6 Days Xishuangbanna & Pu'er Yunnan China Tour: Wild Elephants & Ancient Tea Forests

Summary

Day 1 Jinghong Arrival: Night Market
Day 2 Jinghong: Wild Elephant Valley, Tropical Botanical Gardens
Day 3 Jinghong to Pu'er: Dai Village, Tea Market
Day 4 Pu'er: Jingmai Mountain Ancient Tea Forest, Tea Tasting
Day 5 Pu'er: Sun River Forest Park (Small Panda Encounter)
Day 6 Pu'er to Jinghong: Departure

Day 1 Jinghong Arrival

Upon your arrival in Jinghong, the capital of Xishuangbanna, your friendly local guide will greet you at the airport or bus station, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign to ensure a seamless welcome. After a brief introduction to the city, you’ll be transferred in a comfortable private vehicle to your Dai-style resort near the Lancang River, where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The resort’s traditional architecture, with its wooden structures and lush gardens, perfectly reflects the local Dai culture, providing you with an authentic and peaceful atmosphere. After checking in, take some time to settle into your room and get ready for a wonderful day of exploration ahead. The atmosphere here is ideal for unwinding, with views of the river adding to the tranquil setting, making it a perfect starting point for your journey.

After settling in, embark on a short visit to Manting Park, a historical and cultural treasure in the heart of Jinghong. Originally a royal garden, Manting Park is renowned for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lotus-filled ponds, shaded paths, and elegant pavilions. As you stroll through the park, your guide will share fascinating stories about its historical significance, once serving as a retreat for the local Dai royal family. The park also boasts lush tropical flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. The peaceful ambiance provides an introduction to the serene beauty of Xishuangbanna, with views of the nearby river adding to the tranquil setting. You’ll have time to wander around the garden, soak in the scenery, and appreciate its calm and meditative atmosphere, which offers a wonderful contrast to the bustling city life.

As the sun sets, your evening adventure takes you to Jinghong Night Market, where the vibrant local culture comes alive. The market is a feast for the senses, with colorful stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to street food. Here, you’ll have the chance to try local specialties like grilled river fish, pineapple rice, and Dai-style BBQ, offering an authentic taste of the region’s unique culinary traditions. The lively atmosphere is filled with music, chatter, and the tempting aroma of grilled foods. Your guide will take you through the market, pointing out local favorites and helping you navigate the bustling scene. After indulging in these delicious treats, you will be escorted back to your resort, where you can relax and unwind, preparing for the next day’s adventures in Xishuangbanna. The night market provides an excellent introduction to the vibrant local life, leaving you with lasting memories of your first day in this beautiful region.

Day 2 Jinghong

Start your day early with a visit to Wild Elephant Valley, where you will be able to witness the fascinating wildlife of Xishuangbanna up close. The highlight of the morning is the elephant bath time, which takes place at around 7:30 AM. Here, you will see the majestic Asian elephants enjoying their morning routine as they bathe in the nearby river, an incredible experience that gives you a glimpse into the daily life of these magnificent creatures. Your guide will share fascinating facts about the elephants’ behavior, their conservation efforts, and the importance of this region as a sanctuary for wildlife. After the elephant bath, you will continue your journey with a rainforest walk along the elevated walkways. This unique experience allows you to explore the rainforest from above, offering panoramic views of the lush green canopy, while your guide explains the rich biodiversity of the area. Keep an eye out for exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife that inhabit this dense tropical forest.

After your rainforest adventure, it’s time to enjoy a delicious traditional Xishuangbanna lunch. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant, where you can sample some of the region’s iconic dishes. Start with Xishuangbanna’s famous “bamboo rice”, a dish where sticky rice is cooked inside a bamboo tube, infusing it with a delicate, smoky flavor. You’ll also have the chance to try “lao mi” a unique rice noodle soup made with a rich broth, often paired with tender meats and aromatic herbs. For a refreshing side, savor “yangmei fruit salad” a local specialty made with fresh yangmei berries and a tangy, sweet dressing. The meal is complete with a cup of local herbal tea, known for its refreshing qualities. Xishuangbanna’s cuisine reflects its ethnic diversity, combining fresh ingredients with bold flavors and traditional cooking techniques, offering a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, visit the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, a renowned destination for nature lovers. The garden is home to a stunning collection of plants from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. One of the garden's highlights is the “dancing grass,” which sways in response to movement, creating a magical, animated effect. Your guide will explain the unique properties of the plant and the science behind its movements. You’ll also visit the giant water lilies, their broad leaves floating elegantly on tranquil ponds, offering a serene backdrop for your exploration. As you walk through the garden, the air is filled with the fragrance of tropical flowers, and vibrant plant life surrounds you at every turn. Learn about the conservation efforts that make this botanical garden a vital hub for preserving the rich plant biodiversity of the region.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Dai people with a Dai Minority Show, featuring the famous water-splashing dance. This lively performance showcases the traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes of the Dai ethnic group. The water-splashing dance is a symbolic gesture of good fortune, where performers splash water on each other in an exuberant celebration. The show is a beautiful combination of music, dance, and folklore, providing a unique insight into the cultural traditions of Xishuangbanna. After the performance, feel free to interact with the performers and learn more about the significance of the dance. This cultural experience will leave you with a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions, creating unforgettable memories. Afterward, your guide will escort you back to your resort for a restful night, preparing you for another exciting day ahead in Xishuangbanna.

Day3 Jinghong to Pu'er

Begin your day with a visit to the Mengle Buddhist Temple, located just outside the town of Jinghong. This serene and sacred site is known for its golden pagoda, which shines brilliantly in the morning light, adding to the peaceful atmosphere of the temple. As you stroll through the temple grounds, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful gardens and incense-filled halls. Your guide will explain the temple's deep connection to the local Dai culture and its role as a place of worship for both the Dai people and other Buddhist communities. Learn about the significance of the golden pagoda, which is one of the most revered symbols in the region, and how it stands as a symbol of spirituality and tranquility. The temple’s impressive architecture, with its intricate carvings and colorful murals, offers a perfect opportunity for quiet reflection and photography.

After visiting the Mengle Buddhist Temple, head to Mangjing Dai Village, a charming rural settlement known for its traditional tea cultivation. The Dai people have been growing tea here for centuries, and the village is a fantastic place to experience the local culture firsthand. Participate in a tea-picking experience, where you’ll join local villagers in harvesting the fresh tea leaves that grow in the lush hills surrounding the village. Your guide will explain the various stages of tea production and the importance of tea in Dai culture. As you pick the tender leaves, you’ll learn about the delicate process of making Pu'er tea, one of the most famous teas in China. Afterward, enjoy a traditional tea-tasting session, where you’ll sample the freshly prepared tea, experiencing its unique flavors and learning about the art of tea appreciation from your local host.

In the afternoon, take a scenic 3-hour drive to Pu'er, the tea capital of China, known for its vast tea plantations and rich cultural heritage. As you drive through the rolling hills and lush countryside, you’ll witness the stunning beauty of Yunnan’s landscape. Upon arrival in Pu'er, spend the evening exploring the lively Pu'er Tea Market. This bustling market is an essential stop for tea enthusiasts, offering a wide array of Pu'er teas, teapots, and other local products. Wander through the market stalls, where vendors proudly display their tea collections, including aged Pu'er tea cakes, loose-leaf teas, and handcrafted tea sets. Your guide will introduce you to the different types of Pu'er tea, explaining their unique characteristics and the intricate process of fermentation that makes this tea so sought after worldwide. The market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs, such as local handicrafts and tea accessories. After your visit, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market’s vibrant atmosphere, where the scent of freshly brewed tea fills the air. This night stroll provides a perfect ending to your day, offering a glimpse into the rich tea culture of Pu'er.

Day 4 Pu'er

Begin your day with a visit to Jingmai Mountain, home to the Ancient Tea Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This serene tea-growing area is one of the most renowned tea cultivation regions in Yunnan. Surrounded by lush hillsides and terraced tea fields, the forest offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. As you stroll through this tea-rich landscape, your guide will explain the history and cultural significance of tea cultivation in the area, as well as the sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations. The unique microclimate of Jingmai Mountain produces some of the finest Pu'er tea, known for its complex flavor profiles. Here, you’ll also learn about the Blang ethnic minority, who have been cultivating tea in this region for centuries. Your guide will introduce you to traditional methods of tea picking, allowing you to experience firsthand how the local farmers harvest the delicate tea leaves that contribute to the region’s world-famous tea.

After your scenic walk through the tea forest, join the Blang minority for an authentic tea-picking experience. This interactive activity offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of tea harvesting from the very people who have perfected it over centuries. You will be taught how to identify the finest tea leaves, how to carefully pluck them, and the significance of each leaf’s role in creating the distinctive flavor of Pu'er tea. The Blang people have a deep connection to the land and to tea, and their traditional methods have remained largely unchanged. As you participate in this hands-on activity, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage tied to tea in this region. The experience is not just educational, but also a meaningful way to connect with the local culture and learn the skills that have sustained the Blang for generations.

In the afternoon, visit the Tea Horse Road Museum, a cultural treasure trove that showcases the history of the Tea Horse Road, the ancient trade route that connected China’s tea-producing regions to Tibet, India, and beyond. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, maps, and exhibits that illustrate the importance of this historic trade route, which was once a key player in the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture. Your guide will provide a detailed explanation of how the Tea Horse Road facilitated the exchange of tea, horses, and other commodities, becoming a critical part of China’s trade network. As you explore the museum, you’ll also learn about the role tea played in shaping both the local and global economy over the centuries. The exhibit highlights the journey of tea from its origins in Yunnan to its introduction to various parts of the world. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, providing context for your tea-tasting experiences later in the day.

Following your visit to the museum, you’ll head to the Xiaguan Tea Factory for an immersive tea-tasting experience. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of the finest Pu'er tea from the region. The factory is renowned for producing high-quality tea, and their expert staff will guide you through a tasting session that introduces you to the rich, complex flavors of ripened Pu'er. You’ll learn how tea is processed, from the initial drying of leaves to fermentation, and the ways in which these techniques influence the flavor profile. As you sip different varieties of tea, your guide will explain the intricate characteristics of Pu'er tea, such as its earthy, smooth texture and the subtle notes of honey, wood, and even floral undertones. This session will deepen your appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in producing this iconic Chinese tea and enhance your understanding of the region’s long-standing tea culture.

As the evening sets in, enjoy a unique tea-infused hotpot dinner, an innovative twist on traditional Chinese hotpot that incorporates the rich, earthy flavors of Pu'er tea. The hotpot broth is carefully infused with the distinct taste of ripened Pu'er tea, providing a deeply flavorful base for the fresh ingredients you will cook in the hotpot. This creative fusion of tea and cuisine is a great way to experience the versatility of Pu'er tea beyond its traditional uses. Your dinner will include an assortment of meats, vegetables, and tofu, all cooked in the aromatic tea broth. To complement your meal, you’ll also enjoy ripened Pu'er tea served with local honey, enhancing its natural sweetness and smoothness. This delicious and memorable dining experience offers a perfect conclusion to your day of tea exploration, blending culture, flavor, and tradition in a way that only Yunnan can offer.

Day 5 Pu'er

Start your adventure with an unforgettable experience in Sun River Forest Park, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to walk with rescued Asian small pandas. This conservation initiative focuses on protecting and rehabilitating these adorable creatures that have been saved from poaching or habitat loss. As you walk alongside these playful pandas, your guide will share fascinating insights into their behavior, their role in the ecosystem, and the efforts being made to protect them in the wild. The park provides a safe and natural environment for these pandas to thrive, and as you observe them up close, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for their gentle nature and the challenges they face in the wild. The interaction will be a highlight of your trip, providing a unique and educational experience while also supporting the preservation of these endangered animals.

After your time with the pandas, it’s time for an adrenaline-packed adventure through the heart of the jungle with a rainforest zipline experience. Suspended high above the lush canopy, you’ll soar from platform to platform, offering a bird’s-eye view of the dense forest below. As you glide through the treetops, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant sights and sounds of the rainforest, with its rich flora and diverse wildlife. Your guide will point out various plant species and may even help you spot local wildlife, such as colorful birds or monkeys swinging through the trees. The zipline course is designed to provide a thrilling yet safe experience, allowing you to connect with the environment in a completely new way. This activity offers an exhilarating opportunity to see the forest from a unique perspective, making it one of the most exciting ways to experience the natural beauty of the region.

After your ziplining adventure, head to a nearby Yi ethnic village for a traditional lunch, where you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. The Yi people, known for their rich traditions and vibrant customs, will welcome you into their village, where you’ll enjoy a meal that reflects their agricultural heritage and unique cooking methods. Your lunch will feature dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, such as grilled meats, root vegetables, and spicy chili sauces—flavors that are characteristic of the Yi people’s cuisine. As you dine, your guide will explain the significance of each dish and the customs surrounding their food culture. The meal will not only satisfy your hunger but also offer insight into the daily life of the Yi people and their strong connection to the land. This experience provides a taste of authentic local cuisine and an authentic cultural exchange that enhances your overall travel experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll begin the scenic drive back to Jinghong, which takes about 2.5 hours. As you travel, enjoy the peaceful landscapes of Xishuangbanna, passing through lush forests, rolling hills, and small villages. Along the way, your guide will continue to share stories about the region’s culture and history, providing you with a deeper understanding of the area you’ve just explored. You’ll also have the opportunity to reflect on the amazing experiences of the day, from the pandas to the ziplining, and the traditional lunch in the Yi village. Upon arrival in Jinghong, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, where you can rest and relax after an action-packed day. If you still have energy, feel free to explore the city’s night market or enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the Lancang River to unwind before the next day’s adventures.

Day6 Jinghong Departure

Start your final day in Xishuangbanna with a traditional Dai-style breakfast, a delightful and aromatic meal featuring rice noodles with lemongrass. This dish, often served in the morning, is a refreshing and flavorful way to begin the day. The noodles are soft and smooth, paired with a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass and herbs, offering a light but satisfying meal. You’ll also find a variety of local condiments, such as spicy chili sauce, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs to enhance the dish. As you savor this breakfast, your guide will share the history of Dai cuisine, highlighting its emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors that are central to the region’s food culture. This authentic meal offers a final taste of Xishuangbanna’s unique culinary traditions, ensuring that your experience here is both memorable and delicious.

After breakfast, take a short trip to Gaozhuang Xishuangjing, a bustling market area known for its vibrant stalls and wide selection of local handicrafts and souvenirs. This market is a great place to pick up final mementos from your journey, offering a mix of traditional and modern items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Xishuangbanna. As you walk through the colorful lanes, you’ll find handwoven textiles, lacquerware, silver jewelry, and other unique goods crafted by the local Dai people and other ethnic minorities of the region. Your guide will help you navigate the market, providing insights into the items and their cultural significance. Whether you're looking for a traditional souvenir or something more modern, Gaozhuang Xishuangjing offers a perfect opportunity to find a meaningful keepsake of your time in this fascinating region.

In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to the airport, train station or hotel for your departure, concluding your incredible journey through Xishuangbanna. Your guide will ensure that your transfer is smooth and comfortable, providing any necessary assistance along the way. As you travel, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had—from walking with rescued pandas to exploring the lush rainforests, tasting unique local dishes, and engaging with the rich ethnic cultures of the region. Whether you're heading home or onto your next adventure, the memories of your time in Xishuangbanna will stay with you long after your departure. Your guide will say farewell, wishing you a safe and pleasant journey, and ensuring that your final moments here are as smooth as the rest of your trip.

Price Per Person in US Dollars