Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area – Sichuan:
Description: Jiuzhaigou Valley, often referred to simply as Jiuzhaigou, is a breathtakingly beautiful national park located in Sichuan province, China. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its mesmerizing turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and colorful forests. Jiuzhaigou Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, offering a serene and enchanting environment.
Visitor Fee: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Jiuzhaigou Valley charged an entrance fee for visitors. The ticket price varied depending on the season (peak or non-peak) and the age of the visitor (adult, child, or senior). Additionally, there were fees for shuttle buses within the park. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket pricing and reservation information.
Transportation: Jiuzhaigou Valley is situated in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, around 330 kilometers north of Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan province.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which serves direct flights from Chengdu and other major cities. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Jiuzhaigou Valley.
- By Bus: Buses operate regularly from Chengdu and other cities to Jiuzhaigou. The journey takes several hours but offers picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Things to Do:
- Scenic Walks and Hikes: Jiuzhaigou Valley offers a network of walking trails and hiking routes that take visitors through the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of the valley.
- Colorful Lakes and Waterfalls: Marvel at the vibrant turquoise lakes, such as Long Lake, Five-Color Pond, and Mirror Lake, as well as the magnificent Nuorilang and Pearl Shoals waterfalls.
- Panda Lake and Panda Falls: Discover the charming Panda Lake and picturesque Panda Falls, named after their panda-like shapes.
- Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley: Explore the Rize and Zechawa Valleys, each featuring beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and colorful forests.
- Nuorilang Waterfall: Admire the grandeur of the Nuorilang Waterfall, one of the widest waterfalls in China.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Unparalleled Beauty: Jiuzhaigou Valley is renowned for its surreal and awe-inspiring natural beauty, which captivates visitors with its crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and colorful landscapes.
- Nature and Wildlife: The valley is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various plant species and some rare animals, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
- Photography Opportunities: The picturesque scenery of Jiuzhaigou Valley offers ample opportunities for photographers to capture stunning and mesmerizing shots.
How Old is This Place:
- The geological processes and formation of the landscapes in Jiuzhaigou Valley have taken place over thousands of years.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Huanglong National Scenic Reserve: Located nearby, Huanglong features stunning travertine terraces and picturesque landscapes that complement the beauty of Jiuzhaigou Valley.
- Muni Valley: Muni Valley, situated not far from Jiuzhaigou, is known for its high-altitude pasture and scenic beauty.
List of Activities:
- Explore the Scenic Walks and Hikes
- Marvel at Colorful Lakes and Waterfalls
- Discover Panda Lake and Panda Falls
- Explore Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley
- Admire the Nuorilang Waterfall