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From Pandas to Pagodas: Discovering Sichuan and Yunnan’s Treasures
Route:
Sichuan > Yunnan
Duration:
10-14 Days
Suitable for:
Nature Lovers, Culture Seekers, Adventure Travelers
Accommodation:
4-star boutique hotels & local stays
Best Season:
All seasons
Guide Languages Available:
English, French, Chinese
Introduction
Embark on a journey through two of China’s most enchanting provinces, where ancient culture meets stunning natural beauty. From the playful giant pandas in Sichuan to the serene pagodas and highland landscapes of Yunnan, this 10-14 day adventure offers a rich blend of wildlife encounters, cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery.
Itinerary Overview
Our standard itineraries are for reference only — just let us know your preferences in the form, and our travel experts will customize a trip just for you!
Explore the vibrant city of Chengdu, encounter the beloved giant pandas, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich spiritual and culinary traditions.
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu – City and Culture
Arrive in Chengdu and meet your guide and group. Visit the famous Giant Panda Breeding Research Base to see these gentle creatures up close. In the afternoon, stroll through Kuanzhai Alley and Jinli Ancient Street to soak in Chengdu’s leisurely pace and historic charm. Sample Sichuan’s bold flavors at dinner, with optional hot pot or local snacks.
Day 2: Chengdu – Sichuan Opera and Local Life
Spend your morning exploring the city’s parks or museums. In the evening, enjoy an exciting Sichuan opera performance featuring the famous face-changing act. Savor traditional dishes and experience Chengdu’s lively night scene.
Day 3: Leshan Giant Buddha & Emei Mountain
Travel to Leshan early to visit the colossal Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha statue carved into a cliff. In the afternoon, explore Emei Mountain’s lush trails and ancient temples, soaking in Buddhist culture and natural beauty. Return to Chengdu or stay overnight near Emei.
Day 4: Jiuzhaigou or Huanglong (Optional Day Trip)
Choose between visiting Jiuzhaigou Valley, famed for its colorful lakes and waterfalls (especially stunning in autumn), or Huanglong Scenic Area, known for its travertine pools and diverse wildlife. Overnight locally or return to Chengdu.
Discover Yunnan’s unique ethnic cultures, historic towns, and spectacular landscapes, from the “Spring City” of Kunming to the mystical Tibetan plateau.
Day 5: Kunming – The Spring City
Arrive or transfer to Kunming. Visit Cuihu Park and the old city streets for a relaxed introduction. Explore the Yunnan Ethnic Village to learn about the region’s diverse minority groups. Enjoy Yunnan cuisine with specialties like “Crossing-the-bridge” noodles.
Day 6–Day 7: Dali – Ancient Charm by the Lake
Travel to Dali and explore the ancient town’s whitewashed buildings and cobbled streets. Cycle or boat around Erhai Lake to admire the scenic vistas and local life. Visit the Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple to appreciate Buddhist heritage.
Day 8–Day 9: Lijiang – Naxi Culture and Mountain Majesty
Head to Lijiang, wandering the UNESCO-listed old town’s winding alleys and canals. Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley, taking in alpine scenery. Optionally explore quieter ancient villages like Shuhe or Baisha for a more intimate cultural experience.
Day 10–Day 11: Shangri-La (Optional Extension)
Journey further north to Shangri-La, gateway to Tibetan culture. Visit Songzanlin Monastery and explore Pudacuo National Park, home to pristine lakes and meadows. This extension offers a profound glimpse into highland spirituality and nature.
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Useful Information
At Travel China, we believe your journey should be as unique as you are. Our itineraries are here to inspire—but every trip can be fully customized to match your interests, pace, and preferences. Simply share your ideas with us through the form, and our travel experts will craft a tailor-made adventure just for you, along with a personalized quote.
All our tours can be adjusted to suit your needs—whether it’s adding destinations, changing pace, or tailoring experiences. Just tell us what you have in mind!
A small deposit of just 10% per person confirms your booking and secures your hotels, tickets, and private transport. The remaining balance is paid upon your arrival in China.
A visa is required for travel to mainland China. We recommend applying at least two months in advance.
Ages 14–70 must apply in person at a Visa Application Center.
Ages 13 and under / 71 and over can apply online.
We’ll provide you with the necessary documents and guidance to make the process smooth and easy.
Comfortable private cars are arranged within cities. For intercity travel, we use China’s efficient high-speed trains or domestic flights. Please note: lighters and aerosols are not allowed on trains or planes.
The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB / CNY / Yuan). We suggest exchanging money before departure. US dollars are also commonly accepted. Credit cards work in most hotels and malls, but small shops may only accept cash. ATMs are widely available.
Hotels may require a credit card or cash deposit upon check-in.
You’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide upon arrival. Throughout your trip, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you in each city to offer expert insight and support.
We handpick hotels for comfort, location, and character—typically at a 4-star standard. Ratings may differ from international norms, but we inspect all our partner properties regularly to ensure quality. All rooms come with private bathrooms.
Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours. Unlike the western world, Chinese people do not normally pre-heat their plates and food can be presented at a variety of temperatures, which is a typical Chinese way of doing things.
Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.
It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed countries water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way. Bottled water will be available at shops and hotels.
If your visit falls during a major Chinese holiday, such as Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb) or Golden Week (May 1–3 & Oct 1–7), note that transportation may be busier and attractions more crowded. Shops may close temporarily, but scenic sites remain open.
