Rising sublimely from the misty subtropical forest of northwest Hunan are 243 peaks surrounded by over 3000 karst upthrusts, a conconcentration not seen elsewhere in the world. The picture is completed by waterfalls, limestone caves (including Asia’s largest chamber) and rivers suitable for organised rafting trips. Nearly two dozen rare species of flora and fauna call the region home and botanists delight in the 3000-odd plant species within the park. Even amateur wildlife spotters may get a gander at a clouded leopard or a pangolin.