The Xiaozhai Tianking, also known as the Xiaozhai Sinkhole, is a massive geological formation located in Fengjie County, Chongqing, China. It is the largest sinkhole in the world, with a depth of approximately 666 meters (2,185 feet) and a width of 537 meters (1,762 feet).
The sinkhole was formed over millions of years due to underground erosion of limestone rock. This process created a deep chasm with steep, nearly vertical walls.
According to Dr. Wei Liu, a geologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, “The Xiaozhai Tianking exemplifies the dramatic results of long-term geological processes. Its sheer scale and unique structure offer invaluable insights into subterranean erosion and land formation.”
The bottom of the sinkhole is home to a unique ecosystem, including rare plant species and ancient trees. Dr. Ming Zhao, a botanist specializing in cave ecosystems, notes, “The Xiaozhai Sinkhole’s isolated environment has allowed a distinctive flora and fauna to thrive, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.”
Due to its remote location, the Xiaozhai Sinkhole remained relatively unknown until its discovery in the 1990s. Today, it has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. According to travel expert Li Mei, “The Xiaozhai Sinkhole is a remarkable natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the Earth’s geological history and a chance to experience a pristine and largely untouched environment.”
