Bakalong Village of Bulangshan Town in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna

Bakalong Natural Village (坝卡龙自然村) is affiliated with Ban Zhang Village Committee (班章村委会) of Bulangshan Bulang Ethnic Township (布朗山布朗族乡), Menghai County (勐海县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is located in the northeast of Bulangshan Township (布朗山乡), 35 kilometers from the township government.

Cultural History

The Ban Zhang Village Committee (班章村委会), where Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) is located, has a long history. The name “Ban Zhang” (班章) comes from the Dai language, meaning “village of osmanthus tree shelters.” This area once belonged to the Meng Hun Tusi (勐混土司). In 1958, the Ban Zhang Township Government (班章乡政府) was established. The Ban Zhang Village Committee (班章村委会) governs five natural villages: Lao Ban Zhang (老班章), Xin Ban Zhang (新班章), Lao Man’e (老曼峨), Bakanan (坝卡囡), and Bakalong (坝卡龙). Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) is primarily inhabited by the Lahu ethnic group (拉祜族).

Folk Customs

Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) and its surrounding areas are home to ethnic minorities such as the Bulang (布朗族), Hani (哈尼族), and Lahu (拉祜族). The region preserves rich ethnic traditions and customs, including traditional Bulang dances, music, and various handicrafts. Additionally, Ban Zhang Village (班章村) is known for its ancient tea trees and is a significant production area for Pu’er tea (普洱茶).

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures, abundant sunshine, distinct dry and wet seasons, and plentiful rainfall. The average annual temperature ranges from 18-21°C, with an annual precipitation of 1,374 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions

Ancient Tea Gardens (古茶园): Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) and its surrounding areas boast abundant ancient tea tree resources. Visitors can stroll among the tea trees and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Ethnic Culture Exhibition Hall (民族文化展览馆): The Ban Zhang Village Committee (班章村委会) has established cultural facilities such as the Bulang Ethnic Culture Exhibition Hall (布朗族文化展览馆), where visitors can delve into the history, culture, and development of Pu’er tea (普洱茶).

Suggested Duration for Each Destination

• Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) and surrounding ancient tea gardens: 2-3 hours to fully experience the natural scenery and cultural atmosphere.
• Ethnic Culture Exhibition Hall (民族文化展览馆): 1-2 hours to gain an in-depth understanding of local ethnic culture.

Transportation

• From Menghai County (勐海县) to Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村): Approximately 90 kilometers; self-driving or taking a local tourist shuttle is recommended.
• Local transportation: Due to limited public transport, taxis or ride-hailing services are advised.

Food

• Pu’er Tea (普洱茶): Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) and the Ban Zhang (班章) area are renowned for producing high-quality Pu’er tea.
• Local Dishes: Enjoy ethnic specialties such as fragrant bamboo rice and Dai cuisine.

Shopping

• Pu’er Tea (普洱茶): Purchase locally produced high-quality Pu’er tea as a souvenir.
• Ethnic Clothing & Handicrafts: Buy traditional ethnic clothing and handicrafts.

Accommodation

Several homestays are available in and around Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村), offering comfortable lodging options.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Customs: Maintain quiet and respect local religious and cultural practices when entering the village.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and avoid overly revealing outfits.
• Sun & Mosquito Protection: Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) has strong sunlight, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Recommended Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Menghai County (勐海县) and check into a local hotel. In the afternoon, visit Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) to explore the ancient tea gardens and experience local culture.

Day 2: Visit the Ethnic Culture Exhibition Hall (民族文化展览馆) at Ban Zhang Village Committee (班章村委会) to learn about Bulang culture. Return to Menghai County (勐海县) in the afternoon.

Day 3: Explore other attractions in Menghai County (勐海县), such as Mengjinglai Scenic Area (勐景来旅游景区) and Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion (景真八角亭).

Bakalong Village (坝卡龙村) is a place brimming with natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether strolling through ancient tea gardens or visiting the Ethnic Culture Exhibition Hall (民族文化展览馆), you will be immersed in rich ethnic traditions and historical heritage. We hope your trip to Menghai County (勐海县) allows you to fully experience its stunning landscapes and vibrant ethnic culture.