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Overview

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xī shuāng bǎn nà

Xishuangbanna

Xishuangbanna is located in southern Yunnan Province, China, bordering Myanmar and Laos. It is a tropical rainforest ecosystem situated on the Tropic of Cancer. This region boasts rich biodiversity and serves as one of the primary habitats for wild Asian elephants in China. The area is home to the Dai ethnic minority, which has a long history and unique cultural heritage. The most grand traditional festival of the Dai people is the Songkran. Dai women are skilled in brocade weaving, and there are many traditional crafts and distinctive garments.

NameXishuangbanna, Sipsongpanna

ClimateSubtropical monsoon rainforest climate

Area19,096 km²

Population1 million

GeographyThe northern margin of the tropics south of the Tropic of Cancer

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Attractions

Must-see attractions

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Seasons

Best time to visit

Peak Season

Nov– Apr

The dry season typically runs from November to April of the following year. Compared to the wet season, precipitation is significantly reduced, making the weather much drier. Average temperatures range from approximately 18°C to 25°C, with warm and comfortable days; nights are cooler, and there is a larger temperature difference between day and night. There are many sunny days with long hours of sunlight, making it very suitable for outdoor activities and tourism. It is also the peak tourist season, especially during the Chinese New Year period (January to February), which sees a high influx of visitors. Songkran in mid-April is another major attraction that draws a large number of tourists.

Off-season

May – Oct

During the wet season, precipitation is high, temperatures are elevated, humidity is very high, and weather changes occur rapidly. Typically lasting from mid-May to mid-October, this period sees the majority of the annual rainfall; temperatures are relatively high, with average temperatures ranging between 25°C and 30°C, sometimes exceeding 35°C. The air humidity is extremely high, usually remaining above 80%, and can sometimes approach saturation levels. Afternoons often bring thunderstorms or heavy rain, but the weather clears up quickly after the rain.

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Festival

Highlight

Songkran

Songkran is a traditional holiday celebrated in Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Dai regions of Yunnan Province in China. It marks the traditional lunar New Year and symbolizes the washing away of misfortunes from the past year, welcoming a fresh start.

In Xishuangbanna, it typically takes place from April 13 to 15. The most famous activity during the festival is the water-splashing, where people douse each other with water, symbolizing purification and blessings. Water is seen as a purifying force, capable of washing away the troubles and misfortunes of the old year, bringing good luck and health for the new year.

Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong is one of the most important traditional festivals in Thailand, especially in the northern region, where it is known as Yi Peng.

While Xishuangbanna does not have a dedicated "Loy Krathong" festival, in areas predominantly inhabited by the Dai people, locals also release sky lanterns and float water lamps during similar festivals or events. These activities symbolize the cleansing of past sins and misfortunes, and are done to wish for good luck and happiness. It typically takes place on the full moon day of November, with the exact date determined according to the Buddhist calendar.

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Interests

Travel stories

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Get There

How to arrive

Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport (JHG)

Xishuangbanna 21 min5 km

Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport offers direct flights from multiple cities within China, making it the fastest and most convenient way to reach the destination.

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)

Kunming 8 min515 km240-Hour Transit Visa

For international visitors, it is possible to first arrive in Kunming, and then transfer to a domestic flight or other modes of transportation to proceed to Xishuangbanna.

Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport (JHG)

Lijiang 14 min1100 km240-Hour Transit Visa

There is a tourist train named "From Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to Tropical Rainforest," which departs from Lijiang, offering a comfortable overnight travel experience. This train connects several key destinations, including Xishuangbanna, Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, with a total journey time of approximately 14 hours. So, entering through Lijiang and then taking this train to Xishuangbanna is also an excellent choice. Passengers can enjoy a restful night aboard the train while traveling efficiently between these scenic locations.

Mohan Railway Port

Xishuangbanna 180 min210 km240-Hour Transit Visa

Mohan Railway Port is also one of the ports applicable for the 240-hour transit visa policy. You can take a train from Vientiane, Laos, or Bangkok, Thailand, and reach Mohan Station via the China-Laos Railway, which is the first station for entering or exiting China on this rail line. The train journey from Mohan Station to Xishuangbanna Station takes approximately 1 hour.