Kami Village of Mengban Town in Mengla County, XishuangBanna
Kami Village (卡咪村) is located in the mountainous region under the administration of Huiluo Village Committee (回落村委会), Mengban Town (勐伴镇), Mengla County (勐腊县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is situated to the east of Mengban Town, 8 kilometers from Huiluo Village Committee and 15 kilometers from the town center. To the east, it borders Laos, with only 8 kilometers from the No. 20 boundary marker along the China-Laos border.
History and Culture
Formerly known as the “Khmu people” (克木人), the villagers were later classified as part of the Blang ethnic group (布朗族). In 1958, they migrated from the China-Laos border area to their current settlement, representing a “direct transition” ethnic group that moved from a primitive society directly into socialism. Kami people have two major branches: Khmu and Kami. The Kami refer to themselves as “Bu Xing” (布兴), meaning “human.” The local Dai people (傣族) call them “Ka Bi” (卡毕), meaning “people skilled at climbing trees and picking fruit.”
Folk Customs
The village is home to the Khmu people, who have their own language but no written script. They practice polytheism and ancestor worship, with rituals led by a shaman called “Beima” (贝玛). Major traditional festivals include the October Festival and the June Festival. The Kami people retain unique cultural traits such as language, religion, totem-based surnames, and traditional beliefs. However, influenced by Dai culture, their external cultural expressions are increasingly similar to the Dai.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Kami Village (卡咪村) has a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 17.8°C and an annual rainfall of 1600 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration
Ancient Tea Gardens
The area around Kami Village features rich ancient tea gardens, perfect for experiencing local tea culture.
Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours
Border Scenery
Due to its proximity to Laos, visitors can experience border culture and scenery.
Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours
Transportation
From Mengla County (勐腊县), take the main road to Mengban Town (勐伴镇), then proceed to Kami Village. The total distance is approximately 43.5 kilometers. Local village buses and taxis are available for transportation.
Local Cuisine
The cuisine in Kami Village reflects Dai (傣族) and Yao (瑶族) influences. Recommended dishes include:
- Dai-style Barbecue: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig
- Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo, infused with the aroma of bamboo
Shopping
Local specialties such as Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handcrafted goods are available at village markets.
Accommodation
The village offers a few guesthouses and homestays with basic facilities. For more comfortable lodging, it is recommended to stay in hotels in Mengla County (勐腊县).
Travel Tips
- Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting the village.
- When touring the mountainous areas, protect yourself from insect bites and bring appropriate supplies.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Kami Village and check into a homestay. Visit the ancient tea gardens to explore local tea culture.
Day 2
Enjoy the border scenery and experience the unique atmosphere of the border region.
Day 3
Shop for local specialties at the village market before concluding your trip.
Kami Village (卡咪村) is a captivating destination rich in both natural beauty and ethnic culture. Here, you can experience the charm of a borderland and the traditional lifestyle of a minority community. We hope you have a memorable journey in Kami Village.
