Karst landscapes are among the most dramatic geological formations on Earth. Sculpted over millions of years by the dissolution of limestone...
Karst landscapes are among the most dramatic geological formations on Earth. Sculpted over millions of years by the dissolution of limestone, dolomite, and other soluble rocks, karst regions are characterized by towering stone forests, sinkholes, underground rivers, caves, and spectacular cliffs. Around the world, several karst areas stand out for their size, uniqueness, and ecological significance. Based on various sources and global recognition, three of the largest and most remarkable karst regions frequently mentioned are Shilin Stone Forest in China, Maros–Pangkep Karst in Indonesia, and the tower karst landscapes of Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay. While rankings may vary depending on criteria and measurement methods, these three regions are consistently recognized among the world’s most extensive and extraordinary karst systems.
1. Shilin Stone Forest – China
Located near Kunming in Yunnan Province, Shilin, which literally means “Stone Forest,” is widely regarded as the largest stone forest of limestone formations in the world. This extraordinary landscape covers an area of approximately 400 square kilometers and forms part of the South China Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes Shilin unique is its dense concentration of towering limestone pillars that resemble a petrified forest. Some of these stone spires rise more than 30 meters high, creating a labyrinth of natural rock formations shaped over 270 million years. The area’s geological history dates back to a shallow sea environment during the Permian period. Over time, tectonic uplift and erosion transformed the seabed into the dramatic stone pillars visible today.
Shilin is not only significant for its geological scale but also for its cultural importance. It is closely associated with the Sani people, a branch of the Yi ethnic minority, whose legends and folklore are intertwined with the stone formations. Due to its size, preservation, and iconic appearance, Shilin is often cited as the most extensive and representative example of a stone forest karst landscape in the world.
2. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam
Vietnam is home to some of the most iconic tower karst landscapes on Earth, particularly Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh Province. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay features nearly 2,000 limestone islands and islets rising dramatically from emerald waters.
Unlike Shilin’s inland stone pillars or Maros–Pangkep’s tropical karst hills, Ha Long Bay showcases a marine tower karst system. The limestone formations were shaped over millions of years through the combined effects of tectonic uplift, sea-level changes, and erosion. The result is a seascape of vertical cliffs, hidden lagoons, caves, and floating fishing villages.
Although measuring the “largest” karst area can be complex due to differing geological definitions, Vietnam’s tower karst regions—extending beyond Ha Long Bay to areas such as Ninh Binh—are widely recognized among the most extensive and visually striking in the world.
Ha Long Bay’s global fame stems not only from its geological scale but also from its scenic beauty. The combination of towering limestone pillars and open sea creates one of the most photographed natural landscapes in Southeast Asia.
3. Kawasan Karst Maros-Pangkep (Including Rammang-Rammang) – Indonesia
In Indonesia, the Maros–Pangkep Karst area in South Sulawesi is frequently recognized as one of the largest karst complexes in the world. Covering roughly 43,000 hectares (over 430 square kilometers), it is often cited as the second or third largest karst landscape globally, depending on classification standards.
This vast karst system stretches across Maros and Pangkep regencies and is renowned for its dramatic limestone towers, caves, underground rivers, and lush tropical surroundings. Among its most famous sections is Rammang-Rammang, a breathtaking area of towering karst hills rising above rice fields and winding rivers. Visitors travel by small wooden boats along the Pute River, surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs covered in green vegetation.
Geologically, Maros–Pangkep represents a tropical tower karst system, shaped by heavy rainfall and long-term chemical weathering. The region contains hundreds of caves, many of which hold significant archaeological treasures. Some caves in this area preserve prehistoric hand stencils and cave paintings estimated to be over 40,000 years old—among the oldest known figurative artworks in the world.
Ecologically, the Maros–Pangkep Karst hosts endemic species of flora and fauna that thrive in limestone environments. The combination of geological grandeur, biodiversity, and cultural heritage makes this region exceptionally important.
From an Indonesian perspective, the Maros–Pangkep Karst holds a position of national pride. It is often described as one of the largest continuous karst areas in Southeast Asia and a global geological treasure. While debates about precise global ranking continue, it is consistently included among the top largest and most beautiful karst regions worldwide.
Variations in Ranking and Measurement
It is important to note that determining the “largest” karst area in the world depends on how size is defined. Some rankings consider total surface area, others focus on the density of limestone towers, and still others examine geological continuity or uniqueness.
Shilin is often labeled the largest “stone forest” specifically, a particular type of karst formation. Maros–Pangkep is frequently cited as one of the largest contiguous tropical karst landscapes. Vietnam’s tower karst regions, especially Ha Long Bay, are recognized as among the largest marine karst systems.
Because of these varying criteria, sources sometimes list Maros–Pangkep as second or third globally. However, what remains consistent is that Shilin (China), Maros–Pangkep (Indonesia), and Vietnam’s karst towers are repeatedly included among the most expansive and remarkable karst regions on Earth.
Indonesia’s Special Position
For Indonesia, the Maros–Pangkep Karst—particularly Rammang-Rammang—holds extraordinary significance. Beyond its geological scale, it represents a rare combination of natural beauty, biodiversity, archaeological importance, and cultural heritage. The dramatic limestone formations rising from green rice fields and rivers create a landscape that rivals other world-famous karst areas.
In recent years, increased international attention has highlighted Indonesia’s position within the global karst landscape conversation. Many researchers and travelers recognize Maros–Pangkep as one of the most beautiful tropical karst environments in the world.
Karst landscapes are natural masterpieces shaped by time, water, and geological processes spanning hundreds of millions of years. Among the world’s most extensive and celebrated karst regions, three stand out prominently: Shilin Stone Forest in China, the Maros–Pangkep Karst in Indonesia, and Vietnam’s tower karst systems such as Ha Long Bay.
Although precise rankings may differ depending on measurement standards, these three regions are consistently recognized for their scale, uniqueness, and global significance. Within this distinguished group, Indonesia’s Maros–Pangkep Karst holds a particularly important place, often cited as one of the largest and most beautiful karst complexes in the world—an extraordinary natural heritage deserving international recognition and protection.
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