Qianjiazhai Village No.1 Ancient Tea Tree of Ailao Mountain in Zhenyuan County, Puer (云南镇沅哀牢山千家寨1号古茶树)

The World’s Largest Ancient Tea Tree

The world’s largest ancient tea tree is located in the primeval forest of Ailao Mountain in Qianjiazhai, Zhenyuan County, Yunnan Province, at an altitude of over 2,000 meters. Known as the Qianjiazhai No. 1 Ancient Tea Tree, it stands an impressive 25.6 meters tall. Experts estimate that this tree is over 2,700 years old, dating back to the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period in Chinese history.

Discovery and Recognition

Local residents have long been aware of the presence of wild ancient tea trees in the area, but these resources were not seriously developed or utilized until the 1970s. It was during a government-organized survey for a proposed reservoir in Qianjiazhai that the ancient tea forest was officially discovered. However, the specific identification of the Qianjiazhai No. 1 tree did not occur until 1991.

In 2001, this ancient wild tea tree was recognized by the Shanghai Great World Guinness Headquarters as the largest ancient tea tree, receiving the title of “Great World Guinness Record.” However, for researchers studying the origin and survival patterns of tea trees, the significance of Qianjiazhai No. 1 extends far beyond its size.

Protection and Preservation

In the same year, October 2001, a tea company “adopted” this tree. To protect this millennia-old treasure, the company erected an iron fence and built stone walls around the tree. Additionally, they hired personnel to guard the tree in shifts year-round, ensuring its safety and preservation.

Importance and Impact

The Qianjiazhai No. 1 Ancient Tea Tree is not only a marvel of nature due to its age and size but also a crucial subject for scientific research. Studying this tree provides valuable insights into the history, evolution, and ecological adaptations of tea plants. The protection measures taken demonstrate a commitment to preserving this significant botanical heritage for future generations, underscoring the cultural and historical importance of tea in the region.

The discovery and subsequent safeguarding of the Qianjiazhai No. 1 Ancient Tea Tree highlight the rich biodiversity of Yunnan’s forests and the profound connection between the local communities and their natural environment. This tree stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of tea culture in China and its significance to both historical research and modern tea cultivation practices.

The geographical distribution of ancient Pu’er tea trees

Pu’er tea is a kind of tea only available in a specific geographical area. Pu’er tea is defined as a kind of tea with unique quality characteristics, which is made of Yunnan large leaf sun-dry green tea （云南大叶种晒青绿茶）with special processing technology  within the scope of geographical indication protection according to the latest national standard in 2008 “geographical indication product Pu’er tea《地理标志产品普洱茶》” (GB / T 22111-2008),

This means that to be called Pu’er tea, in additional to being made according to the specific processing technology of Pu’er tea, there also have two conditions must be met: raw materials and processing must be within the scope of geographical indication protection. The protection scope of geographical indication products of Pu’er tea is 639 townships of 11 prefectures and cities in Yunnan Province, including Xishuangbanna（西双版纳）, Pu’er（普洱）, Lincang（临沧） and Baoshan（保山）. These four tea areas are located in the western and southern border areas of Yunnan Province, distributed on both sides of the Lancang River（澜沧江）, bordering Myanmar, Laos and other countries

Four production areas of Pu’er tea

It is in this mysterious area inhabited by ethnic minorities that it is proved to be the birthplace of tea. It can be said that the drinks called “tea” in the world are all from Yunnan(云南）. In the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Pu’er tea came into being and went to a brilliant era. Large-scale and organized cultivation of tea trees was also a historical feat accomplished in these two dynasties.

Today, in the alpine forest land with an altitude of more than 1000 meters in Lancang River (澜沧江）Basin, the ancient tea garden that has experienced historical vicissitudes and natural disasters is still lush, or distributed in patches, or scattered in a single plant. There are more than 270000 acre of wild tea community and ancient tea garden in Yunnan.

★ Tea area distribution in Xishuangbanna（西双版纳）

Xishuangbanna（西双版纳）which means “twelve thousand acre” (twelve, in Dai Language, it means “Xishuang”(西双） and “Banna”（版纳）which means “one thousand acre”, that’s an administrative unit collecting taxes and labor). The whole Xishuangbanna(西双版纳） has 82000 acre of ancient tea garden, which is distributed in 19 towns and more than 100 villages in two counties and one city.

Banna tea area（版纳茶区） is one of the area with the longest production history and the highest output of Pu’er tea. It has jurisdiction over 2 counties and 1 city, namely Menghai County（勐海县）, Mengla County（勐腊县） and Jinghong City（景洪市）. The famous “Menghai tea factory” （勐海茶厂）was born in Menghai（勐海）, while the “six famous tea mountains” in the Qing Dynasty were mainly distributed in Mengla County（勐海县） (only Youle tea mountain（攸乐茶山） is located in Jinghong City（景洪市）).

Distribution of ancient tea mountains in Xishuangbanna（西双版纳） (6 to the East and 8 to the west of Lancang River（澜沧江）)

Of the fourteen ancient tea mountains，seven in Menghai counties(勐海县） to the west of Lancang River（澜沧江）, FIve in Mengla counties（勐腊县） to the East, one in west of river  and one in east of river in Jinghong City(景洪市）. The age of ancient tea trees varies from 100 years to 1700 years, but most of them are between 200-500 years.

Ancient six tea mountains：

The six ancient tea mountains in Banna（版纳） are the important production areas of Pu’er tea in Qing Dynasty, and also the window for the mainland to understand Pu’er tea at that time. There are some differences in the historical records of the six major tea mountains, including Yiwu (MANSA)（易武，曼洒）, Yibang（倚邦）, manzhuan（蛮砖）, gedeng（革登）, mangzhi(莽枝） and Youle(攸乐）. The area about more than 2000 square kilometers, it is distributed in the east of Xishuangbanna（西双版纳） and on the East Bank of Lancang River（澜沧江）.

1. Tea mountain of Yiwu Mansa (易武、曼洒）

The meaning of the names in local language means the place where the beautiful villain lives.

The tea mountain include Yiwu (易武）mountain, Mansa（曼洒） tea mountain and Manla（勐腊） tea mountain etc. Yiwu（易武） mountain is located in the north of Mengla County（勐腊县）, 110km away from Mengla（勐腊） and Mansa（曼洒） in the north of Yiwu, it also belong to Yiwu(易武） tea area. The annual average temperature is 17.2 degrees, and the annual average precipitation is 1500-1900 mm.  It makes Yiwu tea soup is soft and smooth, the taste is clear and sweet, the bitter and astringent feeling is weak, and the back sweet is better.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Yiwu(易武）, Mansa（曼洒）, Mahei（麻黑）, Luoshuidong（落水洞）, Guafengzhai刮风寨）, laodingjiazhai（老丁家寨）, Manxiu（曼秀）, Daqishu（大漆树） etc.

2.Tea mountain of Yibang (倚邦）

The meaning of the names in local language means that the place where have tea trees and well.

Yibang(倚邦） is located in the northernmost part of Mengla County（勐腊县）, under the jurisdiction of Xiangming township（象明乡）. It covers 19 natural villages with an area of 360 square kilometers and a large altitude span. It is distributed from 600 meters to 1900 meters. The altitude of Mansong（曼松） tea mountain is 1340 meters.  Yibang （倚邦）ancient tree tea, due to its small and medium-sized leaf species, it has a light bitter taste, a little more astringency than bitterness, a faster return to sweetness, a unique fragrance and a little honey flavor. Among them, Mansong（曼松） tea is bitter and astringent, the tea soup is sweet, smooth and full, and the tea fragment stay long in the bottom of the cup.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Yibang(倚邦）、Mansong(曼松）、Xikong(嶍崆）、Jiabu(架布）、Mangong(曼拱）、Malishu(麻栗树） etc.

3.Tea Mountain of Manzhuang (蛮专，亦称 “曼庄”)

The meaning of the names in local language means great stockaded village.

Manzhuang （曼庄）is located in the south and east of Xiangming Township(象明乡）, Mengla County（勐腊县） and bordering Yiwu（易武） tea area，the area  about 300 square kilometers, the altitude about 1100m. The tea soup here is full, thick and smooth, with strong mountain flavor, long-lasting fragrance at the bottom of the cup, fast and long-lasting sweetness, light bitterness and deep throat rhyme.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Manzhuang（曼庄）、Manlin(曼林）、Manqian(曼迁）、Bazongzhai(八总寨）etc.

4.Tea mountain of Gedeng(革登)

The meaning of the names in local language means high ground.

Gedeng（革登） is located in Anle village（安乐村）, Xiangming Township（象明乡）, Mengla County（勐腊县）, between mangzhi（莽枝） and Yibang（倚邦） tea area. The altitude about 1300 meters. The tea here mountain rhyme is obvious, the bitterness is weak, the back sweet is better, the soup quality is smooth.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Zhibang(植蚌）、Xinfa(新发）.

5.Tea mountain of Mangzhi(莽枝)

The meaning of the names in local language means Buried copper land.

Mangzhi（莽枝） is located in the southwest of gedeng(革登） tea mountain. It belongs to Anle village（安乐村）, Xiangming Township（象明乡）, Mengla County（勐腊镇）, with an altitude about 1400m. The tea here is similar with Gedeng(革登） tea, which is a little less fragrant. The bitterness and astringency are weaker, and the back sweet is faster, and long-lasting fragment bottom of the cup is better.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Yanglin(秧林）、Hongtupo（红土坡）、Manya(曼丫）、Jiangxi bay(江西湾）、Kouduo(口夺） etc.

6.Tea mountain of Youle(攸乐)

The mountain name meanings is the residence of Jino(基诺） nationality, they called Youle nationality in past.

Jinuo township（基诺乡） is located in Jinghong City（景洪市）, which is 75km long in the west of Jinuo mountain（基诺山） and 50km wide in the South and North. It is the largest existing ancient tree tea area among the six ancient tea mountains, with an altitude  575m to 1691m, average temperature is 18-20 degrees, and an annual precipitation is 1400mm.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Longpa(龙帕）、Situ old walled(司土老寨）、Mezhuo(么卓）、Bapiao(巴飘） etc.

Eight tea mountain of newcomer: They located in the west of Lancang River(澜沧江）. From north to south are: mannuo（曼糯）, Menghai Mengsong（勐海勐宋）, nannuoshan（南糯山）, Pasha（帕沙）, Hekai（贺开）, Bulang mountain（布朗山）, Jinghong Mengsong（景洪勐宋）; Bada（巴达） is in the West.

1.Tea mountain of Mannuo(曼糯）

Mannuo is located at the northernmost end of Menghai County（勐海县）, belonging to Mengwang village(勐往村）, mengwang township（勐往乡）, which borders Lancang（澜沧） and Simao （思茅）district of Pu’er(普洱）. This is the first station of Lancang River(澜沧江） from Pu’er（普洱） City to Xishuangbanna（西双版纳）. The altitude is 1200-1300 m and the annual precipitation is 1300-1400mm. The tea in here tastes fresh, it has obvious bitterness and astringency, slow back sweetness and strong fragrance.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: There are mainly three strongholds, Dazhai（大寨）, Shangzhai（上寨） and Zhongzhai（中寨）.

2.Tea mountain of Mengsong(Menghai) 勐宋（勐海）

The meaning of the names in local language means “The dam on the top of the mountain.”

It is located in Mengsong Township(勐宋乡）, Menghai County（勐海县）, bordering east of Jinghong City(景洪市） and south of granghe township（格朗和乡）  , facing nannuo mountain（南糯山） and across Liusha river（流沙河）. Naka tea area(那卡茶区） is one of the tea are in Mengsong（勐宋）, the altitude is 1600 meters , Baotang tea area （保塘茶区） altitude is 1700-1800 meters .The annual precipitation is 1400mm. The tea in here is  pure, bitter and astringent and slow in sweet return.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree:Daan(大安）、Nanben（南本）、Baotangxinzhai（保塘新寨）、Bameng（坝檬）、Damanlv（大曼吕）、Naka(Laka)那卡（腊卡）.

3.The tea mountain of Nannuo mountain (南糯山)

It located in gelanghe Township(格朗和乡）, Menghai County（勐海县）, next to the highway of Jinghong (景洪）to Menghai（勐海） . 24 kilometers away from Menghai county（勐海县）. The average altitude is 1400m and the annual precipitation is 1500-1750mm. The annual average temperature is 16-18 ℃. The tea soup here is full in quality, fast in returning to sweet and the wild flavor is obvious. Traditionally, the aroma of nannuoshan（南糯山） tea is full and bitter.  But the bitterness is weak and the aroma is not obvious in recent years.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Zhulin village(竹林寨）, Banpo village（半坡寨）, girl village（姑娘寨）, etc.

4. Tea mountain of Pasha(帕沙)

The meaning of the names in local language means A mountain and a river.

It located in Pasha village(帕沙村）, southwest of gelanghe Township（格朗和乡）, Menghai County（勐海县）, between nannuo mountain（南糯山） and Bulang mountain（布朗山）, the altitude is 1200-2000 meters,  annual average temperature is 22 ℃ and the annual rainfall is 1500 mm. The tea here is obviously bitter and astringent, but it can be turned into  clear and sweet with obvious shenjing .

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Pasha new village(帕沙新寨）、Pasha old village(帕沙老寨）、Pasha medium village(帕沙中寨）、Nangan(南干）、Laoduan(老端） etc.

5. Tea mountain of Hekai(贺开)

The meaning of the names in local language means the first place to see the sun.

It is located in Hekai village（贺开村）, Menghun Town（勐混镇）, Menghai County（勐海县）,  north to the famous ancient tea mountain of Nannuo mountain (南糯山）tea area, east to Ladameng（拉达勐） reservoir and west to Menghun dam（蒙混坝子）. Altitude is 1400-1700m. The tea soup here is full in quality, slightly bitter and astringent. The bitterness turns into sweetness quickly, and the wild tastes is obvious.

6.Tea mountain of Bulang mountain(布朗山)

It is located in Bulang Nationality Township（布朗族乡）, Bulang mountain（布朗山）, Menghai County（勐海县）, bordering Myanmar in the south. The annual rainfall is 1300-1500 mm and the annual average temperature is 18.7 degrees. The altitude of old and new banzhang（班章） is 1600-1700 meters, while that of old man’e village（老曼娥寨） is relatively low, about 1200 meters. The old banzhang tea（老班章茶） here is plump in appearance, strong in taste, bitter and astringent obviously. It’s quick and lasting  sweetness and has obvious tea flavor. The old man’e tea(老曼娥茶） is similar to the old banzhang tea（老班章茶）, with more bitterness and slower into sweetness.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Old banzhang(老班章）、New banzhang(新班章）、Old Man’e(老曼娥）、Manxinyuan(曼新竜）、Mannuo(曼糯）.

7.Tea mountain of Mengsong(Jinghong) 勐宋（景洪）

Located in Mengsong village(勐宋村）, Da Menglong Town（大勐龙镇）, Jinghong City（景洪市）, at the southernmost end of Jinghong City（景洪市）, it is also the ancient tea area with the lowest latitude in Yunnan Province with an altitude of 1500-1800 meters and moderate rainfall. The tea here has obvious wild tastes, full fragrance, thick soup, strong fragrance in cup, short bitterness of sweet tea, fast into sweet; bitter tea is obviously bitter, slow into sweet.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Mengsong great village(勐宋大寨）、Miaochu mountain(苗锄山）、Manqian old village(曼迁老寨）、Manjiapokan(曼家坡坎）、Manwoke(曼窝科）、Manjiaganbian(曼加干边）、Manjiajiao(曼加角）、Manmaiyao(曼卖窑）etc.

8. Tea mountain of Bada(巴达)

The meaning of the names in local language means footprints of immortals.

It is located in the west of Menghai County(勐海县）, formerly belongs to Bada Township(巴达乡）, now belongs to Xiding Township(西定乡）, facing Myanmar from the west of Nanlan River (南览河）. Altitude is 1580-2000 meters.  Here the tea aroma is pure, bitter and astringent, sweet in the soup, sweet and clear.

The distribution of the ancient tea tree: Mangmai(曼迈）、Zhanglang(章朗）、manpale(曼帕勒）.

Summary of Banna (版纳）tea area: The quality of tea is thick and soup is full, except for some small leaf species, the bitterness is obvious of tea in Banna(版纳） tea area.  This is closely related to the climate and natural environment in the lower reaches of Lancang River（澜沧江）. Banna(版纳） tea area has a relatively low temperature and strong light in Pu’er（普洱） tea area, which leads to a high content of tea polyphenols and catechins, a clear sense of bitterness, the hegemony of banzhang（班章） and man’e（曼娥）,  the bitterness of xiaomengsong（小勐宋） bitter tea have the direct association.

The age of ancient trees in Banna（版纳） tea area is more than 100-500 years, which is the right time for Pu’er tea production. However, due to the early fame of some hills, over picking is obvious, which directly leads to the decline of tea quality. At the same time, because of its well-known in history, the ancient tea garden in Banna(版纳） tea district has been destroyed by human always happen, which includes the direct destruction of ancient trees and the indirect impact of the destruction of natural environment on ancient trees.

★Distribution of ancient tea mountain in Pu’er City

1. Ancient tea mountain of xuligong tea(须立贡茶)

Located in Lianzhu Town（联珠镇）, Mojiang County（墨江县）and Lianzhu town（联珠镇） is a famous post on the ancient tea horse road. The altitude is 1400-1460m and the annual average temperature is 16.9-18 ℃. The annual precipitation is 1323-1435mm.  Soil is dark red soil and red soil. The tea of xuligong tea is the royal tribute tea in Qing Dynasty.

Main producing areas: vegetable garden(菜园）, Banzhong（班中）, Bisheng（碧胜）, Yongxi（勇溪）.

2.Ancient tea mountain of Longba(龙坝)

It is located in Longba Township(龙坝乡）, Tongguan（通关）, Mojiang County（墨江县）, with an altitude of 1300-1700m and an average annual temperature of 15.0-17.9 ℃. The annual precipitation is 1350mm. The soil is red soil and yellow red soil.

Main producing areas: Longbin（竜宾）, Mengli（勐里）, damiduo（大乜多）, Longchang（竜场）, Dadong（打洞）, Shitou（石头）, mampo（曼婆）.

3. Ancient tea mountain of Tongguan(通关)

Located in Yongping Town(永平镇）, Mojiang County（墨江县）, with an altitude of 1520-1820 meters, annual average temperature of 14.9-16.8 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1391mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil.

Main producing areas: Yongping（永平）, Xinwu（新武）, Jingba（景坝）, biku（毕库）.

4. Ancient tea mountain of Baliu(坝溜)

It is mainly distributed in Baliu Township(坝溜乡）, Mojiang County（墨江县）. The altitude is 1630-1885m, the annual average temperature is 11.9-16.4 ℃ and the annual precipitation is 2197mm. The soil is red soil.

Main producing areas: Lao Zhu（老朱）, Lian Zhu（联珠）, Lao Peng（老彭）, Mani(骂尼）.

5. Ancient tea mountain of Midi tribute tea（迷帝贡茶）

It is mainly distributed in Xinfu Township（新抚乡）, Mojiang County（墨江县）. The altitude is 1300-1940m, the annual average temperature is 14.2-18.3 ℃, the annual precipitation is 1293mm and the soil is red soil and yellow brown soil. The Midi tribute tea has obvious bitterness and astringency, fast into sweet, clear  fragrance, little orchid fragrance and obvious wild tastes.

Main producing areas: Jiebei(界碑）, Xintang（新塘）, banbao（班包）, Naxian（那宪）.

6. Ancient tea mountain of Jingxinghaomen(景星豪门)

It is mainly distributed in the west of Jingxing Township(景星乡）  in Mojiang County（墨江县） and near the Tropic of cancer. The altitude is 1530-1990 m, the annual average temperature is 14.2-16.9 ℃, and the annual precipitation is 1360mm. The soil is red soil, yellow brown soil and purple soil. The tea here is bitter and astringent, slightly sweet with weak fragrance, and obviously into sweet.

Main producing areas: Xinhua(新华）, Jingxing（景星）, Zhenglong（正龙）.

7. Ancient tea mountain of the hill trapped deer(困鹿山)

It is located in Ning’er Town（宁洱镇）, Ning’er County（宁洱县）, with an altitude of 1090-1640 meters, annual average temperature of 16.5-19.0 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1700mm. The soil is red soil and red soil. The tea in here is obvious natural fresh flavor ,the soup is sweet and smooth. The bitterness and astringency are weak and the sweetness into fast.

Main producing areas: Kuanhong(宽宏）, xisa（西萨） and Qiangang（谦岗）.

8. Ancient tea mountain of Guoqin(国庆)

It is mainly distributed in Guoqing Township(国庆乡）, Jiangcheng County（江城县）, with an altitude is 1100-1350m, annual average temperature is 19.2 ℃ and annual precipitation is 2360mm. It’s humid, hot and rainy. The soil is red soil. The tea here is weak in bitterness and astringency, sweet in the soup, good in sweetness, the soup quality not mellow as the Yiwu ancient tea tree.

Main producing areas: Luojie(络捷）, Medeng（么等）, Tianfang（田房）, Gale（嘎勒）, Bobie（博别）, Heping（和平）.

Although the northern part of Pu’er City（普洱市） is not the most famous tea producing area in tradition, with the discovery of the tea tree king of qianjiazhai（千家寨） in Ailao Mountain（哀牢山）, people began to pay more and more attention to this area. With the increasing understanding of the wild and cultivated ancient tea tree communities, people’s interest in this area is also growing.

Although many research topics of Pu’er tea are far from the conclusion, there are still many reasons to lock in the Wuliang Mountains（无量山脉）, the west slope of Ailao Mountain（哀牢山） and the middle reaches of Lancang River（澜沧江）, the river system of Zhegan River（者干江） and Weiyuan River（威远江） as the most abundant and potential areas of Pu’er tea resources.

1. Ancient tea mountain of Laocangfude(老仓福德)

It is located in Anding Township(安定乡） and Wenlong Township（文龙乡） in the north of Jingdong County（景东县）and east slope of Wuliang mountain(无量山）, the altitude is 1600-2100 meters, annual average temperature is 11.6-14.6 ℃, precipitation is 1280-1390 mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil, mixed with unweathered gravel.  Although the age of the tea here is not very high, it is full of tea fragrance, full of soup quality, long-lasting  sweet tastes, with the mountain charm characteristics of the tea in the north of Wuliang Mountain(无量山）.

Main producing areas: Yicang(迤仓）、Zhongcang(中仓）、Waicang(外仓）、Hedi(河底）、Minfu(民福)、Bangwei(邦葳）、Bangmai(邦迈）、Yichang(义昌）.

2. Ancient tea mountain of Jinding(金鼎）

It is located in the west of slope of Wuliang mountain(无量山） in Linjie Township(林街乡） and Jingfu Township（景福乡）, Jingdong County（景东县）,  with an altitude of 1800-2000 meters. The annual average temperature is 10.6-14.6 ℃ and the precipitation is 1292-1413 mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil, with heavy sand. The tea here is slight bitter,and astringent and  bitter can into sweet. The soup tastes full and wild.

Main producing areas: Yantou(岩头）、Longdong(龙洞）、Jingtou(菁头）、Dingpa(丁帕）、Qinghe(清河）、Gold chicken forest(金鸡林）、Gongping(公平）、Chahe(岔河）、Mengling(勐令）.

3. Ancient tea mountain of Manwan(漫湾）

Located in Manwan Town（曼湾镇）, Jingdong County（景东县）, Wuliang Shan west slope（无量山西坡）. The altitude is 1700-2300m, the annual average temperature is 13.6-14.6 ℃  and the precipitation is 1291-1307mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil, mixed with unweathered gravel. The tea here is bitter and astringent，the bitterness can turn sweet and the wild taste is obvious.

Main producing areas: Manwan(曼湾）、Anzhao(安召）、Wenzhu(温竹）etc.

4. Ancient tea mountain of Yubi(御笔)

It is located in east slope of Wuliang mountain(无量山） in Wenjing town(文景镇） and Jinping Town（锦屏镇） of Jingdong County（景东县）.The altitude is 1700-2000 meters, the annual average temperature is 13.6 ℃ and the precipitation is 1300 mm. The soil is red soil with heavy sand. The tea in here is bitter and astringent, It fast to into sweet and sweet tastes obviously.

Main producing areas: Shanxin(山心）、Bingbi(丙必）、Qingliang Village (清凉村）、Shanchong(山冲）、Huangcao hill(黄草岭）.

5. Ancient tea mountain of the west slope in Ailao mountain(哀牢山西坡)

It is located in Longjie Township(龙街乡）, Dajie Township（大街乡）, Huashan Township（花山乡）, and the middle  and upper of west slope in Ailao mountain(哀牢山）.The altitude is 1300-2100m, the annual average temperature is 12.6-17.6 ℃, and the annual precipitation is 1180-1320mm. The soil includes dark red soil, red soil and yellow brown soil. The tea here is bitter and astringent， bitter tastes can into sweet and tea soup is fragrance.

Main producing areas: East mountain(东山）、Heshao(和哨）、Dajie(大街）、Qili(气力）、Sanying(三营）、Wengang(文岗）、Yingpan(营盘）、Pieluo(撇罗）、Wencha(文岔）、Mountain Lu(芦山）.

6. Ancient tea mountain of Zhentai(振太)

Located in Zhentai Township(振太乡）, Zhenyuan County（镇沅县）, west slope of Wuliangshan(无量山）, with an altitude of 1377-1857 meters, annual average temperature of 16.0-18.4 ℃ and annual precipitation of 865-1270 mm. The soil is red soil, red soil and purple soil.

Main producing areas: Shanjie(山街）、Taitou(抬头）、Jiebei(界碑）、Tangfang(塘房）、Shahe(沙河）、Wenpa(文怕）、Changan(长安）、Xiaozhai(小寨）、Huangli(黄梨）.

7. Ancient tea mountain of Laowu mountai(老乌山）

It is located in Anban Town（按板镇）, Zhenyuan County（镇沅县）, with an altitude of 2057-2240 meters, annual average temperature of 14.1-15.2 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1390-1502 mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil. The tea in here the soup  is full in quality, rich in tea flavor  and deep in fragrance. It is not only a high-quality and high-altitude ancient Pu’er tea variety, but also an important production area of cultivation and transitional high aged ancient trees by Mingshoutang(茗寿堂）.

Main producing areas: Wenli(文立）、Luojia(罗家）、Nabu(那布） etc.

8. Ancient tea mountain of Tianba(田坝)

It is located in Tianba Township(田坝乡） and Anban Town（按板镇）, Zhenyuan County（镇沅县）. The altitude is 1770-1816 meters, the annual average temperature is 16.5 ℃ and the annual precipitation is 1180-1215 mm. The soil is red soil and purple soil. The tea soup here is full in quality, Long-lasting fragrant , bitter and astringent.

Main producing areas: Laohaitang(老海塘）、Chashanjing(茶山菁）、Minqiang(民强）、Waqiao(瓦桥）、Lianmeng(联盟）.

9. Ancient tea mountain of Mengda(勐大)

It is located in Mengda Town（勐大镇）, Zhenyuan County（镇沅县）, with an altitude of 1428-1910 meters, annual average temperature of 15.8-18.1 ℃ and annual precipitation of 920-1910 mm. The soil is dark red soil and red soil.

Main producing areas: Dajing(大井）、Wenkuang(文况）、Wenmeng(文蒙）、Wenkai(文开）、Wenbu(文卜）.

10. Ancient tea mountain of Madeng(马邓)

It is located in Zhedong Township(者东乡）, Zhenyuan County（镇沅县）, with an altitude of 1760-1810 meters. The annual average temperature is 16.2 ℃ and the annual precipitation is 1118-1205mm. The soil is dark red soil and red soil. The tea in here is less bitter and astringent, with a quick return of sweet and sweet soup. Damaidi(大麦地） tea and Madeng（马邓） tea are similar but slightly bitter.

Main producing areas: Maidi(麦地）、Madeng(马邓）.

11. Ancient tea mountain of Wenshan(文山)

It is distributed in Jinggu Township(景谷乡）, Jinggu County（景谷县）, with an altitude of 1610-2010 meters. The annual average temperature is 20.3 ℃, and the annual precipitation is 1296 mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil. The tea here is full in quality, fragrant and sweet. It is sweet in the soup and cool in the sweet.

Main producing areas: Wenshan(文山）、Kuzhushan(苦竹山）、Jinggu(景谷）、Wenzhao(文召）、Yunpan(云盘）、Wenlian(文联）、Tuanshan(团山）、Wendong(文东）.

12. Ancient tea mountain of Yangta(秧塔)

It is located in Minle Town（民乐镇）, Jinggu County（景谷县）, with an altitude of 1110-1780 meters, annual average temperature of 18.7 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1530 mm. The soil is dark red and red. The tea here is heavy fragrant,  obvious sweet.

Main producing areas: Dacun(大村）、Baixiang(白象）、Taozi(桃子）、Minle(民乐）.

13.Ancient tea mountain of Nanban Yellow grass dam(南板黄草坝)

It is located in Fengshan Township（凤山乡） and Zhengxing town（正兴镇） in the east of Jinggu County（景谷县）, with an altitude of 1710-2350m, annual average temperature of 18.7 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1530mm, The soil are  red and yellow brown. The tea here has a long-lasting fragrance,  weak bitterness and astringency, fast back sweet .

Main producing areas: Yellow grass dam(黄草坝）、Pingtian(平田）、Shunnan(顺南）、Nanban(南板）.

14. Ancient tea mountain of Lianhelongtang(联合龙塘)

It is located in Weiyuan Town(威远镇）, Jinggu County（景谷县）, with an altitude of 1510-1760 meters, annual average temperature of 20.1 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1341.8 mm, Soil are  red soil and purple soil.

Main producing areas: Longtang(龙塘）、Lianhe(联合）.

15.Ancient tea mountain of Tuanjie(团结)

It is located in Tuanjie village(团结村）, Yongping Town（永平镇）, Jinggu County（景谷镇）, with an altitude of 1090m, annual average temperature of 20 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1410mm. The soil is dark red soil.

★Distribution of Ancient tea trees in Lancang(澜沧）, Ximeng（西盟） and mengliangu（孟连）

Traditionally, Lancang(澜沧）, Ximeng（西盟） and Menglian（孟连） are called the three counties of the border area. Because they are located in a remote area, the Pu’er tea they produce is not valued. With the discovery of the transitional King of tea in Bangwei(邦葳）in recent years, the ancient tea of Lancang(澜沧） began to emerge. It attracted lot people’s attention because of  the unique aroma of Jingmai (景迈)mountain ancient tree tea and it called as “thousands acre  thousands year”. Fortunately, there are abundant  Jingmai tea(景迈）, which is not too much hype.

In fact, the ancient tree resources of the three border counties are not limited to this. With the in-depth study of ancient tea trees, we began to pay attention to the Daheishan(大黑山） system, which is a magical place full of treasures like Ailao Mountain（哀牢山） and Wuliang Mountain（无量山）. The ecological environment here is the best preserved in Yunnan, and the wild tea base of mingshoutang(茗寿堂） is also located in Ximeng（西盟）. In Menglian（孟连）,  Ximeng（西盟） and  the mountains along the border between China and Myanmar, we often have surprises…

1. Ancient tea mountain of Jingmai(景迈)

It is located in Huimin Township(惠民乡）, Jingmai County（景迈县）, it is one of the largest existing ancient tea mountains . The altitude is 1100-1570 and an average annual temperature is 16.5-19 ℃. The annual precipitation is 1400-1450mm. The soil is dark red  and red. The tea here have the long-lasting fragrant whatever the dry tea and tea soup, the bitter and astringent is obvious, quick into sweet and nice color of tea soup.

Main producing areas: Jingmai（景迈）、Mangjing(芒景）、Manghong(芒洪）、Manggeng(芒埂）、Wengwa(翁洼）、Wengji(翁基）、Laojiufang(老酒房） etc.

2. Ancient tea mountain of Bangwei(邦崴)

It is located in Fudong Township（富东乡）, Lancang County（澜沧县）, 1640-1780 meters above sea level with annual average temperature of 15.5-16.5 ℃ and annual precipitation of 1100-1300 mm. The soil is red soil. The tea here has  obvious bitterness and astringency, fast back sweet, long-lasting fragrance .

Main producing areas: Nadong(那东）、Xiaoba(小坝）、Nandian(南滇）.

3. Ancient tea mountain of Wendong(文东)

It is mainly distributed in Wendong Township(文东乡）, Lancang County（澜沧县）, the altitude is 1740-1970 m, annual average temperature  is 14.5-16.0 ℃ and annual precipitation is 1200 mm. The soil is red soil and yellow brown soil. The tea here is bitter and astringent, the orchid fragrance is obvious and still have it after making tea several times. It doesn’t lose with Jingmai（景迈）tea. It’s sweet and fast into sweet.

Main producing areas: Xiaozhai(小寨）、Pasai(帕赛）、Shuitang(水塘）、Yishu(栘树）.

4. Ancient tea mountain of Dongka(东卡)

Located in Dapingzhang village(大平掌村）, donglang Township（东朗乡）, Lancang County（澜沧县）, 21 kilometers away from the county . 1550 meters above sea level. The soil is yellow sandy soil. The tea here bitterness is obvious, quick into sweet, long-lasting fragrance and soup is sweet.

5. Ancient tea mountain of Lafu(腊福）

It is located in Lafu village(腊福村）, mengma Town（勐马镇）, Menglian County（勐连县）, with an altitude of 1570 meters. It’s only a few kilometers from the border. The soil is yellow brown soil. The tea here is bitter and astringent taste, long-lasting fragrance, sweet soup and quick back to sweet.

6. Ancient tea mountain of Mangzhong(芒中)

It is located in Jingkeng village(景吭村）, Nayun Town（那允镇）, Menglian County（孟连县）, with an altitude of 1020 meters. The tea here is wild, the bitterness and astringency are weaker and bitterness with sweet .

7. Ancient tea mountain of Fodian  mountain (佛殿山)

Located in the west of Ximeng County(西盟县）, the annual average temperature is 13.5 ℃,and the annual precipitation is nearly 3000 mm. Altitude about 1700-2200m . The tea here the aroma is steady and long-lasting, bitter and astringent, quick into sweet.

Pu’er(普洱） has diversified ancient tree tea because of its large area and across the Tropic of cancer. The tea mountain in Jiangcheng(江城） and other places in the south is very close to the tea quality in the east of Banna（版纳） tea area. The tea in the West of Lancang(澜沧） and other places  has outstanding aroma, long aftertaste and good market competitiveness.

The tea farms in the north of Jingdong（景东） and Zhenyuan（镇沅）  are pure and rich tea tastes. With the deepening of people’s understanding of tea , more and more people will pay attention to it. Jinggu（景谷）tea area has a long history with good aroma and taste. There are many ancient tea mountains with large scale, which also represents the direction of the future market. Other places, such as Ximeng（西盟）and Menglian（孟连）, although they are small occupy  and reputation, their good natural environment  depends on the development in the future.

★Distribution of Ancient tea trees in Lincang city(临沧)

Lincang City(临沧市） is named next to lancang river(澜沧江）. There are total area of 1.3 million acre of tea garden in the territory, including 400000 acre of wild ancient tea tree community and 650000 acre of cultivated ancient tea garden (over 90000 acre of ancient tea garden over 100 years old). Lincang(临沧） is the most important supplier of Tuo tea（沱茶） raw materials for Xiaguan（下关） tea factory, and also provide a large number of high-quality tea for Kunming（昆明） tea factory and Menghai（勐海） tea factory. Lincang（临沧） tea is the hero behind many famous teas.

Lincang（临沧) has 1 District and 7 counties under its jurisdiction. Each district and county has large area of ancient tea tree resources, ranking according to the tea output, which is Fengqing(凤庆）, Yunxian（云县）, Yongde（永德）, Shuangjiang（双江）, Gengma（耿马）, Linxiang District（临翔区）, Cangyuan（沧源） and zhenkang（镇康） (according to the output in 2009).

1. Fengqing(凤庆)

Located in the north of Lincang. As the largest tea producing county in Yunnan, almost all the counties are suitable for tea planting. It has a long history and produces the famous “Taihua tea” in history. Fengqing(凤庆） tea factory used to be the standard setter of black tea in China. To produce a national level improved species: Fengqing（凤庆） large leaf species. There are 56000 acre of ancient tea resources, Fengshan(凤山）, Mengyou（勐佑）, Dasi（大寺）, Sancha River（三岔河）, snow mountain and other places have thousands of acres of ancient tea garden cultivation .

2. Yun county（云县）

Located in the northeast of Lincang(临沧），The wild tea trees are distributed in each town and the famous are: Dazong mountain（大宗山）, Xingfu town（幸福镇）、Tanglishu village（堂梨树村） Yongbao town（涌宝镇）、Dabing mountain （大丙山）in Manwan town（漫湾镇）、Huangzhulinqing （黄竹林箐）in Aihua Town（爱华镇） etc.  Rich varieties of tea here,  which shows the evolution history of different stages from wild tea tree to cultivated tea tree.

3. Yongde(永德)

Located in the northwest of Lincang(临沧），Yongde（永德）with a long history, is known as the place where “ten thousand teas return to their ancestors”. Yongde （永德）is also the county with the largest area of wild tea forest in Yunnan, reaching more than 110000 acre. There are wild tea trees in 11 towns, especially in Minglang(明朗）, wumulong（乌木龙）, Yalian（亚练）, Daxueshan（大雪山） and other places.

4. Shuangjiang(双江)

Located in the south of Lincang（临沧）, the tea garden covers an area of 68000 acre. Mengku town(勐库镇） is known as the most important gene pool of Pu’er tea, it is the most famous big leaf tea in Yunnan(云南）of  Mengku（勐库） big leaf tea .

5. Gengma(耿马)

Located in the southwest of Lincang(临沧），57000 acre of wild ancient tea trees and especially 30000 acre in Daqingshan(大青山） Nature Reserve.

6. Linxiang district (临翔区)

Located in the Middle East of Lincang(临沧），Ancient tea tree community 20000 acre.

7. Zhenkang(镇康)

Located in the west of Lincang(临沧），The most famous ancient tea tree here is “zhenkang Dashan tea”（镇康大山茶）. WanDian(湾甸） tea of Ming Dynasty is most famous .

★Distribution of Ancient tea trees in  Baoshan(保山) 

Baoshan(保山） does not belong to the Lancang River（澜沧江） Basin. In the current Pu’er tea production area of Yunnan Province（云南省）, the sun-dry green tea produced by Baoshan（保山） is not popular. However,  compared with the over picking situation in Mengla（勐腊）, Jinghong（景洪) and Menghai（勐海）of  Xishuangbanna（西双版纳）,there are still have many cultivated wild tea areas in Baoshan(保山） that still not been fully developed.  The tea quality in here still in the high level.

The distribution area of ancient tea trees is nearly 15000 acre.  The most concentrated distribution and representative cultivation of the ancient tea garden are  Tengchongbawai(腾冲坝外）tea garden、wenjiatang(文家塘） ancient tea garden in Shangying（上营） and huangjiazhai（黄家寨） ancient tea garden in Mangshui Township(漭水乡） in Changning（昌宁）. In particular, the ancient trees of Gaoligong Mountain（高黎贡山） system, although it not exceed the characters of the other three tea areas, the strong tea tastes and pure flavor still the most important ancient tea tree resource.

In addition, ancient tea trees are distributed in Dehong(德宏）,Wenshan(文山）and other prefectures. Such as Luxi(潞西），Ruili(瑞丽) and Lianghe(梁河） in Dehong(德宏）prefecture; Yuanyang(元阳）and Jinping(金平）in Honghe(红河）prefecture; Guangnan(广南），Maguan（马关）and Malipo(麻栗坡）in Wenshan(文山）prefecture, etc. Although the distribution area of wild tea community and ancient tea garden in there areas is not large, there are many tea plant species in Yunnan(云南）.

Chinese Version:
https://www.sohu.com/a/142383525_369603

Two Mountains

Wuliang Mountain and Ailao Mountain are often referred to as “two mountains” in Jingdong County. “Two Mountains” have built two green barriers, which has resulted in two national nature reserves in Jingdong county. There are 87 groups of more than 500 black-crowned gibbons in the reserve, so Jingdong is known as the “hometown of Chinese black-crowned gibbons.”
Chinese: http://www.360doc.com/content/17/0302/09/3257292_633266978.shtml

Ailao Mountain

Ailao Mountain, located in the central part of Yunnan, China, is the extension of Yunling to the south. It is the dividing line between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains. It is also the watershed of the Yuanjiang River and the Amo River. The Ailao Mountain is northwest-southeast, with Chuxiong City in the north, and Lvchun County in the south, with a total length of about 500 kilometers. The highest peak of Ailao Mountain is Damoyan Peak in the Shuitang Town of Xinping County, with an elevation of 3166 meters

Ailao Mountain Climate

Ailao Mountain’s main role in the climate is: the cold and weak cold air in winter is blocked by the mountain, and the strong cold air has turned into the spent bullet after turning over the mountain, when the southwest warm and humid air flows eastward, it is blocked by the mountain, forming a mourning that the precipitation in the west and south of the mountain is higher than that in the east, and the temperature is higher than that in the eastern part of the same latitude and the same elevation, and the number of winter cold wave invasion is less than that in the east. Due to the relatively high height difference of the mountain, the vertical distribution of the climate is obvious. From the foothills to the top of the mountain, there are south subtropical, mid-subtropical, northern subtropical, warm temperate, temperate and cold temperate climates. The unique mountain climate gives the vegetation a distinct vertical distribution. The vertical distribution of the southwest slope starts from the Amo River Valley: the altitude of 1100-1800 meters is the Pu’er pine forest and the monsoon evergreen broad-leaved forest belt, the 1800-2200 meters is the Yunnan pine forest and the semi-humid evergreen broad-leaved forest belt, and the 2200-2800 meters is the Zhongshan moist evergreen broad-leaved forest belt, above 2800 meters, is the evergreen broad-leaved dwarf forest and shrub zone on the top of the mountain. The vertical series of vegetation on the northeast slope starts from the Yuanjiang River Valley: 500~1000 meters above sea level is the dry-hot valley vegetation belt, 1000～2400 meters is the Yunnan pine forest and semi-humid evergreen broad-leaved forest belt, and 2300～2900 meters is the Zhongshan moist evergreen broad-leaved forest. More than 2,900 meters is the evergreen broad-leaved dwarf forest and shrub zone on the top of the mountain.

Where is the Ailao Mountain Pu’er Tea District

Ailao Mountain Pu’er Tea District is located in the watershed of Yuanjiang and Amo River. The boundary between the two major geomorphic areas of the Yunnan Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains which is also a natural barrier to the climate of the Yunnan. The south branch of Yunling starts from the south of Dali Prefecture and ends in the southern part of Honghe Prefecture. It is nearly 1,000 kilometers long and has an elevation of over 2,000 meters. There are 9 peaks above 3000 meters above sea level and the main peak is 3166 meters. Ailao Mountain was formed during the Yanshan Movement of the Mesozoic. During the Quaternary Himalayan Movement, the ground was lifted on a large scale, and the river was cut down sharply to form a deep-cut mountainous landform. It is mainly composed of sand shale, limestone and various metamorphic rocks. The eastern part of the mountain is steeply cut along the fault zone, and the relative height difference is large, while the west slope is relatively flat. 

What to see in Ailao Mountain

The terrain of Ailao Mountain is steep, with high mountains and valleys, and the altitude varies between 3,000 meters and 600 meters, forming a three-dimensional climate of cold temperate zone, subtropical zone and tropical zone. The mountains are high and deep, the gullies are vertical and horizontal, the mountains are continuous, and the stories of Hani people are hidden in these mountains. The Hani people used their tenacity to create a world-famous and magnificent terrace in this mountain. This land gave the Hani people the material they needed and also gave us a beautiful art sanctuary. Ailao Mountain is the United Nations positioning observation point of “Man and the Biosphere”. The peaks are stacked, the males are living in the mountains, the clouds are steaming, and the weather is majestic and grand, and the original forests are vast. 

Ailao Mountain is famous in the tea industry. It is similar to the situation in Bangwei Mountain. It is the oldest wild tea tree found in the famous Qianjia Village of Jiujia Township and has a tree age of more than 2,700 years, located at the foot of the slope on the upper side of the dam which is 2,450 meters above sea level. The tree is arbor and erect, the branch is thin, and the tree height is 25.6 meters. On April 10, 2001, all the representatives attending the 3rd China Pu’er Tea International Academic Symposium established the “Tea King in the World, Unparalleled” Monument. The Shanghai World University’s Kenis Headquarters also promulgated the “Zhenyuan Qianjiazhai Wild Ancient Tea Tree – the best of Guinness and they gave the certificate to it.

The artificially cultivated ancient tree tea in Ailao Mountain is mainly distributed in the virgin forest within the range of 2100 to 2500 meters above sea level in Ailao Mountain. Here, the ancient tea tree grows together with more than 1,000 kinds of higher plants such as exotic flowers, nanmu, fir, red peony, Yunnan horse chestnut, camellia, cymbidium, cold blue and pine.

The ancient tree spring tea pure material of Pu’er City in Ailao Mountain is refined by traditional hand-crafting. The shape of the cake is full and round, the knot is tight, the dry tea color is slightly smooth, the soup is clear, the soup is orange-yellow, the fragrance is unique, the glutinous rice smell is fragrant, the fragrance is high and lasting, the taste of the tea is full and rich, the saliva is fast and lasting, and the bottom of the leaf is thick and thick.

Ailao ancient tea tree group

Ailao Mountain Pu’er tea production area is mainly in the jurisdiction of Jingdong Yi Autonomous County, Puer City, because of the unique terrain of the mountain, and only the western slope is suitable for tea planting. The West Slope Tea Area of ​​Ailao Mountain is mainly distributed in Huashan, Pieluo, Yingpan, Wengang, Dajie Township, Sanying, Taizhong Township Dabaidi, Maidi, Longjie Township Dongshan, and Heshao. This area has an altitude of 1310-2150 meters, 4844 acres of trees aged 50-100 years, and 753 acres of trees over 100 years old. Huashan Dacha Tree is located in the village of Wenshan Village, Huashan Township, on the west slope of Ailao Mountain. At an altitude of 1860 meters, the tree height is 11.5 meters. The local people said that the tree has 11 generations and should be more than 200 years old. It can produce several tens of kilograms of tea every year. The large tea tree of Lingguan Temple in Qili Village, Dajie Township, with an altitude of 1940 meters, a base diameter of 2.12 meters and a tree height of 14.8 meters, is the largest cultivated large tea tree found in Jingdong. Ancient tea tree in the mouth of Dabai Village, Taizhong Township. At an altitude of 1940 meters, the base dry diameter is 2.85 meters, the tree height is 8.9 meters, and the tree heart is empty, which can accommodate an adult and it has been adopted. The Tea Tree in Longjie Township and Sentinel Village, at the altitude of 2,100 meters, the base dry diameter is 190 cm and the tree height is 11.9 meters. There are hundreds of large tea trees around. 

The characteristics of the old tea tea on the west slope of Ailao Mountain

The strips are black and bright, the soup is golden, still bright, the bitterness is obvious, the bitterness turns sweet quickly, the soup is full, and the leaves are yellow-green and uniform.

“Mi Di” ancient tree tea

“Mi Di” ancient tea is mainly concentrated in Jiepai Village, Xinfu Town. It has an altitude of 1890 meters and an average annual temperature of 16 °C. It is surrounded by clouds all year round. The tea has a long growing season and low yield but good tea quality. The Mi Di Tea Soup is yellowish green and has a little blue scent in the tea. It is very popular among foreign tea merchants. The tea growing in the area of ​​Xinfu Town began in the Ming Dynasty, and it has been 400 years since. Has a long history of tea and a strong tea culture. The Mi Di Tea is a beautiful letter of Xinfu Town. The original tea of ​​the Mi D Tea was originally called “Midi” tea. It was listed as a tribute tea of ​​the Qing Dynasty because of its high quality. After being tribute to the Qing Palace, it was deeply loved by the emperor. Because the “fascination” tea, the emperor was obsessed with it and was called “Attract emperor” tea. This name has been extended to this day.

Xinfu Town “Midi Ancient Tree Tea”, the annual output is only 2 tons, the highest selling 4000 yuan a pound of the Emperor of the ancient tea is mainly concentrated in the territory of Jiepai Village, belonging to the Ailao Mountain. It has an altitude of 1890 meters, an average annual temperature of 16 ° C, a relative humidity of 80%, high mountains and dense forests, surrounded by clouds all year round, good ecological environment, long tea growing period, short picking period, low yield but good tea quality.There are more than 400 tea gardens in the ancient tea tree of the Midi, and there are more than 400 trees with a tree age of more than 200 years. The ancient tea spring tea of ​​this age can be sold for up to 4,000 yuan a kilogram, and there are more than a thousand trees aged 50-60 years. The total annual output of the ancient tea tree is estimated to be 2 tons, with an average of 2,000 yuan/kg, and an output value of more than 4 million yuan. It has become a characteristic industry for Xinfu Town to increase its income.

How to Get to Ailao Mountain

Get To Mojiang

1. By Air

There are no airports in Mojiang County. Visitors can take a plane to Simao District, Puer, then take a long-distance bus to Mojiang County.

2. By Train

Pu’er Railway Station is the middle station of the Yumo Railway under construction and an important station for the Laos section of the Trans-Asian Railway. It is expected to be put into use by 2020.

3. By Long-distance Bus

There is the Passenger Station in Mojiang County for people to get in.

4.Mojiang– Ailao Mountain

Take the taxi or rent a car to go to the Ailao Mountain.

Get in Xinping County

1.By Air

There are no through flights to Xinping. However, there is the general agency of China Airline Company in Xinping. There you can buy air tickets, return air tickets and inquire about anything about air tickets. You can get to Kunming first by air, and then go to Xinping by bus.

2.By Railway

The transportation in Yuxi is very convenient. People can take trains to Yuxi and then take bus to Xinping. It’s the best choice for you to take high-speed rail to Yuxi Station which only takes 30 minutes.

Yuxi Station(玉溪站)

Add：North of 302 County Road, Hongta District, Yuxi City(玉溪市红塔区302县道北)

Yuxi South Station(玉溪南站)

Add：Near 213 County Road, Hongta District, Yuxi City(云南省玉溪市红塔区213国道附近)

3.By Highway

Highways in Xinping area go to all directions. The superhighway, Yuxi-Lincang and the national highways such as No.213 and No. 323 go through the county. The National Highway No. 323 connects the highways from Kunming to Baise.

1.Xinping East Passenger Station (新平城东汽车客运站)

Address: Near Zhenxin Road, Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县振新路附近)

2.Xinping Yangwu Passenger Station(新平扬武客运站)

Tel: 0877-7080140

Address: Near G213, Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县G213附近)

3.Xinping Gasa Passenger Station(新平戛洒客运站)

Tel: 13577795787

Address: Near Qidai Avenue, Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县戛洒大道附近)

4.Xinping Mosha Passenger Station(新平漠沙客运站)

Address: Near Mengqi Road, Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县孟竜路附近)

5.Xinping Xinhua Passenger Station(新平新化汽车客运站)

Address: 50 meters south of other Gongyu Road , Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县其他公戛路南50米)

6.Xinping Pingzhang Passenger Station(新平平掌汽车客运站)

address:Near other Pingzhang Township, Xinping Yi and Dong Autonomous County , Yuxi City, Yunnan Province(云南省玉溪市新平彝族傣族自治县其他平掌乡附近)

4.Xinping– Ailao Mountain

Take the taxi or rent a car to go to the Ailao Mountain.

Where to Stay in Mojiang County

Mojiang County is a county under the jurisdiction of Pu’er City, Yunnan Province, China. There are many hotels around Mojiang County. Yunnan Exploration will provide the best hotels for you. The recommended hotels are as follows:

1. Chengwaicheng Inn(城外诚客栈)

Add:  Shuangbao Avenue, Mojiang Hani Autonomous County(墨江哈尼族自治县双胞大道)
Tel: 0879-4234228

2. Huigui Grand Hotel(回归大酒店)

Add: No.69 Xinjian Road, Mojiang Hani Autonomous County(墨江哈尼族自治县新建路69号)
Tel: 0879-4238988

3. Mojiang Suixi Ethnic Inn(墨江随喜民族客栈)

Add: Taiyangcheng, Mojiang Hani Autonomous County(墨江哈尼族自治县太阳城)
Tel: 0879-4337177

4. Beihuiguixian Hotel(北回归线酒店)

Add: North Side of Moon Square, Shuangbao Avenu

5. Shuangbao Hotel(双胞大酒店)

Add: Opposite of Passenger Station, No. 5 Huigui Avenue(回归大道5号客运站对面)
Tel: 0879-4333888

6. Puer Mijing Qiyuan Ethnic Theme Hotel(普洱秘境奇缘民族主题酒店)

Add: Next to Yinghuagu, Shuangbao Xiaozhen, Lianzhu Town, Mojiang County, Puer (普洱墨江联珠镇双胞小镇樱花谷旁)

7. Shuangzixing Hotel (双子星大酒店)

Add: Building 8, No. 1, Phase II, Fenghuang Xincheng, Nanpian District, Mojiang(墨江南片区凤凰新城二期1号8栋)

Where to Stay in Xinping County

3-star

Xinping Shihao Hotel(新平世豪大酒店)
Tel: 0877-7612222
Add: No.1-2, 2nd building of Shihao Mall, Old Town, Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County (新平彝族傣族自治县古城街道世豪大商城2栋1-3号)

Xinping Huitong Hotel(新平惠通酒店)
Tel: 0877-7010940
Add: No.5, Xiyuan Road, Guishan Town, Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County (新平彝族傣族自治县桂山镇西园路五号)

Xinping Qinhuai Hotel(新平琴淮酒庄)
Tel: 0877-7019688
Add: Industrial Area, Guishan Town, Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County, near Xinping Avenue(新平彝族傣族自治县工业园区桂山片 ，近新平大道)

Others

Yunhe Hotel (云和大酒店)
Tel: 4008281661; 0877-7776029
Address: No. 1, Xiyuan South Road, Guishan Town , Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County (新平彝族傣族自治县桂山镇西园南路1号)

Xinping Ailaoshan Hotel (新平哀牢山酒店)
Tel: 4008281661; 13577774385
Address: Middle Section of Cixi Avenue , Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County(新平彝族傣族自治县戛洒大道中段

Best Time to Visit 

It is suitable to visit Mojiang County all year round. Like many other cities in Yunnan, Mojiang is a place where the seasons are like spring. There is no cold, no heat, warm and humid, especially suitable for human habitation, so you can go to Mojiang at any time.

Recommended Tour

When you traveling Pu’er, Mojiang County is a good place to be put on your list. It can be joined in whatever your Pu’er tour or Yunnan Tour.

11 Days Yunnan Ancient Tea-Horse Road Tour with Puer and XishuangBanna Tea Culture Exploration

14 Days Southwest Yunnan Tea Culture Tour from Xishuangbanna to Puer and Lincang

Travel Tips

1.There are many ethnic minorities living here, such as Lahu, Hani, Wa and Yi. Varied customs make it a colorful city. Eating habits, ceremonies, costumes and folk legends can all be a strong attraction for people who are visiting. In addition, the city is the hometown of the well known Puer Tea, and the local people have diversified ways of handling tea, such as bamboo tube tea, cold tea dish, earth-pot tea and baked tea; all of which you should try.

2.Enjoying a plateau monsoon climate at low latitude, the region is affected by the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. Therefore, the main features of its weather are mildness and humidity without strong winds.

3.Special Local Products: Puer Tea, bamboo shoot, edible fungi, purple rice, mango.

e Location Map of The Ancient Tea Plantations in Ailao Mountain, Yunnan

1000-Year Ancient Tea of Ailao Mountain in Xinping County, Yuxi/玉溪新平县哀牢山千年古茶树

Chinese Version
http://www.sohu.com/a/143650742_384558

About Ailao Mountain Range and Damoyan Peak

Ailao mountain(哀牢山), located in the central part of Yunnan, is the southern extension of Yunling(云岭). It is the dividing line of the Yunnan-Guizhou plateau and the Hengduan mountains(横断山脉), and the watershed of Yuanjiang River(元江) and Amojiang River(阿墨江). Ailao mountain extends from northwest towards southeast with a total length of 500 kilometers. The highest peak of Ailao mountain is the Damoyan peak(大磨岩峰) in Shuitang town, Xinping county(新平县水塘镇), which is 3166 meters above sea level. In Honghe Yuanyang, the south foot of Ailao Mountain, ethnic minorities such as Hani, Yi, Miao, Zhuang and Yao, have been living for generations. With their wisdom and sweat, Hani people created Hani Rice Terrace that shocked the world.

Ailao Mountain Nature Reserve, with an area of 50,660 hectares, is located at the junction of the five counties in Yunnan province, including Xinping County. Established in 1986 with the approval of the people’s government of Yunnan province, and promoted to national nature reserve in 1988, the main protected objects are evergreen broad-leaved forest and wildlife.

Features

Ailao mountain is the most well-preserved area of the same latitude biodiversity and the same type of plant community. Across the tropics and subtropics, Ailao mountain forms a “corridor” for animal migration and a “gene bank” for biological species. Ailao Mountain Nature Reserve is located at the upstream of Red River, complete with water conservation function. Its geographical location, biological species, retained forest area and intact ecosystems play an important role in natural evolution of protecting, exploring, developing and rationally utilizing biotic community, as well as the economic and ecological benefits of forest resources. 

1. Nature Resources

A. Vegetation

2. Tourism Resources

Ailao mountain is rich in tourism resources. In Xinping county(新平县), the hometown of Huayao Dai minority(花腰傣之乡), there is Ailao mountain national nature reserve. In the nature reserve, there are Nanen waterfalls(南恩大瀑布), Shimen gorge(石门峡), tea-horse ancient road, Jinshan mountain virgin forest(金山原始森林), Damoyan peak(大磨岩峰), Tusi Mansion土司府(listed as “national cultural relic protection unit” in 2014) and other attractions. Damoyan peak is the main peak of Ailao mountain range, 3166 meters above the sea level.

A. Main Attractions in Ailao Mountain Range

Tea-horse Ancient Road

B. Nearby Attractions

How to Get There

There are 6 non-stop buses a day from Kunming to Xinping County. Then another 2 hours and a half drive needs to spend from Xinping county to Ailao Mountain Scenic Spot.

Kunming-Xinping County

Departure Time: 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:10, 16:30

Ticket Price: 73 CNY

Distance: About 180 kilometers

Consume Time: About 2.5 hours

The Best Time to Visit

Tour is suitable all-year-round, but the best time to sightsee is from July to October.

Recommended Hotels around Damoyan Peak of Ailao Mountain

Here are several recommended hotels in Xinping.

1. Shiguang Xiaozhu(Golden Time) Hotel新平时光小筑酒店

Address: Jiaxia Avenue, Jiasa Town, Xinping County, Yuxi玉溪新平县戛洒镇戛洒大道

Tel: 18887730188

Starting Price: 115 CNY

2. Nature Outdoor Villa新平大自然户外农庄

Address: Daha Liangzi, Daha Village, Jiasa Town, Xinping County, Yuxi玉溪新平县戛洒镇达哈村达哈梁子

Tel: 15758024198

Starting Price: 93 CNY

3. Xinping Ailao Mountain Hotel新平哀牢山酒店

Address: The Middle of Jiasa Avenue, Jiasa Town, Xinping County, Yuxi玉溪市新平县戛洒镇戛洒大道中段

Tel: 0877-7393878

Starting Price: 111 CNY

Useful Travel Tips

1. Dressing

Located on Ailao mountain in Xinping County, the temperature difference at Damoyan Peak is large. You are supposed take coats to prevent a cold because of the large temperature difference from daytime to night.

2. Safety

Mountain area is prone to natural disasters, so try not to go out in heavy rain. 

3. Sunscreen

There are strong ultraviolet rays at Damoyan Peak of Ailao Mountain Range during sunny days, so protect yourself from the sun. 

4. Ticket

The price of ticket package is 60 yuan, including Shimen gorge, Tea-horse ancient road and Jinshan virgin forest.

Ailao Mountain, named after the ancient Ailao tribe that once thrived here, is a majestic mountain range in central Yunnan Province. It serves as the boundary between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains, and it is also the watershed between the Yuanjiang and Amojiang Rivers. Located between longitudes 100°16′ and 103°16′ east and latitudes 22°29′ and 25°30′ north, the range stretches from Chuxiong City in the north to Luxi County in the south. It has a northwest-southeast orientation, with steep terrain. The range is approximately 450 kilometers long, 15-30 kilometers wide, and covers an area of nearly 10,000 square kilometers.

Overview

Ailao Mountain is characterized by its grand and imposing features, with elevations generally exceeding 2,000 meters. There are over 20 peaks rising above 3,000 meters, with the main peak reaching 3,165.9 meters. The region primarily exposes ancient metamorphic rocks and Mesozoic sandstones and shales, shaped by significant crustal uplift from the Himalayan orogeny and subsequent river erosion. The climate exhibits a notable vertical distribution, with subtropical, mid-subtropical, northern subtropical, warm temperate, and temperate climate zones from the foothills to the summit, leading to distinct vegetation types at different elevations.

Established as a national nature reserve in 1988, Ailao Mountain covers the northern and central ridges of the mountain range. The reserve spans 5 kilometers in width and 102 kilometers in length, totaling about 546.67 square kilometers. It is the largest original montane humid evergreen broad-leaved forest area in the country.

Formation and Evolution

Ailao Mountain formed during the Mesozoic Yanshan Movement. During the Quaternary Himalayan Movement, the surface underwent large-scale uplift, and rivers rapidly cut into the terrain, creating deeply dissected mountain landforms.

Location and Boundaries

Ailao Mountain extends across five administrative regions: Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yuxi City, Pu’er City, and Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The mountain’s initial section runs north-south, while the middle and lower sections gradually shift to a northwest-southeast orientation. The range acts as a watershed between the Yuanjiang and Amojiang Rivers and serves as a boundary between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains. It spans approximately 450 kilometers in length, 15-30 kilometers in width, and covers nearly 10,000 square kilometers.

Geographic Environment

• Geology: The Ailao Mountain range is a block mountain uplifted along the Red River Fault Zone. The core area’s bedrock consists primarily of Proterozoic deep metamorphic rocks, gneisses, and migmatites, with Yanshanian ultramafic rocks and acidic granite intrusions. The middle and lower sections expose Paleozoic and Mesozoic sandstones and shales. This combination of ancient metamorphic rocks and Mesozoic sandstones was shaped by Himalayan tectonic uplift and river incision.
• Landform: Ailao Mountain features a combination of tectonic and erosional high mountain landforms. The eastern part of the range is characterized by steep, faulted terrain with significant elevation differences, while the western slopes are more gentle.
• Climate: The mountain range significantly influences local climate patterns. In winter, weak cold air is blocked by the mountain, while strong cold fronts lose their intensity after crossing the range. During the advancement of warm, moist southwest air currents, the mountain also acts as a barrier, leading to higher precipitation west and south of the range and milder temperatures compared to the eastern regions at the same latitude and elevation. The range’s significant elevation differences create distinct vertical climate zones from the foothills to the summit, ranging from subtropical to temperate and cold temperate climates.
• Hydrology: Major rivers in Ailao Mountain include the Red River and its significant tributaries such as the Lixian River, the Tengxiao River, and the Nanxi River. The river systems are arranged in parallel in the upper sections and branch out in a dendritic pattern in the lower sections.

Mountain Relationships

Belonging to the Yunling Range: Ailao Mountain is part of the Yunling Range, which is the widest and most extensive mountain range within the Hengduan Mountains. The Yunling Range can be divided into three main sections:

• Western Section: Generally runs north-south, located to the west of the Lancang River, and is bounded on the east by the Jinsha River from Shigu Town northwards. The southern boundary extends from Shigu Town to Lammalo, Jianshui, Eryuan, and Qiaohou Town.
• Central Section: Mainly within Shangri-La City, bordered by the Jinsha River on the west, south, and east.
• Eastern Section: Located primarily within Lijiang City and Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, with boundaries extending west from the Tiger Leaping Gorge along the Jinsha River to the Sichuan-Yunnan border, and east to the Chenghai Fault.

The western and eastern extensions of the Yunling Range continue southward into Weishan County and Midu County, where the mountains gradually become wider and lower, typically below 3,000 meters. This area is commonly referred to as the “Yunling Sub-ranges,” with the eastern sub-range known as Ailao Mountain and the western sub-range known as Wuliang Mountain.

Major Peaks

• Ailao Mountain: The range is characterized by its towering peaks, with elevations generally over 2,000 meters. The main peak of Ailao Mountain stands at 3,165.9 meters.
• Taiji Peak: Located in the northern part of Ailao Mountain, the highest point of Taiji Peak reaches 3,061 meters.
• Xilong Mountain: The southernmost peak of Ailao Mountain, Xilong Mountain, has an elevation of 3,074 meters.

Resource Conditions

Animal Resources: Ailao Mountain is a treasure trove of forest animals with a rich diversity of fauna. The region is home to approximately 460 species of birds and mammals, and 46 species of amphibians and reptiles. Notable protected species include the black gibbons, black leaf monkeys, pangolins, Sumatran serows, and the tufted deer.

Plant Resources: The mountain range also boasts a wide variety of valuable plants. According to a survey by the New County Forestry Bureau, there are 187 families, 541 genera, and 971 species of higher plants recorded. Protected species within the region include the tree fern, water-elm, and dawn redwood.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Origin of the Name: The name “Ailao Mountain” derives from the ancient Ailao tribe that once inhabited the central and northern parts of the range.

Conservation and Research

Protection Efforts: In 1986, Ailao Mountain was designated as a provincial nature reserve to protect the ecological environment of the mountain valleys. It was upgraded to a national nature reserve in 1988. The reserve covers the northern and central ridges, stretching 5 kilometers wide and 102 kilometers long, encompassing approximately 546.67 square kilometers. It is the largest pristine montane humid evergreen broad-leaved forest area in China.

Ailao Mountain Travel Guide

Ailao Mountain, a mysterious and enchanting destination located in central Yunnan Province, has long been a coveted spot for travelers. Today, let’s delve into Ailao Mountain, explore its boundless allure, and provide a detailed guide for your trip.

1. Overview of Ailao Mountain

Ailao Mountain is the dividing line between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains, and it also serves as the watershed between the Yuanjiang and Amojiang rivers. The mountain is majestic and grand, stretching for hundreds of kilometers with towering peaks and swirling clouds. It is a treasure trove of diverse flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. Additionally, Ailao Mountain has a rich historical and cultural heritage, serving as a habitat for various ethnic minorities, including the Yi people, and is rich in ethnic customs.

2. Recommended Attractions

Damo Yanzi Mountain

As the main peak of Ailao Mountain, Damo Yanzi Mountain stands at 3,166 meters above sea level. From the summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire mountain range, with rolling cloud seas that make it feel like a fairyland. While climbing the mountain, you can also admire the pristine forests and rare wildlife along the way.

Xujiaba

Xujiaba is a beautiful village at the foot of Ailao Mountain, known for its well-preserved traditional Yi architecture and folk culture. Here, you can taste authentic Yi cuisine and experience the rich ethnic customs. Xujiaba is also an excellent spot to view terraced fields, where layers of terraced fields blend harmoniously with the surrounding green mountains and waters, creating a picturesque landscape.

Nan’en Waterfall

Nan’en Waterfall is a highlight of Ailao Mountain, with a height of several hundred meters and a powerful flow of water. Standing in front of the waterfall, you can feel the tremendous force of nature and be deeply moved. The surrounding scenery is also very beautiful, with lush greenery and the chirping of birds, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and vacation.

3. Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ailao Mountain is during the spring and autumn seasons. The weather is pleasant, with blooming mountain flowers and attractive scenery. Although summer has more rain, the misty mountain views have their own charm. Winter is colder but offers picturesque snow scenes, making it worth a visit as well.

Transportation

To get to Ailao Mountain, you can fly to Kunming or Yuxi and then take a long-distance bus or charter car. From Kunming, it takes about 4 hours by car to reach Xinning County, the base of Ailao Mountain. The scenic route along the way is also worth enjoying, so take your time and savor the view.

Accommodation Recommendations

Near Ailao Mountain, you can choose to stay in local guesthouses or hotels. These accommodations usually offer a pleasant environment, reasonable prices, and allow you to better experience the local folk culture. If you enjoy camping, there are designated camping sites where you can set up tents and enjoy close contact with nature.

Food Recommendations

The cuisine in Ailao Mountain is primarily Yi-flavored, such as roasted lamb, sour soup fish, and Yi-style hotpot. There are also various mountain delicacies and local snacks, such as wild mushrooms, honey, and walnuts. While enjoying the food, you can also experience the unique local culinary culture.

4. Itinerary Planning

For travelers who want to explore Ailao Mountain in depth, it is recommended to plan a 3-5 day trip. On the first day, you can arrive at Xinning County, rest, and then head to Xujiaba to admire the terraced fields and Yi culture. On the second day, you can start climbing Damo Yanzi Mountain, appreciating the pristine forests and rare wildlife along the way. On the third day, you can visit Nan’en Waterfall to experience the majestic force of nature and relax nearby. If time permits, you can also explore other attractions in Ailao Mountain.

5. Precautions

Safety Precautions

When climbing high peaks like Damo Yanzi Mountain, be sure to prioritize safety. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and carry enough drinking water and food. When walking in the mountains, be cautious of slippery paths and insect bites. In case of an emergency, seek help from local villagers or tour service personnel.

Environmental Awareness

During your visit to Ailao Mountain, maintain environmental awareness by not littering and not damaging the local ecological environment. Respect local customs and religious beliefs, and interact amicably with local residents.

Weather Variations

The climate in Ailao Mountain can be variable, with significant temperature differences between day and night. During your trip, make sure to dress warmly and avoid catching a cold. Also, be prepared for sun protection and rain gear to handle possible adverse weather conditions.

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Ailao Mountain Hiking and Crossing Guide

1. Itinerary Planning

Ailao Mountain, located in central Yunnan Province, spans across Chuxiong, Pu’er, Yuxi, and Honghe cities. Stretching for hundreds of kilometers, it is a place filled with mysterious charm and natural beauty. Here is a suggested three-day, two-night itinerary for Ailao Mountain:

Day 1: Arrive at Ailao Mountain and explore attractions at the base, such as the ancient tea garden and terraced fields, to experience the local cultural and natural scenery.

Day 2: Hike through the main scenic areas of Ailao Mountain, such as forest trails, waterfalls, and sunrise views of the sea of clouds, to experience the grandeur and magic of nature.

Day 3: Visit surrounding villages to learn about local customs and enjoy authentic farm dishes, experiencing the rural charm of Yunnan.

2. Recommended Attractions

Ancient Tea Garden: Located in the remote Maji Township of Ailao Mountain, this is the world’s largest and most ancient tea forest. The ancient tea trees here are over a hundred years old, and it is one of the origins of the Tea Horse Road.

Terraced Fields: The terraced fields in Ailao Mountain are among the most beautiful in Yunnan, with layers of terraces blending with the surrounding mountains, waters, and villages, creating beautiful scenery.

Waterfalls: There are several waterfalls in Ailao Mountain, such as Damo Yanzi Waterfall and Xujiaba Waterfall. The powerful water flow and thunderous sounds are major highlights of the hiking experience.

Sunrise over the Sea of Clouds: At the summit of Ailao Mountain, you can enjoy the spectacular sunrise and sea of clouds, with rolling clouds and golden sunlight creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

3. Transportation Guide

Due to the remote location of Ailao Mountain, transportation is inconvenient. Visitors can first fly to Kunming or Yuxi and then take a long-distance bus or charter car to the destination. During the visit, you can choose to walk, bike, or drive, but be mindful of road conditions and safety issues.

4. Accommodation and Dining

Near Ailao Mountain, visitors can stay in local guesthouses or farmhouses to experience rural life. In terms of dining, you can enjoy authentic Yunnan farmhouse dishes, such as sour soup fish and wild mushrooms, which are delicious and representative of the local cuisine.

5. Precautions

Ailao Mountain is located at a high altitude with variable climate. Visitors should prepare warm clothing and rain gear. When hiking, ensure safety, follow scenic area regulations, and avoid climbing restricted areas. Protect the environment by not littering or damaging vegetation and cultural relics. Understand and respect local customs and culture, and honor the living habits and beliefs of the local people.