Wild

The Kingdom of the Asian Elephant

Located in the Sanchahe River Valley of Mengyang Town, approximately 30 to 47 kilometers from Jinghong City, Wild Elephant Valley is widely celebrated as the "Secret Realm of the Elephant Kingdom". Covering an area of roughly 370 hectares with altitudes ranging from 747 to 1,055 meters, this reserve is unique as the only scenic spot in China where visitors can safely observe wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat,. Unlike typical zoos, Wild Elephant Valley is a protected sanctuary nestled within a lush tropical rainforest, offering a rare window into the lives of China's remaining 300 wild Asian elephants. As a National 4A-level tourist attraction, it combines ecological conservation, scientific research, and immersive tourism, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families.

High-Altitude Observation and The "Sky" Walk

The centerpiece of the visitor experience is the extensive high-altitude observation boardwalk, stretching over 2,000 meters. This winding corridor allows travelers to walk through the canopy, safely looking down upon the "Elephant Road" and the river valley below. It offers the best vantage point to witness wild elephant herds foraging, bathing in the river, and playing in the mud without disturbing them. For a more panoramic perspective, the Tropical Rainforest Sightseeing Cableway—one of the longest in Southeast Asia—glides over the dense green ocean of the jungle, revealing the layered complexity of the rainforest, from towering trees to tangled vines.

Sanctuary and Rescue

Beyond tourism, Wild Elephant Valley is a hub for conservation. It is home to China's first Asian Elephant Rescue and Breeding Center, established in 2008. The center has become a refuge for injured and orphaned elephants, including the famous elephant "Ranran." Visitors can explore the Asian Elephant Museum to learn about the history of the species, the challenges of human-elephant conflict, and the touching stories of rescue and rehabilitation,. This focus on education transforms the visit from a simple sightseeing trip into a profound lesson on biodiversity and coexistence.

A Rainforest of Biodiversity

The valley is not just about elephants; it is a comprehensive ecosystem. The park features China's earliest artificial butterfly breeding base, the Butterfly Garden, where colorful wings flutter in a dreamlike display. The Bird Garden (BaiNiaoYuan) offers encounters with rare birds and the romantic spectacle of green peacocks opening their tail feathers. Visitors can also explore the Serpent and Lizard Garden to see pythons and monitor lizards, or simply hike through the forest to observe unique botanical phenomena like "strangling figs" and massive plank roots.

Cultural Harmony

Culturally, Xishuangbanna was historically known as the "Kingdom of Elephants," and the elephant is a symbol of good fortune in Dai mythology. The valley integrates this cultural heritage with natural beauty. Visitors can watch interactions at the Elephant School, where elephants display their intelligence, or stay overnight in the "Treehouse Hotel" for a chance to hear the sounds of the rainforest and track wild elephants under the stars. The surrounding area also offers glimpses into the lives of the Dai and Jino ethnic minorities, adding a layer of rich "fire and smoke" (human liveliness) to the wild environment.