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9 Days Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie Tour: Pandas, Lakes & Avatar Mountains

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Private tour
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No Shopping Stops
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Tour Guide Included
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Low Intensity
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Stunning Waterscape & Avatar Peaks

This 9 Days Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie Tour is perfect for families, nature lovers and photographers. Many travelers struggle to choose between Jiuzhaigou’s waterscapes and Zhangjiajie’s peaks - we’ve combined both for a hassle-free experience.

Start in Chengdu with the giant pandas and a side trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha. Take the high-speed train to Huanglong for terraced limestone pools, then explore Jiuzhaigou's turquoise lakes and waterfalls. Fly to Zhangjiajie to walk among the quartz sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar.

What Makes This Trip Different
Tony, Travel Consultant at Asia Odyssey Travel
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Our Local Chengdu expert Tony: " I always recommend this route as the ultimate nature bucket list. I love how it contrasts the vibrant emerald lakes with the towering sandstone pillars - it’s truly like visiting two different planets in one trip."

You Can Experience “Must-see & Must-do” with This Tour

Highlight 1
Enjoy an early morning visit to the Chengdu Panda Base to see giant pandas at their most active.
Cute Giant Panda
Highlight 2
Explore the multi-colored lakes and cascading waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou with a smart route to avoid crowds.
Panoramic View of Shuzheng Lakes in Jiuzhaigou Valley
Highlight 3
Marvel at the 3,000 soaring sandstone pillars in Zhangjiajie, the inspiration for the 'Hallelujah Mountains'.
Dianjiangtai in Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie
Highlight 4
Challenge your courage on the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge and ride the world’s longest cable car up Tianmen Mountain.
Glass way at Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiaije

Itinerary at a Glance

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Start Point
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport(CTU)/Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
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End Point
Zhangjiajie Airport / Train Station

Itinerary Summary

Day Place Highlights
1 Chengdu Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu People's Park, Wenshu Monastery, Jinli Old Street
2 Leshan Leshan Giant Buddha
3-4 Huanglong & Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Scenic Area,Jiuzhaigou Valley
5 Chengdu Jiuzhaigou to Chengdu by High Speed Train
6-9 Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Ten-mile Gallery, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake, Tianmen Mountain
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9 Days Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie Tour: Pandas, Lakes & Avatar Mountains
Destinations
    • Chengdu
    •  
    • Leshan(2 Day)
    •  
    • Huanglong & Jiuzhaigou
    •  
    • Chengdu
    •  
    • Zhangjiajie
Tour Information

Itinerary Day by Day

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Day 1 Arrival in Chengdu | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in

Nihao! Welcome to Chengdu, the Hometown of Giant Pandas! Our team will be ready for you when you arrive in Chengdu. Enjoy a trouble-free transfer to your hotel. The rest of today is yours to relax in panda city on your own.

Arrival Ideas:

Chengdu is well connected by air and high-speed rail. Two airports serve the city: Shuangliu and Tianfu - with many international and domestic flights. High-speed trains connect Chengdu to Xi'an (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), and Kunming (6-6.5 hours).

iFree Time Ideas:

You are welcome to ask your tour guide for some useful tips to spend your free time based on your time and interest.

DiningDining:
None
AccommodationAccommodation:
Chengdu
PacePace:
Easy
Day 2 Chengdu - Leshan - Chengdu | Chengdu Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha

Morning: Chengdu Panda Base

Meet your guide early in the hotel lobby. Pandas are most active in the cool morning hours, so an early start is worth it.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is home to over 100 pandas of all ages. Watch them climb, eat, nap, and play. In autumn, you might spot pink newborn cubs in the nursery houses. Look for the famous pandas-Hua Hua, the nation's favorite, and Zhi Ma, the mascot for the World University Games.

Red pandas roam nearby-smaller, rarer, and just as charming. If you're interested in birds, the base has become a spot for urban birding. Follow your guide through the Panda Museum (free, reservation needed, closed Mondays).

Afternoon: Leshan Giant Buddha

After lunch, drive about 2.5 hours to Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At 71 meters tall, it's the largest stone Buddha in the world. Carved into a cliff face 1,200 years ago, it overlooks the confluence of three rivers.

Take a boat trip (20-30 minutes) for the best view. From the water, you can see the full scale of the Buddha-his shoulders span 28 meters, each ear is 7 meters long. Locals say, "The mountain is a Buddha, and the Buddha is a mountain."

After the tour, drive back to Chengdu and your hotel.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Chengdu
PacePace:
Moderate
Day 3 Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou by High Speed Train | Huanglong National Park

Morning: Train to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station

Your guide will escort you to Chengdu East Railway Station for the high-speed train to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station (about 1.5-2 hours). Upon arrival, our team will meet you and drive 30-40 minutes to Huanglong National Park.

Afternoon: Huanglong National Park

Huanglong means "Yellow Dragon" - named for the terraced limestone pools that wind down the valley like a golden dragon. This UNESCO site is known for its travertine formations, snow-capped mountains, and virgin forests.

Take the cable car to the top (saves hours of hiking), then walk down through the valley. The descent takes 3-4 hours and passes the main sights: Honglong Monastery, Mirror Ponds, and the Five-Color Ponds at the summit-nearly 700 pools in shades of blue, green, and gold.

After exploring, drive about 2 hours to your hotel in Jiuzhaigou.

iUseful Tips:
  • Huanglong sits at 3,200–3,600 meters. Move slowly to avoid altitude sickness. Oxygen bottles are available at the park.
  • The cable car closes in winter.
DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Jiuzhaigou
PacePace:
Easy
Day 4 Jiuzhaigou Classic Tour | Jiuzhaigou National Park

After breakfast, head to Jiuzhaigou National Park. Your guide will help you board a sightseeing bus and plan a route based on the crowds and your energy level.

Jiuzhaigou means "Nine Village Valley" - named for the Tibetan settlements along its length. It's famous for turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and forests backed by snowy peaks. UNESCO listed it in 1992.

The Classic Route:

Take the bus to Nuorilang Waterfall, then continue to Zechawa Valley. Hike short trails to Five-Flower Lake and Pearl Beach. Move to Rize Valley to see Panda Lake, Mirror Lake, and more.

Stop for a rest at Nuorilang Tourist Center, the junction of the Y-shaped valley. In the afternoon, explore Shuzheng Valley on your way back to the exit. Tibetan villages dot the route.

iUseful Tips:
  1. Get to the park earlier to escape the crowds of tourists groups;

  2. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking& trekking shoes;

  3. Dining options inside park are limited and expensive. Buffet lunch is provided in Nuorilang Restaurant (the only restaurant in the valley). If you bring your own food you can picnic far away from the masses and avoid spending any longer at the busiest points.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Jiuzhaigou
PacePace:
Moderate
Day 5 Jiuzhaigou to Chengdu by High Speed Train | Renmin Park, Jinli Old Street

Morning: Train Back to Chengdu

Your guide will take you to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station for the high-speed train back to Chengdu. Upon arrival at Chengdu East Station, another guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Afternoon: Renmin Park & Jinli Old Street

Visit Renmin Park to see Chengdu's slow side. Find a seat at a historic teahouse, order green tea, and watch locals play mahjong.

Later, stroll through Jinli Old Street-1,800 years old and built to showcase the culture of the Ancient Shu Kingdom. Stone-paved lanes are lined with snack stalls, handicraft shops, and folk performances.

iOptional:

Try local spicy dishes like chuanchuan, dandan noodles, or rabbit head if you're feeling adventurous.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Chengdu
PacePace:
Easy
Day 6 Chengdu - Zhangjiajie by High Speed Train

Your guide will take you to Chengdu train station for the high speed train to Zhangjiajie (about 4-5 hours).

Welcome to Zhangjiajie - where the mountains from Avatar come to life. Upon arrival, our team will meet you and take you to your hotel in Wulingyuan Area.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Zhangjiajie
PacePace:
Easy
Day 7 Zhangjiajie Tour | From Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve; Bailong Elevator, Hallelujah Mountains, Tianzi Mountain

After breakfast, you will visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Wulingyuan, where you will explore Yuanjiajie and behold the awe-inspiring Hallelujah Mountains. Following lunch, you will be transferred to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve in Wulingyuan, where you will have the opportunity to explore Tianzi Mountain (天子山). Throughout the day, you will have ample time to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a captivating haven of nature adorned with over 3,000 slender quartz sandstone pillars.

Morning: Yuanjiajie & Bailong Elevator

Today you explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China's first national forest park. More than 3,000 quartz sandstone pillars rise from the valley floor.

Take a sightseeing bus to the Bailong Elevator-the "World's No.1 Ladder." In 66 seconds, it lifts you 326 meters to the top of a pillar.

Hike into Yuanjiajie, the real-world inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar. Walk the 3.5-kilometer cliffside trail. See the South Sky Pillar (Avatar Mountain), the First Bridge Under Heaven, and the Backyard Garden. Red prayer ribbons flutter in the wind.

Afternoon: Tianzi Mountain

Take another bus to Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve. Named after a Tujia leader who called himself "Son of Heaven," this area offers views of the West Sea Peaks Forest and the Imperial Writing Brush Peaks-six stone pillars shaped like pens.

Visit He Long Park for a bronze statue of Marshal He Long and panoramic views from Tianzige Pavilion.

iNote:

In peak season, your guide may reverse the route to avoid crowds.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Zhangjiajie
PacePace:
Active
Day 8 Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Tour | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake

Morning: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Drive about 1.5 hours to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The highlight: the Glass Bridge, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. It spans 375 meters and hangs 300 meters above the canyon floor.

Step onto the transparent glass - it feels like walking on air. Below, a forest and mist-filled canyon stretch out. In the middle, there's a bungee jumping platform (optional, self-pay). The bridge was designed by Israeli architect Haim Dotan and can hold up to 800 people.

Afternoon: Baofeng Lake

After lunch, head to Baofeng Lake, a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by peaks. Take a wooden boat ride across the water-2.5 kilometers long, up to 1,000 meters wide. Local minority singers perform folk songs as you drift.

After the tour, drive back to Zhangjiajie City (about 1 hour) and check into your hotel.

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
Zhangjiajie
PacePace:
Active
Day 9 Zhangjiajie Departure | Tianmenshan National Forest Park, Tianmenshan Cable Car, Tianmen Cave, Glass Walkway

Morning: Tianmen Mountain Cable Car

Today you visit Tianmen Mountain, known as the "Soul of Zhangjiajie." It's just 8 kilometers from the city center.

Start with the world's longest cable car—7,455 meters, 30 minutes from city to summit. As you ascend, look down at the winding mountain road with 99 bends, also called the "Road to Heaven."

On the Summit:

Walk the Glass Walkway—60 meters of transparent path attached to a cliff, 1,430 meters above the valley. If heights don't bother you, try the 1.6-kilometer Cliff-Hanging Walkway along the mountain's edge.

Visit Tianmen Temple, a Qing Dynasty structure surrounded by forest. For the best view, climb to Yunmenxianding (1,518 meters), the mountain's highest point.

Tianmen Cave & Descent

Take an escalator down to Tianmen Cave - the world's highest natural mountain arch at 131.5 meters tall. Clouds and mist often swirl through the opening. From here, you can walk down the 999 steps or take another escalator.

Our team will take you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.

Note: The glass walkway requires a 5 yuan shoe cover fee (we'll cover this for you).

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Zhangjiajie tour. We hope to see you again on your next trip. Safe travels!

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
None
PacePace:
Easy
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Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

What is included in this tour
iconVehicle & Driver Service
  • Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehicles
iconProfessional Guide Service
  • Professional licensed English-speaking local guide
iconAccommodation
  • Hotel accommodation with breakfasts
Detailed Pictures >>
iconDomestic Transportation
  • Domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class) listed in the itinerary
iconAdmissions & Meals
  • Admission tickets, activities, and meals listed in the itinerary
iconInsurance
  • Accident insurance
iconComprehensive Service
  • Our service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip
What is Not Included in this tour
iconInternational Airfares
  • International airfares to/from China
iconChina Visa Fee
  • Entry visa fees
iconPersonal Expenses
  • Any personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc.)
iconRoom Supplement
  • Single room supplement
iconOptional Activities
  • Recommended optional activities not listed in the itinerary
iconArrival & Departure Transport
  • Arrival/departure flights or train on the first and last day
iconTips for Guide and Driver
  • Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers

Expert Advice and Ideas for Your China Trip

Frequently Asked Questions
It is my first time to China, how can I plan a China Tour?+

For a first-time visitor, the most popular and rewarding route covers China's past, present, and future. A standard 8 to 12-day itinerary usually includes:

  • Beijing (3-4 days): The historical heart. Must-sees: The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace.
  • Xi'an (2-3 days): The ancient capital. Must-sees: The Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter, and cycling on the Ancient City Wall.
  • Shanghai (2-3 days): The modern metropolis. Must-sees: The Bund, Yu Garden, and the futuristic skyline of Pudong.
  • Optional Add-ons (if you have 14+ days): Chengdu (Giant Pandas), Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains), Guilin/Yangshuo (Karst mountain landscapes) or Mount Everest Base Camp.
When is the best time to visit China?+

The universally agreed-upon best times to visit China are Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October).

1. Autumn (September to October) - The Absolute Best: The weather is generally perfect across the country. The summer heat and rains have passed, leaving clear skies, crisp air, and comfortable temperatures. This is the best time to hike the Great Wall, see the fall foliage in places like Jiuzhaigou, and enjoy outdoor activities in Yangshuo or Zhangjiajie.

2. Spring (April to May) - The Close Second: The weather warms up, and nature comes back to life. Temperatures are mild and pleasant. You can witness beautiful spring blossoms, such as peach blossoms in Guilin and cherry blossoms in various cities. It is a great time for cruising the Yangtze River or visiting the pandas in Chengdu.

3. Best Time for Specific Interests:

  • For Winter Magic (December to February): Head north to Harbin for the world-famous Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival.
  • For Tropical Escapes (November to March): Head to China's southernmost provinces, like Hainan Island or Xishuangbanna in Yunnan, to escape the winter chill.

Crucial Dates to Avoid:

Try your best to avoid traveling during China's major public holidays, when hundreds of millions of people travel domestically:

  • National Day Holiday ("Golden Week"): October 1st to October 7th. (Aim for mid-to-late October or September instead).
  • Labor Day Holiday: May 1st to May 5th.
  • Chinese New Year (Spring Festival): Usually falls in late January or February. While culturally fascinating, many shops and restaurants close, and transportation networks are pushed to their absolute limits.
How do I book a private China tour?+

It is very simple to book a private China tour. Select the tour you are interested, and click “Make an Enquiry for Free”. Tell us your demands and likes while submitting the form. During this process, you don’t need to pay immediately.

After sending us your requirements, one of our professional travel experts will get back to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. When all the information have confirmed, then you make the deposit. Please feel free to contact the travel expert directly if you have any questions prior to booking.

Extend Your China Tour+

The above itinerary is the sample one that most travelers would go like that. The tour can be customized based on your likes, interests and budget.

At the same time, if you want to extend this tour, just tell us your favored destinations and things to do. Our professional travel experts will redesign the trip totally for you and your group at the best price. Tell us your ideas now

Transportation+

In a private tour, it means you will transfer to the tourist attractions in one city by private vehicle. The private car we selected is spacious, comfortable and air-conditioned. And the driver we use are very experienced.

As for traveling between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy seat) or high speed trains (second class seat, usually less than 6 hours). The local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport/train stations, and escort you to the hotel.

Meals+

“B” stands for breakfast. You will have it at your hotel in the morning.

“L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we will arrange for you are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. All are in good sanitary conditions. Your guide will assist you with ordering the dishes.

“D” means dinner. All dinners are excluded in the itinerary. You have the chance to taste some authentic Chinese food and local snacks.

If you have special dietary requirements (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please let us know before your booking. We will try our best to take care of you.

Where to Stay: Handpicked Hotel Options for Your China Tour

A good night's sleep is essential during your China tour. In our private tours, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred hotel class—whether it's luxury 5-star, comfortable 4-star, or economic 3-star accommodations.

We carefully select hotels in prime locations, situated close to vibrant commercial streets or major tourist attractions. All our partner hotels maintain long-term relationships with us and are equipped with essential amenities including windows, air-conditioning, hot water, showers, and Wi-Fi (with the exception of basic conditions at Mount Everest) to ensure a comfortable stay.

The hotel staff are proficient in English and dedicated to providing high-quality service. Should you have any special requirements during your stay, they are always available to assist you to ensure a truly pleasant experience.

Photo Gallery for This Itinerary

Chengdu PandasCrystal-clear lakes of Jiuzhai ValleyChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda BreedingNuorilang Waterfall of JiuzhaigouHave fun in ZhangjiajieDianjiangtai in Tianzi Mountain, ZhangjiajieGlass Skywalk in Tianmen Mountain, ZhangjiajieWinding roads under the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, Zhangjiajie

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