Sanmin Bat Cave Introduction
The Bat Cave is located in the gorge in the northern part of Sanmin Village, featuring a naturally formed large rock cave. It is known for its beauty as a "water curtain cave" due to the springs cascading from above the entrance. The rugged and primitive terrain of the Bat Cave, situated next to the gorge, attracts a large number of bats, thus earning its name. The floor of the cave today is covered in red soil, formed by the accumulation of bat droppings, vividly illustrating the scene when thousands of bats once roosted here, adding to its mysterious atmosphere. At the end of Provincial Highway 114, the entrance to the trail leading to the Bat Cave can be found. The trail is approximately 600 meters long, with a gentle slope and paved with stone tiles, which takes about 20 minutes to walk. Following the path, you are greeted by a canopy of green trees, making the walk cool and comfortable; along the way, you can enjoy a rich natural ecosystem. If you get tired, you can take a moment to rest on the wooden benches along the route, where the ground is adorned with mosaic tiles depicting bat totems, which will surely draw a smile. Continuing along the trail for about 444 meters, you will see an observation platform shaped like a spiral staircase, where you can ascend the arched stairs to enjoy the distant emerald mountains, sweeping away any worries. A small path behind the pavilion next to the viewing platform leads down to a staircase trail, where you can appreciate the natural view of the Sanmin River’s flowing water. Tucked away in the rugged terrain is the Bat Cave, which features a pool in front and two waterfalls, one large and one small, approximately 50 feet high. If it is not the dry season, one can see the waterfall’s white spray and hear the sound of water echoing nearby, creating a spectacular sight. Stepping onto the wooden platform, the waterfall cascades down into a deep pool with a diameter of about 10 meters, providing a cool and pleasant environment, perfect for escaping the summer heat. The entrance of the Bat Cave is semicircular, nestled within the cliff by the stream, standing about 20 meters high, 50 meters wide, and about 20 meters deep. Entering the cave sideways, its shape presents a crescent moon curve resembling a theater, with a unique and spacious design that can accommodate thousands of people. It is indeed a rare natural giant cave, providing a sense of enchantment. Although the bats have long since migrated elsewhere, the profound and mysterious cave landscape continues to attract many visitors eager to explore this wonder.
