Four Days and Three Nights in Xishuangbanna

➡️Day 1: After arriving in Xishuangbanna, head to Gaozhuang Xishuangjing. This area features a blend of Dai and Thai architecture, perfect for taking photos. In the evening, visit the Starlight Night Market, one of the largest night markets in Southeast Asia. Here, you can sample various Dai-style barbecues, tropical fruits, and local snacks. The night market is open until the early hours of the morning, but it's less crowded after 9pm. ➡️Day 2: In the morning, visit the Dai Garden (entry fee: CNY 45). We recommend participating in the water splashing activity at 1:30pm (bring a change of clothes). In the afternoon, head to Manyuan Village (30 km from the city center) to see the mushroom houses and traditional Dai dwellings. In the evening, explore the Riverside Night Market, which offers a more local experience than the Starlight Night Market. Try the Dai-style grilled food in banana leaves and the lemon-pounded chicken feet. ➡️Day 3: Manting Park (entry fee: CNY 40) is the former royal garden of the Dai king. Dress in bright colors for photos. The main Buddhist temple is located within the park, so dress respectfully (no shorts or short skirts). In the afternoon, visit Longzhou Square for views of the Lancang River. In the evening, try an authentic Dai meal, such as lemongrass grilled fish and pineapple rice. ➡️Day 4: In the morning, explore the Dai Water Town and experience Dai water culture. At the ethnic handicrafts market, you can buy souvenirs such as silver jewelry and Dai brocade. Manyun Market is the largest local farmers market, where you can buy fresh fruit and local specialties to take home. ⭐️Transportation: 1️⃣Airport to city center: Taxi (approx. CNY 30), airport bus (CNY 5 per person) 2️⃣Within the city center: Use DiDi, or rent an e-bike for short distances. 3️⃣To scenic spots: - Dai Garden: Take the bus from the city's passenger transport station (CNY 15) - Wild Elephant Valley: Take the direct bus from the passenger transport station (CNY 22) - Manyuan Village: Charter a car (approx. CNY 150 round trip) ➡️Accommodation: 1⃣️In the heart of Gaozhuang Xishuangjing: - Mekong View Lan Grand Hotel (high-end) - Puti Pasha Courtyard (boutique guesthouse) 2⃣️Budget-friendly options: - Si Rui Qiu Art Hotel - Qing Feng Yun Holiday Inn ⭐️Must-try Food: 1⃣️Main dishes: - Dai-style hand-grabbed rice (recommended: Luoluo Cafe) - Lemongrass grilled fish - Chicken cooked with sour bamboo shoots - Pineapple purple rice 2⃣️Night market snacks: - Pounded chicken feet (recommended: Xiaoyu's) - Paoluda (banana flavor is the most classic) - Lao iced coffee - Coconut jelly 3⃣️Fruit: - Small pineapples (CNY 10 for 3) - Mango (try the salad version) - Durian (cheapest in May–June) - Passion fruit Things to Note: 1⃣️Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses are essential. 2⃣️Mosquito repellent: Bring mosquito repellent. 3⃣️Clothing: Pack light summer clothes + a light jacket. 4⃣️Water Splashing Festival gear: Waterproof phone bag, change of clothes. Best time to visit: November–April (May–June is less crowded and more affordable). Book accommodation at least 1 month in advance. Prices double during peak season (November–April). Scenic spot tickets can be booked through the official WeChat public account. Some attractions offer package deals.