Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Town in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna

Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) is located in the eastern part of Menghai County (勐海县), Xishuangbanna Prefecture (西双版纳州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Jinghong City (景洪市) to the east and southeast, Menghun Town (勐混镇) to the southwest, Menghai Town (勐海镇) to the west, and faces Mangsong Township (勐宋乡) across the Liusha River (流沙河) to the north. The township covers an area of 312.44 square kilometers, with an average elevation of 1,596 meters. The annual average temperature is between 17–18℃, and annual rainfall is between 1,350–1,500 mm.

History and Culture

Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) is the only Hani ethnic township in Menghai County (勐海县). The Hani word “Gelanghe” means “auspicious, peaceful, and healthy.” Administrative governance began on July 16, 1953, with the establishment of the Gelanghe Aini Ethnic Autonomous Region (格朗和爱尼族自治区). In October 1987, the district was reorganized into a township and officially named Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡).

Local Customs

The Hani people are known for their singing and dancing, with a rich heritage of folk songs and dances. Major festivals include the Water Splashing Festival (泼水节), Open Door Festival (开门节), and Close Door Festival (关门节). During these festivals, the Hani people gather in communal spaces for singing and dancing. Their ethnic culture is primitive, natural, romantic, and colorful.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate with cool temperatures, abundant sunshine, distinct wet and dry seasons, and plentiful rainfall. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

• Nannuo Mountain: This mountain lies at the border between Menghai County (勐海县) and Jinghong City (景洪市), home to ancient tea gardens over 800–1,200 years old. Visitors can experience Hani tea culture and way of life. Suggested visit: 2–3 hours.
• Pasha Mountain: Bordering Menghun Town (勐混镇), Pasha Mountain offers rich natural scenery and insights into Hani culture. Suggested visit: 2–3 hours.
• Heilongtan: Located near the township government, this site features beautiful natural landscapes and typical mountain scenery. Suggested visit: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

• By Car: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway to Jinghong City (景洪市), then proceed to Menghai County (勐海县). Total distance is around 500 km, with a drive time of about 6 hours.
• By Public Transport: First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a long-distance bus to Menghai County (勐海县), followed by a local rural bus or taxi to Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡).

Local Cuisine

Local dishes mainly consist of Hani-style cuisine. Recommended dishes include:

• Hani-style Specialties: Such as sour fish soup and grilled meats, known for their delicious flavors.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with a subtle bamboo aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties include Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handmade crafts, available at local markets.

Accommodation

Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) has a limited selection of guesthouses and homestays with basic amenities. For higher accommodation standards, it is recommended to stay in Jinghong City (景洪市) or Menghai County (勐海县).

Travel Tips

• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and villages.
• When traveling in the mountains, take precautions against insect bites and bring necessary protective gear.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡), check into a local homestay, and visit Nannuo Mountain (南糯山) to experience Hani tea culture and lifestyle.
Day 2: Explore Pasha Mountain (帕沙山), enjoy its natural scenery and cultural atmosphere, then visit the area around Heilongtan (黑龙潭).
Day 3: Shop for local specialties at a market, then conclude your journey.

Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) is a charming destination with rich natural landscapes and unique ethnic culture. Here, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the borderlands and immerse yourself in Hani traditions. May your journey to Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township be an unforgettable one.