Mangbala Kingdom Garden

　　    "Mangbala Naxi" is the ancient name of Xishuangbanna, which means "a beautiful place" in the Dai language. The "Mangbala Kingdom Garden" is a tourist site rich in distinctive ethnic charm. Built in Olive Dam, this garden brings together the natural and cultural landscapes of Xishuangbanna, integrating the history, culture, religion, and folk customs of the Dai people.

　　    Within the garden, tall coconut and areca palms stand upright, while banana and mango trees form lush groves. The wind rustles through the phoenix tail bamboo, and the fragrance of wild orchids drifts through the air. A variety of tropical plants cover the area, including aromatic herbs. Rare birds nest in the dense branches, and playful monkeys leap among the treetops. There are also lovely flocks of parrots perched in the trees, chirping melodiously.

　　    Surrounding the Great Buddha Temple are more than ten uniquely styled stupas, along with various sculptures and reliefs that showcase the Dai people’s legends of creation. The Dai Ethnic Village displays the evolution of Dai bamboo houses from the first, second, to the third generation, right up to the primitive homes built in trees. Visitors can walk across sky bridges to explore the Dai villages, experiencing the original environment where individual households lived deep in the jungle. To guard against wild animals or other dangers, these bridges were built for mutual aid. Descending from the sky bridges, you’ll find a scene of flowing streams, ancient trees, entwined vines, and towering palm trees—offering a taste of the beauty of a tropical primeval forest.

　　    Finally, there is the restored ancient kingdom of Mangbala Naxi, covering an area of about 15,000 square meters. The kingdom features structures such as the Dai King’s Council Hall, palace halls, guesthouses, royal gardens, and servants’ workshops and residences. Visitors can enjoy traditional Dai court dances, sample royal delicacies, and observe crafts such as Dai brocade weaving, rice noodle making, and cooking, as well as activities like elephant training, snake handling, and peacock rearing. This series of unique experiences offers a fascinating glimpse into the ambiance of an ancient kingdom from a different culture.