Dujiangyan Panda Base and Dujiangyan Dam
Gain a deeper understanding of Sichuan through close encounters with giant pandas and a visit to one of China's greatest engineering achievements, still shaping the landscape more than 2,000 years after its construction.
Area
Sichuan & Yangtze River
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Who
Adults
Teens
Young Kids
Travel to Dujiangyan Panda Base, located around 90 minutes from Chengdu and set among bamboo-covered hills that closely resemble the giant panda's natural habitat. Dedicated to conservation and preparing pandas for life in the wild, the centre offers one of the most rewarding opportunities to learn about China's national animal. Rather than simply observing from a distance, you'll spend time as a panda caretaker, helping to prepare bamboo, making panda cakes and observing panda behaviour. Share lunch with the staff and learn more about the centre's conservation work before watching a panda-themed film that provides further insight into these remarkable animals.
Later, continue to the Dujiangyan Dam, one of China's most significant ancient engineering projects and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed in 256 BC, it remains the world's oldest functioning irrigation system and has played a vital role in shaping Sichuan's prosperity by controlling flooding and distributing water across the region. Walk across the hanging cable bridge and explore this enduring feat of engineering, which reflects the traditional Chinese philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Although the irrigation system was damaged during the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, parts have since been restored, allowing visitors to appreciate both its historical significance and lasting influence today.Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationJZ Hotel Emei
A luxury retreat hidden away in the eastern Himalayan highlands, JZ Emei Hotel is the perfect location for exploring the UNESCO-listed Mount Emei and the surrounding forests with their unique flora and fauna, hot springs and wild landscapes.
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View AccommodationMövenpick Hotel Enshi
A modern contemporary five-star with design blending Eastern and Western elements, sparked with Swiss hospitality and convenient base to access the Enshi Grand Canyon.
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View AccommodationUpper House Chengdu
The Temple House is the latest addition to the Swire Group and is just as unique as its sister properties in Beijing and Shanghai. A fusion of traditional charm and modern elegance, this stunning property is the perfect base for exploring Chengdu.
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View AccommodationBuddha Zen Hotel
Drawing inspiration from the nearby Wenshu Zen Buddhist monastery, the Buddha Zen Hotel is a traditional boutique hotel in the historic Wen Shu Fang area of Chengdu, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in Sichuan’s Tibetan-influenced culture.
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View AccommodationChengdu Airport Hotel
Just a five-minute walk from the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, the Chengdu Airport Hotel is ideal for guests with an early departure or late arrival. Tastefully appointed rooms, an indoor pool, spa and fitness centre make it a welcoming base.
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View AccommodationHongzhushan Hotel
At the foot of Mount Emei, Hongzhushan Hotel pairs forest, lakes, and hot springs with a short walk to Baoguo Temple, gateway to one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains.
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View AccommodationWanda Reign Wuhan
Set on the beautiful location by the East Lake, Wanda Reign Wuhan offers modern amenities, varied F&B options and the unique Reign Butler service.
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View AccommodationSix Senses Qing Cheng Mountain
Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain is a peaceful resort at the foot of the Qing Cheng Mountains well-located for exploring UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan. Full of understated luxury, there is an award-winning spa, wide choice of restaurants and superb facilities.
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View Accommodation
M.S Yangzi Explorer
Cruise the world's third largest river in decadent style and luxury on board the small and intimate M.S. Yangzi Explorer. See the 'life line' of China, The Yangzi River, unveil before you whilst you relax in comfort.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceTenglong Cave & Qingjiang River
For the active travellers who enjoy challenging hikes, we will explore Tenglong Cave with its famous natural stone forest and hike along the Qingjiang River Bank.
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View ExperienceSichuan Flavours & Chengdu Heritage
Discover Chengdu through its culture and cuisine, exploring the city's history before learning the flavours and techniques that define Sichuan cooking.
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View ExperienceLeshan Giant Buddha & Mount Emei
Journey through Sichuan's cultural and natural landmarks, from the world's largest ancient Buddha to the sacred peaks and monasteries of Mount Emei.
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View ExperienceTemples and Trails of Mount Emei
Explore the sacred landscapes of Mount Emei, walking among ancient monasteries, forested slopes and mist-shrouded peaks on one of China's most important Buddhist mountains.
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View ExperienceRed Grassland
Red Grassland is an ideal scenic places for photography. Be astonished by the impressive visual impact of the red, blue, white and yellow in the colorful Red Grassland. The tour is only available between 24 September and 12 October.
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View ExperienceChonggu Temple & Pearl Lake
Arriving into Yading Nature Reserve, you will enjoy a hike to Chonggu Temple for a view of the Xiannairi holy peak. Afterwards, you will visit Pearl Lake.
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View ExperienceShennong Peak & Longtan Valley
Discover Shennongjia's key spots, including Shennong Peak Scenic Area, Shennong Valley and Banbi Rock. Afterwards, you have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the golden apes at Longtan Valley.
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View ExperienceFull Day Tour of Chengdu and Panda Experience
Enjoy a full day tour of Chengdu exploring the wonder of the Wenshu Temple, take a visit to the ancient Jinli Street, and of course spending time at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base to marvel at these majestic and rare animals.
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View ExperienceMonasteries, Teahouses & Sichuan Opera
Experience Chengdu through its spiritual heritage, teahouse culture and celebrated traditions, from Buddhist monasteries and historic alleyways to hotpot and Sichuan opera.
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View ExperienceQingcheng Mountain & Tai Chi Experience
Discover the spiritual traditions of Qingcheng Mountain through Tai Chi, Taoist heritage and mountain trails leading to sweeping views across Sichuan's countryside.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning