they are real. But these rainbow mountains can be found in China, and are known as Danxia landforms.

Danxia landform is a unique type of sedimentary rock formation found in southeast, southwest, and northwest China. The rocks are made up of a variety of colors, giving the formations their 'rainbow' appearance. Danxia landforms are noted for their steep cliffs, caves, and unusual shapes.

Discovery And History

The Zhangye Danxia landform area is called 'Zhangye's eye candy.' Many artists like this work of art because it is so vividly colored, almost like an inventive oil painting.

The nearest city to Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is Zhangye, which is located in the province of Gansu in China. It's a sort of petrographic geomorphology that's only found in China. Danxia is made up of red sandstone and conglomerates that are mostly Cretaceous in age. The Danxia scenery of Zhangye features several steep red cliffs, most of which are a hundred feet high, as well as multicolored ridges of weathered layers that sweep to the horizon.

The erosion of red sandstone generated isolated mountains and steep stratified outcrops in Zhangye's Danxia. Its current form is the result of its unique geological structure, which was mixed with long-term desert conditions, freeze-thaw peeling, and wind and water erosion.

Cultural Heritage

'Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park' is also called 'Zhangye Danxia Geopark,' 'Landform of Zhangye,' 'Rainbow Mountains,' 'Zhangye Danxia Landform,' and 'Zhangye Danxia Wonders.'

Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park covers an area of 116-197 sq mi (300.4-510.2 sq km), and it was designated as a geopark in November 2011. The Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is a geological formation significant location with vast formations of brightly colored rock.

This is also known as the 'World Famous UNESCO Geological national park of China' due to its unusual rocks formations. In 2009, UNESCO designated this landform as a World Heritage Site. Danxia refers to a rose cloud, which fits the location's red color scheme.

Several regions in southeast China are covered with Danxia landforms.

Archaeological Excavations

Weathering and erosional processes generated the sheer rainbow mountains that may be seen today, exposed by faults, over millions of years.

A specific geological park sequence, tectonic backdrop, climatic conditions, and erosional processes all play a role in the production of this landscape. This geology can be viewed in China's Danxiashan Geological park, which covers 112 sq mi (290 sq km) and includes streams, forests, and towering Danxian rock formations. Rainbow Mountain was established as a geopark in November 2011 and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.

Site Attraction

Visitors flock to Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, which has been named one of China's and the world's 'most beautiful' destinations multiple times.

In all seasons except winter, an entrance fee is normally payable while exploring the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, and to see the beauty of the mountains at their best, it is recommended to visit on sunny mornings or at sunset.

FAQs

Why is Danxia landform famous?

These well-known Chinese mountains are noted for their unearthly hues, which resemble rainbow mountains painted on the peaks of undulating slopes.

How was Danxia formed?

The erosion of red stone generated isolated summits and steep stratified outcrops in Zhangye Danxia.

How old are the rainbow mountains in China?

The rainbow mountains in china are over 24 million years old.

What tectonic plate is Danxia on?

The formation of Danxia landforms is influenced by tectonic forces.

Where is the Danxia landform located?

The Zhangye Danxia landform is located in Gansu Province, China.

When was the Danxia landform formed?

The Danxia landform was formed around 80 million years ago.

How did Zhangye Danxia get its name?

The Danxia landforms, known after Mount Danxia in Guangdong Province, are spectacular geological park formations found alone in China.

What is the shape of Zhangye Danxia?

The red rocky outcrops create wonderful abstract shapes.

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

Sources

http://justfunfacts.com/interesting-facts-about-zhangye-danxia-landform/

http://tenrandomfacts.com/zhangye-danxia-landform-geological-park/

https://www.leisurejobs.com/article/rainbow-mountains-in-china-youll-never-believe-exist

See All

Written by Gincy Alphonse

Bachelor of Computer Application

Gincy Alphonse picture

Gincy AlphonseBachelor of Computer Application

As a skilled visual storyteller, Gincy's passion lies in bringing ideas to life through creative design. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Application from New Horizon College and has perfected her expertise with a PG Diploma in Graphic Design from Arena Animation. Gincy's talent shines in the realm of branding design, digital imaging, layout design, and print and digital content writing. She believes that content creation and clear communication are art forms in themselves, and is constantly striving to refine her craft.

Read full bio >