Monkey Mountain in Jinghong City, XishuangBanna
Chinese Name: 西双版纳猴山
Pinyin: Xīshuāngbǎnnà Hóushān
Location: Jinghong City (景洪市, Jǐnghóng Shì), Xishuangbanna (西双版纳, Xīshuāngbǎnnà), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng)
Overview
Monkey Mountain is situated four kilometers from the urban area of Jinghong City and serves as the research and experimental base for the Yunnan Primate Center, which is part of China’s experimental animal program. This scenic area is home to 14 species of rare primates classified as first and second class national protected animals. It combines research, leisure, and tourism, making it a unique destination.
The mountain is located in the eastern outskirts of Jinghong, at the confluence of the Lancang River (澜沧江, Láncāng Jiāng) and the Liushahua River (流沙河, Liúshā Hé), adjacent to the historical site of the former Xuanwei Governor’s Office (勐泐故宫, Mènglè Gùgōng). The area emphasizes both the display of primates and historical cultural landscapes.
Attractions and Features
Visitors can enjoy a cable car ride, navigate thrilling rapids, and explore lush bamboo forests and ancient trees. The sounds of gibbons echo in the valleys, while birds sing among fragrant flowers, showcasing the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
Primate Exhibits
The center features an exhibition garden for various primate species, including the Red-Faced Monkey (红面猴, Hóngmiànhóu) and the Gibbon (长臂猿, Chángbìyuán). The largest breeding facility for macaques in Asia houses over 4,000 Rhesus monkeys (恒河猴, Hénghéhóu) and Crab-Eating Macaques (食蟹猴, Shíxièhóu).
Family Experience
Children will delight in watching young monkeys play, climb trees, and frolic by the water. The sight of baby monkeys snuggling with their mothers evokes the universal bond of maternal love, reminiscent of human relationships. Visitors can also experience the wonder of the tropical rainforest environment, which, although humid and slippery, offers a captivating forest atmosphere.
Visitor Information
- Contact Number: 0691-2200159
- Duration: Recommended visit time is over 3 hours
- Entrance Fee: 20 Yuan
- Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM; last admission at 05:00 PM (January 1 – December 31, daily)
- Location: Ronglin Avenue (榕林大道, Rónglín Dàdào), Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province
How to Get There
Transportation Options
- By Bus: Public buses frequently connect Jinghong City to Monkey Mountain. Look for local bus routes heading east.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in the city, and a ride to Monkey Mountain takes about 10-15 minutes.
- By Car: Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore nearby attractions at your own pace.
Nearby Attractions
- Former Xuanwei Governor’s Office (勐泐故宫, Mènglè Gùgōng): A historical site worth visiting for its cultural significance.
- Lancang River (澜沧江, Láncāng Jiāng): A scenic river ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
Travel Tips
- Safety Precautions: Be cautious around monkeys, especially when feeding them. They may snatch food unexpectedly.
- Weather Preparedness: The area can be humid and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear for walking.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe the monkeys from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the landscape and the monkeys, but ensure to respect the animals and their habitat.
- Cultural Respect: Be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting the area.
Monkey Mountain offers a fascinating blend of wildlife observation and cultural exploration, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Xishuangbanna.
