8 Days Best Yunnan Puerh Tea Tour:Puer-Jingmai-Menghai-Yiwu-Jinghong

Embark on a 8-day immersive journey through the rich tea culture of Yunnan, exploring some of the most famous tea-producing regions. From the historical tea trading markets of Puer (普洱), to the ancient tea mountains and villages in Jingmai (景迈), Menghai (勐海), Yiwu (易武), and Jinghong (景洪), this tour provides an in-depth experience of Puerh tea, its history, and the traditional tea-making methods. Visit ancient tea gardens, historic tea villages, and renowned tea mountains, while also immersing yourself in the diverse ethnic cultures of the region, including the Hani, Dai, and Lahu peoples. Enjoy tea tastings, cultural performances, and visits to traditional tea factories, making this an unforgettable exploration of Yunnan’s tea heritage.

Tour Highlights

• Puer City Tea Markets: Visit Puer City (普洱市), the birthplace of Puerh tea, with a chance to explore the vibrant Puer tea trading market and Puer City Museum (普洱市博物馆).
• Tea Villages and Ancient Tea Mountains: Explore the ancient tea villages in Jingmai (景迈山), Menghai (勐海), and Yiwu (易武), where tea production has been practiced for centuries. Visit famous ancient tea gardens such as Wengji (翁基古寨) and enjoy scenic tea plantations with century-old tea trees.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional tea ceremonies, ethnic cultural performances, and the local customs of the Hani (哈尼族), Dai (傣族), and Lahu (拉祜族) peoples. Participate in activities like making traditional rice cakes and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
• Tea Tasting: Savor some of the best Puerh teas directly from the source. Visit tea factories and tea shops to sample different grades and varieties of Puerh tea.
• Nature and Scenic Views: Explore the lush landscapes of Yunnan’s tea mountains, trek along the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Historic Sites and Villages: Visit culturally significant locations like the ancient town of Yiwu (易武古镇), the tea villages of Menghai, and the picturesque Nuo Gan Ancient Village (糯干古寨), a filming location for popular Chinese movies.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1 Arrive in Puer
• Day 2 Puer-Nakeli-Laodabao
• Day 3 Laodabao-Jingmai
• Day 4 Jingmai-Menghai
• Day 5 Menghai-Bulangshan-Jinghong
• Day 6 Jinghong-Yiwu-Menglun
• Day 7 Menglun-Ganlanba-Jinghong
• Day 8 Departure from Jinghong

Inquiry

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Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Puer City

Visit Meizihu Lake (Plum Lake), Puer Tea Trading Market, and Puer City Museum

Upon arrival in Puer City, explore some of the local attractions, including Meizihu Lake (梅子湖), a serene lake ideal for a peaceful stroll. Then, head to the Puer Tea Trading Market (普洱市批发交易市场), where you can experience the rich tea culture of the region, with various tea varieties available for purchase. Lastly, visit the Puer City Museum (普洱市博物馆) to learn more about the history, culture, and significance of Puer in Yunnan province.

Day 2: Puer – Nakeli – Puer – Laodabao

Visit Nakeli Village and the Ancient Tea Horse Road

Start the day by visiting Nakeli Village (那柯里村), known for its rich tea culture. This picturesque village offers a fantastic tea plantation backdrop for photographs, as well as ruins of the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), a historic trade route. The ancient path is an important part of the region’s cultural history, and you can explore rest stations and the road itself. It is recommended to book your tickets for the village in advance on platforms like Xcheng or Meituan for discounts. The village is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and it is best to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, and sunscreen as the sunlight can be strong in the tea plantations.

Visit Puer International Tea City

Next, head to Puer International Tea City (普洱国际茶城), a large tea market that hosts various tea brands and types. It is a perfect place to explore the diversity of teas available in the region. Entry is free, and the market is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to carry a small backpack and plan your purchases ahead, as this will make your visit more efficient.

Lunch at Wuyi Agricultural Market

Stop for lunch at Wuyi Agricultural Market (五一农贸市场), a bustling market where you can enjoy a variety of local Puer delicacies, particularly the Puer roasted meat (普洱烤肉), which is highly recommended. The market is open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and entry is free. It is advisable to scan the stalls first to decide what to eat. If you’re sensitive to spice, be sure to tell the stall owners, as many of the snacks can be quite spicy.

Tea Horse Road Scenic Area

In the afternoon, explore the Tea Horse Road Scenic Area (茶马古道旅游景区) in Puer City, where the ancient trade route begins. Take a hike along the path and experience the challenges faced by travelers of the past. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful natural landscapes. A scenic ticket, priced around 120 yuan, can be purchased. The area is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and snacks, as supply points are limited along the route.

Tea Horse Ancient City at Night

In the evening, visit Tea Horse Ancient City (茶马古城), which is particularly lively at night with various street food stalls, street performers, and bonfire parties. It’s a great place to enjoy both local food and entertainment. The bonfire party is highly recommended, where you can join the locals in singing and dancing, creating a lively and immersive experience. Entry is free, and the night market is open from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Spend around 2-3 hours here, but be cautious with the prices and the spiciness of the food.

Day 3 : Laodabao – Jingmai

On Day 2, you’ll explore the indigenous culture of the Lahu people in Laodabao, followed by a visit to Jingmai Tea Mountain and the ancient Wengji Village. The day ends with a visit to the serene Nuogan Ancient Village and a traditional Dai ethnic experience.

Morning: Transfer to Laodabao and Lahu Cultural Experience

Transfer to Laodabao

In the morning, you’ll head to Laodabao, a village deeply rooted in Lahu ethnic culture, known for its unique traditions and welcoming atmosphere.

Lahu “Hand-washing Ceremony” (拉祜族洗手礼)

Upon arrival in Laodabao, you’ll be greeted by the Lahu people with their traditional “hand-washing ceremony.” This ceremony involves a Lahu woman offering guests water from a gourd to wash their hands, symbolizing respect and a warm welcome. It’s a beautiful ritual that showcases the hospitality of the Lahu community.

Explore Laodabao Village

Cultural Inheritance Museum & Intangible Heritage Workshop

After the ceremony, visit the Cultural Inheritance Museum (传承馆), which was built in 2010 and has recently undergone a full renovation in 2024. This museum preserves and showcases Lahu farming tools, cultural books, and the heritage of Laodabao. It provides a glimpse into the past, ensuring that the roots and spirit of Lahu culture are maintained.

Along the village roads, you’ll encounter various artisan workshops: Top-spinner Workshop (陀螺坊), Lusheng Workshop (芦笙坊), Root Carving Workshop (根雕坊), and Weaving Workshop (艺织坊). These workshops offer insight into the daily life, production, and handicrafts of the Lahu people.

Lahu Food Experience: Making “Baba”

Another highlight of your visit is the chance to participate in a hands-on experience where you make Baba, a traditional food symbolizing unity and togetherness. The process involves washing glutinous rice, steaming it, and then mixing it with sesame, which is pounded into a fine powder before being incorporated into the rice. This dish is a great way to connect with the Lahu people’s culture through their food.

Modern and Cultural Fusion Experience

Xie Cheng Holiday Farm (携程度假农庄)

Next, head to Xie Cheng Holiday Farm, where modern elements blend with ethnic culture. This resort features tea gardens and trendy vacation homes, along with facilities like a café, camping area, and barbecue space. You can also experience traditional Lahu cultural performances, including fire-dance performances, ancient tea-making methods, and photoshoots in Lahu clothing.

Ethnic Song and Dance Performances

In the afternoon, enjoy an immersive experience with Lahu ethnic song and dance performances. These performances include multi-part, a cappella songs like “Hunting Song” (打猎歌) and “Four Seasons Tune” (四季调), as well as more contemporary songs such as “Tea Offering Song” (敬茶歌) and “Happy Lahu” (快乐拉祜). The Lahu women’s traditional dance, “Bai Dance” (摆舞), and the men’s “Lusheng Dance” (芦笙舞), a national intangible cultural heritage, are unforgettable experiences.

Ethnic Product Exhibitions

Explore the various Lahu products on display, including Lahu brocades, ethnic clothing, bags, handicrafts, wild honey, root carvings, and ecological teas. This is a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Lahu culture while supporting local artisans.

Scenic Walk and Relaxation

Water Landscape Walkway

Take a leisurely walk along the Water Landscape Walkway near the village gate. The walkway is 3 kilometers long, offering spectacular views of the lush green landscape. As you walk to the highest point, you’ll get a panoramic view of Laodabao Village—a perfect spot for photos.

Local Food Square

Before departing for Jingmai, enjoy a quick stop at the Food Square, which offers a wide variety of local ethnic foods. You’ll find delicacies from the Lahu, Dai, and Hani cultures, including lemon jelly, chicken feet, grilled skewers, glutinous rice, and rice noodles. The flavors are bold, with a blend of spicy, sour, and savory tastes that are sure to satisfy your hunger.

Afternoon: Transfer to Jingmai Tea Mountain

Travel to Jingmai Tea Mountain

After a fulfilling visit to Laodabao, you’ll head to Jingmai Tea Mountain (景迈山), renowned for its ancient tea trees and lush landscapes.

Visit Wengji Ancient Village

Upon arrival at Jingmai, visit Wengji Ancient Village (翁基古村), a picturesque settlement with a deep connection to tea culture. The village is famous for its age-old tea cultivation methods and offers a serene environment to relax and connect with the region’s rich history.

Evening: Relax in Nuogan Ancient Village

Arrive at Nuogan Ancient Village

Your day ends at Nuogan Ancient Village, a beautiful Dai-style village where you can experience traditional Dai architecture. The two-story stilt houses, with thatched roofs and bamboo construction, are a sight to behold.

Dai Ethnic Experience: This village is also a filming location for movies starring actors like Liu Haoran. Here, you can truly experience the Dai way of life, surrounded by beautiful, misty mountains.

Evening Bonfire Party: In the evening, enjoy a lively bonfire dance with the villagers. Dance and celebrate with them under the stars for an authentic Dai cultural experience.

Overnight at Jingmai Tea Mountain

After an exciting day, relax at a guesthouse or tea mountain resort in Jingmai. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the mountain environment and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Day 4: Jingmai – Menghai

On Day 4, you’ll explore the ancient tea culture and scenic villages of Jingmai Tea Mountain, followed by a visit to Menghai. The day is filled with visits to various Dai and Banna ethnic villages, each with its own unique history and tea cultivation traditions.

Morning: Visit Ancient Tea Villages in Jingmai Tea Mountain

Visit Manghong Ancient Village (芒洪古寨)

Start your day with a 2-hour drive from Jingmai to Manghong Ancient Village, a centuries-old Dai village. Known for its unique bamboo-wooden architecture, this village has retained its original charm over the years. The narrow alleys and viewing platforms here offer perfect photo opportunities, making it a wonderful place to capture the essence of ancient Dai life.

Explore the village for about 1 hour and take in the peaceful atmosphere, which feels frozen in time. The ancient architecture, wooden structures, and natural surroundings create a serene ambiance that transports you back in history.

Walk to Mangjing Xiazai (芒景下寨)

After visiting Manghong, take a 20-minute walk to Mangjing Xiazai, another traditional Dai village. This village is home to a 2600-year-old cypress tree, which is often referred to as the “Tree King.” The tree is a stunning sight, ideal for a photoshoot. The temple here is also noteworthy, with intricate designs and a peaceful vibe. This village is a great place to experience local life, and you can also try some of the local cuisine or stay in a homestay for an authentic experience.

Afternoon: Explore the Tea Villages and Scenic Sights

Visit Wengji Bulangzu Old Village (翁基布朗族老寨)

Next, you’ll drive to Wengji Bulangzu Old Village, a thousand-year-old Bulang ethnic village. Known for its rich tea culture, the Bulang people are sometimes called “the thousand-year tea farmers.”

Here, visit the ancient temple, which was founded in 1015 AD. From the temple, you’ll get breathtaking views of the village and the surrounding tea mountains. The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and steeped in history.

If you’re considering staying in the village, Mingchun Homestay is a recommended option. The hosts are known for their warmth and hospitality, providing a truly immersive local experience.

Explore Jingmai Dazhai (景迈大寨)

After visiting Wengji, head to Jingmai Dazhai, the largest Dai village in the Jingmai region. This village is known for both its rich tea history and its beautiful natural scenery.

The Dapingzhang Ancient Tea Garden (大平掌古茶园) is a must-see. It’s often referred to as a “Tea Tree Natural Museum” due to the presence of over 1800-year-old tea trees, with some individual trees more than 500 years old. The area is incredibly picturesque, with lush tea plantations and mountain views, making it a prime location for photography.

The village’s Buddhist temple hosts daily activities, and if you time your visit right, you can participate in local religious ceremonies, gaining a deeper understanding of the spiritual life of the Dai people.

Evening: Transfer to Menghai

Travel to Menghai

After your visit to Jingmai Dazhai, you’ll head to Menghai, a bustling town that is the heart of the tea industry in Xishuangbanna.

Visit Jingzhen Bajiaoting (景真八角亭)

Once in Menghai, take the opportunity to visit Jingzhen Bajiaoting, a beautiful octagonal pavilion with scenic views of the surrounding area. This is a lovely place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Menghai as the day winds down.

Stay in Menghai

In the evening, enjoy your overnight stay in Menghai. There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels to choose from, where you can unwind after a busy day exploring the tea culture and villages of the area.

Day 5: Menghai – Jinghong

Today, you’ll explore the renowned Browns Tea Mountain (布朗山) and its famous tea gardens, including Old Ban Zhang (老班章) and Old Man’e (老曼峨), both of which are steeped in history and have contributed significantly to the tea culture of Xishuangbanna. The day will also include a visit to the Gaozhuang Night Market and the Lancang River Night View in Jinghong.

Morning: Explore the Ancient Tea Gardens of Browns Tea Mountain

Visit the Ancient Tea Gardens of Browns Mountain (布朗山古茶园)

After breakfast, start the day by visiting the Browns Mountain Tea Gardens, known for their historical significance in Xishuangbanna’s tea industry. The Browns Tea Area has contributed greatly to the development of modern tea production in this region.

Route to Browns Tea Gardens: There are several routes to choose from, but I recommend the second route for its smoother road conditions and time efficiency, which will save you both time and energy.

Route: Menghai → Menghun → Man Nan → Browns Mountain Township Government → Old Man’e → New Ban Zhang → Old Ban Zhang → Bangpen → Hekai → Menghun → Menghai.

First Stop: Old Man’e Village (老曼峨)

Old Man’e Village is the oldest and largest Bulang ethnic village in Browns Mountain, dating back over 1700 years. It is famous for its ancient tea gardens, with ancient tea trees ranging from 100 to 500 years old. The tea gardens cover around 3200 acres at an average altitude of 1650 meters.

As you explore the village, you’ll come across well-preserved tea tree groves and can even spot newly planted tea trees scattered around the village.

Visit the Buddhist temple within the village and the nearby Buddhist pagoda, which add to the spiritual and cultural essence of the area.

Second Stop: Old Ban Zhang Village (老班章)

Old Ban Zhang is one of the most famous and historic tea villages in the Browns Tea Area. According to legend, the Hani people settled here in 1476 and were gifted tea lands by the Bulang people of Old Man’e. These ancient tea gardens have been carefully cultivated for centuries.

The Old Ban Zhang Tea Garden is famous for its old tea trees, some over 300 years old. The village sits at an altitude of 1700-1900 meters, with 4,700 acres of tea gardens spread across the hills.

As you visit the tea gardens, you’ll encounter Tea Tree Kings like Ban Zhang No. 1 and No. 2, which are revered by tea enthusiasts from all over the world. These trees have been carefully preserved by the local villagers.

After your visit, enjoy some freshly brewed Ban Zhang tea in one of the local tea houses, where you can also enjoy a simple meal made with locally grown ingredients.

If time permits, you can also visit New Ban Zhang or explore the neighboring Bangpen and Hekai villages, both of which are home to Lahu ethnic groups and have their own tea plantations. These areas also offer scenic views of ancient tea gardens and their unique cultural landscapes.

Afternoon: Return to Menghai

After visiting the tea gardens, make your way back to Menghai and prepare for the journey to Jinghong.

Evening: Arrival in Jinghong and Night Exploration

Visit Gaozhuang Night Market (告庄夜市)

Once you arrive in Jinghong, head to the famous Gaozhuang Night Market. This bustling market offers a glimpse of local culture and is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, sample local snacks, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

Try some local snacks like grilled fish, sticky rice, and Xishuangbanna-style barbecue while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

Lancang River Night View (澜沧江夜景)

After the market, take a leisurely stroll along the Lancang River to enjoy the beautiful night view. The river is illuminated by colorful lights, creating a peaceful and picturesque scene that is perfect for photography.

Stay in Jinghong

Check in to your hotel in Jinghong for the night. There are various options, from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels, all offering comfortable stays with easy access to the city’s attractions.

Day 6: Jinghong – Yiwu – Menglun

Morning: Departure from Jinghong to Yiwu Tea Mountain

Start your day with a morning drive from Jinghong to Yiwu Tea Mountain (易武茶山). Yiwu, located in the heart of Pu’er tea production, is renowned for its high-quality tea and its deep-rooted tea culture. The town and surrounding areas are home to the famous “Seven Villages and Eight Settlements” (七村八寨), which are integral to the region’s tea history.

Exploring Yiwu Ancient Town (易武古镇)

Your first stop is Yiwu Ancient Town, where you can immerse yourself in the tea culture that has been evolving for centuries. The town itself offers a look into the history and craftsmanship of Pu’er tea production, with many tea houses where you can taste and purchase locally grown tea.

Tea Culture: Many of the buildings in Yiwu are steeped in history, with tea traders, farmers, and artisans showcasing their work.

Traditional Tea Houses: You can sit in one of the traditional tea houses to sample the local tea varieties, particularly raw Pu’er tea, and learn about the production process.

Yiwu Tea Villages: The Seven Villages and Eight Settlements

Yiwu’s tea landscape is shaped by Seven Villages and Eight Settlements, each with its unique charm and contribution to the tea culture of the region. These villages and settlements have been producing tea for generations and are vital to understanding the diversity and richness of Yiwu tea.

The Seven Villages (七村):

Mahei Village (麻黑村):

Significance: Known as the cradle of high-quality tea, Mahei is where many ancient tea gardens are located. The tea here is prized for its rich flavor and smoothness.

Activity: Take a walk through the ancient tea trees and enjoy a traditional tea tasting session.

Gaoshan Village (高山村):

Significance: Located at high altitudes, Gaoshan is known for its clean and crisp teas. The village is inhabited by the Yi ethnic group, and the tea here is typically grown in eco-friendly, high-altitude conditions.

Tea Experience: Enjoy the pure, high-mountain tea flavors, which are considered among the best in Yiwu.

Luoshui Cave Village (落水洞村):

Significance: Surrounded by mountains, this village is home to the famous “Tea King” tree, a centuries-old tree that has been producing some of the finest teas.

Tea Experience: Visit the Tea King Tree and learn about the significance of this ancient tree in Yiwu tea culture.

Manxiu Village (曼秀村):

Significance: A Han Chinese village that is a key passage to both Mahei and Guafeng Zhai. The village is known for its traditional tea-making techniques, which are passed down through generations.

Tea Experience: Experience the traditional hand-processing methods that have been used for centuries.

Sanheshe Village (三合社村):

Significance: An Yi ethnic village, Sanheshe is known for its well-preserved ancient tea gardens.

Tea Experience: The village’s tea has a rich flavor, and you’ll be able to enjoy the purity of the local tea in its natural environment.

Yibi Village (易比村):

Significance: Known for producing Anlehao tea, which is highly regarded in Yiwu for its fragrant aroma and smooth taste.

Tea Experience: Visit local tea gardens to taste this distinctive tea, which has a rich history and strong cultural ties.

Zhangjiawan Village (张家湾村):

Significance: This village produces a variety of tea with unique flavors and distinct processing techniques.

Tea Experience: Take part in a tasting session to explore the complex flavors that have made Zhangjiawan tea famous.

The Eight Settlements (八寨):

Guafeng Zhai (刮风寨):

Significance: Located on the border with Laos, Guafeng Zhai is a Yao ethnic village known for its distinctive tea culture. The tea here is famous for its floral aroma and smooth finish.

Tea Experience: Visit the tea gardens and taste the fragrant floral teas that are popular in the region.

Dingjia Zhai (瑶族 Dingjia Village):

Significance: Known for producing the renowned Bendong Tea, which is famous for its full-bodied flavor.

Tea Experience: Take a tour of the tea gardens and see how the Bendong Tea is harvested and processed.

Dingjia Zhai (Han Chinese):

Significance: Another settlement of Dingjia Zhai, this Han Chinese village is famous for its grinding stones and aromatic tea gardens.

Tea Experience: Try the teas from this Han village, known for their mild yet rich flavors.

Jiumiao Zhai (旧庙寨):

Significance: A Han village, Jiumiao Zhai lies in the center of the Yiwu tea region. The tea here is characterized by fruity and floral notes.

Tea Experience: Visit the tea gardens and learn how the area’s microclimate influences the flavor of the tea.

Luode Zhai (倮德寨):

Significance: A small Yi ethnic village known for its fresh floral teas that are widely regarded for their delicate aroma.

Tea Experience: Enjoy a cup of fresh, floral tea and learn about the natural farming techniques used here.

Dazhai (大寨):

Significance: This settlement is famous for its variety of teas, which include both raw and ripe Pu’er.

Tea Experience: Take a guided tour to explore the diverse tea gardens and taste the wide variety of teas produced here.

Xinzai (新寨):

Significance: Known for producing high-quality tea and for preserving traditional tea-making practices.

Tea Experience: Discover the delicate processes involved in crafting tea from Xinzai Village.

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Afternoon: Drive to Menglun Town

After a full morning of exploring the villages and their tea gardens, head to Menglun (勐仑镇), a town known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The drive will take around 1-1.5 hours, and upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Menglun – Jinghong

Morning: Visit to Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Start your day by driving from Menglun to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (中国科学院西双版纳热带植物园), one of the largest botanical gardens in China. The garden is vast, divided into the Eastern District and Western District, with the Western District being the more popular starting point for visitors.

Recommended Itinerary in the Garden:

Tropical Rainforest Ethnic Culture Museum: Learn about the unique cultures of the ethnic groups in Xishuangbanna, including the Dai, Hani, and other local communities. The museum highlights their deep connection with nature and the environment.

Palm Garden: Wander through a tropical garden showcasing a diverse collection of palm species from all over the world.

Exotic Flowers and Plants Garden: Explore the 奇花异卉园 (Exotic Flower and Rare Plant Garden), where you can see unique, vibrant tropical plants and flowers.

Hundred Flowers Garden: A picturesque spot with a variety of flowering plants, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Tree Garden: A peaceful space filled with diverse species of trees native to the tropics.

Famous Trees Garden: An area dedicated to famous trees from around the world, some with historical or cultural significance.

National Tree and Flower Garden: Explore the national treasures of China, including symbolic trees and flowers.

Fruit Garden: Discover the vast array of tropical fruits grown in the region, including mangoes, papayas, and lychees.

Vine Garden: Featuring various tropical vines, it provides a glimpse into how these plants grow and intertwine in nature.

Vine Tea House: For a unique experience, stop here to enjoy a refreshing vine-based beverage or some light snacks.

Photo Opportunities in the Garden:

Hundred Flowers Garden

Aquatic Plant Garden

Palm Forest

Exotic Flowers and Plants Garden

Banyan Tree Forest (榕树林) – A stunning area perfect for taking memorable photos.

This is a relaxing and educational morning, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty and diverse plant life of Xishuangbanna.

Lunch Break

After spending the morning at the botanical garden, head to a local restaurant for lunch. You’ll likely find traditional Dai dishes on the menu, such as sour fish soup (酸汤鱼), grilled fish, and sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves.

Afternoon: Visit to Xishuangbanna Dai Minority Park (西双版纳傣族园)

After lunch, drive about 1 hour south from Jinghong to the Xishuangbanna Dai Minority Park (西双版纳傣族园), a theme park that preserves the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Dai ethnic group. The park is designed to provide a glimpse into the authentic Dai way of life, with many scenic spots and cultural attractions.

Tour Highlights:

Welcome Square (迎宾广场)

As you enter, you’ll immediately feel the warm and festive atmosphere. Water-splashing activities are held here every day at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. You can join in the traditional Dai water-splashing ceremony, a fun, lively event that celebrates the Dai New Year.

Tip: Bring a bucket or something to get splashed with! It’s a great way to get involved in the local culture. Change of clothes is advisable!

Manchunman Ancient Buddhist Temple (曼春满古佛寺)

This 1,400-year-old temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Xishuangbanna. It showcases the unique Dai Buddhist architecture and offers a peaceful, cultural experience.

The temple is filled with intricate carvings and vivid colors, making it a beautiful location for photos and reflection.

Manting Buddhist Temple (曼听佛寺)

Next, take a short walk to Manting Temple, where you can witness traditional Dai performances. The outdoor theater hosts live performances that re-enact the Dai King’s marriage proposal story, offering a fascinating glimpse into Dai folklore.

Showtimes:

First show: 11:00 AM

Second show: 3:00 PM

The performances are vibrant and a great way to learn about the Dai culture through music, dance, and storytelling.

Peacock Garden (孔雀园)

The last stop in the park is the Peacock Garden, where you can watch peacocks displaying their feathers. It’s a thrilling experience, especially for kids, as the peacocks are often very active and colorful.

Fun Fact: The peacock is a symbol of beauty and grace in the Dai culture.

Return to Jinghong

After your exploration of Dai culture at the park, drive back to Jinghong. The day concludes with a return to your hotel for rest and relaxation.

Day 8: Departure from Jinghong

Morning: Visit to Manting Park (曼听公园)

Start your final day in Jinghong with a visit to Manting Park, one of the most picturesque spots in the area, rich in both cultural heritage and natural beauty. The park is a great place to unwind, enjoy some peaceful moments, and reflect on your journey through Xishuangbanna.

Manting Park Tour Highlights:

Zongfo Temple (总佛寺)

The Zongfo Temple is the most significant site in Manting Park. You can enter through either the South Gate or the Northeast Gate, which connects to Manting Temple.

The temple’s main hall is imposing and offers a serene atmosphere for visitors. Be mindful of the dress code: avoid exposing your shoulders and thighs. If wearing a strapless top or shawl, you may need to bring a jacket to cover yourself, or opt for a short-sleeve Dai outfit.

The temple is relatively small, and a walk around the main hall is sufficient to explore its peaceful surroundings.

Dai King’s Palace (傣泐馆 / Dai Wang Xing Gong)

Enter through the main gate, and you’ll find the Dai King’s Palace on the left. This cultural exhibit showcases the traditional lifestyle of the Dai kings, providing fascinating insights into their royal heritage.

Imperial Garden (御花园)

Follow the winding path to the Imperial Garden, which features a lotus pond that is especially beautiful in the warmer months. It’s a tranquil place to relax and enjoy nature.

Central Tower and Royal Orchid Garden (城心塔与御兰园)

Walk to the main road junction and take a right to reach the Central Tower (城心塔). This tall tower is worth seeing for its impressive structure and panoramic views of the park.

Next, head to the Royal Orchid Garden, which is small, and depending on the season, it may not have much in bloom, but it’s still a pleasant spot for a short visit.

Leaf Garden (叶子花园)

From here, continue left to visit the Leaf Garden. The garden features primarily bougainvillea (三角梅) at this time of year, but it’s still a beautiful and vibrant spot.

Lakefront Area

Follow the path down from the Leaf Garden to the lakefront. Here, you’ll encounter a charming red-brick castle, known as the Red Box Pavilion (红盒子风物馆). This venue houses a coffee shop and gift shop, making it the perfect place to relax, sip a coffee, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Across the lake, there is a pavilion draped with sheer curtains, providing an ideal spot for a photograph—it’s a beautiful scene, perfect for capturing memories.

White Pagoda and Earth Goddess Wash Basin (白塔与大地女神洗手池)

From the lake, cross the bridge and follow the path that leads uphill to the White Pagoda and the Earth Goddess Wash Basin (大地女神洗手池). This is the final highlight of the park, offering a unique opportunity to admire another Buddhist monument and the peaceful ambiance of the park.

Return to Zongfo Temple

After visiting the White Pagoda, you can walk back down to the Zongfo Temple to finish your visit.

Recommended Time for Visit:

It’s recommended to spend 2 to 3.5 hours exploring the park. The pace depends on your interest in photography and cultural exploration, but you can comfortably visit all key spots in this timeframe.

Afternoon: Departure from Jinghong

After a morning of peaceful exploration and reflection, it’s time to prepare for departure.

Check-out from the hotel and arrange your transport to the airport or train station.

Depending on your schedule, you may have a bit of time for a last stroll around Jinghong’s city center or visit local shops for a final souvenir or gift before your departure.

Conclusion of Your Trip:

Your journey through Xishuangbanna, from the bustling streets of Jinghong to the serene temples and gardens, will surely leave you with wonderful memories of the lush tropical environment, ethnic diversity, and rich culture of the region.

End of the tour: Departure from Jinghong marks the conclusion of your memorable experience in Yunnan Province.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets; Chinese visa fees; Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

Travel Tips:

• Visitors are advised to always carry changes of clothing due to the large variations in temperature between day and night.
• The climate is relatively dry, so drink more water every day.
• Protecting oneself from strong UV radiation at high altitude.
• Protecting oneself from altitude sickness. Lessen the effects of altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise and have plenty of rest.
• Respect local customs , habits, and religious beliefs.
• When take photos, please pay attention to your safety, do not shoot in dangerous areas.

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