8‑Day Sichuan Odyssey: Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, Dujiangyan & Mt. Siguniang

Day 1 Arrive Chengdu

Meals Included: No
Accommodation: 4-star Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Tianfu Airport Zone or similar

Welcome to Chengdu, the vibrant “Land of Abundance” where ancient heritage seamlessly meets a laid-back, modern lifestyle. As the gateway to Southwest China and the beloved hometown of the Giant Panda, this historic city invites you to slow down and savor life just like the locals—whether that’s sipping lidded tea in a hidden bamboo garden, marveling at the magical “face-changing” art of Sichuan Opera, or diving into the bold, numbing heat of a world-famous hot pot. Upon arrival at the airport or train station, your friendly expert local guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. 

Day 2 Chengdu – Jiuzhaigou | Diexi Lake, Songpan Ancient City

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat: Songpan Masjid
Accommodation: Local 4-star New Jiuzhai Hotel or similar

Departing from Chengdu, this scenic overland journey winds through the alpine highlands of northwestern Sichuan, stopping first at the serene, turquoise waters of Diexi Lake before arriving at the historic frontier gates of Songpan Ancient City. Explore the remarkably preserved stone ramparts and enjoy a dedicated, peaceful stop to perform salat at the historic Songpan Mosque, a stunning sanctuary blending classical Chinese architecture with Islamic heritage. Continue to Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its breathtaking beauty. Renowned as a “Fairyland on Earth,” this park is named after the nine Tibetan villages scattered across its valleys. It is world-famous for its surreal alpine lakes, where high calcium carbonate concentrations turn the waters into brilliant shades of emerald and turquoise.

Day 3 Explore Jiuzhaigou National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star New Jiuzhai Hotel or similar

Spend a full day immersed in the breathtaking beauty of Jiuzhaigou National Park named after the nine Tibetan villages scattered along its 35‑km valley on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The park’s scenery unfolds across three valleys – Rize, Zechawa, and Shuzheng – forming a striking “Y” shape. Your journey highlights its most dazzling water features, from the vibrant, multicolored waters of Five Flower Lake to the dramatic cascade of Pearl Shoal and Pearl Shoal Waterfall. As you continue, marvel at the mirror‑like surface of Rhino Lake, the tranquil charm of Tiger Lake, the tiered splendor of Shuzheng Lakes and Shuzheng Waterfall, and the shimmering reflections of Sparkling Lake.

Please note: The Jiuzhaigou National Park Shuttle Bus is the compulsory and most practical form of transport for navigating the vast park, as private vehicles are prohibited. These eco-friendly buses run continuously along the park’s main “Y”-shaped route, stopping at all major scenic spots within the Rize Valley, Zechawa Valley, and Shuzheng Valley. Upon boarding at the park entrance, your bus will head toward one of the two upper forks (Rize or Zechawa), and you will be directed to change buses at the central Nuorilang Tourist Center to complete your itinerary. While the sightseeing sequence is determined by the specific bus route you board, rest assured that all highlighted attractions specified in the itinerary will be fully covered throughout the day.

Day 4 Jiuzhaigou – Dujiangyan | Tibetan Village, Huanglong Scenic Area

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Lugui International Hotel or similar

Set off on a scenic journey from Jiuzhaigou to Chuazhusi through sweeping alpine scenery as you cross the dramatic Gonggangling Mountain Pass, offering panoramic views of Sichuan’s highlands. Along the way, stop in a traditional Tibetan village to experience local culture and craftsmanship, including a visit to a silver shop known for its intricate handmade pieces. After lunch, visit the ethereal beauty of the Huanglong Scenic Area, where you’ll marvel at the “Yellow Dragon’s” cascading travertine pools and vibrant limestone terraces. Return to Chengdu by bullet train and transfer to Dujiangyan, celebrated globally for its ancient, still-functioning 250 BC irrigation system. 

Altitude Sickness Notice: Huanglong Scenic Area
Visitors to the Huanglong Scenic Area should be aware that its elevation – ranging from roughly 3,100 to over 3,500 meters – can make altitude sickness a possibility. The area’s dazzling travertine pools and forested valleys are best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing your body time to adjust. Staying hydrated, keeping warm, and avoiding strenuous activity help reduce discomfort. If you notice symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath, take a break and rest. Should symptoms intensify, it’s important to descend to a lower elevation and seek assistance from staff or fellow travelers.

Day 5 Dujiangyan – Mt. Siguniang | Mount Siguniang (Four Sisters Mountain)

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Fushan Hotel (Equipped with Full-House Oxygen Supply) or similar

Embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive toward the rugged majesty of Mount Siguniang, famously known as the “Alps of the East.” The name “Siguniang” translates to “Four Maidens or Four Sisters,” inspired by the four soaring peaks that resemble four sisters standing gracefully side-by-side in the clouds. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring Shuangqiao Valley, the most diverse and accessible branch of the mountain park. A convenient sightseeing bus will transport you through 35 kilometers of breathtaking glacial scenery, including the towering redwood forests and serene alpine meadows. Whether you are strolling along the boardwalks or capturing photos of the snow-capped Potala Peak, this day provides a seamless immersion into Sichuan’s high-altitude wilderness before you retire to your oxygen-equipped hotel.

Altitude Sickness Notice: Mount Siguniang
When visiting Shuangqiao Valley, you will reach elevations between 3,200m and 3,800m, where altitude sickness is a common risk. To help your body acclimatize, move at a relaxed pace, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity or alcohol during your first 24 hours. If you experience symptoms like persistent headaches, dizziness, or nausea, return to your hotel immediately.

Day 6 Mt. Siguniang – Dujiangyan | Guanxian Ancient City, Selfie Panda Sculpture, Blue Tears

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat: Dujiangyan Masjid
Accommodation: Local 4-star Lugui International Hotel or similar

Descending from the majestic peaks of Mt. Siguniang, this scenic journey winds through the dramatic mountain passes of the Balang Mountains before descending into the historic city of Dujiangyan. Following a carefully arranged halal lunch, the afternoon begins with a peaceful stop to perform salat at the serene Dujiangyan Mosque, followed by a leisurely exploration of the vibrant, historic streets of Guanxian Ancient Town. After a fun photo stop at the iconic Panda Selfie Sculpture, the day concludes at dusk alongside the Min River to witness the spectacular “Blue Tears” of the Nanqiao Bridge, where the rushing waters are beautifully illuminated in a mesmerizing, neon-blue glow.

Day 7 Dujiangyan – Chengdu | Dujiangyan Panda Base, Jinli Ancient Street

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat: Huangcheng Masjid
Accommodation: Local 4-star Perfect Hotel or similar

Kick off your day with a memorable morning visit to the Dujiangyan Panda Base, where you can watch giant pandas roam and play in their lush, natural habitat. Afterward, head back to Chengdu for a delicious halal lunch, followed by a dedicated and peaceful stop to perform salat at the historic Huangcheng Mosque, a beautiful sanctuary nestled right in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, wander through Jinli Ancient Street, a lively pedestrian lane lined with traditional Sichuan architecture, teahouses, handicraft stalls, and fragrant street food.

Day 8 Explore & Depart Chengdu

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat: Huangcheng Masjid

The final day in Chengdu blends shopping, culture, and modern city flair, beginning with a visit to a local jade store to appreciate China’s “stone of heaven.” The journey then moves into the city’s premier shopping districts, where the historic energy of Chunxi Road meets the trendy, open-air luxury of Tai Koo Li and the iconic panda-topped IFS mall. After exploring the bustling wholesale fashion at Kowloon Plaza, enjoy a farewell dinner before witnessing the city’s modern architectural prowess at the Twin Towers of Chengdu Financial City, which dazzle with a state-of-the-art light show. As the evening winds down, transfer to the airport for your late‑night departure, concluding your 8-Day Sichuan Odyssey tour with a final glimpse of its dynamic charm.