Chengdu: 2 Days Panda, Leshan Buddha and Emeishan Group Tour

Experience the Best of Sichuan in Just Two Days Thanks to a Well-Organized Guided Tour

Travelers seeking an efficient way to see some of Sichuan’s most iconic sights will find this 2-day group tour a compelling choice. For $561 per person, you’ll visit the Chengdu Panda Base, the Leshan Giant Buddha, and Mount Emei, all with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation.

What we love about this experience is the thoughtful itinerary—each stop is carefully planned to maximize your time without feeling rushed—and the small group size keeps the experience intimate and personalized. The comfortable, less-crowded coaches make traveling between sites a relaxing part of the adventure. Plus, the fact that there’s no compulsory shopping or hidden agendas means your focus stays on the sights and the stories behind them.

A possible consideration? The cost of optional extras, like cable cars at Mount Emei, isn’t included, so budget accordingly. Also, if you’re not staying within the city’s second ring road, there’s an additional fee for pickup, which might influence your planning.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free snapshot of Sichuan’s most famous attractions, especially if you value guided insight and comfort over flexibility. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone short on time but eager to experience authentic highlights.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, guides, and entry fees.
• Small group size (limited to 15), ensuring personalized attention.
• Comfortable coaches that are cleaner and less crowded than public buses.
• No forced shopping stops, focusing solely on sights and cultural stories.
• Two days packed with major attractions that highlight Sichuan’s natural and cultural treasures.
• Extra costs apply for optional activities like cable cars and shows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day Chengdu: Panda, Buddha, and Mountain Tour

If you’re after a quick, yet rich immersion into Sichuan’s most celebrated sites, this tour offers a practical blend of nature, history, and culture. We’ll break down what you can expect on each day, the highlights, and what makes this trip stand out—or fall short.

Day 1: From Pandas to the Leshan Buddha and Mount Emei

The day kicks off early, with a hotel pick-up between 7:00 and 8:00 am. From there, your guide, like Kenneth’s guide Mark, will take you to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This is truly a highlight for animal lovers—seeing pandas in their carefully maintained habitat is both adorable and educational. The guided tour lasts about three hours, giving you plenty of time for photos and to learn about conservation efforts.

Traveling from Chengdu to Leshan is a short two-hour drive, but the comfort of your private coach makes this part smooth and pleasant—no crowded public buses here. Once in Leshan, you’ll have about 1-1.5 hours to climb and walk around the Leshan Giant Buddha. The views from the top are impressive, and walking up to the top of the hill provides a sense of achievement and perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage site. Giulia’s review highlights that the guide was very helpful, satisfying all her requests and making the experience effortless.

After lunch, you’ll drive to the foot of Mount Emei, where you can explore Emei Mountain Square until about 6 pm. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life and perhaps sample some street food or shop for souvenirs—though the tour itself doesn’t push shopping. Dinner is optional and at your own expense, with recommendations from the guide, and you spend the night near the mountain at a 4-star hotel—the Emei Garden City Resort Hotel.

Day 2: Mount Emei’s Golden Summit and Nature Walks

Your second day begins with an early start—7:00 am—heading up Mount Emei via a local sightseeing bus. The ascent includes a walk to the cable car station at Leidongping, where you can take the cable car to the Golden Summit (cost at your own expense). The views from here are often described as breathtaking, with clouds, forests, and temples blending into a serene landscape.

You’ll visit the Golden Temple, Silver Temple, and the Puxian Buddha—a massive statue that, according to the reviews, offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and clouds. Many travelers find the mountain’s natural beauty and spiritual ambiance a highlight. The optional cable car to Wannian Temple offers a different perspective of the mountain, though it isn’t included in the tour fee (65 RMB one-way).

The hike down from Wannian Temple down scenic paths like Qingyin Pavilion and Monkey Zone allows you to enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty, with a total hike lasting around three hours. The route is well-loved for passing waterfalls, lush forests, and small temples—an authentic experience that combines nature and Buddhist culture.

By late afternoon, the bus takes you back down the mountain and then to Chengdu, where the tour concludes with drops at your hotel or the railway station. Giulia’s review notes that the guide was very helpful and that the vehicle was “super comfortable,” with water supplies—small details that enhance the trip.

Transportation and Group Size: Why They Matter

One of the key advantages of this tour is the private, comfortable van or bus. Compared to public buses, the smaller coach size (5 to 17 seats) means less crowding and more space for luggage or personal belongings. This makes for a quieter, more relaxed journey across the beautiful Sichuan landscapes.

With small group limits (up to 15 participants), you’ll find it easier to ask questions, adapt the schedule slightly if needed, and enjoy more personalized interaction with your guide. This often translates into better storytelling and insights, as reflected in the glowing reviews praising guides like Mark and Marc for their knowledge and helpfulness.

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The Value of the Included Fees and Extras

Your ticket prices cover entry to the Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, and Mount Emei, as well as transportation and guide services. This creates a hassle-free experience, especially for first-timers who might find navigating ticket lines or transportation logistics daunting.

However, some extras aren’t included, notably the cable cars at Mount Emei—which can save you time and make the visit more comfortable—and the Emei Kungfu show, which is offered as an optional add-on. If you’re interested in these, plan to pay at the site, adding to your overall cost.

Comfort, Food, and Accommodation

Staying overnight near Mount Emei in a 4-star hotel provides a comfortable base after a full day of sightseeing. The tour doesn’t include meals, but guides usually suggest good local restaurants, and you’ll have time to explore nearby food stalls or cafes.

Most travelers mention that the hotel quality is good, and the transportation is smooth and modern. The small groups and organized schedule mean you’re not left wandering or waiting around, making this a convenient choice for those wanting a seamless experience.

Authenticity and Cultural Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on authentic sites and natural beauty. The Panda Base offers a behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts, while Mount Emei’s temples and scenic views provide a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.

The guides’ insights, as shared by Kenneth and Giulia, enrich the experience—they provide context and stories that bring these sights to life. The absence of compulsory shopping is a welcome feature, allowing travelers to truly enjoy and reflect on their surroundings, rather than feeling pressured to buy souvenirs.

Many travelers find the views and photo opportunities unforgettable. The mountain, in particular, offers sweeping vistas, cloud formations, and the chance to see the massive Puxian Buddha, which leaves a lasting impression.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Sichuan’s highlights. It’s perfect if you enjoy small groups, guided commentary, and comfortable travel. First-time visitors will appreciate the convenience of the itinerary, and nature lovers will enjoy the scenic mountain hikes.

Travelers on a tight schedule will find this a valuable way to tick off major attractions in just two days, especially with the well-organized logistics that ensure you maximize sightseeing time. If you love animals, history, and natural landscapes, this tour combines all three beautifully.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you stay within the 2nd Ring Road of Chengdu, pickup is included. If outside, there’s a 100 RMB fee, and you should specify your hotel when booking.

How long is the drive from Chengdu to Leshan?
It takes about two hours by comfortable private coach.

Are meals included?
No, meals are extra. The tour suggests local restaurants, and you can choose your own dining options.

What is the cost of the cable car at Mount Emei?
Cable cars are not included. Round-trip cable car tickets cost approximately 120 RMB, but you pay at your own expense.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Chinese?
Yes, the guide speaks English and Chinese, and the tour is designed for international travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, provided they are comfortable with walking and mountain hikes. The tour provides transportation and guided commentary.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any shopping stops?
No, the tour focuses solely on sightseeing without compulsory shopping.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded adventure through some of Sichuan’s most iconic sites—pandas, the Giant Buddha, and Mount Emei—delivered with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. The thoughtfully planned itinerary balances sightseeing with natural beauty and cultural insights, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without the fuss.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the convenience, inclusiveness, and quality of experience provide good value—especially considering the small group size and personalized attention. The optional extras, like cable cars, allow you to tailor your experience and budget.

If you’re after a stress-free, authentic exploration of Sichuan’s treasures, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited for first-timers, animal lovers, and those who appreciate comfort and in-depth guiding. Just be prepared for the optional costs and an active schedule that makes the most of your limited time.

You can check availability for your dates here: