A Chinese stuntman has escaped with minor injuries after falling some 200 metres off a tightrope.

The acrobat, known as Aisikaier, was walking backwards and blindfold without safety apparatus over a ravine in Hunan province on Sunday when he lost his balance just 40m from the end of the 700m walk.

Aisikaier had felt dizzy earlier in the stunt, and almost fell twice before disaster struck.

Broadcast live on TV, the commentators screamed as the stuntman fell from the rope. Incredibly, however, the forest canopy beneath cushioned his fall. Aisikaier was found by rescuers and brought to safety.

Incredibly, he was able to walk away unaided.