Mangshi Trip Review: An Honest Account of My Journey Inspired by a Song

"Come to Mangshi, come to Mangshi, Mangshi's spring is the most wonderful..." 🎶 The song "Come to Mangshi" has captured the beauty of Mangshi in the hearts of countless people. In February, I finally set foot on this land full of exotic charm, and I was so captivated by its beauty that I didn't want to go home! Now, I'm sharing my travel guide with you all 👇 Transportation Guide ✈️ Airplane: Mangshi Airport has an increasing number of routes, with direct flights available from many cities. After arriving at the airport, you can quickly reach the city center by taxi or airport bus. 🚌 Bus: Long-distance buses are available from surrounding cities to Mangshi. You can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery along the way, but the journey may be a bit long, so be patient. 🚗 Local Transportation: City buses can take you to major attractions. If you want to explore the streets and alleys more freely, renting an electric scooter 🛵 is an excellent choice. Feel the vibrancy of Mangshi as you ride with the wind in your hair. Detailed Itinerary 🗺 Day 1: Mangshi Golden Pagoda - Mangshi Silver Pagoda Morning: Visit Mangshi Golden Pagoda. This glittering golden pagoda stands on a mountaintop, shining brightly under the sun, with a distinct Southeast Asian charm. Step inside the pagoda and immerse yourself in the rich Buddhist atmosphere 🙏. Noon: Enjoy Dai cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Lemongrass grilled fish and pineapple rice are bursting with tropical flavors. Afternoon: Visit Mangshi Silver Pagoda. The pure white pagoda contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and green trees, creating stunning photo opportunities that will wow your friends. 🗺 Day 2: Kongque Lake Eco-tourism Area - Bodhi Temple Morning: Explore Kongque Lake Eco-tourism Area. Here, mountains and waters meet, surrounded by lush forests, and you can see adorable peacocks 🦚. Stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, breathe in the fresh air, and relax both your body and mind. Noon: Try the local chicken hot pot at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area. The chicken is tender, and the soup is rich and flavorful. Afternoon: Visit Bodhi Temple. The ancient buildings and serene atmosphere will bring you inner peace. 🗺 Day 3: Three Trees Style Street - Mangshi Square - Departure Morning: Explore Three Trees Style Street, where you'll find various specialty shops selling exquisite Dai brocade, wood carvings, and other souvenirs. Noon: Enjoy a bowl of beef ersi (rice noodles) at a snack stall near Mangshi Square. The noodles are smooth and chewy, and the soup is rich and savory. Afternoon: Experience local life at Mangshi Square before heading back with wonderful memories. 9 Must-See Attractions 1. Mangshi Golden Pagoda: A Mangshi landmark with a stunning golden exterior. 2. Mangshi Silver Pagoda: Pure white and picturesque, perfect for photos. 3. Kongque Lake Eco-tourism Area: Get close to nature, see peacocks, and enjoy the lake view. 4. Bodhi Temple: A historical temple with a rich Buddhist culture. 5. Three Trees Style Street: Shop, relax, and experience local customs. 6. Mangshi Square: A great place to experience local life. 7. Black River Old Slope: Breathtaking scenery of alpine meadows and primeval forests. 8. Huixian Ancient Village: A Dai ancient village where you can experience folk culture. 9. New Play Factory: A trendy spot with various food and cultural and creative shops. Local Food Recommendations 1. Dai Cuisine: Lemongrass grilled fish, pineapple rice, and Dai hand-grabbing rice are sour, spicy, sweet, and appetizing. 2. Beef Ersi: Smooth and chewy rice noodles with flavorful beef, a local breakfast favorite. 3. Falooda: Sweet coconut milk with crispy croutons, an instant favorite. 4. Shuai Baba: Sweet or savory pastries with a crispy exterior and rich filling. 5. Sa Pie: A unique dish with a distinctive flavor that some people find addictive. 6. Bamboo Tube Rice: Soft and glutinous rice with a subtle bamboo fragrance. Accommodation Recommendations 🏨 Mangshi City Center: Stay near Mangshi Square for convenient access to transportation and a wide selection of hotels and guesthouses. Mangshi Hotel is a good choice with a prime location and complete facilities. 🏨 Near Mangshi Golden Pagoda: If you want to be close to the attractions and enjoy the sunrise and sunset, choose a guesthouse here, such as Yunli Banshan Holiday Guesthouse, which offers a beautiful environment and overlooks the city. Travel Tips 1. The temperature in Mangshi is comfortable in February, but the UV rays are strong, so bring sunscreen and a sun hat 👒. 2. Dress modestly when entering temples and respect local religious customs. 3. Some Dai dishes have unique flavors, so if you have a sensitive palate, do your research beforehand. 4. Bargain appropriately when buying souvenirs and compare prices. 5. Plan your transportation and time in advance when visiting more remote scenic areas like Black River Old Slope.