South Yunnan Discovery
South Yunnan Discovery: Xishuangbanna to Jingmai Mountain
Journey to captivating Jingmai Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage since 2023. Discover the rich culture of the Bulang and Dai ethnic minority villages and hike through an age-old tea plantation forest, surrounded by the beauty of ancient tea trees. We get up close with majestic elephants at the enchanting Wild Elephant Valley and explore Manting Park, once an imperial sanctuary of the Dai Kingdom. We also visit Zongfo Temple, an exquisite Thai-style Buddhist sanctuary, to uncover their historical and cultural significance.
Itinerary
The journey begins in Xishuangbanna, an autonomous prefecture in China’s southwestern Yunnan province. Situated near the border of Myanmar and Laos, this remote region is home to scenic rainforests, mountains and ethnic communities who engage in centuries-old customs and traditions. You are greeted on arrival in Xishuangbanna and transferred to your hotel.
Start the day with a thrilling encounter with elephants! Your journey begins with a transfer to the enchanting Wild Elephant Valley, nestled 30 kilometres away, accessible by a picturesque 40-minute drive. This pristine sanctuary is celebrated for its ancient tropical rainforest and the presence of Asia’s majestic wild elephants. In the heart of Xishuangbanna’s lush rainforests, the Wild Elephant Valley stands as the exclusive haven where these magnificent creatures frequently grace us with their presence. Following this unforgettable experience, we will seamlessly transition to the captivating Jingmai Mountain, a 160-kilometre journey that unfolds over roughly three hours. Here, you will have the privilege of visiting the Bulang ethnic minority village. For generations, the Bulang people have lovingly tended to tea trees, with their ancestors earning the revered title of ‘Tea Ancestors’ among the Bulang and neighbouring minority communities.
Optional tour with dinner: Enjoy Luhu Minority cuisine along with a live music show
The Lahu minority village, situated just 25 kilometres from Jingmai Mountain and accessible via a scenic 40-minute drive, is celebrated for its vibrant musical heritage. It is truly captivating to experience that tradition in this remote mountain village of Yunnan where a remarkable 80% of its residents are skilled guitarists who also practice Christianity. During this visit, you will have the opportunity to immerse in Lahu culture, savouring their delectable cuisine while being serenaded by a live musical performance.
Begin your day with a captivating morning hike through the age-old tea plantation forest, immersing yourself in the history of the venerable tea trees. In the afternoon, your journey will take you to the opposite side of the mountain, where you’ll have the privilege of visiting a traditional Dai village. For centuries, the Dai people have thrived in harmony alongside the Bulang community, preserving their timeless way of life. As the late afternoon approaches, transfer back to Xishuangbanna, where you can indulge in the enchanting atmosphere of the night market, free to explore its bustling delights.
For the final day, begin your morning with a visit to Manting Park, once an imperial sanctuary of the Dai Kingdom and now a vibrant hub for numerous minority events, including the exhilarating Water Splashing Festival. Following this cultural exploration, continue your journey to the serene Zongfo Temple, an exquisite Thai-style Buddhist sanctuary. Around noon, we’ll arrange your transfer to the airport for your next destination or homeward-bound flight.
- We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the tour in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests;
- All mentioned times, durations and stops are based on approximations and may change due to unforeseen circumstances, weather and traffic conditions beyond our control;
- In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
- Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary;
- Entrance tickets listed in the itinerary;
- Transfers and tours by air-conditioned vehicle, including entrance fees as indicated, with the services of an English-speaking guide;
- Meals mentioned in the programme with one soft drink (soda, mineral water, local beer) per person per meal;
- Travel insurance.
- Ticket(s) for international and domestic flights;
- Meals not mentioned in the programme;
- Optional tours;
- Expenditures of a personal nature, such as drinks, souvenirs and laundry, etc.;
- Porterage at the airports and at hotels (in and out);
- Visa fee for China (if guests enter China twice, then a double-entry visa is required);
- Excess luggage surcharge;
- Voluntary carbon emission compensation for Gold Standard Project: USD 1.50/per person per day;
- Voluntary contribution to plastic reduction: USD 4/per person.
