Monday, March 28, 2011

Ape King Cave and Lovers Bridge

Day two and Jing Jing and her father picked us up from our hotel and took us for a drive into the mountains. The goal was to cross a swing bridge and visit the Ape King Caves. THese were both ver high up in the mountains. We also had some extended family members with us, uncles and aunts of Jing Jing. To get up to the bridge we had to take a gondala ride. It was high, very step and very open. But the view was amazing and as we climbed up in the cable car we were treated to some impressive displays of blossom on the side of the mountain.

Looking back down when we were about halfway up the mountain. Jing Jing and her Dad seemed very happy.

The lovers bridge was slung out over the valley below. It was a long way down.

The villages with their crops of yellow flowers on the terrraces made a pretty backdrop.


When we got off the cable car ride it was still a bit of a climb up to the bridge. All the time we were treated to some inspiring views across rugged mountains where there are numerous wild animals. Although a little hazy it was less polluted that down near the city.

The local guide in traditional costume with a good view of the bridge behind her. She was not leading us though.

High in the mountains. Spectacular views of the valley

The Lovers bridge. NOw you can see it was really high!
From here we entered the wonderlandf of the Ape King Cave. This is a significant limestone cave system where there have been a number of interesting archeological finds. The cave formations were well lit with some very intereesting effects.
This my favourite photo from inside the cave with the reflection and the lighting it seems like a magical fairyland.
The reflections and the lighting in this cave was surreal making one feel like they were in another world.
  
Coming down after spending time inside the cave involved an exciting luge ride on train tracks. It a fast spiral track down to restaurant for lunch.
Jing Jing really enjoyed the thrill of the speedy ride down. What a great outing we feel privileged to have had such a wonderful group of tour guides for this day out. Thanks Jing Jing, Dad and family, it was a special day for us.

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