Chinese Name: 文山市平坝镇
English Name: Pingba Town of Wenshan City in Wenshan Prefecture

Chinese Name: 文山市古木镇
English Name: Gumu Town of Wenshan City in Wenshan Prefecture

Chinese Name: 文山市开化镇
English Name: Kaihua Town of Wenshan City in Wenshan Prefecture

Yiwu Town (易武镇) is located in the northern part of Mengla County (勐腊县), bordering Laos to the east with a 100.4-kilometer boundary. To the south, west, and north, it adjoins Yaoshan Yao Ethnic Township (瑶区瑶族乡), Menglun Town (勐仑镇), Xiangming Yi Ethnic Township (象明彝族乡), and Zhengdong Town (整董镇) of Jiangcheng County (江城县), Pu’er City (普洱市). The town covers an area of 938.46 square kilometers and administers six village committees: Yiwu (易武), Nameitian (纳么田), Mahei (麻黑), Manla (曼腊), Mannai (曼乃), and Luode (倨德).

Cultural History

Yiwu Town (易武镇) boasts a rich history as a shining pearl on the Ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), a renowned historical and cultural town, and a distinctive small town. As early as 1570 during the Ming Dynasty, Yiwu, along with Yibang (倚邦) and Zhengdong (整董), formed a single administrative division known as Banna Zhengdong (版纳整董). In 1729 during the Qing Dynasty, Yiwu was incorporated into Pu’er Prefecture (普洱府). In 1953, it became the seat of Banna Yiwu (版纳易武). In 2015, Yiwu Township was upgraded to a town.

Ethnic Customs

Yiwu Town (易武镇) is home to 13 ethnic groups, including the Dai (傣族), Yao (瑶族), Yi (彝族), and Han (汉族). Each group has unique traditions, such as the Dai’s Water-Splashing Festival (泼水节), where people sprinkle water to convey blessings, and the Yi’s Torch Festival (火把节), where torches are lit at night to symbolize light and hope.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Yiwu Town (易武镇) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 17.7°C and annual rainfall of 1,800–2,100 mm. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions

Yiwu Ancient Town (易武古镇): Preserving many architectural relics from the Ming and Qing dynasties, it offers a deep dive into Yiwu’s history and culture. Recommended stay: 1 day.

Madaozi Stone Cave (马道子石洞) (White Cloud Cave (白云洞)): Divided into water and dry caves, it features stone carvings of poems, lyrics, and travelogues from the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty. It is a key cultural relic under protection in Mengla County (勐腊县). Recommended stay: half a day.

Transportation

Public Transport: Take a bus from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Yiwu Town (易武镇), covering approximately 110 km. The journey is lengthy, so plan ahead.

Self-Driving: Drive from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Yiwu Town (易武镇) via well-maintained roads, though the distance is considerable.

Cuisine

Yiwu Soy Sauce (易武酱油): A local specialty with a rich, savory flavor.

Wind-Dried Fermented Beans (风吹豆豉): A unique traditional delicacy.

Shopping

Pu’er Tea (普洱茶): Yiwu is a major producer of Pu’er tea, offering authentic products as souvenirs.

Handicrafts: Local ethnic handicrafts include Dai brocade (傣族织锦) and Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣).

Accommodation

Farm Stays: Affordable lodging with an authentic rural experience.

Homestays: Converted residential houses offering cozy stays with strong ethnic charm.

Travel Tips

Respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs.

Protect the environment by avoiding littering and damaging vegetation.

Observe border regulations and refrain from crossing boundaries in border areas.

Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Travel from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Yiwu Town (易武镇), explore Yiwu Ancient Town (易武古镇), and stay overnight at a farm stay.

Day 2: Visit Madaozi Stone Cave (马道子石洞), enjoy the natural and historical sights, and return to Mengla County (勐腊县) in the afternoon.

Yiwu Town (易武镇) is a place brimming with ethnic charm and historical heritage, offering rich tea culture, ancient tea mountain resources, and unique folk traditions. Here, you can escape urban noise, embrace nature’s tranquility, and experience the warmth of ethnic hospitality. May your journey to Yiwu Town (易武镇) be filled with unforgettable memories.

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is located in the northeastern part of Mengla County (勐腊县), 38 kilometers from the county seat and 210 kilometers from the capital of Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州). The town covers a total area of 580.52 square kilometers and is a semi-mountainous border town. It borders Mengla Town (勐腊镇) to the south, Yaoqu Township (瑶区乡) to the west, and Laos to the northeast.

History and Culture

Before September 30, 1949, Mengban (勐伴) was administratively part of Mengya (勐雅) under the feudal chieftain system. In 1953, Mengban Village (勐伴乡) was established as the eighth village-level township in Mengla District (勐腊区). In 1958, it became a commune. In 1969, the commune was transformed into a township, and the Qianshao Brigade (前哨大队) was established. In 1970, the Qianshao Brigade was transferred to Yaoqu Commune (瑶区公社) and renamed the Mengban Brigade (勐伴大队). In 1984, it separated from Yaoqu and became the Mengban District Office (勐伴区公所). In 1985, the Nakaxiang (纳卡乡) was established under the Mengban District Office. In 1988, Mengban officially transitioned from a district to a town (at the township level).

Ethnic Customs

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is home to nine ethnic minorities, including the Yao, Dai, Hani, Zhuang, Yi, Miao, and Bulang. Each group has unique traditions, such as the Dai Water Splashing Festival, where people sprinkle water to bless one another, and the Yao people’s distinctive clothing, dances, and handicrafts.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) has a subtropical humid monsoon climate, characterized by abundant heat, warm summers, mild winters, and ample rainfall with distinct dry and wet seasons. The average annual temperature is 19.2°C, and the average annual precipitation is 1,600 mm. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions

Nanla River (南腊河) Source

As the origin of Mengla County’s “mother river,” this area boasts rich natural landscapes and ecological resources. Recommended stay: half a day.

Sky Tree Scenic Area (望天树景区)

Passing through the 4A-rated Sky Tree Scenic Area, known for its “World’s Highest Canopy Walkway,” visitors can experience unique tropical rainforest scenery. Recommended stay: 1 day.

Nanla River (南腊河) Wild Drifting

The thrilling “Nanla River Wild Drifting” adventure, which combines exploration and enjoyment of tropical rainforest scenery, extends into Mengban Town. Recommended stay: half a day.

Transportation

Public Transport

Take a bus from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇). The 38-kilometer journey takes considerable time, so plan ahead.

Self-Driving

Drive from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) via well-maintained roads.

Food

Dai Cuisine

Must-try dishes include bamboo-tube rice and sour fish soup.

Yao Cuisine

Specialties include cured meat and wild mountain vegetables, known for their fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.

Shopping

Handicrafts

Purchase Yao and Dai embroideries, silver ornaments, and other crafts as souvenirs.

Agricultural Products

Locally produced rubber, tea, and macadamia nuts are of excellent quality.

Accommodation

Farm Stays

Affordable farm stays offer a chance to experience rural life.

Homestays

Some villagers have converted their homes into cozy homestays with strong ethnic characteristics.

Travel Tips

• Respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs.
• Protect the environment by not littering or damaging vegetation.
• When visiting border areas, adhere to regulations and avoid crossing boundaries.

Itinerary

Day 1
Travel from Mengla County (勐腊县) to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) and explore the Nanla River (南腊河) source. Stay overnight at a farm stay.
Day 2
Visit the Sky Tree Scenic Area (望天树景区) to enjoy tropical rainforest views and the canopy walkway. Return to Mengban Town (勐伴镇) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.

Mengban Town (勐伴镇) is a place rich in ethnic culture and natural beauty. With its abundant natural resources, unique border landscapes, and diverse ethnic traditions, it offers an escape from urban noise and a chance to experience the tranquility of nature and the hospitality of local communities. May your journey here be unforgettable.

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is located in the southeastern part of Mengla County (勐腊县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province. It lies between 21°10′—21°26′ N and 101°27′—101°41′ E. To the east, it borders Laos with a 174-kilometer-long national boundary; to the south, it connects to the Mohan Border Trade Zone (磨憨边境贸易区); to the west, it neighbors Mengman Town (勐满镇); and to the north, it borders Mengla Town (勐腊镇).

History and Culture

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) boasts a long history. The Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿) has been known for its ancient salt mining tradition, with its salt products historically exported to Laos. The name “Shangyong” (尚勇) is derived from the Dai language and means “riding clouds and mist.” It is said that the Buddha (Shakyamuni) once visited this area during his travels.

Local Customs

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is home to multiple ethnic groups, primarily the Dai people (傣族), along with Han (汉族), Miao (苗族), Yao (瑶族), and Hani (哈尼族) minorities. Each group preserves its unique cultural traditions. Visitors can experience the vibrant ethnic culture through festivals such as the Dai Water Splashing Festival (泼水节) and the Hani October New Year (十月年).

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) has a tropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 21°C and annual precipitation of about 1700 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration

• Mohan Port (磨憨口岸): A significant border port where visitors can experience the bustling border trade. Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours.
• Shangyong Tropical Rainforest (尚勇热带雨林): Home to well-preserved tropical primary forest, perfect for eco-tourism and adventure. Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours.
• Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿): A place to learn about the ancient salt-mining process. Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

• Self-driving: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速). The total distance is about 500 kilometers and the drive takes approximately 6 hours.
• Public transportation: First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a long-distance bus to Shangyong Town (尚勇镇), with a travel time of around 3 hours.

Local Cuisine

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) features cuisine primarily from the Dai ethnic group. Recommended dishes include:

• Dai-style Barbecue (傣味烧烤): Dishes like lemongrass grilled fish and roast suckling pig.
• Sour Soup (酸汤): A unique local soup made from fresh regional ingredients.
• Bamboo Rice (竹筒饭): Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with a fragrant bamboo aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties include tea, rubber products, and handmade crafts. These can be purchased at town markets or in the border trade zone.

Accommodation

There are a few simple guesthouses and homestays available in Shangyong Town (尚勇镇). For travelers with higher accommodation standards, it is recommended to stay near Mohan Port (磨憨口岸), where better hotel options are available.

Travel Tips

• Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting temples or villages.
• When visiting tropical rainforests, bring insect repellent and necessary protective gear.
• While traveling near border areas, follow regulations and do not cross the border without permission.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shangyong Town (尚勇镇), check in to your hotel, and visit Mohan Port (磨憨口岸) to explore the vibrant border area.

Day 2: Head to Shangyong Tropical Rainforest (尚勇热带雨林) for an eco-adventure. Return to the town in the evening and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 3: Visit Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿) to learn about traditional salt production, then conclude your journey.

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is a captivating destination that offers both natural wonders and rich cultural experiences. From exploring the mysteries of the tropical rainforest to immersing in ethnic festivities and savoring local delicacies, this border town promises an unforgettable adventure.

Mengman Town (勐满镇) is located in the southwestern part of Mengla County (勐腊县). It borders the national-level Mohan Port (磨憨口岸) to the east, shares its southwestern border with Muang Sing County (勐新县) of Luang Namtha Province, Laos, and connects with Mompong Town (勐捧镇) to the north. The total area of the town is 403 square kilometers, with a 42-kilometer-long border. The town government is based in Mengman Street (勐满街), 53 kilometers from the county seat.

History and Culture

Mengman (勐满) was historically a Tusi territory. In the 4th year of the Longqing reign of the Ming Dynasty (1570), it was part of the “Kangluoman (康洛满)” administrative area along with Jingluo (景洛), Mengman (勐满), Meng’ang (勐昂), Langwang (朗妄), and Mengkang (勐康). In 1913, it was placed under the Second Subdivision of the Pusi Border Administration Bureau (普思沿边行政总局第二区行政分局), which later became Mengzhe (勐遮). After liberation in 1950, Mengman District People’s Government was established in June. In October 1987, it was changed from a district to a township and renamed Mengman Town in 1988.

Ethnic Customs

Mengman Town is home to 13 ethnic groups, including the Dai (傣族), Hani (哈尼族), Yao (瑶族), Han (汉族), and Blang (布朗族). Each group preserves unique cultural traditions. The Dai celebrate the Water Splashing Festival (泼水节) and the Closing Door Festival (关门节), while the Hani people celebrate the “October New Year” (十月年). Folk music and dance are essential to social life, including performances like the “Yenike (叶尼渴, or cigarette box dance),” the “Four-String Dance (四弦舞),” and “Jumping Sheng Dance (跳笙)” of the Hani and Yi peoples.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mengman Town has a subtropical rainforest monsoon climate, with spring-like weather all year and no frost. The average annual temperature is around 21°C, and annual rainfall ranges from 1800 to 1900 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Duration

Mengman Border Port
As a major border checkpoint, it offers a glimpse into the vibrancy of cross-border trade.
Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours

Nanman River
Flowing through the heart of the valley, it is an excellent spot to enjoy natural scenery.
Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours

Dabaobao Mountain 
The highest peak in the area, with an elevation of 1,678 meters, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours

Transportation

Self-Drive:
From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), a journey of approximately 500 kilometers or about 6 hours.

Public Transport:
First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a long-distance bus to Mengman Town (勐满镇), a 2-hour trip.

Cuisine

Mengman Town’s cuisine centers around Dai-style dishes. Recommended local specialties include:

• Dai-style Barbecue : Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig, etc.
• Sour Soup : A distinctive sour broth made from local fresh ingredients.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with a subtle bamboo aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties such as tea, rubber products, and handicrafts are widely available at local markets.

Accommodation

There are a few homestays and inns in Mengman Town offering basic amenities. For higher-end accommodation, consider staying in Jinghong City (景洪市).

Travel Tips

• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and ethnic villages.
• Bring mosquito repellent and appropriate protective gear when exploring the rainforest.
• Follow all border regulations when visiting the frontier areas; do not cross the border without permission.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Mengman Town (勐满镇), check into your hotel, then visit Mengman Border Port (勐满口岸) to experience the lively border atmosphere.

Day 2:
Explore Nanman River (南满河) in the morning, followed by a hiking trip to Dabaobao Mountain (大包包山). Return in the evening to enjoy local cuisine.

Day 3:
Shop for local specialties at the town market before concluding your trip.

Mengman Town (勐满镇) is a captivating destination with a mix of vibrant natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in tropical rainforest adventures and experience the dynamic charm of a borderland town. May your journey in Mengman be unforgettable.

Mengpeng Town (勐捧镇) is located in the southwest of Mengla County (勐腊县), between 21°21′ to 21°37′ north latitude and 101°12′ to 101°29′ east longitude. It borders Mengla Town (勐腊镇) to the east, Mengman Town (勐满镇) to the south, Laos to the west, and Guanlei Town (关累镇) to the north. The town is 42 kilometers away from the county seat of Mengla.

History and Culture

The name “Mengpeng (勐捧)” originates from the Dai language and means “the place where shining demons reside.” Throughout history, Mengpeng has undergone several administrative changes: it was designated as Mengpeng District in 1949, changed to Banna Mengpeng in 1953, and became Mengpeng District again when Mengla County was established in 1958. In 1969, it was turned into a commune, reverted back to a district in 1984, and officially became Mengpeng Town in 1988.

Local Customs

Mengpeng Town is home to multiple ethnic groups, with the Dai (傣族) as the main ethnic group, along with the Hani (哈尼族), Yi (彝族), and Khmu (克木人) peoples. Each group retains its own rich cultural traditions. Celebrated festivals include the Dai’s Water Splashing Festival (泼水节) and Closing Door Festival (关门节), and the Hani’s October New Year Festival (十月年).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mengpeng Town experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 21.5°C and average rainfall between 1600–1964 mm. 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

• Nanla River: The main river of Mengpeng with a dense water network, perfect for boat rides through the tropical rainforest. Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours.
• Hot Spring Village: A place to enjoy natural hot springs and relax. Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours.
• Mengpeng Farm: Learn about rubber planting and processing, and explore the region’s agricultural life. Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

• By Car: From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), covering approximately 500 km, about a 6-hour drive.
• By Public Transport: First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then transfer to a long-distance bus to Mengpeng Town. The journey takes about 2 hours.

Local Cuisine

Local cuisine in Mengpeng is mainly Dai-style (傣味), and recommended dishes include:

• Dai-style BBQ: Such as lemongrass grilled fish and roasted suckling pig.
• Sour Soup: Made with local fresh ingredients and featuring a unique sour flavor.
• Bamboo Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with a light bamboo aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties include tea, rubber products, and handicrafts, which can be found at the town’s markets.

Accommodation

There are a few simple guesthouses and homestays in Mengpeng Town. For travelers who prefer higher standards of accommodation, hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市) are recommended.

Travel Tips

• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and ethnic villages.
• When exploring the tropical rainforest, protect yourself from insects by bringing repellents and wearing appropriate clothing.
• Stay within legal boundaries when visiting border areas and follow all border control regulations.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Mengpeng Town, check in, then visit Nanla River to experience tropical rainforest scenery.
Day 2: Head to Hot Spring Village for a relaxing bath, followed by a visit to Mengpeng Farm to learn about rubber agriculture.
Day 3: Shop for local specialties in the town market before concluding the trip.

Mengpeng Town (勐捧镇) is a place full of charm, offering both natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can explore the unique lifestyle of a border town and experience the mystery of the tropical rainforest. May your journey in Mengpeng be a memorable one.

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) is the political, economic, and cultural center of Mengla County (勐腊县), situated at the junction of urban and rural areas of the county. It lies between 101°2′ to 101°46′ E longitude and 21°19′ to 21°40′ N latitude. To the east, it borders Laos; to the south, it connects with Mohan Town (磨憨镇) and Mengman Town (勐满镇); to the west, it adjoins Mengpeng Town (勐捧镇) and Guanlei Town (关累镇); and to the north, it is adjacent to Yaoqu Township (瑶区乡) and Mengban Town (勐伴镇).

History and Culture

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) has a long history. In 2002, it was formed by the merger of the former Mengla Town and the former Mengla Township. The history of Mengla County (勐腊县) dates back to 1958, when the original Banna Yiwub District (版纳易武) and Banna Mengla (版纳勐腊) were abolished, and Yiwub County (易武县) and Mengla County (勐腊县) were established.

Local Customs

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Dai (傣族), Hani (哈尼族), and Yi (彝族) peoples. Each group preserves its unique customs and traditions. The Dai people celebrate traditional festivals such as the Water Splashing Festival and the Guanmen Festival.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) has a northern tropical humid monsoon climate. The average annual temperature is around 21°C, and annual rainfall ranges from 1,200 to 1,600 mm. The region has distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and more suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visit Duration

• Nanla River: The main river flowing through Mengla Town, ideal for boat tours to experience the lush tropical rainforest. Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours.
• Mengla County Traditional Dai Medicine Hospital: Visitors can experience unique local treatments like Dai herbal sleeping therapy, Dai-style massage, and traditional Chinese beauty treatments. Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours.
• Mantala Village and Manga Village: Sample Laotian hot pot and local ethnic cuisine while experiencing the culture and traditions. Suggested visit duration: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

• Self-Drive: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), approximately 631 kilometers, around 7 hours’ drive.
• Public Transport: First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then transfer to a long-distance bus to reach Mengla Town. The bus ride takes about 2 hours.

Local Cuisine

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) features primarily Dai cuisine. Recommended dishes include:

• Dai-style Barbecue: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig, and other smoky delights.
• Sour Soup: A unique-tasting soup made with fresh local ingredients.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Fragrant rice steamed inside bamboo tubes, infused with bamboo aroma.

Shopping

The local markets offer a wide range of specialties, such as tea, rubber products, and handmade crafts, ideal for souvenirs.

Accommodation

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) has a limited selection of homestays and guesthouses with basic amenities. For more comfortable options, it’s recommended to stay in hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市).

Travel Tips

• Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting temples and traditional villages.
• When entering the rainforest, be cautious of insect bites and bring protective gear.
• Follow border regulations and do not cross into Laos without authorization when exploring border areas.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Mengla Town (勐腊镇), check in, and visit the Nanla River (南腊河) to experience the tropical rainforest scenery.
Day 2: Visit Mengla County Traditional Dai Medicine Hospital (勐腊县中傣医医院) for cultural wellness experiences. In the afternoon, head to Mantala Village (曼它拉村) and Manga Village (曼嘎村) for ethnic cuisine and cultural immersion.
Day 3: Shop for local specialties in the town’s market and end your journey.

Mengla Town (勐腊镇) is a destination full of charm, where natural beauty meets vibrant ethnic culture. Here, you can experience the borderland atmosphere and explore the mysteries of the tropical rainforest. Wishing you an unforgettable journey in Mengla Town.

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) is located in the northeastern part of Menghai County (勐海县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Jinghong City (景洪市) to the east, Meng’a Town (勐阿镇) to the south, and Lancang County (澜沧县) to the west and north. Its northeastern tip is separated by the Lancang River (澜沧江) from Pu’er City (普洱市) and Jinghong City (景洪市). The township covers an area of approximately 488 square kilometers.

History and Culture

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) was historically part of a tusi (土司) administrative system. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it belonged to the territory of Xishuangbanna (版纳地). In 1913, it was under the administration of the Eighth District, and in 1927, it became part of Linjiang Administrative Region (临江行政区). In 1953, it was incorporated into Xishuangbanna and placed under the jurisdiction of Meng’a (勐阿). In 1987, it was officially established as Mengwang Township (勐往乡) after administrative restructuring.

Ethnic Customs

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) is home to several ethnic groups including the Dai (傣族), Hani (哈尼族), Lahu (拉祜族), and Bulang (布朗族) peoples, giving the region rich and diverse ethnic customs. Major festivals include the Dai “Water Splashing Festival” (泼水节), the Hani “Gatangpa Festival” (嘎汤帕节), the Lahu “Lahu Kuoq Festival” (拉祜扩节), and the Bulang “Sangkan Festival” (桑康节), all of which showcase vibrant local traditions.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) experiences a subtropical humid monsoon climate, characterized by abundant sunlight, mild winters, and distinct wet and dry seasons with synchronized heat and rainfall. The annual average temperature is 21.4°C, and the average annual precipitation is 929.1 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Duration

Nanguo River:
One of the main rivers in Mengwang Township (勐往乡). Visitors can take a boat ride to enjoy the natural scenery along the riverbanks.
Recommended duration: 1–2 hours

Mengwang River:
Another key river offering similar boat ride experiences and the beauty of tropical rainforest landscapes.
Recommended duration: 1–2 hours

Natural Hot Springs:
The township has natural hot spring resources where visitors can unwind and enjoy a relaxing soak.
Recommended duration: 2–3 hours

Transportation

By Car:
From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to Jinghong City (景洪市), then head toward Menghai County (勐海县). The total journey is about 500 kilometers and takes around 6 hours.

By Public Transport:
First reach Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a long-distance bus to Menghai County (勐海县), and finally transfer to a local rural bus or taxi to reach Mengwang Township (勐往乡).

Cuisine

Local cuisine is mainly based on Dai ethnic food. Recommended dishes include:

• Dai-style BBQ: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig, and other flavorful grilled specialties.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with the aroma of fresh bamboo.
• Na Bi Rice Wine: A unique local alcoholic beverage.

Shopping

Local specialties include Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handmade crafts. These can be purchased at local markets.

Accommodation

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) offers a limited number of homestays and guesthouses with basic facilities. For more comfortable accommodation, it is recommended to stay in hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市) or Menghai County (勐海县).

Travel Tips

• Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and ethnic villages.
• When exploring mountainous areas, protect yourself from mosquito bites by bringing appropriate repellents and clothing.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Mengwang Township (勐往乡), check into your homestay, and visit the Nanguo River (南果河) to experience the tropical rainforest landscape.

Day 2:
Head to the Mengwang River (勐往河) for scenic exploration, followed by a visit to the natural hot springs (天然温泉) for a relaxing bath.

Day 3:
Shop for local specialties at the market, then conclude your trip.

Mengwang Township (勐往乡) is a place full of charm, offering both rich natural scenery and vibrant ethnic culture. Here, you can experience the allure of borderland life and the mystery of the tropical rainforest. We hope you enjoy an unforgettable journey in Mengwang Township.

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) is situated in the northeastern mountainous area of Menghai County (勐海县), Yunnan Province. It borders Jinghong City (景洪市) to the east, Gelanghe Hani Ethnic Township (格朗和哈尼族乡) to the south, Menghai Town (勐海镇) to the southwest, and Menga Town (勐阿镇) to the north. The township government is based in Manmai Village (曼迈村), located 23 km from Menghai County and 39 km from Jinghong.

History

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) was originally part of the ancient territory of Cheli (车里). In 1913, it fell under the jurisdiction of the 1st Administrative Division of the Pusi Border Administration Bureau. In 1927, it became Nanben Township (南本乡); in 1950, it was renamed Wuben District (五本区). In 1953, it was incorporated into Banna Menghai (版纳勐海). In March 1958, Mengsong District (勐宋区) was established and later reorganized into a commune. The name Mengsong Township was restored in 1984, and in 1987, it was officially designated as a township.

Ethnic Culture

Mengsong Township is home to several ethnic groups including the Lahu (拉祜族), Hani (哈尼族), and Dai (傣族). Each group preserves its unique traditions and customs. Visitors can experience festivals such as the Lahu’s “Lahu Kuo Festival” (拉祜扩节) and the Hani’s “Gatangpa Festival” (嘎汤帕节).

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mengsong Township enjoys a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with a cool and mild atmosphere, a long frost period, plenty of sunshine, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is 19.2°C, and the average annual precipitation is about 1200.1 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration

Huazhu Liangzi

Known as the “Roof of Xishuangbanna” (西双版纳屋脊) and the “Peak of Xishuangbanna” (西双版纳之巅), this mountain stands at an altitude of 2,429 meters, making it the highest peak in the prefecture. It is home to Lahu, Hani, and Dai communities who still live traditionally. Highlights include viewing clouds, mist seas, bamboo forests, distant peaks, and native customs. It is an ideal spot for hiking and nature retreats.
Suggested visit duration: 3–4 hours

Rainforest Ancient Tea Workshop

This site features the largest ancient tea tree research and development center in China. Visitors can learn about tea culture and witness the traditional processing of ancient tree tea.
Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours

Transportation

By Car

From Kunming, drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway to Jinghong City, then proceed to Menghai County. The total distance is approximately 500 km, with a travel time of around 6 hours.

By Public Transport

Take a long-distance bus from Kunming to Jinghong City, then transfer to Menghai County. From Menghai, take a local rural bus or taxi to Mengsong Township.

Local Cuisine

The cuisine in Mengsong Township is mainly Dai-style. Recommended dishes include:

• Dai-style Barbecue: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig, etc.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, offering a delicate bamboo aroma.
• Naka Tea: A famous tea from Mengsong, often referred to as the “Little Banzhang” (小班章).

Shopping

Local specialties include Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handcrafted goods, which can be purchased at local markets.

Accommodation

There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Mengsong Township with basic facilities. For higher standards, consider staying in hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市) or Menghai County (勐海县).

Travel Tips

• Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting temples and villages.
• When exploring mountainous areas, protect yourself from mosquito and insect bites; carry appropriate supplies.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Mengsong Township, check in to a homestay, then visit Huazhu Liangzi (滑竹梁子) to enjoy panoramic views and ethnic charm.

Day 2:
Visit the Rainforest Ancient Tea Workshop (雨林古茶坊) to experience tea culture and learn about ancient tea production.

Day 3:
Shop for local specialties at the market before concluding your trip.

Mengsong Township (勐宋乡) is a captivating destination rich in natural beauty and ethnic diversity. Here, you can enjoy the charm of the borderlands and immerse yourself in traditional minority lifestyles. We hope your journey to Mengsong is an unforgettable experience.

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
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• Yunnan Education
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