Aba Sichuan stands out as a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience China’s stunning natural beauty and unique cultures. Its landscape boasts towering mountains, lush forests, and vibrant lakes, making it a perfect playground for outdoor explorers and culture enthusiasts alike. Among the many options, we’re particularly fond of Huanglong Scenic Area for its magical pools and natural formations, and Jiuzhai Valley for its fairy-tale lakes and waterfalls. These tours showcase the region’s most breathtaking sights, with well-organized itineraries and authentic experiences that bring you closer to nature and local traditions.
If you’re short on time, the private Huanglong Park day tour by bullet train from Chengdu combines convenience with spectacular scenery. Otherwise, a full, immersive experience like the 7-day Amdo Tibet Discovery is perfect for travelers eager to explore Tibetan culture and Gansu landscape. And for those wanting a top-rated, budget-friendly day trip, Jiuzhai Valley National Park offers a compact introduction to one of China’s most colorful natural parks.
1. Huanglong Scenic Area: Explore Stunning Five-Colored Ponds
At number 1 on our list, the Huanglong Scenic Area is a visual feast. Known for the world’s largest collection of colorful travertine ponds, this site features pools that shimmer in shades of blue, green, yellow, and orange. These hues are caused by water quality, depth, minerals, and sediments, creating a surreal landscape you’ll want to photograph from every angle. The area is also home to two mountain giants—Xuebaoding and Sleeping Beauty Mountain—and a primeval forest where ancient trees reach for the sky.
The highlight is the Golden Sand Pavement, a spectacular travertine deposit that looks like a flow of gold along the mountain sides. The tour is easy to book, with confirmation in as little as 10 minutes, making it a great choice for spontaneous trips. The itinerary includes two starting locations and a six-hour period for sightseeing, walking, and taking in the panoramic views. Visitors rave about Huanglong’s delicate ponds and the sense of walking through a natural wonderland.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers wanting a manageable, scenic day with stunning photo opportunities. It’s an excellent value at $17 per person.
2. Amdo Tibet Discovery: 7 Days Gannan Monasteries & Grasslands
For those seeking an immersive cultural adventure, the Amdo Tibet Discovery offers a 7-day journey into Tibet’s eastern landscapes. This private tour includes visits to legendary sites like Demons’ Gate, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks, along with the chance to ride horses through flower-covered fields and paint thangkas with monks. You’ll experience authentic Tibetan performances and participate in local dances around bonfires under starry skies.
This tour is tailored for travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience. It includes private car service, expert local guides, and the ability to customize your route. The landscapes of the Gansu-Qinghai Grand Loop are breathtaking and less crowded than other tourist hotspots, providing a more relaxed and genuine connection to the region’s culture and scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with time and curiosity who want a deeper, more personalized look at Tibetan life and spectacular scenery. At $1,458, it’s an investment in a truly memorable trip.
$1,458 per person
3. Jiuzhai Valley National Park: Visit Colorful Fairy Tale World
At number 3, Jiuzhai Valley is a must-see for anyone visiting southwestern China. Renowned for its mesmerizing lakes, waterfalls, and snow-topped mountains, the park offers an experience that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. With over 114 colorful plateau lakes, Jiuzhai’s landscape is constantly changing with seasons—autumn turns the forests into a tapestry of reds and golds, while winter blankets the scene in snow.
The tour provides multiple stops that include crystal-clear waterfalls, Tibetan cultural experiences, and scenic walks. You can enjoy local Tibetan music and dance, adding a cultural dimension to this natural wonder. The itinerary is flexible, with options for self-guided exploration over about 7.5 hours overall. The tour is very well-reviewed, with a 5/5 rating, and booking confirmation is quick, making it highly accessible.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a concentrated dose of China’s most colorful lakes and waterfalls, with cultural highlights woven in. At $39, it’s a fantastic value for a full day of sightseeing.
$39 per person
4. Private Huanglong Park Day Tour by Bullet Train from Chengdu
The Private Huanglong Park day tour is a smart pick for travelers short on time who still want to experience China’s natural beauty. Departing from Chengdu, this tour combines bullet train travel and private transfers to maximize your time and comfort. The journey takes about 1.5 hours each way, with flexible self-guided sightseeing in Huanglong.
Included are private transfers, train tickets, and a four-hour window for exploring the colorful pools, travertine formations, and scenic spots at Huanglong. The option to upgrade to first-class train seats adds a touch of luxury. Reviewers appreciate the seamless logistics and the ability to customize the visit, making it suitable for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting to avoid long bus rides.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, hassle-free day from Chengdu, combining comfort and efficiency with a chance to see Huanglong’s stunning pools.
$321 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, time frame, and budget. For a quick, budget-friendly nature fix, the Huanglong Scenic Area delivers vibrant pools and impressive landscapes. If you’re craving culture, the Amdo Tibet Discovery offers a deep dive into Tibetan traditions and majestic scenery over a week. For a family-friendly or shorter visit, the Jiuzhai Valley provides a manageable day with unforgettable sights.
Consider logistics and travel style: the private bullet train tour suits those with limited time but who want comfort and convenience, while the longer Tibet trip suits explorers seeking a more profound cultural connection. Book early, especially for popular sites like Jiuzhai Valley or Huanglong, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Aba Sichuan offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the colorful pools of Huanglong to the fairy-tale lakes of Jiuzhai, there’s a tour that matches every traveler’s interests and schedule. If you want a straightforward day trip, the Huanglong private tour is excellent—especially if you’re based in Chengdu. For those craving a richer, more in-depth experience, the 7-day Tibet trip promises unforgettable moments.
No matter which tour you choose, early planning and booking will ensure you don’t miss out on these stunning sights. Each option offers something special, so consider your priorities and pick the one that excites you most. Happy travels in Aba Sichuan!