Menghan Town of Jinghong City in XishuangBanna
Menghan Town (勐罕镇) is situated in southeastern Jinghong City (景洪市) between 100°52′-101°10′E and 21°41′-21°57′N. It borders:
- East: Menglun Town (勐仑镇) of Mengla County (勐腊县)
- West/South: Jingha Township (景哈乡) across the river
- North: Jinuo Township (基诺乡)
This strategic location makes it a key town along:
- The Lancang River Golden Waterway (澜沧江黄金水道)
- Xishuangbanna Eastern Tourism Loop (西双版纳旅游东环线)
Cultural History
Originally named “Mengdashanaguan (勐达沙纳管)” in Dai language, later called Menghan (勐罕) meaning “Land Where White Cloth is Spread for Walking”, also known as Olive Dam (橄榄坝). Historically:
- Seat of Menghan Chieftain (勐罕土司)
- Yuan Dynasty: Part of Cheli Prefecture (彻里府)
- Ming/Qing: Under Cheli Xuanweishi (车里宣慰使司)
- 1953: Incorporated into Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州)
- 1988: Officially established as a town
Ethnic Customs
Home to diverse ethnic groups:
- Dai (傣族): Water-Splashing Festival (泼水节)
- Hani (哈尼族): Gatangpa Festival (嘎汤帕节)
- Jinuo (基诺族): Unique “wordless” culture
Special cultural features:
- Palm-leaf scripture culture (贝叶文化)
- Theravada Buddhist traditions (小乘佛教文化)
Weather & Best Time to Visit
- Climate: North subtropical plateau monsoon
- Avg. temp: 21.8°C
- Annual rainfall: 1,311mm (rainy season: June-September)
- Sunshine hours: 1,952/year
- Best visit period: November to April
Recommended Attractions
| Attraction | Chinese Name | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dai Ethnic Garden | 傣族园 | 3-4 hrs | 4A scenic area showcasing Dai culture |
| Longde Lake | 龙德湖 | 1-2 hrs | Serene lakeside walks |
| Manzhang Village | 曼掌村 | 1-2 hrs | Well-preserved Dai village |
Transportation
- Self-drive: Kunming → Kunmo Expressway (昆磨高速) → Jinghong → Menghan (~500km, ~6hrs)
- Public transport: Buses/taxis from Jinghong (~1hr)
Food
Dai specialties:
- Lemongrass grilled fish (香茅草烤鱼)
- Bamboo tube rice (竹筒饭)
- Roasted suckling pig (烤乳猪)
Shopping
Local markets offer:
- Pu’er tea (普洱茶)
- Ethnic handicrafts
- Palm-leaf products
Accommodation
Basic guesthouses in Menghan; better hotels in Jinghong
Travel Tips
- Observe temple/village etiquette
- Carry mosquito repellent
- Dress modestly in religious sites
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive → Dai Ethnic Garden
Day 2: Longde Lake → Manzhang Village
Day 3: Local market → Depart
Menghan Town blends cultural richness with natural beauty, from vibrant Dai traditions to tranquil lakescapes. Experience authentic borderland culture in this historic gateway to Xishuangbanna.
