Walkabout Panlong Gorge, Deqing County, Zhaoqing, China
Great hiking in the gorge.
Nestled on the far western edge of Guangdong Province, Panlong Gorge (Panlongxia) in Deqing County offers a unique and surreal experience for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Despite its status as a 4A-rated tourist attraction—a distinction awarded by the Chinese government to notable scenic spots—our visit felt like stepping into a forgotten world. On a quiet Friday, with no other visitors in sight, the gorge revealed itself as a paradox: a stunning natural retreat dotted with abandoned and overgrown facilities.
Panlong Gorge is often touted as one of the most beautiful places in Guangdong Province, boasting waterfalls, lush forests, and a range of recreational facilities. However, the absence of crowds and the air of neglect lent the experience a haunting yet peaceful charm that few places in China can provide. Here’s what it was like to spend a day exploring this hidden gem.
At just 120 RMB for two tickets, Panlong Gorge is an affordable day trip for nature lovers. Upon arrival, the first thing that struck us was the isolation. The parking lot was empty, and the tourist shuttle bus that dropped us off disappeared, leaving us alone in the gorge. While it was disconcerting at first, the absence of other visitors turned out to be a blessing, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the quiet beauty of the surroundings. The gorge is part of a larger complex that includes hot springs, a water park, a lavender garden, and a restaurant. However, many of these facilities were either closed for the season or had been abandoned altogether. Walking past overgrown paths and deserted buildings gave the area a ghost-town feel, which was both eerie and fascinating.
Panlong Gorge is known for its waterfalls, the largest of which plunges 60 meters down a rocky cliff face. However, since we visited during the dry season, the streams and waterfalls were reduced to a trickle. Despite this, the landscape was still breathtaking. The gorge is surrounded by verdant greenery, with towering cliffs and winding paths that invite exploration. The tranquil setting was a stark contrast to the bustling urban centers of Guangdong Province, and for a moment, it felt as though we had the entire province to ourselves. The sound of birds and rustling leaves replaced the usual cacophony of city life, creating a meditative atmosphere.
Interestingly, the gorge also features intricately designed water mills, though they were no longer operational. They stood as relics of a bygone era, adding to the surreal ambiance of the place. We found a quiet spot to enjoy a simple lunch of ham and cheese sandwiches—a nostalgic throwback to childhood meals. Eating surrounded by towering cliffs and complete silence made for a unique dining experience. The lack of crowds allowed us to fully savor the moment without distractions, something that’s hard to come by in China, where popular tourist spots are often packed with visitors.
Some of the trails in the gorge are abandoned.
As we continued our exploration, we came across numerous abandoned attractions that told the story of what Panlong Gorge might have been in its heyday.
The Zip Line: A rusting zip line stretched across the gorge, its platform overgrown with vegetation. It was clear that this once-thrilling activity had long since been forgotten.
Wave Pool and Water Park: The remnants of a water park lay scattered across the grounds, including a drained wave pool and derelict slides. Despite their state of disrepair, the facilities hinted at the area’s former vibrancy.
Cabin Rentals: A section of the gorge featured charming cabins surrounded by well-maintained landscaping, yet no visitors were present. The cabins appeared ready to welcome guests, but the lack of activity made them feel like part of a movie set.
Flower Garden: Though labeled as the "Flower Area," this section had no blooms, save for a few patches being tended to by two gardeners. The faint scent of flowers lingered in the air, a subtle reminder of the effort to maintain parts of the gorge.
Each abandoned structure added an air of mystery to our journey. The rafting launch area, for example, was entirely overgrown and devoid of water, a poignant symbol of the facility’s decline.
One of the most surprising aspects of our visit was how Panlong Gorge defied the common perception of China as a country teeming with crowds. While cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen are known for their hustle and bustle, Panlong Gorge offered the opposite extreme: complete solitude. It’s a paradox that can be found in many parts of China. While some attractions are overrun with tourists, others like Panlong Gorge remain virtually untouched, offering a rare opportunity to experience peace and quiet in one of the world’s most populous countries.
While the isolation added to the charm of our visit, it also came with challenges. For one, the lack of active maintenance meant that mosquitoes were rampant, and we regretted not bringing repellent. Additionally, the abandoned state of many facilities raised questions about the long-term sustainability of the gorge as a tourist destination. That said, the emptiness and neglect added a layer of authenticity to the experience. It felt less like a tourist attraction and more like a forgotten corner of nature waiting to be rediscovered.
Panlong Gorge may not be for everyone. Its abandoned attractions and lack of amenities could deter those seeking a polished tourist experience. However, for adventurers and nature lovers, it offers a rare glimpse into a quieter, more mysterious side of China.From its towering waterfalls and serene forests to its hauntingly abandoned structures, Panlong Gorge is a place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s a reminder that beauty can often be found in the most unexpected places, even in a forgotten gorge on the far western edge of Guangdong Province.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, Panlong Gorge is well worth a visit—just don’t forget your mosquito spray!
Filming here was a delight.
