Manting Park

Manting Park is Xishuangbanna's oldest garden, once the royal garden of the Dai kings and now a lush blend of tropical plants and Dai culture. Stroll shaded paths, see golden temples, and watch peacock dances. Our private guide handles tickets and timing so you can simply enjoy the serenity.

What it is

Manting Park, or 'Manting' meaning 'heart of the garden' in Dai language, dates back over 1,300 years to the Tang Dynasty when it served as the pleasure garden for the Dai kings of Xishuangbanna. The park is a living museum of Dai culture, featuring traditional stilt houses, golden pagodas, and a daily peacock dance performance. It's also a botanical treasure, home to over 500 species of tropical and subtropical plants, including towering palms, fragrant frangipani, and rare orchids. The park's centerpiece is a serene lake where you can feed fish and admire the reflection of the surrounding temples.

Located in Jinghong, the capital of Xishuangbanna, Manting Park is easily combined with a visit to the nearby Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden. The park hosts evening performances of Dai music and dance, and during the Water Splashing Festival in April, it becomes a hub of celebration. Our guides can arrange a visit that includes a traditional Dai lunch and a private peacock dance show, giving you deeper insight into local traditions. For those interested in tropical flora, this is a perfect complement.

Highlights

Royal Garden Heritage — Explore the ancient grounds where Dai kings once relaxed, with original plantings and restored pavilions dating back centuries.
Peacock Dance Performances — Watch graceful Dai dancers mimic peacocks daily at 10am and 3pm; our guide secures front-row seats.
Golden Pagodas — Admire the intricately carved Manfeilong and other stupas, symbols of Theravada Buddhism in the region.
Tropical Plant Collection — Wander among 500+ species, from giant bamboo to exotic fruits, with informative labels in English.
Evening Cultural Show — Enjoy a vibrant performance of Dai songs, dances, and music under the stars (additional ticket).

Visitors walking on shaded stone path in Manting Park with temple ahead

How to get there

Manting Park is in central Jinghong, about 10 minutes by taxi (¥15-20) from the airport or 15 minutes from the long-distance bus station. From Xishuangbanna's Gaozhuang night market, it's a 20-minute walk. Many travellers visit as part of a half-day tour combined with the Tropical Botanical Garden. Our guide can arrange private transfers and time your visit to coincide with the peacock dance shows.

Tickets & practical info

Admission: ¥40 per person (children under 1.2m free). Opening hours: 8:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30). Evening show tickets start at ¥180 and must be booked in advance.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate with cash or via WeChat/Alipay; foreign credit cards are not accepted directly, but our guide can help you book online using local payment methods.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures are pleasant (15-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. Early morning (8-10am) offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while the 3pm peacock dance is a highlight. Avoid the Water Splashing Festival in mid-April unless you want to join the lively crowds.

Tips from our guides

Arrive by 9:30am to secure a good spot for the 10am peacock dance; the amphitheater fills up quickly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent—the park is lush and humid.
Respect local customs: do not touch the monks or Buddha statues, and dress modestly when entering temple areas.
Combine your visit with the nearby Gaozhuang Night Market for local Dai snacks and handicrafts after your park tour.
Book the evening cultural show in advance through our guide to avoid sold-out performances, especially on weekends.

Close-up of golden carvings on Dai temple pillar in Manting Park

FAQ

Is Manting Park suitable for children?

Yes, the park is family-friendly with flat paths, plenty of shade, and open spaces. Children enjoy the peacock dance and feeding fish in the lake.

Can I buy tickets with a foreign credit card?

No, the ticket office only accepts cash or Chinese mobile payments. Our guide can purchase tickets on your behalf using WeChat Pay or Alipay.

How long does a visit typically take?

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the gardens and watching the performances. Add an extra hour if you stay for the evening show.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?

The main paths are paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some temple steps may be challenging.