Travel Budget for Jinghong Visit Jinghong on a Budget or Travel in Style

Jinghong, Yunnan, China

Jinghong is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Jinghong?

You should plan to spend around $82 (¥594) per day on your vacation in Jinghong. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $47 (¥341) on meals
  • $25 (¥181) on local transportation
  • $40 (¥291) on hotels

A one week trip to Jinghong for two people costs, on average, $1,141 (¥8,316). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $82
    ¥594
  • One Week Per person
    $571
    ¥4,158
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,141
    ¥8,316
  • One Month Per person
    $2,446
    ¥17,820
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,141
    ¥8,316
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $2,283
    ¥16,632
  • One Month For a couple
    $4,892
    ¥35,640
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Jinghong cost?

A one week trip to Jinghong usually costs around $571 (¥4,158) for one person and $1,141 (¥8,316) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Jinghong on average costs around $1,141 (¥8,316) for one person and $2,283 (¥16,632) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Jinghong will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Jinghong on average costs around $2,446 (¥17,820) for one person and $4,892 (¥35,640) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Jinghong expensive to visit?

Jinghong is a quaint locale that appeals to a variety of visitors, each with different travel styles, spending patterns, and budget needs. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

Jinghong can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $36 (¥260) per day, mid-range travelers spend $82 (¥594) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $156 (¥1,135) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Jinghong.

Within Asia, Jinghong is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Nanchang or Dewa Sanzan.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Jinghong Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Jinghong?

The average Jinghong trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Jinghong travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Jinghong cost?

Jinghong on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$9
(¥64)
$20
(¥146)
$38
(¥278)
Local Transportation 1 $11
(¥79)
$25
(¥181)
$48
(¥347)
Food 2 $20
(¥149)
$47
(¥341)
$89
(¥652)
Entertainment 1 $4
(¥29)
$9
(¥66)
$17
(¥127)
Alcohol 2 $1-3
(¥8-25)
$3-8
(¥19-58)
$5-15
(¥37-111)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Jinghong, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $36 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most guests in Jinghong will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $82 per person, per day.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $156 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the destination, prepare for a pricier experience.

Accommodation Budget in Jinghong

The hotel prices in Jinghong might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $0, but during peak season, expect to pay around $0. Prices vary from $0 to $0, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Jinghong for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $40 (¥291). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $20 (¥146) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $20
    ¥146
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $40
    ¥291

Hotels in Jinghong

Looking for a hotel in Jinghong? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Jinghong

By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding ), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.



Transportation Budget in Jinghong

Unfortunately, Jinghong does not have a reliable public transit network.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $25 (¥181) per person, per day, on local transportation in Jinghong. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Jinghong is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $25
    ¥181



Flights to Jinghong
How much does it cost to go to Jinghong? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Jinghong
The price of renting a car in Jinghong will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Jinghong

Food is a major reason many people explore new destinations, so don't skip the chance to try local delicacies.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Jinghong can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Jinghong is $47 (¥341) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $47
    ¥341

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Jinghong is around $47 (¥341) per person, with previous travelers spending from $20 to $89. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Jinghong are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $14
  • Lunch: $7 to $19
  • Dinner: $14 to $33
  • Coffee: $4
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $7

Jinghong is the seat of Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, whose cuisine is largely influenced by the native Dai people. The region's fertility and agricultural abundance make fruits, vegetables, and grains a big part of cooking traditions. Chili peppers, cilantro, lime juice, lemongrass, soybeans, and a plethora of herbs also add to the flavor of Dai cuisine, which is predominantly spicy and sour. Some favorite dishes include the very spicy Ghost Chicken, stir-fried wild boar with spring onions and chili peppers, and Granny's potatoes which are very similar to mashed potatoes though made with either sour pickled vegetables or spicy peppers. Pineapple rice, served hot in a hollowed out pineapple, is made with pineapple chunks, peanuts, garlic, sesame seeds, and sticky rice (sometimes purple), while the Dai people also have a local salsa made with a kind of tree tomato roasted with garlic, and mashed up with loads of fresh chili pepper, lime juice, cilantro and salt. Within the city of Jinghong there are hundreds of dining options from local dishes to western fare.

Food & Dining Tips

Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.

Bring your own water bottle instead of grabbing drinks on the fly. It's better for the environment as well.

If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Jinghong

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Jinghong typically cost an average of $9.12 (¥66) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $9.12
    ¥66

Jinghong and the surrounding area is a place of tropical scenery. Travel around the countryside to get a closer look at the region's magnificent rainforests and other flora native to southern Yunnan. You might even want to take a ride to the Elephant Valley Nature Reserve about an hour north of town where visitors can see wild elephants and other wildlife, enclosures for reptiles and birds, and even have the opportunity to ride an elephant at the elephant school. If you prefer not to leave Jinghong, there is also a Tropical Flower Garden as well as a Botanical Garden which exhibit some of the local plants and flowers of the region. Both are located right within the city.

In regards to architecture, Xishuangbanna Buddhist Temple is a historic landmark that has been beautifully renovated and is located inside Manting Park. The park is divided into eight parts-the main entrance, the National Cultural Plaza, the Tropical Orchid Garden, the Peacock Garden, the Life-leaving Lake, the Buddhism Cultural Quarter, the Planting Memorial Quarter, and the Dai Cultural Teahouse. Mengle Temple is the largest temple in Xishuangbanna and is located in the southern part of Jinghong.



Most people are drawn to Jinghong to admire its tropical scenery and explore its surrounding cultural villages. The city itself has a handful of sights worth seeing with a few historic temples, spacious parks, and beautiful gardens as well as hundreds of restaurants to indulge in and a collection of shops for your souvenir needs. Jinghong is located on the Lancang (or Mekong) River, making the riverfront a popular place to walk and take in the scenery. If you are interested in more of a hike, Mekong Cafe located on Menglong Road can organize guided treks. Many of the villages stage traditional song and dance performances that are fun to see, though a more authentic celebration takes place during the Dai New Year with dragon boating, water fights, and other festivities.



Nightlife Budget in Jinghong

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $5.29 (¥39) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Jinghong per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $5.29
    ¥39
Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.



Travel cost data last updated: Dec 28, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Jinghong

  • In , the destination gets busy and prices rise significantly. If you want to save some cash and enjoy a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Slowing your travel tempo can not only save you money but also let you enjoy the stunning beauty of your surroundings. When you pack each day with activities, costs can rise rapidly. However, a more relaxed pace usually leads to lower expenses and a more enjoyable experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • In Jinghong, public transport options are quite limited. You might consider scheduling some form of transportation in advance, such as a private driver or tour. However, be aware that this may impact your budget elsewhere.
  • Jinghong isn't particularly known for its hostels, so if you're expecting a budget dorm, you may need to reconsider. Look into affordable hotels or consider renting an apartment instead.
Traveling in Jinghong

Located in the southernmost part of the Yunnan Province, Jinghong is a city that attracts visitors each year with its rich culture and folklore, Buddhist temples, and tropical rainforest scenery of palms and mango trees amongst others. It is also an area popular with backpackers as well as a waypoint for travelers passing between China and Laos.



Neighborhoods & Around

Just outside of Jinghong, the region is scattered with minority villages where many people live the traditional way of the life as well as minority villages that exhibit more of a reconstruction with song and dance performances for tourists. All can be explored by foot or on bike. The Dai Minority Park in Ganlanba is probably the most famous, made up of several small villages most conveniently seen by renting a bicycle. Jinghong itself has a few attractions that can be reached on foot, though tuk-tuks, or auto-rickshaws, are also available. Many restaurants are located on Menglong Road and Manting Road, and there are opportunities to shop for local souvenirs and handicrafts throughout the city and surrounding villages.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.