A Tropical Cultural and Ecological Journey in Xishuangbanna & Pu’er

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Manting Royal Garden, a charming city park that blends history and culture. The park offers a fascinating fusion of Dai royal heritage, Buddhist traditions, and local customs. As you wander through the lush grounds, enjoy the seamless integration of traditional architecture and natural beauty, providing a deep insight into the cultural richness of Xishuangbanna.
Afternoon: After lunch, journey to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Set amidst the tropical forests of Mengla County, this botanical haven invites you to explore its vibrant, green landscapes. With its warm climate and diverse flora, the garden is a serene retreat, offering a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Evening: In the evening, embark on the Botanical Garden's night tour and immerse yourself in the mysteries of the rainforest after dark. Guided by experts, you will explore the fascinating nocturnal world, where you can hear the sounds of frogs, insects, and other night creatures. During firefly season (April–September), witness the magical glow of fireflies lighting up the forest. If visiting outside firefly season, the tour will still offer unique insights into the rainforest's nocturnal ecology.

Attractions:
Manting Royal Garden (Ticket not included): Located southeast of Jinghong, Manting Royal Garden is one of the oldest and most culturally significant parks in Xishuangbanna. The park spans a large area, divided into cultural zones such as the Ethnic Culture Square, Royal Garden Area, Release Culture Area, and Buddhist Culture Zone. These zones showcase three prominent themes: Dai royal culture, Buddhist traditions, and local folk customs.
Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Ticket not included): Nestled in the tropical forests of Mengla County, this renowned botanical garden is a paradise for plant lovers. With a climate that remains warm year-round, it is an ideal location for tropical plant species to thrive. The garden consists of two main sections: the Eastern Zone, which preserves natural landscapes, and the Western Zone, which features a curated selection of plants.
· Night Tour Themes
Summer & Fall: Tropical Rainforest Firefly Party (April–September)
Fall & Winter: Insect Extravaganza (October–March)
Note: If it rains, the night tour will be canceled, and guests will return to the hotel to rest.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Xishuangbanna Yicheng International Hotel, Xinsheng Times Hotel, Huofa Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Full Day: After breakfast, depart for Jino Mountain to begin your thrilling rainforest trekking adventure. Famous for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, Jino Mountain is one of Xishuangbanna's most treasured tropical rainforests. With a professional indigenous guide leading the way, you'll trek along a 4-kilometer trail deep into the forest. Walk beneath towering trees, marvel at the unique buttress root formations, and discover the vibrant tropical flora.
Midway, enjoy a traditional eco-friendly picnic prepared by the Jino villagers, sampling wild foods in the heart of the jungle. Afterward, tackle the creek and mountain climbing sections, immersing yourself in this exhilarating journey. You'll also have the opportunity to learn plant identification, wilderness first aid skills, and enjoy the thrill of tree rappelling. End the day by participating in the creation of rock paintings to commemorate your unique experience in the rainforest.

Attractions:
Jino Mountain Rainforest Trekking (Ticket not included): Situated in Jinghong, Xishuangbanna, Jino Mountain is famed for its biodiversity and forms part of one of the six main tea mountains in Pu'er. The region is home to the indigenous Jino people, whose rich culture and scenic landscapes make this destination truly special.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Rainforest feast (roast chicken, fish, meat, etc., with the chance to join in the preparation). Approx. ¥60 per person
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Huofa Hotel, Xishuangbanna Yicheng International Hotel, Xinsheng Times Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Drive to Wengji Ancient Blang Village, a historical settlement nestled in the heart of Xishuangbanna.
Afternoon: Step back in time as you explore this 1,000-year-old Bulang village, where traditional Bulang-style homes, craftsmanship, and tea culture remain well-preserved. Stroll through the village, admiring the ancient houses, Buddhist temples, and cultural landmarks. Immerse yourself in the deep ethnic heritage that gives this peaceful village its unique charm.
Evening: Enjoy some leisure time to independently explore the tranquil village. Wander through its serene corners, where nature and culture beautifully coexist, creating an unforgettable experience.

Attractions:
Wengji Ancient Blang Village (Free Entry): Nestled in Jingmai Mountain, Wengji is one of the few thousand-year-old Bulang villages in the region. It is renowned for its "Five Ancient Integrations"—ancient village architecture, traditional Bulang customs, a 3,000-year-old cypress tree, ancient tea trees, and a thriving tea culture. The village is home to traditional Blang structures, such as Buddhist temples, village gates, and pavilions, as well as unique tea-making processes and folk customs, making it a perfect place to immerse in both nature and culture.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Hotel of your choice

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, depart for Nuogan Ancient Village, a historic Dai settlement with over 1,000 years of history. Wander along the cobbled streets, taking in the graceful Dai architecture and the stunning natural surroundings. Experience the peace and serenity of this village, tucked away in nature's embrace.
Afternoon: After lunch, continue your journey to Nakeli Village, a settlement rich in the history of the Tea Horse Road. This village is one of the birthplaces of Pu'er tea culture. As you explore, immerse yourself in the local ethnic traditions and tea culture. Walk the ancient paths of the Tea Horse Road, where the echoes of horse caravans from centuries past still linger. Then, visit the Pu'er Tea Horse Road Ruins Park to explore the preserved remains of this historically significant trade route, and feel the weight of the history it holds.

Attractions:
Nuogan Ancient Village (Free Entry): Nestled in Lancang Lahu Autonomous County, Nuogan is a 1,000-year-old village predominantly inhabited by the Dai people. Surrounded by lush tea forests, it boasts a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. To the west, a stream flows through the village, and to the east, the Nuogan River winds around it, creating a picturesque, peaceful atmosphere.
Nakeli Village (Free Entry): Located in Ning'er Hani and Yi Autonomous County, Nakeli Village sits along the historic Tea Horse Road. The village is rich in Pu'er tea culture and tea trade history, with well-preserved relics of the Tea Horse Road. Home to the Hani and Yi ethnic groups, it offers a fascinating glimpse into their unique customs and way of life.
Pu'er Tea Horse Road Ruins Park (Ticket not included): Located in Pu'er, the "World's Tea Source," this park preserves a key section of the Tea Horse Road, which once connected the north and south for tea trade. As an important hub for tea supply to the imperial court, this area offers both cultural and ecological beauty, providing visitors with a rich historical experience.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Hotel of your choice

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, set off for the Sun River National Forest Park in Pu'er, where you'll have an immersive experience in nature. This park beautifully combines biodiversity with ecological conservation, offering fresh air and lush landscapes. As you wander along the winding paths, you may spot wild animals such as rhinos and soak in the peaceful, vibrant atmosphere. It's a perfect retreat to relax and fully connect with the natural world.
Afternoon: After lunch, head to Manzhang Village, a traditional Dai settlement steeped in history. Explore the village's iconic Dai-style stilt houses and delve into its rich cultural heritage. You'll also have the chance to participate in a DIY intangible heritage experience, choosing between crafting a Palm-leaf manuscript or traditional clay pottery. This hands-on activity will give you a deeper understanding of Dai craftsmanship and the culture that has been passed down through generations.

Attractions:
Pu'er Sun-River National Forest Park (Ticket not included): Located in the southeastern part of Pu'er, this park is a sanctuary for nature lovers, offering a stunning combination of vibrant wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and ecological preservation. Whether you're observing wildlife or enjoying the cool, fresh air, this park is an excellent place for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.
Pu'er National Park Rhinos Land Scenic Area (Ticket not included): Found in the northern part of Pu'er National Park, this scenic area sits at the crossroads of tropical and subtropical climates. It is home to one of China's largest and most pristine South Asian tropical monsoon evergreen forests. Rhinos Land is a diverse area where you can explore a rich variety of wildlife, including rhino sanctuaries, monkey habitats, and fish-filled streams. The area also features fern trails, butterfly valleys, and bird-watching opportunities, offering a full array of natural wonders.
Manzhang Village (Free entry): Nestled in Mengyang Town, Xishuangbanna, Manzhang Village is a 500-year-old Dai village where traditional stilt houses and rich cultural practices are still well-preserved. The village provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Dai culture and traditions, making it a wonderful destination for cultural exploration.

Included Activity: DIY Intangible Heritage Experience (Choose 1: Palm-leaf Manuscript / Clay Pottery Making)
In Manzhang Village, you'll have the chance to create traditional Dai crafts. You can choose to make a palm-leaf manuscript, a distinctive craft of the Dai people, guided by local artisans, or try your hand at clay pottery. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the culture of the Dai people while learning and appreciating their ancient artistic traditions.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Huofa Hotel, Xinsheng Times Hotel, Jinghong Yicheng International Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Today: Your journey comes to an end as you head back to your warm home. Your driver will pick you up at the designated time based on your flight/train departure schedule and take you to the airport/station. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)