Private Panda Base and Leshan Buddha Day Tour from Chongqing

Chongqing , China

Private Panda Base and Leshan Buddha Day Tour from Chongqing

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10h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit two of China's top attractions on this private full-day tour to the Chengdu Panda Base and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Grand Buddha in Leshan. Get an early start to see the pandas in action and enjoy photo ops of baby and adult panda bears. Then travel to Leshan for a guided tour of the Grand Buddha, the world’s biggest stone Buddha sculpture. Visit the Buddha’s adjacent temples, and admire the surrounding scenery of rivers and forest. Travel in comfort with a private guide and driver; lunch and Chongqing hotel pickup are included for added convenience.

Available options

Private Panda and Buddha Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Chongqing Hotel pickup

Professional English-speaking guide

Private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle

Round-trip bullet train tickets

Lunch

Entry/Admission - Chengdu Panda Base

Entry/Admission - Leshan Buddha(optional hiking ticket or boat ticket)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your day trip starts with pickup from Chongqing hotel and you will get the train tickets from the driver. It takes about 1.5h to Chengdu. Your private guide and driver will meet you at the exit of Chengdu Station and you will head directly to the Chengdu Panda Base (aka the Panda Breeding Center, officially known as the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding), located about 30 minutes outside of central Chengdu.

Your guide leads you through different areas to see baby and adult giant pandas, as well as red pandas, cat-like animals that are not closely related to giant pandas but are still pretty cute. Learn about the protection of panda bears in the wild and recent achievements in breeding, feeding and reintroduction to the wilderness.

Stop 2

Enjoy authentic Chinese lunch before travel to Leshan, relax and see the countryside scenery during the drive to Giant Buddha, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site inscribed as 'Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area.'

Work started on the Grand Buddha in the year 713 and was completed in 803 after several delays. Carved out of a cliff next to the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, the massive sculpture stands 233 feet (71 meters) high and measures 92 feet (28 meters) wide. It is the largest carved stone Buddha in the world by far.

Begin your tour of the site at the Grand Buddha Temple (Lingyun Temple), which sits behind the Buddha’s giant head . Inside the temple, view intricate sculptures and wall decorations, and then follow your guide down a trail that leads to the base of the Buddha. Get enough good photos of this wonder before head to train station and back to Chongqing.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Drop-off at the Chengdu airport is possible at the end of your tour; if you would like to be dropped off at the airport, contact the local tour operator after booking; contact information will be on your confirmation voucher

Infants two year and younger are free of charge

Important notes

Please send us a copy or photo of your passport to our email after booking.
According to railway station rules, we need your passport copy to register in China Train Ticket booking system first, then can get ticket issued.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

About Chongqing

Chongqing, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and vibrant urban life, is a sprawling metropolis in Southwest China. The city is famous for its spicy cuisine, unique architecture, and the Yangtze River cruises that offer breathtaking views of the Three Gorges.

Top Attractions

Yangtze River Cruise

A Yangtze River cruise offers stunning views of the Three Gorges and the surrounding landscapes. The cruise typically departs from Chongqing and travels to Yichang, passing through the Three Gorges Dam and other scenic spots.

Scenic 4-5 days (round trip) ¥2,000-5,000 (depending on the cruise line and cabin type)

Hongya Cave

Hongya Cave is a historic commercial district built into a cliffside. The area is known for its unique architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and local snacks.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may charge entry fees)

Chongqing Zoo

Chongqing Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including giant pandas, red pandas, and golden snub-nosed monkeys. The zoo also features beautiful gardens and a small amusement park.

Nature 3-4 hours ¥50 (adults), ¥25 (children)

Three Gorges Museum

The Three Gorges Museum showcases the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Three Gorges region. The museum features exhibits on archaeology, local customs, and the construction of the Three Gorges Dam.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Ciqikou Ancient Town

Ciqikou Ancient Town is a well-preserved historic town with a rich cultural heritage. The town is known for its traditional architecture, local crafts, and delicious street food.

Historical 3-4 hours Free (some attractions may charge entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Chongqing Hotpot

A spicy and flavorful hotpot dish featuring a broth made with Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and various meats, vegetables, and noodles.

Dinner Contains meat and spices, not suitable for vegetarians or those with spice allergies.

Dongbei Mian

A hearty noodle dish featuring thick, hand-pulled noodles in a savory broth with various toppings like pork, vegetables, and eggs.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian options may be available.

Shuizhua

A traditional Sichuan dish featuring boiled pork slices in a spicy and numbing sauce made with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.

Dinner Contains meat and spices, not suitable for vegetarians or those with spice allergies.

Chongqing Spicy Chicken

A spicy and flavorful chicken dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a spicy and numbing sauce made with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.

Dinner Contains meat and spices, not suitable for vegetarians or those with spice allergies.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Wulong Karst National Geology Park Exploring the caves and natural landscapes of the park Taking a Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony at a local tea house Taking a leisurely stroll along the Yangtze River Visiting a local spa or hot spring for a relaxing massage or soak Exploring the historic sites and temples of Chongqing Watching a traditional Sichuan opera performance

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Chongqing dialect (a variant of Sichuanese)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

China Standard Time (CST, GMT+8)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Chongqing is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Didi to avoid scams and ensure a safe ride.
• Avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Getting there

By air

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center

By train

Chongqing Railway Station, Chongqing West Railway Station

By bus

Chongqing Bus Station, Chongqing West Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and affordable, with multiple lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jiefangbei Nanbin Road Dazu District

Day trips

Wulong Karst National Geology Park

150 km (93 miles) from Chongqing • Full day

Wulong Karst National Geology Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning limestone formations, caves, and natural landscapes. The park is known for its unique geological features and scenic hiking trails.

Fengdu Ghost City

170 km (106 miles) from Chongqing • Full day

Fengdu Ghost City is a historic and cultural site located on Mingshan Hill, featuring a collection of temples, statues, and other structures dedicated to the afterlife. The site is known for its unique and eerie atmosphere, as well as its rich history and cultural significance.

Dazu Rock Carvings

150 km (93 miles) from Chongqing • Full day

Dazu Rock Carvings are a collection of ancient Buddhist and Taoist rock carvings located in the Dazu District of Chongqing. The carvings are known for their intricate detail, historical significance, and cultural value.

Festivals

Chongqing International Sister Cities Festival • September Chongqing Hotpot Festival • November Chongqing Lantern Festival • February (Lunar New Year)

Pro tips

Use a VPN to access certain websites and services, as some may be blocked or restricted in China.
Carry small denominations of cash, as some vendors may not accept cards or may not have change.
Be cautious when exchanging currency or paying with large bills, as counterfeit money can be an issue.
Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or Chongqing dialect, as English is not widely spoken and communication can be a challenge.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking, as Chongqing's hilly terrain and heavy traffic can make getting around challenging.