Peaceful Xishuangbanna: Temples in the Mist

Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China

Peaceful Xishuangbanna - Temples in the Mist

WHEN

All Year Round

PRICE

From USD 3,200pp excl. flights

HOW LONG

3 nights ideal length

Xishuangbanna is Yunnan’s tropical paradise! In December, the weather is beautifully warm—daytime temperatures around 22-26°C (72-79°F), evenings cooler at 12-16°C (54-61°F), with lots of sunshine and hardly any rain. You can enjoy T-shirts, shorts, and a light jacket—much warmer than Dali, with a relaxed Southeast Asian feel. Lush rainforests, Dai ethnic culture, wildlife, and vibrant night markets make it ideal for a cozy getaway. This easy 4-day itinerary is centered in Jinghong, with short distances and a relaxed pace.

Day 1: Arrival & Dai Culture in Jinghong

– Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Jinghong Gasa Airport (or by high-speed train). Private transfer to your hotel and settle in.
– Afternoon: Explore Mantinga Park (historic royal garden with Buddhist temple, peacocks, and traditional Dai dance performances).
– Evening: Discover Gaozhuang Xishuangjing + Starlight Night Market (stunning riverside area with colorful Southeast Asian-style buildings, Mekong River scenery, food stalls, fresh juices, and live music/dance shows—full of energy!).

Day 2: Tropical Botanical Garden (Full-Day Highlight)

– Full Day: Visit the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (China’s largest tropical garden—a must-see!).
– West Zone: Exotic plants, fruit groves, perfect for photos.
– East Zone: Rainforest trails with giant water lilies and unique flora.
– Electric carts available for easy exploration. Spend the day immersing yourself.
– Lunch: Enjoy Dai-style meals nearby (bamboo rice, fresh herbs).
– Evening: Return to Gaozhuang Night Market for more delicious food or relax at your hotel.

Make this itinerary yours

Each and every ARCH trip is tailored exactly to who you are and what you want to do. So tell us about yourself and we’ll create something that’s entirely you.

Day 3: Wildlife & Rainforest Adventure

– Morning: Wild Elephant Valley (best place to see Asian elephants—elevated walkways, butterfly park, and elephant performances; sometimes wild elephants appear!).
– Afternoon: Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park (deep valley rainforest, peacock releases, ethnic village, and waterfalls—pure nature).
– Lunch: Local rainforest specialties.
– Evening: Mengle Great Buddhist Temple (magnificent golden Dai-style temple, especially beautiful with evening lights).

Day 4: Dai Village Experience + Leisure & Departure

– Morning: Dai Ethnic Garden (authentic Dai villages in Olive Dam—home visits, cultural performances including gentle water splashing year-round, and handicrafts).
– Lunch: Traditional Dai dishes like pineapple purple rice and fresh salads.
– Afternoon: Free time—wander tropical flower gardens, shop for local tea or fruits, or simply relax by the Mekong River.
– Departure: Private transfer to the airport or train station.

Must-Try Dai & Tropical Food

– Grilled fish, chicken, and vegetables.
– Pineapple rice, bamboo rice, and tangy lemon-based salads.
– Fresh tropical fruits (jackfruit, mango, dragon fruit—sweet and abundant).
– Coconut desserts and mango sticky rice.

Hotels

Next Steps

How do I book this tour?

Please use the inquiry form on the right-hand side of this page or email arch.official.co@gmail.com to get started. One of our travel designers will be in touch accordingly to start the process of planning your custom trip!

What is the payment schedule?

1. Deposit:

Once you are ready to book, a $500 USD per person planning fee is required to begin reserving your arrangements. This will go towards your total trip costs and will be taken off your final balance amount.

2. Full payment:

Full trip payment will be requested 60 days prior to departure. If you’re booking within 60 days of your departure, you may be asked to pay make the full payment straight away.

Payments can be made via credit card, bank transfer, WeChat or Alipay.

Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China