Abstract: The western Yunnan region has experienced complicated tectonic uplift since the Quaternary, and its Pliocene peneplain surface has been elevated and schizolysised into multi-level planation surface. In the process of uplift, the erosion by Nujiang River resulted in forming of deep-cutting alpine gorge landform and multi-level river terraces reflecting tectonic uplift. The formation of alpine gorge landform is not only related to tectonic uplift but also climate change. However, the tectonic movement is predominant. Thus, studying the river terraces and planation surface to understand the tectonic movement in the area becomes important. This study helps us to understand the Nujiang canyon's tectonic evolution and provides important information about Qinghai-Tibet Plateau uplift and climate change since the Quaternary.

Key words: Western Yunnan, River terrace, Planation surface, Quaternary tectonic movement