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Dai Garden in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, is known for its beautiful landscapes and ethnic Dai culture. Here are the top activities:
The Dai Garden, also known as the Xishuangbanna Dai Garden, is located in Ganlanba, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China. Within the scenic area are five of my country's best-preserved Dai villages: Manjiang, Manchunman, Manting, Manzha, and Manga.
Entering the scenic area's main gate, the welcoming square welcomes you with a warm welcome dance, chants, and sprinkles of water. It's truly a joyous occasion. The Water Splashing Festival is undoubtedly the most important festival for the Dai people in Xishuangbanna, but you don't have to wait until that day to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival at the Dai Garden's Water Splashing Square. The park also boasts the Manchunman Ancient Buddhist Temple, one of Xishuangbanna's oldest, boasting over 1,400 years of history. Chanting can be heard daily within the temple.
Tropical monsoon forest, with high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year
Best from March to May and from August to October
65.00 yuan
08:00~18:00
Dai Garden is a key cultural and ecological site in Xishuangbanna, home to the Dai people, one of the ethnic minorities in China. The garden is part of efforts to preserve the tropical rainforest ecosystem while promoting Dai culture through its architecture, traditions, and local agricultural practices.
Dai Garden is located in Xishuangbanna, southern Yunnan Province. Visitors typically reach Xishuangbanna via flights to Jinghong Airport (the nearest city) and then take a taxi or shuttle bus to the garden. There is no metro system in this area, and walking is suitable within the garden itself.
Dai Garden is generally open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best times to visit are during the dry seasons from November to April, as the weather is more pleasant and the garden's plants are in full bloom.
The entrance fee for Dai Garden is typically around 60-100 RMB, depending on the season and activities. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the garden's entrance or through authorized travel agencies. It's recommended to buy tickets online in advance during peak travel seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese New Year and summer). It’s best to book at least 1-2 days in advance, though tickets can be bought on the day if availability permits.
A visit to Dai Garden typically takes about 2-3 hours, though visitors may wish to spend more time if they plan to enjoy local performances or boat rides.
Highlights include:
Guided tours are available in Chinese and some English-speaking tours may be arranged, especially for larger groups. Audio guides in multiple languages may also be available for some tours.
Some of the best photography spots include the river views, the bamboo-lined walkways, and the traditional Dai houses. The lush tropical gardens also provide excellent photo opportunities, especially during early morning or late afternoon light.
A recommended route would be to start with a tour of the botanical gardens, followed by the traditional Dai architectural sites, and then conclude with a relaxing boat ride along the river. Be sure to also check the schedule for cultural performances throughout the day.
Night visits are not common in Dai Garden, as it closes by 6 PM. However, cultural performances and local festivals may be held during the day, offering a glimpse into Dai traditions and culture.
The garden can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are typically weekday mornings or during the off-peak season (May to October), when fewer tourists visit the region.
Dai Garden has public toilets, rest areas, and several small shops selling local crafts and snacks. There are also food vendors offering traditional Dai cuisine, although the selection may be limited compared to larger tourist areas.
The attraction is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas with natural terrain might be challenging for those with mobility impairments. It’s advisable to check with the staff for special assistance if needed.
Cash is commonly used, but many vendors in the area accept mobile payments via apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay. International credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's a good idea to have cash on hand.
There are several small restaurants and cafes nearby that offer Dai food and snacks. For more variety, visitors can travel to Jinghong, the nearest city, which has a wider range of dining options.
Some vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the local Dai cuisine, which often features fresh vegetables and tofu. However, halal options are limited in this region.
There are various hotels in Jinghong, the nearest city, including budget options and mid-range hotels. For a more traditional experience, some visitors choose to stay in local guesthouses or eco-lodges.
Nearby attractions include the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Manting Park, and the Wild Elephant Valley. All these sites are within a short distance of Dai Garden, making them perfect for a day trip combination.
There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, such as Dai textiles, traditional bamboo products, and ethnic jewelry. Visitors can also find herbal teas and other regional specialties.
After visiting Dai Garden, visitors can take a bus or taxi to other nearby attractions or to Jinghong, where they can catch flights or buses to other destinations in Yunnan or China. Local public transportation is available for travel within the city.
