Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China.
Sitting at the edge of the Tibet Plateau, Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 and World Biosphere Reserve since 1997, is a jagged 72,000 ha valley in the northern part of Sichuan Province, with the highest peaks in the southern Minshan Mountain at some 4,800 m. It contains amazing landscapes sitting in a series of narrow conic karst land forms, limestone terraces, multi-level waterfalls, blue-, green- and purple-hued lakes and pools, caves, and snowy peaks. The diverse forest ecosystems in the region host some 140 bird species that fly over the valley, as well as a number of endangered plants and animals, such as the giant panda and the Sichuan takin.
The scenic and aesthetic majesty of the Jiuzhaigou Valley is highlighted by the well-preserved quaternary glacial remnants. Unfortunately, the beautiful nature of the region has suffered from forestry activities, with many initiatives being taken to restore the lost precious materials through tree planting and strict management and protection of the water quality, air quality, and forests. Although it is recommended that human interception in the area be limited in order to preserve the precious natural life of the valley, the breathtaking views have not been forbidden yet although one must seriously consider the consequences of the ecological footprint.
Kalalau Valley, United States
Spectacular landscape of the Kalalu Valley in Hawaii.
Discretely sitting along the Nā Pali Coast, Kalalau Valley, on the Kaua‘i Island of Hawaii, arguably one of the Earth’s greatest natural wonders showcasing a remote beach surrounded by high-reaching peaks, is regarded as the island's cathedral. Almost since its inception, the valley was valued for its beauty, as a historically highly populated place with a large thriving community living there until the 20th century, after which, only those with permits were allowed to occupy the "unspoiled" land. With a pass that takes 90 days to process, one can see the esteemed valley if prepared to show some athleticism by trekking a few days-worth 11-mile hike inclusive with camping overnight(s), from the Ke‘e Beach.
Reaching the valley begins with hiking two miles to the Hanakapi‘ai Beach, where one shall cross the Hanakapi‘ai Stream known for flash flood-causing rapidly rising waters. At the seventh mile of the way begins the "Crawler’s Ledge”, a mountain-embracing narrow footpath that drops steeply off into a vast chasm with tumultuous sea. Only in good weather, those fit with cat-like grace and instincts, wishing to commune with nature, self-reflect and unwind from the city, should commence. Meandering through hidden paths in the rainforest and relaxing by the ocean, as well as spending the nights under the stars comprises for an unforgettable trip. Tours by boat or helicopter are available for everybody else.
Romsdalen Valley, Norway
The Rauma River flowing through the Romsdalen Valley.
The view of this beautifully wild valley with vegetated floor within the long and narrow granite-walled gorge encompassing a foaming salmon-abundant Rauma River, is, perhaps one of the most photographed natural scenes in the country. The mountains, towering majestically, contain Trollveggen at At 1,000 metres, which is Europe's tallest vertical overhanging rock face. Upon running through a 30-40 metre-deep gorge at the village of Verma, the river tumbles down in Slettafossen waterfall, which is encased by fences and has a bridge to obtain the perfect view of the spectacle.
One can view mountaintops such the Romsdalshorn across the valley at 1,555 m, Kongen, Dronningen and Bispen. Romsdal Mountains, featuring some of the world’s most challenging climbs, is where Scandinavian rock climbing has started. At the foot of the Trollveggen, there is a picnic area, a cafeteria, a souvenir shop, toilets, children’s play area, as well as Trollveggen Besøkssenter, all conveniently located by the E 136 road and offering majestic mountain views.
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