Step into a Living Scroll of Mountains and Waterscapes
Embark on an unforgettable journey to two of China's UNESCO World Heritage natural sites: the fairy-tale realm of Jiuzhaigou with its dazzling lakes and spectacular waterfalls, and Zhangjiajie's majestic stone pillars reaching into a sky filled with clouds. Further enrich your trip with adorable pandas in Dujiangyan, a serene ascent of Mountain Qingcheng, and a dive into the magical world of the 72 Strange Buildings.
Ideal for nature lovers, this 9-day tour combines immersive hiking adventures with the convenience of cable cars and shuttle buses. As experts in customized private trips, we're eager to tailor-make your perfect journey into nature's heart, considering your preferences and energy levels.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Ascend Hallelujah Mountain from 'Avatar' through Bailong Elevator
Ride the world's highest outdoor elevator, the Bailong, and marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of Zhangjiajie.


Take a Calming Stroll along the Golden Whip Stream
Immerse yourself in one of the world's most picturesque canyons, feeling as if you've stepped into a lush, green fairy-tale world.


Challenge Yourself at the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge
Dare to stand on the glass bridge, suspended over a 300-meter-deep canyon, which gives the thrilling sensation of floating in the sky.

Immerse in a Rich Folk Atmosphere at the 72 Strange Buildings
Delight in the lit-up stilted buildings under the night sky and participate in various interactive performances.

Discover Jiuzhaigou's Dreamlike Beauty
Spend a day stepping into a fairyland where vibrant lakes and waterfalls beautifully intertwine.


Visit the Terraced Pools of Huanglong
Explore Huanglong Scenic Area, marvel at the beauty of the multicolored pools, and take a stroll through the primeval forest.

Encounter the Adorable Pandas in Panda Valley
Drive to Dujiangyan, where you can meet the enchanting giant pandas and red pandas in their well-preserved habitat.

Explore the Serene Mountain Qingcheng
Take a cable car ride and a leisurely walk to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountain and the rich Taoist culture reflected in its numerous temples.

Embark on a Culinary Journey in Kuanzhai Alley
Savor the flavors of authentic Sichuan delicacies in ancient streets, making your experience as memorable as your trip.


Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

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Chengdu was amazing!
![]() Chengdu was amazing and so was our guide Helen from Chengdu. We volunteered at the Panda Research base, and visited the 2018 earthquake site and touching memorial. We wanted a more relaxed day - we were traveling with 3 teenagers. We started the day at the beautiful and peaceful city park. We got Kungfu tea at a tea house, paddled around the lake, then rode rides and drove bumper cars. We also checked out the marriage market! After lunch we checked out local markets and Helen helped us find a market of only athletic wear - 9 stories! We finished the day at a Chengdu performance. It was the perfect way to end the day. We had so much fun with Helen, loved her flexibility and recommendations. Would recommend 100%. more
Apr 2025, Cathy
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Amazing Chengdu (the panda city)
![]() Amazing vibrant city, amazing giant pandas and amazing guide Helen in Chengdu, who was never flustered, even though we requested a last moment change of itinerary. She even knew the names of all the giant pandas at the Dujiangyan Panda Base! We had a most enjoyable time exploring the crowded Wide & Narrow Alleys, sampling local foods and viewing local merchandise. more
Apr 2025, Stephen
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xperience Chengdu with Sammi (China Highlights)
![]() Sammi our guide from Chengdu was amazing. She had great energy and was super knowledgeable about history, pandas, local customs, food ,…, anything and everything. We will come back to Chengdu just to spend more time with her!! The China Highlights experience in Chengdu commenced on our journey here. We got an efficient message from Sammi guiding us to the meeting coordinates. From then onwards we were well looked after. more
Apr 2025, Gkrishna11
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour to suit your interests.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Chengdu. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you check in.
After breakfast, you'll embark on a high-speed train journey from Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai Station.
Huanglong is renowned for its 'Four Wonders': colorful ponds, snow-capped mountains, canyons, and forests. You'll take a cable car and a shuttle bus to reach its essence - the terraced, vibrantly colored calcified Five Color Pool at the mountain top. After this, you may either walk down through the primeval forest or take the cable car back down.
After your tour, you'll head to a hotel near Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, about a 2-hour drive away.
Today, prepare to be enchanted by the three main valleys of Jiuzhaigou: Zechawa Valley, Rize Valley, and Shuzheng Valley. These valleys come together to form a 'Y' shape, and each one boasts its unique charm.
Depending on the shuttle bus schedule, your exploration will kick off from the highest points of either Rize Valley or Zechawa Valley. From there, you'll meander down through a combination of leisurely walks and efficient bus rides, taking in the stunning sights of Long Lake, Five-color Lake, Shuzheng Lakes, and the spectacular Norilang Waterfall and Pearl Beach Waterfall.
Considering the weather, crowd levels, and your personal interests, you will have your day expertly tailored by our guide for optimal enjoyment, ensuring you witness Jiuzhaigou's iconic landscapes from the best vantage points.
Take a high-speed train from Huanglongjiuzhai Station to Chengdu, kickstarting your half-day city exploration.
Dive into a culinary journey in the historic Kuan Zhai Alley, a paradise for street food lovers. From the spicy Sichuan Dan Dan Noodles to the tasty Chuan Chuan and juicy Dumplings, prepare to delight your palate with a variety of irresistible treats!
Step into the tranquil realm of the Wenshu Monastery, where the architectural grandeur and lush garden landscapes come alive. In autumn, golden ginkgo leaves contrast with the grey-tiled, red-wall buildings. Savor traditional Gaiwan tea, experiencing Chengdu's serene pace.
Take a morning drive from Chengdu to the serene Dujiangyan Panda Valley. Here, you'll encounter over a dozen pandas up close and observe adorable red pandas in their natural habitat! Additionally, the verdant sanctuary hosts a variety of plants, including stunning rhododendrons.
In the afternoon, take a cable car up to Mount Qingcheng and enjoy a leisurely walk. Afterwards, take the cable car back down. The loop trails here are surrounded by lush nature, while the various ancient Taoist temples add a sense of mystery to the mountain.
After your visit, return to your hotel in Chengdu, approximately an hour's drive away.
Following breakfast, travel to the airport in Chengdu to catch your flight to Zhangjiajie, which is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes away.
Upon arrival at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, your driver and guide will be waiting to take you to a popular attraction in the city center, 72 Strange Buildings. This stilted-house icon is a gateway to the charm of western Hunan. As night falls, the structure becomes particularly enchanting under the lights and hosts vibrant performances like street parades, folk songs, and bonfire parties. In addition, you can taste snacks from various regions here.
Dedicate a day and a half to exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Today, immerse yourself in the park's essence, Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. Marvel at the unique pillar-like formations, sculpted by time and erosion.
Embark on a 30-minute shuttle ride to the Bailong Elevator, a thrilling 335-meter ascent to the top of Yuanjiajie. Here, explore the No.1 Bridge in the World and behold the Hallelujah Mountains, made famous by the movie Avatar.
After a light lunch, a 40-minute journey takes you to Tianzi Mountain, often hailed as the 'King of Peak Forest'. Invest 1-2 hours hiking Tianzi Mountain before a cable car whisks you back down.
Please note: During peak seasons, expect queues for the elevator, vehicles, and cable car rides.
Revisit the National Forest Park for a 2.5-3 hour hike along the Golden Whip Stream, famed for its stunning canyon landscapes. During summer, the stream provides a refreshing retreat, inviting you to wade amidst verdant forests and clear waters teeming with fish. Keep an eye out for the wild monkeys that inhabit the area.
After lunch, proceed to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, a recently developed wonderland. Don't miss the thrill of walking on the world's highest and longest glass bridge, suspended 300 meters above the ground!
Embrace the majesty of Tianmen Mountain, the awe-inspiring heart of Zhangjiajie. This towering peak provides unmatched views of ancient trees, dramatic karst formations, and scenic roads etched into cliff sides.
Soar to the area's highest peak via the world's longest cable car ride, a thrilling 30-minute journey offering panoramic views of the city and wonderful scenery.
Don't miss the Tianmen Cave, the world's highest natural arch, seeming like a celestial gateway. Choose your adventure: ascend the 'Stairway to Heaven' with its 999 steps, or take the mountain escalator for a gentler climb.
After your visit, head to Zhangjiajie's airport or railway station, ending your unforgettable journey.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.



Tour Price
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- Flights/trains between itinerary cities
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: cht-sc-5