Gaoligong Mountain Added to UNESCO’S World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2000
Gaoligong Mountain is located in Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, southwest China. Its highest elevation reaches over 4,000 meters and this upper part of the mountain is designated as the core area. Evergreen broadleaved forests, deciduous forests and bamboo woodlands are characteristic of the region. Because of the difficulty to reach the area, the forests and the wildlife are well protected. The reserve is also known for its rich history and diverse national customs.
The highest peak in the area, namely Gawagapu peak has an altitude of 5,126 meters and the lowest peak with an altitude of 600 meters. The mountainous region in which the reserve lies has a complicated internal structure, including high mountains under the influence of glacier and tundra, subalpine zone under the combined influence of water flow and glacier, middle mountains under the influence of water flow, valley alluvial fan and terrace land along the valley as well as glacier and tundra topography. Main types of habitats in the reserve are forests, grasslands, rocky streams, rivers and lakes.
Gaoligong Mountain boasts rich history and culture and diverse national customs. Many Neolithic sites have been found in both sites of the reserve recently. Archaeological proof shows there was densely populated original crowd living in this area 4,000 years ago. Past and planned scientific research focuses on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of local communities.