China · City Guide
Xishuangbanna
Xishuangbanna is a beautiful subtropical prefecture in southernmost Yunnan on the borders of Myanmar and Laos, combining extraordinary tropical rainforest, ancient Dai minority culture, the most important Buddha images in Yunnan at Mengla, exceptional Pu-erh tea culture and a landscapes of elephants, gibbons and extraordinary biodiversity that feels entirely distinct from the rest of China. For those seeking a genuinely different China experience, Xishuangbanna is outstanding.
Elect's take
"Xishuangbanna has a tropical character and a Southeast Asian cultural atmosphere that makes it feel completely unlike anywhere else in China. The Dai culture, the ancient temples and the extraordinary tea create an experience of genuine discovery."
The Dai minority people of Xishuangbanna maintain one of the most vibrant and distinctive minority cultures in China, expressed through their Buddhist temple architecture, white water festival celebrations, distinctive cuisine and the beautiful traditional textiles of the region. The ancient Manfeilong White Pagodas are among the most important Buddhist monuments in Yunnan. The wild Asian elephant population of Xishuangbanna can be observed at the Xishuangbanna Elephant Valley where herds are habituated to human presence. The Pu-erh tea culture of the area, with ancient tea trees thousands of years old on the hills surrounding Menghai, represents one of the world's great tea experiences. The border markets with Myanmar and Laos provide fascinating cultural encounters.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Dai Minority Culture
A vibrant Buddhist minority culture of festivals, temples and distinctive textile traditions.
Asian Elephants
Wild Asian elephant encounters at the Elephant Valley conservation centre.
Ancient Pu-erh Tea
Ancient tea trees thousands of years old producing China's most complex aged tea.
Manfeilong Pagodas
Among the most important Buddhist monuments in Yunnan province.
Tropical Rainforest
Extraordinary biodiversity in China's most southerly and tropical landscape.
Myanmar & Laos Borders
Fascinating border markets providing a cultural bridge to Southeast Asia.
