This two-day loop from Chengdu pairs close encounters with giant pandas with the monumental Leshan Giant Buddha and the temple-clad slopes of Mount Emei. Expect early starts, steep steps, and a mix of wildlife conservation and centuries-old Buddhist culture.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the van and the air shifts—cooler under the panda base pines, humid and river-scented at Leshan, thin and incense-sweet on Emei’s slopes. Day one moves from the guarded calm of the Chengdu Panda Breeding Base, where bamboo stems rattle like a metronome around inquisitive bears, to the thunderous scale of the Leshan Giant Buddha carved into red-bed sandstone, facing the river currents below.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to handle multiple stair sections, short hikes and several hours on your feet each day
Wildlife
History
Leshan’s cliff-carved Buddha was created during the Tang dynasty to protect boats from treacherous currents; Mount Emei has served as a Buddhist pilgrimage center for over a thousand years.
Conservation
The Chengdu Panda Base focuses on captive breeding and research—visitors should follow strict viewing rules to reduce stress on animals; at natural sites, stick to marked paths to limit erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Panda, Leshan, and Emei Mountain 2-day tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Visit pandas early
Pandas are most active in the morning; schedule the panda base visit at opening for better viewing and photos.
Bring good footwear
Leshan and Emei have many uneven stone steps and slick sections—sturdy, grippy shoes will save your knees.
Use the cable car option
If stairs or altitude bother you, take Emei’s cable car to bypass long climbs and still access key temples and views.
Carry small cash
Temples and small vendors accept cash for offerings and snacks; ATMs are limited outside Chengdu.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction on wet stone steps and long stair sections at Leshan and Emei.
Light rain shell
Mountain mists and sudden showers on Emei make a packable shell invaluable.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Keep hydrated during long touring days; refill where available to reduce plastic waste.
summer
Small daypack
Carries snacks, camera, water and layers while keeping hands free for steps and railings.