Overview
The Meng Huan Golden Pagoda, located atop Leiya Rang Mountain in southeastern Mangshi, Yunnan Province, is China's first golden pagoda and Asia's first hollow pagoda. Standing approximately 76 meters tall, the octagonal, four-door hollow pagoda is built in the architectural style of the South Asian Dai royal palace. Its golden splendor makes it a landmark of Mangshi and a sacred site for the Dai people.
A visit of 1.5-2 hours is recommended. The best time to visit is around 4-5 PM, allowing you to appreciate its daytime splendor and then enjoy the night view after the lights come on around 7:30 PM.
How to Get There
How to get there: The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda is located on the summit of Lei Ya Rang Mountain, about 5-6 kilometers southeast of Mangshi.
By plane: From other places, you can fly to Mangshi Airport first, and then take a taxi to the scenic area.
By taxi (most recommended): It takes about 15-20 minutes from downtown Mangshi and costs about 15-20 yuan.
Shared electric bikes: They are readily available on the streets of Mangshi. You can ride one to the foot of the mountain and then walk about 30 minutes uphill.
By bus: You can take bus routes 2 or 4 and get off at a stop near the pagoda. The fare is about 2 yuan per person, but you will need to walk a distance uphill after getting off the bus.
The itinerary includes climbing 108 steps to enter the scenic area, circling the pagoda three times clockwise for blessings, visiting the white marble Buddha statue inside, and finally reaching the viewing platform for a panoramic view of Mangshi. After the tour, it's about a 5-10 minute walk to the adjacent Meng Huan Silver Pagoda.
What to Expect
A staircase leads to the Golden Pagoda within the scenic area, requiring a climb of 108 steps. A parking lot is available at the summit for those driving directly to the pagoda. The scenic area features a viewing platform offering panoramic views of Mangshi; shoes must be removed before entering the pagoda. Facilities include restrooms, beverage shops, souvenir shops, and gift shops. A photography studio is also located at the summit plaza, where clothing can be rented for photoshoots.
Practical Tips
- Shoes must be removed before entering the main hall of the Golden Pagoda; it is recommended to wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Flash photography is prohibited inside the hall.
- Avoid wearing short skirts, shorts, or overly revealing clothing. If inappropriate attire is required, sarongs can be rented at the scenic area.
- Circumambulate the pagoda three times clockwise to pray for blessings (do not go counterclockwise); do not touch the Buddha statue, do not step on the threshold, and do not wear a hat into the hall.
- Yunnan has very strong ultraviolet radiation, so it is recommended to prepare sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
