Libo, part of Qiannan Buyei and Miao autonomous prefecture, was put on the tourist map when it was listed as part of the South China karst world heritage site in June 2007. [Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily]

The county was put on the tourist map when it was listed as part of the South China karst world heritage site in June 2007. Last year the county was host to 11.08 million visits, up 43.23 percent over the previous year, according to local government statistics.

The completion of a high-speed railway between Guiyang, the provincial capital, and Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong province, has given the local tourism industry a shot in the arm. Travelers from Guangdong province accounted for 30 percent of the visitors to Libo last year.

The Daqikong and Xiaoqikong scenic spots, the Maolan National Nature Reserve, Huangjianghe National Wetland Park and Yaoshan ancient village are all popular attractions for visitors.

Daqikong and Xiaoqikong offer lush primitive forests and breathtaking serene lakes and cascading waterfalls. Some sections of the narrow paths that run through both scenic spots offer galloping rivers on one side and splashy waterfalls on the other. Exciting rafting experiences are a must-try.

Moreover, the distinctive local ethnic culture is a big draw.