Jiuzhai Valley National Park – Sichuan:
Description: Jiuzhai Valley National Park, also known as Jiuzhaigou, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan province, China. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including colorful lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and lush forests. Jiuzhai Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, offering a unique and serene environment.
Visitor Fee: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Jiuzhai Valley National Park charged an entrance fee for visitors, which varied depending on the season. There were also additional fees for shuttle buses within the park. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket pricing and reservation information.
Transportation: Jiuzhai Valley is located approximately 330 kilometers north of Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan province.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Jiuzhai Valley is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which serves direct flights from Chengdu and other major cities.
- By Bus: Buses operate regularly from Chengdu and other cities to Jiuzhai Valley. The journey takes several hours, but the scenic route offers beautiful views of the countryside.
Things to Do:
- Scenic Walks and Hikes: Jiuzhai Valley offers various walking trails and hiking routes, allowing visitors to explore its stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
- Visit Colorful Lakes and Waterfalls: Marvel at the vibrant and crystal-clear lakes, such as Five-Color Pond, Mirror Lake, and Long Lake, as well as the magnificent Nuorilang and Pearl Shoals waterfalls.
- Panda Lake and Panda Falls: Discover the charming Panda Lake and the picturesque Panda Falls, which offer serene views and unique rock formations.
- Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley: Explore the Rize and Zechawa Valleys, each featuring stunning lakes, waterfalls, and colorful forests.
- Huanglong National Scenic Reserve: Extend your trip to Huanglong National Scenic Reserve, known for its remarkable travertine landscapes and Huanglonggou (Yellow Dragon Valley).
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Spectacular Scenery: Jiuzhai Valley is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, with vibrant turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and lush forests creating a feast for the eyes.
- Unspoiled Nature: The park is well-preserved and relatively untouched by modern development, offering a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to connect with nature.
- Photography Opportunities: Photographers are drawn to Jiuzhai Valley for its picturesque beauty and the chance to capture stunning images of the natural wonders.
How Old is This Place: Jiuzhai Valley is believed to have been formed over thousands of years, shaped by tectonic movements and glacial activities.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Huanglong National Scenic Reserve: Located nearby, Huanglong offers its unique travertine terraces and scenic landscapes, complementing the beauty of Jiuzhai Valley.
- Songpan Ancient Town: This ancient town, situated close to Jiuzhai Valley, is known for its well-preserved city walls, traditional architecture, and vibrant local culture.
List of Activities:
- Scenic Walks and Hikes
- Visit Colorful Lakes and Waterfalls
- Explore Panda Lake and Panda Falls
- Discover Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley
- Extend Your Trip to Huanglong National Scenic Reserve