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Mengla, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.
The unique place you can enjoy tropical forest by aeroamphibious way in China.
Mengla County, where the scenic area lies, was once an important stop along the ancient “Tea-Horse Road.” Historically, it also served as a royal hunting ground for Dai kings. Within the park, Dai villages have preserved traditional stilted houses and pottery-making techniques using foot-powered wheels. The pottery craft of Mandan Village has even been listed as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage.
The Wangtianshu (scientific name Parashorea chinensis) is a rare and protected plant species in China. It was first discovered in 1975 by botanist Cai Xitao. Its straight, towering trunk reaching toward the sky earned it the name “Wangtianshu,” meaning “tree that looks to the heavens.” Today, it stands as a living symbol of China’s tropical rainforests.
Aerial Canopy Walkway
The Aerial Canopy Walkway is the centerpiece of the scenic area. Suspended 36 meters above the ground between the crowns of giant Wangtianshu trees, the walkway stretches for 500 meters and is made of steel cables and mesh platforms. Walking through this elevated corridor allows visitors to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the lush rainforest canopy—a thrilling and unforgettable experience. It takes about one hour to complete the walk, and up to 200 visitors can access it at the same time.
Rainforest Hiking Trail
The Rainforest Hiking Trail runs for 3 kilometers and is divided into two routes: Route A and Route B.
Along the trail, 12 educational signboards explain fascinating details about rainforest ecology. A full hike takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Philip Trail
Named in honor of Prince Philip of the United Kingdom, the Philip Trail is a 1.5-kilometer-long primitive rainforest path for those seeking an authentic jungle adventure. Along the route, visitors can observe poisonous trees like the arrow poison tree and “Blood-sealing tree,” as well as giant tree ferns and epiphytic orchids. The trail ends at the Rainforest Ecology Museum, where insect specimens and plant fossils are on display. The walk usually takes about 1.5 hours.
Nanla River Sightseeing Cruise
The Nanla River, a tributary of the Lancang (Mekong) River, flows through 8 kilometers of the scenic area. Taking a sightseeing cruise allows travelers to enjoy panoramic views of the riverbanks, tropical vegetation, and diverse wildlife. White egrets and hornbills are often spotted along the journey. The cruises operate daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with one boat departing every hour. Each trip lasts about 40 minutes and offers distant views of the “One Bridge, Two Nations” scenery at the China-Laos border.
08:30 – Arrive at the scenic area.
09:00–10:30 – Explore the Philip Trail and learn about the rainforest ecosystem.
11:00–12:30 – Walk along the Rainforest Trail (Route A) to see the giant Wangtianshu trees and unique vegetation.
13:00 – Enjoy lunch at the scenic area restaurant, featuring local specialties like lemongrass-grilled chicken and bamboo-tube rice.
14:30–15:30 – Experience the thrilling Aerial Canopy Walkway.
16:00–16:40 – Take the Nanla River sightseeing cruise.
17:00 – Return trip.
Wear Quick-Dry Clothing:
The rainforest is humid and hot. Choose breathable, quick-drying clothes instead of cotton to stay comfortable.
Bring Mosquito Protection:
Insect repellent and mosquito patches are essential, especially for hiking.
Book the Walkway in Advance:
The canopy walkway is popular during weekends and holidays. Reserve tickets at least one day ahead. Morning sessions have better lighting for photography.
Travel Light:
You’ll need to climb stairs on the walkway, so bring only a small backpack and avoid large luggage.
Safety Notice: Running or shaking the canopy bridge is prohibited. Visitors weighing over 120 kg should notify staff in advance.
Environmental Protection: Do not pick flowers, collect plants, or touch poisonous species such as the arrow poison tree. Violators may be fined 200–500 RMB.
Respect Local Customs: Some areas within the scenic spot are Dai villages. Avoid entering residential zones and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
Weather Check: The rainy season (May–October) often brings heavy showers. Check forecasts before visiting. Raincoats are available for rent (20 RMB each).
Keep Your Belongings Safe: Be cautious with your phone and camera, especially on the canopy walkway and river cruise, to prevent accidental drops into the forest or water.
By Car:
From Jinghong City, drive about 134 kilometers along the Mengmo Highway (G213). The journey takes around 2 hours. Free parking is available at the scenic area.
By Shuttle Bus:
Buses depart from Jinghong Bus Station to Mengla County at 07:30 and 09:00 daily (50 RMB per person). From Mengla, transfer to the scenic area’s shuttle minibus (15 RMB per person, 30-minute ride).
By Group Tour:
Many travel agencies in Xishuangbanna offer one-day Wangtianshu packages that include transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and guide service. Prices range from 280–350 RMB per person, including the canopy walkway experience.
Opening Hours
Scenic Area: 08:30–18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
Aerial Canopy Walkway: 09:00–17:00
Nanla River Cruise: Last departure at 17:00
Note: The canopy walkway may close temporarily during storms or high winds. Check official announcements before your visit.
Tickets
Adult Ticket: 55 RMB per person
From $ 317
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