Rainbow Mountain in China

Rainbow mountains in China. Pictures from my and my wife's trip to China in Oct-Nov 2014. Amazing area with unique colours in the nature.

The formation of Zhangye Danxai Landform dates back to 6 million years ago. The Danxia geological structure was formed by the erosion of red sandstone, forming the isolated peaks and steep outcrops. Its special geological structure, combined with long-term weathering, freeze-thaw peeling, and wind and water erosion gave rise to its present appearance.

It is mainly horizontal and low diagonal red strata, mainly belonging to the Jurassic and Tertiary eras. Danxia is the generic term for various kinds of landforms formed from vertical joint development in thick red sandstone and conglomerates.

Zhangye Qianlian Shan (张掖祁连山) Danxia is mainly composed of red gravel, sandstone and mudstone. It is typical of an arid or semi-arid climate and is a singular outcrop with cross layers, steep walls, vertical joints, and gorgeous colors.

Geologists believe that Danxia topography is formed as a result of movement in the earth’s crust. This makes rock layers appear in different colors, textures, shapes, sizes, and patterns. The combination of differences in density and erosion creates towering peaks, cave holes and stone halls.

Danxia formations are green, yellow, blue and many other colors, though their appellation comes from the red rocks of Mount Danxia in Guangdong. Experts say that they are the result of red sandstone and other rocks undergoing metamorphic processes for millions of years.
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