2-Day Private Tour of Leshan Grand Buddha and Emei Shan including Monastery Stay

Discover the majesty of Leshan and Emei Shan with this 2-day private tour from Chengdu. For just over $500 per person, you’ll visit the world’s largest stone Buddha, enjoy breathtaking cable car rides to the Golden Summit, and spend a night in a historic monastery. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this all-inclusive experience offers both cultural insight and comfort, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic and flexible adventure.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the personalized attention from a private guide—making it easier to understand the sites—and the chance to stay overnight at Baoguo Monastery, which really immerses you in the spiritual atmosphere. The tour also offers delicious traditional meals and convenient transportation, making it a smooth experience.

The one potential consideration is the extensive walking involved; comfortable shoes are essential. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, nature, and cultural sites, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. If you’re after a deep dive into Buddhist sites with a local guide in a flexible schedule, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide ensures tailored insights and flexibility.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the largest stone Buddha and iconic temples at Emei Shan.
• Authentic Stay: Spend a night at Baoguo Monastery to experience monastic life firsthand.
• Breathtaking Views: Cable car rides to the Golden Summit provide stunning vistas and photo opportunities.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, transportation, and entrance fees are covered, simplifying your trip.
• Physical Activity: Expect a fair amount of walking; wear comfortable shoes.

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Leshan and Emei Shan’s Sacred Sites

Your adventure begins with a pick-up at your Chengdu hotel, which is a real boon—no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar transport. From there, it’s a scenic 2-hour drive to Leshan. The first major highlight is the Leshan Giant Buddha—at 71 meters high, it’s the largest stone Buddha sculpture on Earth. You’ll spend about four hours exploring this marvel, with a knowledgeable guide explaining the history and significance of the site.

We loved the way the guide seamlessly combined storytelling with practical insights, making the visit more meaningful. The trail around the Buddha offers varied perspectives, and the visit to Lingyun Temple, with its calligraphy and artifacts, adds a peaceful, contemplative touch.

Just a short drive away is the Fuhu Temple, which sits at the base of Emei Shan. Covering about 10 acres, this area is perfect for a walking tour—your guide will point out notable features like the Tiger-Taming Temple, supposedly named after a fearsome pillar meant to ward off tiger attacks. The combination of temples, natural springs, and serene ponds makes it a peaceful spot to absorb the spiritual atmosphere.

The day ends with an overnight stay at Baoguo Monastery. This historic site is more than just a hotel—it’s a living religious community where you can observe monks at prayer, stroll through ancient courtyards, and get a real taste of monastic life. Several reviewers remarked on the authentic feel of the monastery stay, with one highlighting how the location offered walking access to restaurants and shops.

Day 2: Mount Emei’s Golden Summit and Temples

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head back to the Emei Shan area, where a cable car whisks you up to the Golden Summit—at nearly 10,000 feet, this is the crown jewel of the mountain. The cable car ride itself offers stunning aerial views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a memorable highlight.

When you arrive at the summit, you’ll be among clouds and possibly witness a spectacular sunrise if you wake early enough. The summit is home to the tallest golden statue of Puxian Buddha (about 48 meters high), an awe-inspiring sight. The area also features two main temples—the Woyun Nunnery and Hua Zang Si—each offering unique architectural and spiritual insights. Many visitors find the padlocks inscribed with couples’ names at Hua Zang Si touching, symbolizing eternal love.

Throughout the day, your guide will share stories behind these temples and traditions, enriching your experience. The inclusion of lunch and round-trip cable cars means you can focus on the sights rather than logistics, making the day both relaxed and fulfilling.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price of around $514 per person might seem high at first glance, the all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, entrance fees, meals, and even an overnight monastery stay—adds to its appeal. For travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with a private guide, this is a strong option. You’ll avoid the crowds and feel more connected to the sites, thanks to your guide’s personalized attention.

Several reviews mention the knowledgeable guides who make the experience enjoyable and educational. For example, one reviewer praised their guide’s efficiency and camaraderie, noting it made the trip “very easy to enjoy.” The local insights and friendly service elevate what might otherwise be just a sightseeing tour.

The monastery stay particularly stands out as an authentic, immersive experience that many travelers cherish—offering a rare glimpse into monastic life and spiritual traditions that are often missed on typical day-trips.

What Could Be Better?

The most common consideration is the amount of walking involved, which can be demanding in hot or rainy weather. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential. Plus, some might feel that the cost is high relative to similar experiences in other countries, as one reviewer pointed out. However, given the comprehensive nature—private guide, transportation, meals, overnight stay—it provides good value for the convenience and depth offered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see iconic Buddhist sites with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy scenic cable car rides, and want to stay overnight in a traditional monastery, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value culture and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. Perfect for those craving a personalized, in-depth experience rather than a rushed day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much walking should I expect?
Expect a fair amount of walking around the sites, trails, and temples. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring traditional Chinese dishes.

What is the accommodation like at Baoguo Monastery?
You’ll stay in twin rooms with standard amenities—simple but authentic. It’s a unique chance to experience monastic life.

Can I see the sunrise from the Golden Summit?
If you rise early, yes—many travelers enjoy watching the sunrise from the summit, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable if I dislike long bus rides?
The drive to Leshan and Emei Shan takes about two hours each way, so it’s best for those comfortable with some travel time.

What about accessibility?
While the tour involves some walking, most sites are navigable, but heavy mobility issues might find it challenging in certain areas.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, a boat trip at Leshan is available for an extra fee, but it’s not included in the standard package.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved if traveling with young children or those with mobility concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of two of Sichuan’s most revered sites. It’s ideal for travelers who want in-depth insights, a comfortable pace, and a taste of monastic life, all while enjoying stunning views and cultural highlights. If you value personalized service and are ready for some walking, this tour can enrich your understanding of China’s spiritual landscape far beyond surface-level sightseeing.