Chengdu Panda Leshan Buddha and Mount Emeishan 2 Days Tour

Exploring Chengdu’s Highlights in Just Two Days: Pandas, Leshan Buddha, and Mount Emei

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Sichuan’s most iconic sights, this Chengdu Panda, Leshan Buddha, and Mount Emei 2-Day Tour offers a fantastic way to do it. For just $210 per person, you get a comprehensive itinerary that takes care of transport, entrance fees, and accommodations, making it a smart choice for travelers who want a hassle-free experience. The tour is designed for those who love to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

What we love most about this tour is the inclusion of the Chengdu Panda Research Base early in the morning — a chance to see pandas happily munching bamboo and playing in naturalistic enclosures before the crowds arrive. The second standout is the bullet train ride from Mount Emei back to Chengdu, which is both fast and fun — a modern contrast to the ancient temples and natural scenery. The only consideration might be the physical pace; there’s quite a bit of walking involved, so comfortable shoes are a must for fully enjoying the experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate well-organized trips, value included tickets and transfers, and enjoy a mix of wildlife, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes. It’s ideal if you want a compact but enriching experience, especially if you’re visiting Chengdu for a short stay.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Tickets, transportation, hotel, and breakfast included, saving you planning time.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife, cultural landmarks, and mountain scenery.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding.
• Comfortable Transport: Private vehicle and sightseeing buses inside Mount Emei make the day manageable.
• Time-Saving Travel: Bullet train from Mount Emei to Chengdu keeps the pace brisk and avoids long drives.
• Physical Readiness Needed: Expect significant walking and some hiking — good shoes and water are essential.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Experience

Day 1: From Pandas to the Leshan Buddha

Your adventure kicks off early with a pickup from your hotel around 7 AM. The first stop is the Chengdu Panda Research Base, where you’ll spend about 1.5 hours marveling at these adorable creatures. You’ll see pandas of all ages — from playful babies to sleepy adults — munching bamboo or lounging in the morning sun. The experience here is particularly rewarding because tickets are included, and the guide often shares interesting facts about panda conservation efforts.

Next, after a relaxed lunch (not included, so you might want to explore the local eateries or street food), you’ll head south to Leshan city to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha. This UNESCO World Heritage site is truly impressive — a 71-meter-high stone sculpture carved directly into a mountain face. The tour allows you to walk along the mountain trail from the head to the toes of the Buddha, which offers different perspectives and photo opportunities. Alternatively, you might choose to take a boat ride in front of the sculpture for a different view — a nice option if you prefer a leisurely experience.

In the evening, you’ll head to the Baoguo Temple Area, close to Mount Emei, where you’ll stay overnight. The nearby Gourmet Street offers a chance to sample local flavors — note, dinner isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Day 2: Mount Emei’s Scenic Splendors

The next morning begins early with a bus ride up to Golden Submit on Mount Emei** — a spiritual and scenic highlight. The cable car (not included in the price) offers a quick ascent, but the walk up or down the mountain is also rewarding if you enjoy hiking. Once at the summit, you’ll visit the Huazang Temple and take in sweeping views often shrouded in clouds, giving you a mystical mountain experience.

After exploring the summit, you’ll descend to Wannian Temple, located midway down the mountain, either by sightseeing bus or on foot, depending on your preference and physical stamina. The path takes you through scenic zones like Qingyin Pavilion and the Monkey Zone, where you might see playful macaques. Walking here allows a closer look at the lush forests and temples that make Mount Emei such a pilgrimage site.

The tour concludes with a high-speed bullet train back to Chengdu, an efficient way to return after a full day of exploring. The train ride takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the stunning sights you’ve seen.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The included features — such as entrance tickets, private vehicle, hotel stay, and guided service — contribute to the tour’s excellent value, especially for those who dislike the hassle of independent travel. The tours’ small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, with guides who are bilingual, sharing insights in both English and Mandarin.

However, some costs are extra — notably the cable car at Mount Emei (120 RMB), meals, and tips. The tour offers a lot of value, but be prepared for optional expenses if you want to maximize comfort and convenience.

One point to note is the physical demand: the itinerary involves quite a bit of walking, some uphill, and possibly hiking. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and be prepared for a full day of activity.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

According to reviews, guides like Liu Long are highly praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making the experience more enriching. One traveler remarked, “He has good knowledge about history and culture and introduced them very well,” highlighting the value of a good guide.

Food options near the Buddha and on Mount Emei are varied, and many travelers enjoy sampling local Sichuan dishes, though these are not included in the package. The tour’s emphasis on convenience and quality helps travelers focus on enjoying the sites rather than logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Chengdu who want a curated experience without the hassle of arranging transport and tickets. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate cultural sites, natural beauty, and wildlife all in one trip, and don’t mind a fair amount of walking. The small group setting and bilingual guides add a personal touch, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and local insight.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

For anyone eager to see some of Sichuan’s most iconic sights — from adorable pandas and the majestic Leshan Buddha to the mist-shrouded peaks of Mount Emei — this 2-day package offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a well-organized, worry-free experience with knowledgeable guides and inclusive tickets. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and wildlife makes this tour a compact, satisfying introduction to Chengdu’s highlights.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Sichuan’s best, this tour balances convenience with authenticity, giving you a memorable snapshot of the region’s treasures.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start your adventure without extra fuss.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
Absolutely. Entrance fees for the Panda Research Base, Leshan Buddha, and Mount Emei are all covered in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there is quite a bit of walking and some hiking involved. Bringing water and sun protection is also advisable.

Can I buy the cable car ticket separately?
Yes, the cable car to Golden Submit at Mount Emei costs about 120 RMB and is not included. You might find it worth the extra expense for saving time and energy.

How long is the bullet train ride back to Chengdu?
The train ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving a speedy return after a full day on the mountain.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The physical activity involved suggests moderate fitness is preferred. It’s suitable for children and older travelers comfortable with walking and some hiking.

This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Sichuan’s most beloved sights, all while making logistics simple and enjoyable. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or wildlife fan, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories of Chengdu’s natural and spiritual wonders.