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Simao (now called Pu’er by some) and Xishuangbanna are neighboring Prefectures on the Southern tip of Yunnan Province. They are the must see counterparts of Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La of the Northwest. Xishuangbanna has a decidedly Dai people influence. Some find the capital Jinghong not be much of a destination in itself, personally I found the city a pleasant destination and worth a day or two of your time. During the Water Splashing Festival it is more fun than you can imagine. In addition to Jinghong the surrounding rainforests, links to Laos and Thailand both by road and boat and the towns of Menghun and Menglong make for an interesting several days. If you are planning to use the Mekong River to enter or leave Xishuangbanna, be warned that water levels and the ability of boats to navigate them become more difficult and less reliable every year. Unless the water is running high and you are in no hurry to get to your next destination you may want to consider other transportation options.
Simao (Pu’er) is a sleepy pleasant destination with a nice downtown, some surprising pleasures for the single traveler and beautiful parks, countryside and tea plantations on its periphery. The weather is mild and the night sky is filled with stars. It has the potential to be the next big thing in eco-tourism. Just north of Simao is Ning’er (formerly called Pu’er), the name of one of China's most famous and expensive teas and now capital of the region it grows in. The streets of Ning’er are scattered with teashops and teahouses. Traditionally sold in brittle "biscuits" wrapped in paper and bamboo leaves, the best Pu'er tea sells for more than $1,000 a kilo. Clearly, if Tea, Tea Museums and Tea plantations are of interest this is the Kona Coast of China. And the Cai Yang He National Forest and accommodations there are some of the more peaceful and luxurious spots in
Southwest Yunnan.
Both Simao (SYM) and Xishuangbanna (JHG) have their own airports with excellent connections to Kunming and other Yunnan cities. However you may want to consider taking a bus or car, as the ride is scenic, interesting and comfortable. Except for a short 30-mile stretch it’s highway all the way. For more information on long distance buses see Simao and Xishuangbanna transportation sections.
The regions temperature is fairly constant throughout the year. The highs hit in March through May. With rain building from May to September and peaking in July and August making the best time to visit January through March. Though April has the biggest and best festival celebrations.
Traditional Festivals
| Date |
Holiday |
| 15th of the 1st month |
Lantern Fextival |
| the 3rd month |
Qing Ming |
| 5th of the 5th month |
Dragon-Boat Festival |
| 15th of the 8th month |
Mid-Autumn Festival |
| Mid April |
Water Splashing Festival |
| May 4th |
Chinese Youth Day |
| July/August |
Nadam Fair | Note: The dates of Chinese Festivals are based on the lunar calendar.
Therefore the"1st of the 1st month" does not necessarily mean January 1st
Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Xishuangbanna include:
• White and Black Pagodas in Manfeilong
• Weijiang Baita Pagoda
• Tropical Botanical Garden - with its 3000 species of plants
• Mangdou Customs Show Village
• Dai minority village
• Mekong River
• Octagonal Pagoda (Ba Jiao Ting)
• National Customs Park
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