
Likan Waterfall in Ximeng County, Puer
Chinese Name:西盟县里坎瀑布
English Name: Likan Waterfall in Ximeng County, Puer
Chinese Pinyin: Xi Meng Xian Li Kan Pu
Location: Likan Village, Mengsuo Town, Ximeng County, Puer City
Ticket: 10 CNY
Open Time: 8:30—18:00
Signature Landscapes & Experiences
Waterfall Features
Geological Formation
Formed by the confluence of the Donglang and Dongsuo Rivers, Lǐkǎn Waterfall descends in tiers down a steep cliff face. The roaring cascade crashes down in layers, resembling draped white jade from the cliffs.
Dynamic Viewing Point
The best perspective is from the center of the Wa ethnic group’s vine suspension bridge. Suspended 20 meters above the ground, the bridge offers a dramatic view down to the swirling pool below and up into the mist where the waterfall appears like “the Milky Way pouring from the sky.”
Cultural Significance
In the Dai language, “Lǐkǎn Nǎnduǒtǎ” means “the place where monkeys often appear,” reflecting the Dai people’s deep respect and reverence for the living spirits of nature.
Harmony of Culture & Nature
Vine Bridge Adventure
This original vine-and-bamboo suspension bridge (limited to 15 people at a time) sways intensely as you cross. Just beyond the bamboo railings lies the dramatic waterfall drop — combining adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery in one immersive experience.
Secret Eco-Zone
The waterfall is surrounded by untouched rainforest, dense with cardamom groves and towering ancient trees. During the rainy season (May to September), the moss-covered rock walls and thriving ferns turn the landscape into a lush green paradise.
Recommended Tour Route
Main Trail
Start from the parking lot → follow a 1-km forest trail (about 20 minutes, accompanied by cicadas and stream sounds) → arrive at the vine bridge and waterfall viewing zone → optional 500-meter extension to Lǐkǎn Dai Village (里坎傣寨).
Cultural Extension
Nearby lies Muyiji Divine Valley (木依吉神谷), home to ancient Wa cliff paintings and remnants of headhunting rituals — including the historic “Skull Piles” once used before 1958.
Development & Transportation
Item | Details |
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Opening Hours | Open daily from 08:00 to 18:00 |
Scenic Status | Part of the “Wa Tribe National Tourist Resort” plan; since 2020, over ¥17 million has been invested in upgrading trails and viewing infrastructure |
Linked Attractions | Connects to Měngsuǒ Longtan Scenic Area (勐梭龙潭)2.3 km away; the scenic route along National Highway 219 forms a loop of nature and culture |
Driving Directions | Navigate to “Lǐkǎn Waterfall (里坎瀑布)” or “Bòháng Old Village (博航老寨)”; about a 15-minute drive from Ximeng County center |
⚠️ Travel Tips
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The vine bridge has a limited weight capacity — avoid overloading or excessive swaying. During the rainy season, the wooden planks may be slippery; hold firmly to the bamboo railings.
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Help protect the pristine environment — do not carve on rocks or pick cardamom and other local plants.
💎 Signature Moments
Feel the thunderous tremors of the waterfall while standing on the vine bridge →
Trek through rainforest paths decoding Wa cliff paintings →
Gaze across the fields toward the Dai village and its pastoral, picture-perfect charm