Xishuangbanna

Clustered around the Mekong River (locally the Lancang), Xishuangbanna feels more like Southeast Asia than most of China. The Dai minority — ethnically and linguistically related to the Thai — dominate the region, celebrating their spectacular Water Splashing Festival each April, a riot of colour, music and soaking water fights. Wild Asian elephants roam the northern valleys, and the Elephant Valley (Yexianggu) offers ethical close encounters with herds. Ancient Buddhist temples, tropical botanical gardens and slow boat rides on the Mekong complete one of China's most exotic travel experiences.