Pantiange Town of Weixi County, Diqing

Pantiange Township （攀天阁乡）is located in the northern part of Weixi Lisu Autonomous County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is bordered by Tacheng Town to the east, Yongchun Township to the south and southeast, and Baijixiang Township to the west. The township covers an area of 282 square kilometers. The terrain is characterized by high mountains and deep valleys, with the highest point being Mount Paodi at an altitude of 3,502 meters and the lowest point at the Yongchun River at 1,700 meters.

History

During the Republic of China period, Pantiange Township was established, governing most of the current township area and parts of Tacheng Town. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it was set up as a district, commonly referred to as the Second District. In 1958, during the commune movement, communes named “Satellite,” “Dongfanghong,” and “Pantiange” were successively established. In 1988, Pantiange Township was officially established.

Folklore

Pantiange Township is a multi-ethnic settlement, home to various ethnic groups including Lisu, Naxi, Bai, Yi, Pumi, Hui, and Han. The township is known for its rich ethnic cultures and traditional customs. For example, the Naxi ethnic group has its own traditional costumes, while the Lisu ethnic group is known for its Azhi Muge singing and dancing. The township also hosts various festivals such as the Kuoshe Festival and Harvest Festival.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Pantiange Township has a subtropical and temperate monsoon plateau mountain climate. The climate is cool and moist, with an average annual temperature of 13℃. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

  • Yongchun River: The main river of Pantiange Township, with beautiful scenery along the river, suitable for hiking and photography.
  • Tuo Zhi Village: The administrative center of Pantiange Township, known for its traditional architecture and cultural activities.
  • Surrounding Natural Scenery: Including continuous mountains, streams, springs, and ancient walnut trees.

Suggested Duration of Stay

  • Yongchun River: Suggested stay of 1 hour.
  • Tuo Zhi Village: Suggested stay of 2 hours.
  • Surrounding Natural Scenery: Suggested stay of half a day to one day.

Transportation

  • By Car: From Weixi County, the drive to Pantiange Township is approximately 30 kilometers.
  • By Public Transport: Buses are available from Weixi County Passenger Station to Pantiange Township.

Cuisine

  • Lisu Traditional Food: Such as Pise Meat and Zamba.
  • Steam Rice Cake: A local specialty.
  • Roast Suckling Pig: A local specialty.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Items such as wooden bowls and Zamba boxes, which are rich in ethnic characteristics.
  • Local Agricultural Products: Including Yunnan Golden Snub-nosed Monkey honey and walnuts.

Accommodation

There are several Tibetan-style guesthouses in and around Pantiange Township, offering a good experience of Tibetan culture and lifestyle.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting, respect the religious beliefs and traditional customs of the local ethnic groups.
  • Protect the Environment: Pantiange Township has a good ecological environment. Pay attention to environmental protection during your visit.
  • Safety First: The roads to Pantiange Township are relatively rugged. Drive carefully if you are traveling by car.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Pantiange Township, visit Yongchun River to experience local culture, and taste local specialties.
  • Day 2: Head to Tuo Zhi Village to explore the cultural and natural attractions.
  • Day 3: Visit the surrounding natural scenery, such as mountains and streams. Return to Weixi County or continue to other attractions.
Pantiange Township is a place full of ethnic characteristics and cultural heritage, suitable for tourists who love folk culture and natural scenery. Here, you can feel the warm hospitality of the local people and appreciate the unique charm of ancient ethnic cultures. We hope that your trip to Pantiange Township will be fruitful and leave you with unforgettable memories.