Nanlanhe River in Puer and XishuangBanna

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The Nanlanhe River (南览河) originates from the western part of Zhutang Township (竹塘乡) in Lancang County (澜沧县), Pu’er City (普洱市), Yunnan Province, China, at an elevation of 1,857.9 meters. It flows for 227.5 kilometers within China, covering a drainage basin of 4,002.7 square kilometers. The river serves as a boundary river between Lancang County and Menghai County (勐海县), as well as a border between China and Myanmar in its downstream section, eventually merging into the Mekong River (湄公河).

• Source: Zhutang Township, Lancang County, Pu’er City, Yunnan Province, China (1,857.9 m above sea level)

• River Length: 227.5 km in China (169.8 km in Menghai County)

• Drainage Area: 4,002.7 square km (within China)

• Water System: A secondary tributary of the Lancang River (澜沧江), also known as the Daluo River (打洛河) in its lower reaches

• Annual Flow: Average runoff of 2.284 billion cubic meters annually

Ecological Value and Protection

The Nanlanhe River has received multiple accolades, including recognition as a Beautiful River and Lake at both the city and provincial levels in 2020. The Menglang Township section of the river was included in Pu’er City’s second batch of Green Beautiful Rivers and Lakes in 2023.

• Water Quality Standard: Grade III, suitable for fish protection and agricultural use

• Conservation Measures: As part of the Pu’er River Chief System, various agencies manage the river’s protection and environmental monitoring

• Notable Achievements: In 2022, a comprehensive river management plan was revised, establishing guidelines for the protection of the river’s ecological health

Honorary Titles

• 2020: City-level Beautiful River and Lake (Pu’er)

• 2020: Provincial-level Beautiful River and Lake (Yunnan)

• 2023: Green Beautiful River and Lake in Menglang Town section

Conservation Efforts

• River Management Plan: Completed revision in 2022 to define boundary lines and protection zones

• Collaborative Supervision: Implemented a multi-department monitoring system through the River Chief System

Geography and Hydrology

The Nanlanhe River flows across a range of towns and ethnic townships in Lancang County and Menghai County before reaching the China-Myanmar border. The river has an average elevation drop of 1,312.9 meters across its course, and it runs through an area with an average slope of 2.6%.

• Elevation Drop: 1,312.9 meters

• Average Slope: 2.6%

• Annual Flow: 22.84 billion cubic meters (average)

• Hydropower Potential: 116.9 MW in Menghai County

Cultural Significance and Tourism Development

The Nanlanhe River holds cultural value in the region, particularly for the Dai ethnic group (傣族), whose traditional villages are scattered along its banks. The river is often referred to as “The Sweet Water” in the Dai language, a name that originates from a Buddhist legend about monks using river water to prepare olive food offerings.

Scenic Value

• Dai Villages: Several traditional Dai villages, including those along the China-Myanmar border, offer unique cultural experiences and scenic views.

• Landscape: The Menglang Town and Daluo River sections are renowned for their lush, vibrant surroundings, with opportunities for border tourism and scenic exploration.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time for visiting is between November and April, during the dry season, when weather conditions are stable, and the river’s exploration is more accessible.

Popular Sections

• Menglang Town Section: Known for its scenic river views and water landscape projects

• Daluo River Section: Situated along the China-Myanmar border, this stretch offers picturesque views of the river and neighboring landscapes

Cultural Activities

• Dai Cultural Experience: Visitors can explore local Dai crafts, enjoy traditional performances, and learn about the Dai people’s agricultural practices, particularly related to rice and other subtropical crops.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly to Pu’er Simao Airport, then take a road trip to Lancang County or Menghai County.

• By Train: Take a train to Pu’er City, and continue by bus or taxi to the river area.

• By Road: Renting a car or taking a bus from Pu’er City or Jinghong is a convenient way to reach the river.

Travel Tips

• Clothing: Wear weather-appropriate and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities, especially if engaging in river-based explorations.

• Safety: Always follow local safety guidelines, particularly when participating in water-related activities.

• Local Guides: Hiring a local guide can provide deeper insights into the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Infrastructure and Development

Recent developments around the Nanlanhe River have focused on enhancing the river’s eco-tourism potential and protecting its cultural and environmental integrity.

• Ecological Projects: In 2025, the government will initiate a “River Chief Clean River” campaign to clean the river and manage waste.

• Infrastructure Investments: The construction of hydraulic dams, pedestrian bridges, and rain shelters are part of the ongoing development to improve the river’s landscape and tourism infrastructure.

Notable Infrastructure Projects

• Water Landscape Hydraulic Dams: Four dams installed for landscape enhancement

• Pedestrian Bridges and Pavilions: Two wind-and-rain bridges and eight wind-and-rain pavilions

Practical Information

• Best Viewing Time: November to April (dry season)

• Key Sections to Explore:

  • Menglang Town Section (Water Landscape Projects)

  • Daluo River Section (China-Myanmar Border Scenic Views)

• Transportation Tips: The river passes through mountainous regions, so it’s advisable to use professional travel routes and guided tours for a more enjoyable experience.

This scenic river offers an immersive exploration of nature, culture, and biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those interested in the rich Dai culture in Pu’er and Xishuangbanna.