Kunming

This last few months of the year, I have decided to see more of China whenever possible. Unfortunately the weather did not favor me. Going to Kunming, China in October was not a good idea as it rained most days. The Stone Forest was the main attraction there and the group went there on 23 October 2013. It was cold at 10 degrees Celsius and the rain made it worse. Internet weather forecast has already warned this.

At  Stone Forest of Kunming. 231013

Amazing limestone formation at Stone Forest of Kunming. 231013

The limestone at the Stone Forest is amazing. But before going into the Stone Forest park proper, we were treated with beautiful landscape garden, lake and limestone formations that created curiosity and excitement in our minds. Though raining, the park was packed with tourists.
Our trip from 21-25 October 2013, included a tour of Shadian where there is a large Muslim community there.

Big Mosque of Shadian. 241013

Big Mosque of Shadian is a large mosque in China, constructed depicting Medina Nabawi Mosque. Indeed it's a beautiful mosque with beautiful garden but it is not on the tourist map, which is a pity. The tour agency, Alia Tours and Travel, has arranged for us to visit the Kunming Islamic Institute where they offered a 4 year degree course in Islamic Studies. We were received cordially and had a short meeting with faculty members and toured their facilities.The Institute is financed by the Association of Kunming Muslims and a bit comes from the government.

Awesome Nuler Kindergarten in Shadian. 241013

Adorable well-disciplined 3 year olds in class learning Mukaddam. 241013

The most impressive visit in Shadian was at Nuler Kindergarten which is founded by Hj. Yusof Mu who funded the kindergarten by his own money amounting to RMB 15 Millions. The kindergarten is really beautiful with first class facilities for the kids ages 3- 7 years. Hj. Yusof believes that Islamic education should be taught from young and so Nuler Kindergarten was born. Looking at the 3 year olds in class  made me miss Rania so much. I can't imagine having Rania taken away to stay in a hostel but this is what happened to the kids. They come from poor families in China. The Kindergarten gives them a place and basic education. They go back to their parents for 2 months each year. I adore the chubby rosy cheeks of the 3 year olds!!  
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