Mengsuo Dragon Pool in Ximeng County, Puer
Chinese Name:西盟县勐梭龙潭
English Name: Mengsuo Dragon Pool in Ximeng County, Puer
Overview
Mengsuo Dragon Pool, located south of Ximeng County, Puer, is a stunning natural attraction that blends the cityscape with the picturesque surroundings of the Wa ethnic group. It represents a harmonious integration of city, lake, and scenic views, creating a unique “nature + culture” experience. The area around Mengsuo Dragon Pool features over 20 culturally rich and scenic spots, including Lotus Pond, Wetland, Longmo Temple, Sacred Water, Python Valley, Panxu Rock, Rain Prayer Pool, General’s Cry, Monkey Cliff, Immortal Stone Hollow, Danfo Mountain, Thousand-Finger Tree, Tree-Wrapped Stone, Acacia Tree, Friendship Beach, Burmese Temple, Biji Pavilion, and more. It was designated as a “National Water Conservancy Scenic Area” in 2006 and rated as a national AAAA scenic spot in 2015.
The town of Ximeng, located by Mengsuo Dragon Pool, attracts visitors with its largest Wa-style architectural complex in China. These buildings, modeled after traditional Wa stilt houses and incorporating elements of Wa culture, are crafted using modern techniques to blend realistic and abstract styles, making each structure a unique piece of art and providing a striking visual impact.
From the reopening of the scenic area to December 31, 2020, medical workers and two companions from across China were granted free admission to the site.
Description
Mengsuo Dragon Pool is a natural freshwater lake located in the middle section of the Mengsuo Dragon Pool Nature Reserve, south of the county town. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,170 meters, surrounded by lush mountains and tranquil environments. The lake has a surface area of 46.7 hectares (about 700 acres), stretching 740 meters north-south and 1,000 meters east-west. Its maximum depth is 37.8 meters, with an average depth of 11.5 meters, and a water volume of over 5 million cubic meters. Mengsuo Dragon Pool is a fault-sunken lake with steep cliffs on the south and west sides, while the east and north banks are gentler. The lake’s water source comes from underground springs at the lake’s bottom, mountain streams, and surface runoff.
The lake’s clear waters reflect the surrounding landscape, with herons and wild ducks frequently seen. Moss covers the lakeside, and legend has it that a loving girl turned into a bird to keep the lake clean by removing fallen leaves, ensuring the purity of her beloved’s face.
Additionally, Mengsuo Dragon Pool is connected to the Myanmar Dragon Pool, located 35 kilometers away. The synchronized rise and fall of these lakes have earned them the titles “Sister Dragon Pools” and “Husband and Wife Dragon Pools,” adding to their appeal and intrigue.
Features
Mengsuo Dragon Pool is a classic tropical rainforest lake. A newly constructed pedestrian path encircles the lake, with one side featuring the sparkling water and the other lush forests. The ancient forest is home to millennium-old trees with entwined roots, persistent vines, and slippery moss. Visitors need to navigate carefully as tree roots, branches, and vines often obstruct the path. The rainforest features typical sights like tree-wrapped stones and isolated trees. Botanists may encounter rare national protected plants. The tangled ancient trees and vines resemble abstract sculptures, each holding a beautiful story within the misty water vapor.
Cultural Highlights
- Fish Catching: In the mornings, fish in the lake become lethargic due to the cold water and float to the surface. Local Wa children use crossbows to shoot these fish, gathering them easily. Visitors might even witness locals retrieving fish in this manner and receive some as gifts.
- Sacred Water: Historically, people from as far as Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, as well as nearby areas, believed that the water from Mengsuo Dragon Pool had divine properties. It was thought to ward off misfortune, cure illnesses, and enhance fertility. Before the liberation, pilgrims would come to collect the sacred water to seek blessings for health and prosperity. The tradition continues, with locals regularly collecting water.
- Longmo Temple: The most impressive cultural site in the Mengsuo Dragon Pool area is the Longmo Temple, a manifestation of the Wa people’s animistic religion. “Longmo” in Wa language means “gathering place of deities.” The Wa believe that the spirits of deceased plants and animals linger in this sacred place. Major events or natural disasters prompt the Wa to perform elaborate sacrificial rites led by respected ritualists to seek divine blessings and resolution of difficulties.
- Rain Prayer Pool: In the past, locals, lacking scientific knowledge, believed that droughts or floods were caused by offending the Dragon King. They would assemble large groups to worship the Dragon Pool, praying for favorable weather and abundant crops. Although these practices have diminished with a better understanding of nature, the tradition of praying for rain continues on a smaller scale.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mengsuo Dragon Pool is during the dry season from October to April when the weather is pleasant, and the lake’s surface is clear and reflective.
How to Get There
Mengsuo Dragon Pool is about 2 kilometers from the Ximeng Bus Station. It can be easily reached by car or taxi.
Travel Tips
- Respect local traditions and maintain a quiet demeanor.
- Avoid touching or disturbing sacred sites.
- Be cautious on the walking paths as the terrain can be uneven.
Enjoy your visit to Mengsuo Dragon Pool and immerse yourself in its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage!
