Get to know the places we most often include in private trips around Chengdu, Sichuan and Chongqing.
Chengdu is a natural first stop for a Sichuan trip, with pandas, teahouses, hotpot, Sichuan opera, temples and contemporary city life all close at hand. It is an easy place to settle in before heading farther afield.
A panda visit can include Chengdu Panda Base, Dujiangyan Panda Valley or another wildlife-focused stop. It is easy to fit into a family trip, a first visit to Sichuan or a day built around photography.
Sanxingdui brings bronze masks, gold artifacts and the story of the ancient Shu kingdom into a Chengdu itinerary. It suits travelers who enjoy history and want a guide to bring the collection and its context to life.
Just outside Chengdu, Dujiangyan is a UNESCO World Heritage site whose irrigation system has worked for more than 2,000 years. It works well for an easy cultural day, a family outing or a slower short trip.
Mount Qingcheng combines forest walks, Taoist temples and a quieter mountain atmosphere without the demands of Western Sichuan's high-altitude routes. It pairs well with Dujiangyan and Panda Valley.
Jiuzhaigou is known for alpine lakes, waterfalls, forests and remarkably clear water. It is a good choice for travelers who want to spend more time in Sichuan's mountain landscapes.
Huanglong is known for its terraced calcified pools, snowy peaks and highland valleys. It is often paired with Jiuzhaigou and gives a nature itinerary a very different kind of landscape.
Mount Siguniang is one of Western Sichuan's classic mountain destinations, with snow peaks, valleys and dramatic road scenery. It suits photographers and travelers who want big mountain views without taking on a very long route.
Bipenggou brings together snow mountains, forest, lakes and striking autumn color. It is a good fit for travelers who want seasonal scenery and gentle walks rather than a demanding mountain trek.
Dagu Glacier offers glacier views, snow-covered peaks and high-altitude lookouts. It suits travelers who want to add snow and ice to a Sichuan trip and are comfortable spending time at altitude.
Leshan Giant Buddha is an easy World Heritage outing from Chengdu, seen by boat or on foot. It combines Buddhist culture, river views, rock carving and local food in a single day.
Mount Emei combines Buddhist heritage, forest scenery and a slower mountain pace. A visit can be adapted to the season and your fitness, from foothill temples to a fuller mountain day.
Chongqing adds steep streets, river views, hotpot and night skylines to a Sichuan trip. It is a good choice for travelers who enjoy food, city photography and an energetic urban atmosphere.