Baishiya Karst Cave, Paleontological cave in Xiahe County, China
Description
Baishiya Karst Cave is a limestone cavern at the base of a white cliff face in Xiahe County with a wide natural entrance. The passage extends deep underground for over one kilometer, creating a substantial interior space for visitors to explore.
History
A meditating monk discovered the Xiahe mandible in the cave in 1980, a fossil bone that scientists dated to 160,000 years ago. This find transformed the site into an important location for understanding human evolution.
Culture
The cave sits beside Trakkar Gompa temple and serves as a sacred space where Buddhist monks meditate and pilgrims come to pray throughout the year.
Practical
The cave remains accessible year-round, though winter brings freezing temperatures deep underground. Bring warm clothing and prepare for low light and uneven ground throughout the interior passages.
Did you know?
DNA analysis revealed Denisovan genetic material in fossils from this site, showing that this extinct human species lived in this mountain region. This marked the first confirmed evidence of these ancient people outside their original discovery location.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Xiahe County).
Kumbum Monastery
147.1 km
Labrang Monastery
28.9 km
Bingling Temple
59.1 km
Lajia Ruins
51 km
Dongguan Mosque
147.5 km
Zhongshan Bridge
131.6 km
Gansu Provincial Museum
128.5 km
Xiguan Mosque
131.1 km
Ma Bufang Mansion
147.4 km
Qutan Temple
104 km
Taktsang Lhamo Monastery
150.8 km
Liujiaxia Reservoir
88.3 km
Longwu Temple
51.6 km
Tso Monastery
58 km
Pagoda of Ci'en Temple
131.8 km
Laohua Mosque
59.4 km
五泉山建筑群
130.5 km
Lanzhou Fu Chenghuang Miao
131.9 km
Multicoloured Mosque
58.8 km
People's Park
151.2 km
Yuhuang Ge
123 km
Honglou Times Square
131.7 km
Lanzhou Chanyuan
132.3 km
Shadzong Ritro
115.7 km
Huyin Temple
60 km
大南川水库
141.8 km
Xining Zoo
151.1 km
Linxia Chengjiao Mosque
59.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes