Alu Cave, Cave system in Luxi County, China.
Alu Cave is a cave system in Luxi County, Yunnan Province, spread across 18 chambers with three main sections: Luyuan Cave, Biyu Cave, and Yuzhu Cave. The different areas contain diverse rock formations and natural features that extend throughout the underground passages.
During the Song and Yuan Dynasties, the cave served as shelter and residence for 37 tribes of the Alu ethnic community. This period shaped the connection between the cave and the people who established their communities within its chambers.
Each chamber carries names reflecting how local people interpret the mineral formations found within. These names show how the cave has gained meaning for communities across generations.
The cave lies roughly 165 kilometers from the provincial capital Kunming and is accessible by regular bus services. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring a jacket, as conditions underground are cool and some passages can be slippery.
The Yusun River flows about 800 meters through Biyu Cave and is home to specialized fish species adapted to life in darkness. These underground habitats show how life thrives even in extreme conditions.
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