The Dai Ethnic Garden in Xishuangbanna is a fascinating locality which has consolidated a reputation as a noteworthy visitor attraction. This garden features five separate villages inhabited by people of the Dai ethnicity, namely Manchunman, Manjiang, Manting, Manga and Manzha. This engrossing attraction enables the visitor to obtain a genuine insight into the distinctive culture, lifestyle, history, architecture, religious beliefs, food and sports of this unique people.
There is much to see and admire within this captivating enclave, which is surrounded and permeated by rainforest. The attractive houses of these people, crafted from bamboo, may be seen partly hidden by the coconut and areca palms as well as mango, pomelo and blackwood trees. The buildings in the villages display the distinctive architectural motifs of the Dai people, who typically employ the pillar railing style of architecture.
The friendly and hospitable Dai people always welcome visitors, who are encouraged to observe and take part in festivities like the Water Sprinkling Festival. You will also find a number of Buddhist shrines within the villages which are interesting to visit.
Manchunman Village is noted for its tranquil ambience. It is also renowned for its handsome Buddhist temple, which has the distinction of being the oldest in the region, inheriting a historical legacy spanning 14 centuries. The rich and time-honoured Buddhist traditions of the area are reflected in the attractive mural artworks to be seen at the temple.
Manjiang Village also features a strong religious tradition. It is said that a Bodhisattva visited the site and instructed the villagers to enshrine a special rock which possessed a holy aura. The name of the hamlet reflects this story.
On the other hand Manzha is a settlement that was once noted for is culinary specialties. Today visitors may sample this distinctive gastronomic tradition which is unique and to be found nowhere else. Meanwhile the village of Manting is named after the peacocks which were formerly reared here. You will also fine a number of ivory coloured pagodas at this settlement.
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Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+
