A Guide to Lancang, Compiled After 3 Visits.

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and yearning for a touch of warmth and tranquility this winter? Look no further than Lancang, a hidden gem nestled in Yunnan Province! Here, warm sunshine, rich ethnic customs, and a plethora of scenic spots and delicious food await your exploration. Follow this guide and embark on a winter journey to Lancang. 🌟Introduction Lancang, officially known as Lancang Lahu Autonomous County, is located in the southwest of Yunnan Province. It is the only Lahu autonomous county in China. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse ethnic culture, pleasant winter climate, abundant sunshine, and temperatures consistently between 10-25°C (50-77°F)🌞, it's the perfect escape from the cold and a great place to bask in the winter sun. 🗺️Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Lancang County Town → Jingmai Mountain Wengji Ancient Village ◦ Morning: Arrive in Lancang County Town, take a break, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. ◦ Afternoon: Head to Jingmai Mountain Wengji Ancient Village and wander through the ancient Dai and Lahu stilt houses, feeling as if you've traveled back in time. ◦ Evening: Check in to a guesthouse in Wengji Ancient Village, savor local delicacies, and experience the nightlife of the ethnic minorities. • Day 2: Jingmai Mountain Nuogan Ancient Village → Mangjing Village ◦ Morning: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise and sea of clouds over Jingmai Mountain, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature. ◦ Late Morning: Visit Nuogan Ancient Village and take photos by the clear ponds and ancient trees. ◦ Afternoon: Stroll through Mangjing Village, learn about Bulang tea culture, and taste authentic Pu'er tea. ◦ Evening: Return to the county town, explore the night market, and sample various snacks. • Day 3: Lancang Laodabao → Departure ◦ Morning: Visit Laodabao, the birthplace of "Happy Lahu," enjoy Lahu song and dance performances, and experience their enthusiasm. ◦ Afternoon: Free time for souvenir shopping, then depart, concluding your pleasant journey. 📸Photo Spots • Jingmai Mountain Wengji Ancient Village: The big banyan tree at the entrance of the ancient village is a perfect photo spot. With the ancient village as the backdrop, you're guaranteed great shots. The temple within the village, with its unique architectural style, is another great spot. Dress in ethnic clothing for an even more atmospheric photo. • Nuogan Ancient Village: The pond in the village, reflecting the ancient houses and the blue sky and white clouds, offers stunning photo opportunities. Stroll along the stone-paved roads and capture scenes of daily life for a touch of local flavor. • Laodabao: Have a friend take photos of you singing and dancing with the Lahu people in the square to capture those joyful moments. The traditional Lahu dwellings also make for great photo backdrops. 🍜Must-Try Food • Chicken Lafun: A traditional Lahu dish, the chicken and rice are stewed until tender, fragrant, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A must-try! • Grilled Dried Beef: Charcoal-grilled dried beef, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, exudes a rich aroma. Paired with a special dipping sauce, it's simply divine. • Spicy Ant Eggs Salad: A Lancang specialty, the spicy ant eggs have a tangy and refreshing taste and are rich in nutrients. Don't miss this unique delicacy. • Lancang Rice Noodles: A delicious broth with smooth rice noodles and a variety of toppings. A bowl of this for breakfast will energize your day. 🏠Accommodation • Jingmai Mountain Wengji Ancient Village Guesthouses: We recommend "Wengji Ancient Village Inn." The wooden rooms are full of ethnic charm. Open the window to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient village, and fall asleep to the sound of insects at night. • Lancang County Town Hotels: "Lancang Grand Hotel" is conveniently located, well-equipped, and reasonably priced, making it easy to travel and shop. 🎈Travel Tips • Lancang enjoys plenty of sunshine in winter, but the temperature difference between day and night is significant, so remember to bring a warm coat. • The UV rays are strong on Jingmai Mountain, so take sun protection measures. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. • Some local dishes can be quite spicy. If you can't handle spice, let the restaurant know in advance. • Respect the customs of ethnic minorities. Ask for permission before taking photos in the ancient villages. Winter in Lancang is a blend of warmth and beauty, a fusion of nature and culture. Every moment here is filled with joy and memories. Pack your bags and embark on your winter adventure in Lancang. You're sure to fall in love with this charming town💖!