9-Day China’s Natural Wonders: Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Zhangjiajie, Chongqing

Day 1 Arrive Chengdu

Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Wuhou 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 | Chengdu Panda Base, High-Speed Train to Jiuzhaigou

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

Start your day with an unforgettable encounter at Chengdu Panda Base, a world-renowned sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of these beloved creatures. Established in 1987, this non-profit facility provides pandas with a natural environment, complete with bamboo groves, streams, and ponds. Witness the enchanting spectacle of pandas of all ages as they frolic, feed, and nurture their young. After lunch, Embark on a scenic bullet train journey to Jiuzhaigou (approximately 1.5 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Often described as a “Fairyland on Earth,” Jiuzhaigou National Park is named for the nine Tibetan villages scattered throughout its valleys, the park is world-renowned for its surreal, multi-colored alpine lakes, which range from deep emerald to vibrant turquoise due to high calcium carbonate concentrations.

Day 3 Jiuzhaigou | Jiuzhaigou National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, self-heating halal lunch pack, dinner at a halal restaurant
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.

Please note that halal restaurants are not available within the national park. For your convenience, lunch will be a packed halal self-heating rice meal, accompanied by fresh fruit and mineral water.

Day 4 Jiuzhaigou – Chengdu | Huanglong Scenic Area, Wide and Narrow Alleys

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Huangcheng Mosque
Accommodation: Local 4-star Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Wuhou or similar

Set off on a scenic journey from Jiuzhaigou to the breathtaking Huanglong Scenic Area, famous for its vivid travertine pools, snow-capped peaks, and cascading waterfalls. After exploring this natural wonderland, board a high-speed train back to Chengdu. Upon arrival, perform salat at the historic Huangcheng Mosque, a peaceful sanctuary tucked amidst Chengdu’s urban energy. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming Wide and Narrow Alleys, where restored Qing Dynasty courtyard houses, traditional teahouses, and boutique shops offer a captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modern Chengdu culture.

Altitude Sickness Notice: Please be advised that visits to the Huanglong and Munigou Scenic Areas involve high alpine altitudes, with Huanglong reaching up to 3,570 meters (11,700 feet) and Munigou averaging around 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level. Mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) – such as slight headaches, shortness of breath, or fatigue – may occur due to the reduced oxygen levels. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, we recommend maintaining a relaxed pace, staying well-hydrated, avoiding strenuous exertion during your excursion. Portable oxygen canisters and cable car transportation are readily available on-site for your convenience, and guests with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions are advised to consult their physician before travel.

Seasonal Itinerary Advisory: Huanglong Scenic Area Adjustments

Please be advised that during the annual dry season – typically spanning from November through May—water levels at the travertine pools in the Huanglong Scenic Area decrease significantly, and alpine walking paths may experience freezing conditions.

To ensure our guests enjoy the most vibrant and comfortable sightseeing experience, visits scheduled during this period will be seamlessly adjusted to the Mounigou Scenic Area. Munigou features year-round flowing karst waterfalls, emerald alpine lakes, and prime winter scenery, providing a superb and accessible alternative. We appreciate your understanding as we tailor your journey for optimal natural beauty and safety.

Day 5 Chengdu – Zhangjiajie | High-Speed Train to Zhangjiajie, Tianmen Mountains

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at Halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Renjoy Hotel or similar

Embark on a morning bullet train to Zhangjiajie (approx. 4 hours), home to the otherworldly sandstone karst pillars stretching skywards that inspired the mythical world of Pandora in James Cameron’s Avatar movie. Upon arrival, Ride the world’s longest cable car to the summit of Tianmen Mountain, a majestic masterpiece of nature with its towering peaks, mystical caverns, and breathtaking panoramas. From the summit, marvel at the panoramic views of Tianmen Mountain. Explore the Cliff Hanging Walkway, perched on a cliff over 1,400 meters high, including a section known as Sky Walk. Descend to Tianmen Gate, the mountain’s namesake, and take a shuttle bus down the serpentine 99-Bend Road to the cable car station.

Day 6  Zhangjiajie | Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, self-heating halal lunch pack, dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Renjoy Hotel or similar

Ascend to the peak of Tianzi Mountain via the Tianzi Mountain Cableway. Discover the enchanting trails that meander across the mountain, admiring the unique rock formations of Fairy Bouquet Peak and Royal Pen Peak. Next, board a shuttle bus to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Explore the scenic trails that wind through Yuanjiajie, admiring the Enchating Platform and the iconic Avatar Mountain, the inspiration for the floating mountains of Pandora in the movie “Avatar.” Get down the mountain by Bailong Elevator, the world’s highest outdoor sightseeing elevator. Take a scenic mini-train ride through the Ten Mile Gallery, marveling at the extraordinary rock formations that line the valley. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the tranquil Golden Whip Stream, a pristine waterway renowned for its clear waters and serene surroundings.

Please note that halal restaurants are not available within the national park. For your convenience, lunch will be a packed halal self-heating rice meal, accompanied by fresh fruit and mineral water.

Day 6 Zhangjiajie | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, Baofeng Lake

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Renjoy Hotel or similar

Begin your adrenaline-pumping adventure with a heart-stopping walk across the world-famous Glass Bridge, suspended 300 meters high above the dramatic Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Descend to the canyon floor via elevator and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring world of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Marvel at the towering rock formations and cascading waterfalls as you explore this natural wonder. Continue with a relaxing boat ride on the Baofeng Lake. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you cruise through the crystal-clear waters, taking in the stunning scenery.

Day 7 Zhangjiajie – Chongqing | Bullet Train to Chongqing, Chongqing City Highlights

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Holiday Inn Express Chongqing Guanyinqiaoor similar

Ride a bullet train to Chongqing (approx. 3.5 hours) in the morning. Built across steep mountain ridges at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is a massive, vibrant megacity world-famous for its striking 3D architecture, dramatic night skylines, and rich culinary heritage. After lunch, dive into the vibrant rhythm of Chongqing starting with a stroll down the stone pathways of Eighteen Steps to experience the city’s historic cliffside charm, followed by a leisurely walk across the grand square of the Great Hall of the People. Next, head into the heart of downtown to stand beside the iconic Liberation Monument, Chongqing’s most celebrated landmark, before witnessing the city’s famous 3D urban transit in action as monorail trains pass directly through a residential high-rise at Liziba Station. As night falls, conclude your evening at the mesmerizing Hongya Cave, where multi-tiered stilt houses light up in a brilliant golden glow along the riverfront.

Day 8 Chongqing | Wulong Karst Geopark

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Holiday Inn Express Chongqing Guanyinqiaoor similar

Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you enjoy the scenic 3-hour drive to Wulong County. Upon arrival, explore the Three Natural Bridges, a stunning series of limestone bridges formed naturally over time. These majestic arches are the largest natural bridge cluster in Asia. Stop by the Ancient Staging Post near Qinglong Bridge, constructed during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907). Witness the park’s unique beauty as you delve into the heart of this natural wonder. Continue your journey to the Longshuixia Fissure Gorge, a magnificent gap-style gorge that stretches for 5 kilometers. Admire the stunning karst landscape, primitive forests, waterfalls, and springs as you trek through this awe-inspiring gorge.

Day 9 Depart Chongqing

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel

A private transfer to the airport will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!