I spent three days in Xishuangbanna, and my concept of spending has been completely shattered.
by Oliver~Bell
Apr 15, 2025
🌿4-day Xishuangbanna tour, a perfect encounter between tropical rainforest and Dai ethnic customs! Here you can experience the closest Southeast Asian style without leaving the country, full of exotic atmosphere~
【Day 1】Leisure tour in Jinghong city
✨Manting Park: A trendy spot transformed from the Dai King’s royal garden, watch elephant shows during the day and join the bonfire party at night (Address: No. 35 Manting Road, Jinghong City)
✨Gongbu Temple: A magnificent Southeast Asian style temple, perfect for photos (right next to Manting Park)
✨Starlight Night Market: The largest night market in Asia! Recommended to try Dai-style barbecue and pineapple rice, don’t forget to buy a set of Dai costumes for photos (Address: Behind the Golden Pagoda at Gaozhuang Xishuangjing)
【Day 2】Rainforest adventure day
🌿Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden: A must-visit! Ride the giant water lilies, watch hot air balloons, the east area is great for hiking (Address: Menglun Town, 1.5 hours by car)
🐘Wild Elephant Valley: If lucky, you can see wild elephant herds, the rainforest elephant herding experience is very special (morning sessions recommended)
【Day 3】In-depth Dai village experience
🏡Dai Ethnic Garden: Water-splashing carnival every afternoon, remember to bring a change of clothes (you can experience staying in a Dai bamboo stilt house homestay)
🌊Lancang River Cruise: Super romantic to watch the Mekong River sunset in the evening (Ticket office at Gaozhuang Pier)
【Day 4】Off-the-beaten-path secret spots check-in
🌸Mengyuan Wonderland: Hike the primeval rainforest, with many rare plants (wear non-slip shoes recommended)
🌄Wangtian Tree Scenic Area: Walk the sky corridor and overlook the entire rainforest (2 hours by car from the city)
🍍Food highlights:
✔️Luoluo Ice House (Jinghong city): Must order the Sleeping Indian Coconut
✔️Manfeilong Roast Chicken (Gaozhuang 3rd store): The 2-person set is enough for 3 people
✔️Kumari Nepal Restaurant: Butter naan with curry is amazing
⚠️Practical tips:
1. Be sure to buy an electric cart ticket at the botanical garden, walking will be exhausting
2. Room prices soar during the Water Splashing Festival in April, it’s recommended to book 3 months in advance
3. Always carry mosquito repellent! Mosquitoes are fierce in the rainforest
4. For photo shoots, the 199 RMB basic package is recommended, high-priced packages often disappoint
Post by Ward~Victoria | Aug 23, 2025























