Xishuangbanna

Top 5 Attractions

Wild Elephant Valley

Wild Elephant Valley, a protected sanctuary in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, is celebrated as China’s premier destination for observing Asian elephants in their natural habitat. Nestled within the tropical rainforests of the Ailao Mountains, this eco-tourism hub spans 370 hectares and offers visitors a rare chance to witness these majestic creatures up close while promoting conservation. Established in 1990, the valley has become a cornerstone of wildlife tourism in China, attracting over 500,000 annual visitors eager to learn about biodiversity and sustainable coexistence with nature.

Dai Ethnic Garden

Dai Ethnic Garden, a vibrant cultural sanctuary in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, offers an immersive journey into the traditions and lifestyle of China’s Dai ethnic minority. Nestled amid lush tropical rainforests and bordering the Mekong River, this living museum showcases the Dai people’s architecture, rituals, and arts. Founded in 1999 to preserve Dai heritage, the garden spans 1,200 acres and attracts over 1 million visitors annually. With its stilted bamboo houses, golden Buddhist temples, and daily performances of traditional dance and music, it stands as a testament to Yunnan’s rich ethnic diversity.

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG), a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity haven in Yunnan, China, is a paradise for nature lovers and researchers alike. Established in 1959 and spanning 1,125 hectares, it is China’s largest tropical botanical garden, home to over 13,000 plant species, including rare orchids, ancient cycads, and towering dipterocarp trees. Renowned for its conservation efforts, scientific research, and eco-tourism, XTBG welcomes over 1 million visitors annually, offering immersive experiences in lush rainforests, bamboo groves, and ethnic minority-inspired gardens.

Starlight Night Marke

Yunnan’s Starlight Night Market, a dazzling gem in the heart of Xishuangbanna, is renowned for its lively atmosphere, ethnic diversity, and sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors. Nestled along the Mekong River, this open-air bazaar spans over 10,000 square meters and attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Founded in the early 2000s as a small local market, it has evolved into a must-visit destination, blending traditional Dai, Hani, and other ethnic crafts with modern street food trends.

Manting Park

Manting Park, often referred to as the "Soul of Dai Culture," is a historic and picturesque park located in Jinghong, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China. This enchanting destination, with its lush gardens, traditional Dai architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich traditions and natural beauty of the Dai ethnic group. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Manting Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Natural Scenery

Xishuangbanna's natural beauty thrives in its tropical rainforests and biodiversity. Highlights include the Wild Elephant Valley, a protected reserve for Asian elephants and gibbons, and the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, showcasing 12,000 plant species. The Menglun Tropical Rainforest dazzles with emerald vines and canopy walkways, while the Lancang River (Mekong) carves dramatic gorges. A UNESCO-recognized haven of Dai culture and eco-tourism.

Wild Elephant Valley

Dai Ethnic Garden

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Starlight Night Marke

Temples and Religious Places

Xishuangbanna is known for its Dai cultural soul and Theravada Buddhist traditions. Highlights include Manfeilong Stupa, a 12th-century "Bamboo Shoot Pagoda" adorned with elephant motifs, and Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion, a 17th-century astronomical-religious hybrid. The General Buddhist Temple (Zongfosi) serves as the Dai kingdom's historic spiritual core, while Manting Park's golden stupas blend with tropical folklore

Manting Park

Xishuangbanna Travel Destination Guide

What Our Clients Say?

Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews

Daniel Dorothea

Canada

Reviewed on April 29,2025

Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!

Destination(s): Shanghai

Date of Experience: May 08,2024

Elvis Eva

Canada

Reviewed on June 20,2025

As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories. Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.

Destination(s): Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai

Date of Experience: June 02,2025

Simon

America

Reviewed on May 29,2025

Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic! Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale. For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return. A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025

Destination(s): Zhangjiajie

Date of Experience: May 08,2025

FAQ

How can tourists safely interact with Asian elephants without disturbing them?

Head to Wild Elephant Valley’s elevated walkway for ethical observation. For deeper engagement, join the Elephant Volunteer Program at the Asian Elephant Rescue Center, where visitors assist caregivers with feeding, bathing, and tracking elephants via GPS collars—all under strict no-riding policies.

What seasonal activities are unique to winter visits?

From November to February, join the Mekong River Dolphin-Watching Cruises (spot Irrawaddy dolphins), or the Winter Flower Festival at Manwan Park featuring orchid exhibitions and nighttime glow-in-the-dark garden tours.

What lesser-known traditions happen during the Water-Splashing Festival?

Beyond water fights, locals participate in Bath Buddha Ceremonies (washing statues with scented water for luck) and Peacock Dance Competitions. At dawn, villages perform Bai Xi—a ritual where elders chant to exorcise evil spirits using peacock feather whisks.

What eco-friendly transport options exist for the Botanical Garden?

The garden offers free Solar-Powered Trams and Bamboo Bicycles (¥10/hour). For a splurge, book a Hot Air Balloon Ride at dawn—¥880/person for 15-minute aerial views of the garden’s 13,000 species.

What weird but delicious local dishes must I try?

Sautéed Ant Eggs (crunchy, lemony), Bamboo Worm Sushi (nutty flavor), and Dai-Style “Ghost Chicken”—a clay-baked bird stuffed with herbs. For dessert, Rose Rice Pudding drowned in coconut cream.

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