Jingha Hani Ethnic Town in Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna
Jingha Hani Ethnic Township (景哈哈尼族乡) is located in the southeast of Jinghong City (景洪市). It faces Guanlei Town (关累镇) of Mengla County (勐腊县) across the Lancang River (澜沧江) to the east, connects with Menglong (勐龙镇) and Gasa (嘎洒镇) towns to the west, borders Myanmar along the Nan’a River (南阿河) with a 34-km boundary line to the south, and adjoins Menghan Town (勐罕镇) to the north. The township covers 398.8 km² of typical mountainous terrain.
Cultural History
Originally called Chelilu (彻里路地), the area was officially named Jingha (景哈) in 1570 during the Ming Dynasty as a Meng-level administrative unit under the chieftain system. In May 1984, it separated from Menghan Commune (勐罕公社) to establish Manhong District (曼洪区), which became Manhong Hani Ethnic Township (曼洪哈尼族乡) in February 1988. The township government relocated to Jingha Village (景哈村) in 1990, adopting its current name.
Ethnic Customs
As Jinghong’s only Hani ethnic township, it’s home to multiple minorities including Hani (哈尼族), Dai (傣族), and Blang (布朗族). Key cultural events include:
- Gatangpa Festival (嘎汤帕节): Celebrated in the 10th lunar month
- Hani October New Year (十月年)
- Dai Water-Splashing Festival (泼水节)
Weather & Best Time to Visit
With a subtropical plateau monsoon climate, the township has:
- Avg. temp: 22.5°C
- Annual rainfall: 1,336.6mm (80.82% humidity)
- Distinct seasons: Wet (May-Oct) & dry (Nov-Apr)
Ideal visit period: November to April
Recommended Attractions
| Site | Chinese Name | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jingha Cave Ruins | 景哈洞穴遗址 | 1-2 hrs | Archaeological site near rubber plantations |
| Womahan Peak | 卧马汉峰 | 3-4 hrs | Highest point (1,470m) with panoramic views |
| Lancang River Banks | 澜沧江沿岸 | 1-2 hrs | Scenic riverside landscapes |
Transportation
- Self-drive: From Kunming (昆明) via Kunmo Expressway (昆磨高速) → Jinghong → Jingha (~500km, 6hrs)
- Public transport: Take buses/taxis from Jinghong
Food
Dai specialties:
- Lemongrass grilled fish
- Bamboo tube rice
- Roasted suckling pig
Shopping
Local markets offer Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and ethnic handicrafts.
Accommodation
Limited guesthouses in Jingha; better hotels available in Jinghong.
Travel Tips
- Respect ethnic customs (e.g., temple etiquette)
- Carry mosquito repellent for mountain areas
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive → Explore Jingha Cave Ruins
Day 2: Hike Womahan Peak → Lancang River sightseeing
Day 3: Local market shopping → Departure
Jingha Hani Ethnic Township blends pristine nature with vibrant ethnic traditions, offering authentic borderland experiences. From archaeological wonders to mountain summits, may your journey here be unforgettable.
