Mengban Town of Mengla County in XishuangBanna

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is located in the northeastern part of Mengla County (勐腊县), 38 kilometers from the county seat and 210 kilometers from the capital of Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州). The town covers a total area of 580.52 square kilometers and is a semi-mountainous border town. It borders Mengla Town (勐腊镇) to the south, Yaoqu Township (瑶区乡) to the west, and Laos to the northeast.

History and Culture

Before September 30, 1949, Mengban (勐伴) was administratively part of Mengya (勐雅) under the feudal chieftain system. In 1953, Mengban Village (勐伴乡) was established as the eighth village-level township in Mengla District (勐腊区). In 1958, it became a commune. In 1969, the commune was transformed into a township, and the Qianshao Brigade (前哨大队) was established. In 1970, the Qianshao Brigade was transferred to Yaoqu Commune (瑶区公社) and renamed the Mengban Brigade (勐伴大队). In 1984, it separated from Yaoqu and became the Mengban District Office (勐伴区公所). In 1985, the Nakaxiang (纳卡乡) was established under the Mengban District Office. In 1988, Mengban officially transitioned from a district to a town (at the township level).

Ethnic Customs

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is home to nine ethnic minorities, including the Yao, Dai, Hani, Zhuang, Yi, Miao, and Bulang. Each group has unique traditions, such as the Dai Water Splashing Festival, where people sprinkle water to bless one another, and the Yao people’s distinctive clothing, dances, and handicrafts.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) has a subtropical humid monsoon climate, characterized by abundant heat, warm summers, mild winters, and ample rainfall with distinct dry and wet seasons. The average annual temperature is 19.2°C, and the average annual precipitation is 1,600 mm. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions

Nanla River (南腊河) Source

As the origin of Mengla County’s “mother river,” this area boasts rich natural landscapes and ecological resources. Recommended stay: half a day.

Sky Tree Scenic Area (望天树景区)

Passing through the 4A-rated Sky Tree Scenic Area, known for its “World’s Highest Canopy Walkway,” visitors can experience unique tropical rainforest scenery. Recommended stay: 1 day.

Nanla River (南腊河) Wild Drifting

The thrilling “Nanla River Wild Drifting” adventure, which combines exploration and enjoyment of tropical rainforest scenery, extends into Mengban Town. Recommended stay: half a day.

Transportation

Public Transport

Take a bus from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇). The 38-kilometer journey takes considerable time, so plan ahead.

Self-Driving

Drive from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) via well-maintained roads.

Food

Dai Cuisine

Must-try dishes include bamboo-tube rice and sour fish soup.

Yao Cuisine

Specialties include cured meat and wild mountain vegetables, known for their fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.

Shopping

Handicrafts

Purchase Yao and Dai embroideries, silver ornaments, and other crafts as souvenirs.

Agricultural Products

Locally produced rubber, tea, and macadamia nuts are of excellent quality.

Accommodation

Farm Stays

Affordable farm stays offer a chance to experience rural life.

Homestays

Some villagers have converted their homes into cozy homestays with strong ethnic characteristics.

Travel Tips

  • Respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs.
  • Protect the environment by not littering or damaging vegetation.
  • When visiting border areas, adhere to regulations and avoid crossing boundaries.

Itinerary

Day 1
Travel from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) and explore the Nanla River (南腊河) source. Stay overnight at a farm stay.
Day 2
Visit the Sky Tree Scenic Area (望天树景区) to enjoy tropical rainforest views and the canopy walkway. Return to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is a place rich in ethnic culture and natural beauty. With its abundant natural resources, unique border landscapes, and diverse ethnic traditions, it offers an escape from urban noise and a chance to experience the tranquility of nature and the hospitality of local communities. May your journey here be unforgettable.