Manting

The "Garden of the Soul"

1.Located on Manting Road in Jinghong: City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, approximately 2 kilometers from the city center, Manting Park is the oldest and most historically significant park in the region. Covering an area of over 400 mu (about 27 hectares), this lush sanctuary was once the imperial garden for the Dai Kings (feudal lords and chieftains) for over 1,300 years,. In the Dai language, the park is known as "Chunhuan," which translates to "The Garden of the Soul." Legend has it that a beautiful Dai princess visited the garden and was so captivated by its enchanting scenery that her soul lingered there even after she left, giving the park its poetic name. Today, it stands as a National 4A-level tourist attraction that perfectly blends royal culture, Buddhist spirituality, and tropical folklore.

A Legacy of Royalty and Faith

Manting Park is not merely a scenic spot but the cultural heart of the Dai people. Historically, it served as a leisure retreat for 44 generations of Dai Kings before the feudal system was abolished in 1952. The park connects directly to the majestic Zongfo Temple (General Buddha Temple), the highest-ranking Buddhist temple in Xishuangbanna. Visitors can admire the dazzling golden architecture of the temple, the exquisite White Pagoda group, and the intricate Octagonal Pavilion, experiencing the profound influence of Theravada Buddhism on the region. The Dai King's Palace, reconstructed to reflect its former glory, stands within the park, offering a glimpse into the opulent life of the ancient court.

The Ironwood Forest and Peacock Garden

Nature within the park is as regal as its history. A highlight is the Ironwood (Mesua ferrea) Forest, home to over 500 ancient trees. These trees are celebrated for their resilience and ability to regenerate, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the land. Walking through this cool, shaded forest offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Nearby, the Peacock Garden and the Release Lake (FangSheng Lake) provide a vibrant display of local wildlife. Hundreds of green peacocks—the symbol of good fortune in Dai culture—roam freely or spread their tail feathers in mesmerizing displays, while the serene lake reflects traditional Dai-style wooden bridges.

2.Red Memory: Premier Zhou Enlai's Visit

Manting Park also holds a special place in modern Chinese history. In 1961, Premier Zhou Enlai visited Xishuangbanna and participated in the Water Splashing Festival with the local people, a moment that became a symbol of ethnic unity. A bronze statue of Premier Zhou, dressed in traditional Dai attire and holding a silver basin, stands in the park's entrance plaza, surrounded by Bodhi trees that symbolize the friendship between China and Thailand,. This site remains a moving tribute to the "Red Memory" of the region.

The Bonfire Night Party

As night falls, Manting Park transforms into a hub of cultural celebration. The "Lancang-Mekong River Night" bonfire party is one of the most famous evening activities in Xishuangbanna. Visitors gather at the Ethnic Plaza to watch spectacular performances of Dai singing and dancing, including the rhythmic Elephant Foot Drum dance. The evening culminates in a participatory event where tourists join locals around a bonfire for a communal dance and a water-splashing blessing, allowing travelers to immerse themselves fully in the "fire and smoke" (liveliness) of Dai hospitality.