Two days moving from panda research to UNESCO stonework and a sacred mountain—this compact tour pairs wildlife viewing at the Chengdu Panda Base with the monumental Leshan Buddha and Emei Mountain’s summit vistas. Expect cable cars, shuttle buses, and cultural sites shaped by a thousand years of Buddhist pilgrimage.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Chengdu traffic onto a quiet coach at dawn and the city’s heat gives way to river valleys and tea terraces. By mid-morning the Chengdu Research Base hums with keeper voices and bamboo chimes as giant pandas laze or clamber—an intimate primer in conservation before the stone calm of the Leshan Giant Buddha.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with reasonable mobility; requires stair climbing and standing for several hours, but no technical fitness.
Wildlife
History
Leshan’s Buddha was carved in the Tang Dynasty to calm river turbulence; Mount Emei has hosted Buddhist practice for over a thousand years, with surviving temples like Wannian dating back centuries.
Conservation
The Chengdu Research Base focuses on captive breeding and habitat research; visitors should stick to paths, avoid feeding wildlife, and support local conservation donations where available.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Day Panda Base plus Leshan Giant Buddha and Emei Mountain Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early at the Panda Base
Pandas are most active in the morning; go first thing to see feeding and play sessions before crowds build.
Layer for summit conditions
Temperatures on Golden Summit can be 5–10°C cooler with wind and cloud—pack a warm, lightweight layer.
Bring small change for temples and snacks
Local vendors and small temple stalls often accept cash only—carry RMB for lunches, offering boxes, and shuttle fees.
Protect your knees on stone steps
The descent from Emei includes long flights of stone steps—use trekking poles or take the shuttle sections if you have knee issues.
Grippy day hiking shoes
Stable traction for wet stone steps and temple stairs on Emei Mountain.
Light rain shell
Spring showers and summit fog can make surfaces slick—stay dry and warm.
spring
Compact daypack
Carry water, snacks, camera, and an extra layer for the summit and temple visits.
Photocopies of passport and train ticket printout
Required for booking and pickup; keep copies separate from originals for peace of mind.