Mengsong Town of Menghai County in XishuangBanna

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) is situated in the northeastern mountainous area of Menghai County (勐海县), Yunnan Province. It borders Jinghong City (景洪市) to the east, Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) to the south, Menghai Town (勐海镇) to the southwest, and Menga Town (勐阿镇) to the north. The township government is based in Manmai Village (曼迈村), located 23 km from Menghai County and 39 km from Jinghong.

History

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) was originally part of the ancient territory of Cheli (车里). In 1913, it fell under the jurisdiction of the 1st Administrative Division of the Pusi Border Administration Bureau. In 1927, it became Nanben Township (南本乡); in 1950, it was renamed Wuben District (五本区). In 1953, it was incorporated into Banna Menghai (版纳勐海). In March 1958, Mengsong District (勐宋区) was established and later reorganized into a commune. The name Mengsong Township was restored in 1984, and in 1987, it was officially designated as a township.

Ethnic Culture

Mengsong Township is home to several ethnic groups including the Lahu (拉祜族), Hani (哈尼族), and Dai (傣族). Each group preserves its unique traditions and customs. Visitors can experience festivals such as the Lahu’s “Lahu Kuo Festival” (拉祜扩节) and the Hani’s “Gatangpa Festival” (嘎汤帕节).

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mengsong Township enjoys a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with a cool and mild atmosphere, a long frost period, plenty of sunshine, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is 19.2°C, and the average annual precipitation is about 1200.1 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration

Huazhu Liangzi

Known as the “Roof of Xishuangbanna” (西双版纳屋脊) and the “Peak of Xishuangbanna” (西双版纳之巅), this mountain stands at an altitude of 2,429 meters, making it the highest peak in the prefecture. It is home to Lahu, Hani, and Dai communities who still live traditionally. Highlights include viewing clouds, mist seas, bamboo forests, distant peaks, and native customs. It is an ideal spot for hiking and nature retreats.
Suggested visit duration: 3–4 hours

Rainforest Ancient Tea Workshop

This site features the largest ancient tea tree research and development center in China. Visitors can learn about tea culture and witness the traditional processing of ancient tree tea.
Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours

Transportation

By Car

From Kunming, drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway to Jinghong City, then proceed to Menghai County. The total distance is approximately 500 km, with a travel time of around 6 hours.

By Public Transport

Take a long-distance bus from Kunming to Jinghong City, then transfer to Menghai County. From Menghai, take a local rural bus or taxi to Mengsong Township.

Local Cuisine

The cuisine in Mengsong Township is mainly Dai-style. Recommended dishes include:

  • Dai-style Barbecue: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig, etc.
  • Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, offering a delicate bamboo aroma.
  • Naka Tea: A famous tea from Mengsong, often referred to as the “Little Banzhang” (小班章).

Shopping

Local specialties include Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handcrafted goods, which can be purchased at local markets.

Accommodation

There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Mengsong Township with basic facilities. For higher standards, consider staying in hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市) or Menghai County (勐海县).

Travel Tips

  • Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting temples and villages.
  • When exploring mountainous areas, protect yourself from mosquito and insect bites; carry appropriate supplies.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Mengsong Township, check in to a homestay, then visit Huazhu Liangzi (滑竹梁子) to enjoy panoramic views and ethnic charm.

Day 2:
Visit the Rainforest Ancient Tea Workshop (雨林古茶坊) to experience tea culture and learn about ancient tea production.

Day 3:
Shop for local specialties at the market before concluding your trip.

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) is a captivating destination rich in natural beauty and ethnic diversity. Here, you can enjoy the charm of the borderlands and immerse yourself in traditional minority lifestyles. We hope your journey to Mengsong is an unforgettable experience.