Manting Park Travel Guide

Manting Park in Xishuangbanna is the most representative historical garden of Dai culture in Jinghong City. It is also the oldest park in Xishuangbanna, formerly a royal garden of the Dai kings, with a history of more than 1,300 years. The park combines natural scenery, Dai architecture, and Buddhist culture. Here are its main features and a travel guide: **Unique Features of Manting Park** 1. **Historical Significance of the Royal Garden** - Once the exclusive garden of the ancient Dai royal family, the park retains the layout and relics of the Dai royal gardens, such as the replica of the Dai King's Palace and the meeting hall, full of exotic palace charm. 2. **Fusion of Dai Culture and Buddhism** - The park has a large number of Dai-style buildings, with golden-topped and white-walled Buddhist temples and pagodas complementing the tropical plants. The adjacent Wat Luang Pu Supa (the highest-ranking Buddhist temple in Xishuangbanna) is a must-see and can be visited together. 3. **Tropical Garden Landscape** - With dense vegetation, ancient trees, vines, lotus ponds, and water lily ponds, it is ideal for taking photos. Iconic buildings include the Octagonal Bridge, the White Pagoda (modeled after the Manfeilong Pagoda), and the Release Lake. 4. **Nighttime Ethnic Cultural Activities** - The evening "Lancang River · Mekong River Night" bonfire party (requires a separate ticket) includes Dai song and dance performances, water lantern blessings, and bonfire interactions, offering a great opportunity to experience folk culture. **Recommended Routes** 1. **Daytime Visit** (2–3 hours): - **Main Entrance** → Dai King's Palace (photo op) → Royal Elephant Cultural Park (elephant interaction) → Octagonal Bridge → Release Lake → White Pagoda → Wat Luang Pu Supa (free entry directly from the south gate of the park). - **Tips**: Wat Luang Pu Supa is a grand temple. Please dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. 2. **Evening Activities**: - Participate in the bonfire party (starts at 6:30pm), including a special dinner, ethnic song and dance, water lantern release, and group bonfire dance. Tickets must be purchased in advance (approx. CNY 200–280/person). **Must-Try Experiences** 1. **Photo Spots** - **White Pagoda**: A Southeast Asian-style white pagoda against a backdrop of green trees and blue sky, perfect for photos. - **Lotus and Lily Ponds**: Especially beautiful during the summer blooming season. - **Dai King's Palace**: A resplendent Dai-style building, suitable for photos in ethnic costumes. 2. **Interact with Elephants** - The Royal Elephant Cultural Park has scheduled times for watching elephant feeding and bathing (free). Confirm the times in advance for close-up interaction. 3. **Stroll Through Wat Luang Pu Supa** - Enter Wat Luang Pu Supa from the south gate of Manting Park and experience the solemn atmosphere of Theravada Buddhism. Please maintain silence. **Practical Information** - **Tickets**: CNY 40/person for daytime entry (approx. CNY 35 online), bonfire party tickets are sold separately. - **Transportation**: Located in Jinghong City, about CNY 10 by taxi; Bus No. 3 goes directly to the park. - **Opening Hours**: 8:00am–5:00pm (daytime), bonfire party starts at 6:30pm. - **Best Time to Visit**: November–April (cool climate), morning or evening light is best for photos. **Tips** 1. Wat Luang Pu Supa is connected to Manting Park. You can enter and exit directly from the south gate without repurchasing tickets. 2. There are many mosquitoes in the park. Bring mosquito repellent and wear light, breathable clothing. 3. For a deeper experience of Dai culture, rent a Dai costume in advance (rental points are available inside and outside the park) for more atmospheric photos. Manting Park combines nature and culture, suitable for travelers who enjoy a slow pace and cultural exploration. To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit in the morning and enjoy the tranquil tropical garden scenery! Manting Royal Garden Yunnan · China Xishuangbanna · Yunnan