Panda, Leshan, and Emei Mountain 2-day tour

A 2-day adventure through Chengdu’s most iconic sights — pandas, the Leshan Giant Buddha, and Mount Emei. For just $250 per group (up to three people), this private tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery. With pickup included and flexible private transportation, it’s an efficient way to explore some of Sichuan’s most famous landmarks, especially if you’re short on time but craving authentic experiences.

We especially appreciate the opportunity to see pandas up close, which you’ll love if you’re into adorable animals. The Leshan Giant Buddha impresses with its massive size and historical significance, while Mount Emei provides a spiritual backdrop and stunning natural beauty. The personalized nature of this tour — only your group participating — makes it feel more intimate and flexible than group buses.

One thing to keep in mind is that tickets for the attractions are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for entry fees. Also, with 10 hours dedicated to Mount Emei alone, it’s a physically demanding day, so moderate fitness is recommended. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife encounters, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes, and who want a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: See pandas in their habitat and explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Flexible Private Tour: Only your group participates, with personalized transport and explanations.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From giant pandas and ancient Buddhist temples to a massive stone Buddha carved into a cliff.
• Value for Money: For $250, you gain access to multiple major attractions with transportation included.
• Physical Readiness: Expect some walking and climbing, especially at Mount Emei.
• Pre-Booking Needed: Book about 50 days in advance for availability.

Exploring Chengdu’s Highlights in Two Days

This tour packs a lot into just two days, making it ideal for those who want an efficient yet immersive experience. It hits three of Sichuan’s most celebrated attractions, each offering a different flavor of local culture and natural beauty.

Day 1: Pandas and the Leshan Giant Buddha

The journey kicks off early with a pickup from your hotel, typically around 8:00 am. You’ll start at the Chengdu Panda Base, which is only about 10 kilometers from the city center. This reserve is a major hub for the preservation of pandas, and you’ll find it both educational and adorable. The breeding research base provides a chance to see pandas of all ages — from tiny cubs to full-grown adults — in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. Expect to spend about three hours here, soaking in the sight of these gentle creatures.

What makes this stop special? We loved the way the guide explained the conservation efforts and the clear effort to keep the pandas comfortable. The opportunity to see red pandas and other wildlife like peacocks adds variety, making it a delightful morning.

Next, you’ll head to the Leshan Giant Buddha. Standing 71 meters tall, this world’s largest stone Buddha is a marvel of ancient craftsmanship. Built between the Tang dynasty (713–803 AD), it faces the river, with streams flowing below its massive feet, creating an awe-inspiring scene. While entrance fees are not included, you’ll likely want to visit the nearby Wuyou Temple or the cliff face itself, which is over 4 kilometers away from the temple. Expect about three hours here, giving ample time for viewing and photos.

Why is this attraction worth visiting? The scale and historical significance of the Buddha make it a must-see. We found the view of the statue from below surprisingly powerful, especially seeing how it’s carved directly into the cliff face.

Day 2: Mount Emei — A Sacred Mountain

The second day is dedicated mainly to Mount Emei, a spiritual site and natural wonder all rolled into one. The drive up the mountain takes about an hour, and you’ll spend around 10 hours exploring its temples, forests, and panoramic views.

Mount Emei is one of China’s Four Great Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s revered for its cultural significance, with about 30 temples scattered across the mountain. Key highlights include Baoguo Temple, Fuhu Temple, Qingyin Pavilion, and Wannian Temple. Many ceremonies are still held here, and the atmosphere is both serene and vibrant.

What makes this stop compelling? We loved the way the guide explained the mountain’s spiritual role and its connection to Bodhisattva Samantabhadra. The views from various temples are spectacular, and the mountain’s lush forests and mist-shrouded peaks create an almost mystical environment.

Prepare for a full day of walking and climbing, so good footwear and moderate fitness are recommended. The scenery is worth every step, and the temples offer peaceful spots for reflection. The trip concludes with a drive back to Chengdu.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides private transportation, tolls, and fuel fees, which simplifies logistics and removes the hassle of navigating public transport. The explanations from guides about Leshan and Emei add context, enriching your understanding of the sites.

However, admission tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for entry fees. Since the tour is private, you can tailor your time at each site, but keep in mind that the 10-hour Mount Emei visit is quite extensive.

This tour does not include hotel accommodations, meals, tips for your driver, or a guide — so you’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner on your own, perhaps trying local Sichuan dishes for a flavorful experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is excellent for first-time visitors to Chengdu eager to see iconic sights without the stress of planning logistics alone. If you love animals, historic statues, and mountains, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of wildlife, cultural, and scenic stops.

However, if you’re not comfortable with long walks or some physical exertion (particularly on Mount Emei), you might want to prepare accordingly. The day at Emei is quite full, so it’s best for those with a moderate fitness level.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded glance at some of Sichuan’s most beloved and impressive sights. The chance to see pandas in a dedicated breeding reserve combines cuteness with conservation awareness, while the Leshan Giant Buddha provides a powerful glimpse into ancient craftsmanship and religious culture. Concluding at Mount Emei, with its temples and breathtaking views, rounds out the experience beautifully.

The fact that it’s a private tour means you get flexibility and personal attention, making it a good value for the price. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an active, enriching experience that balances wildlife encounters with cultural heritage.

Overall, if you’re chasing authentic moments in Chengdu — with a little spiritual elevation and plenty of adorable animals — this tour could be just what you’re after. It’s a smart choice if you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Sichuan’s best.

FAQ

Are the tickets for the attractions included?
No, tickets are not included. You will need to purchase admission fees separately for the Panda Base, Leshan Buddha, and Mount Emei.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, especially at Mount Emei, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. It can be enjoyable for children if they’re comfortable with these activities.

How long is the drive between sites?
The tour includes private transportation with a driver covering all transfers, including the drive to Mount Emei, which takes about an hour.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is designed for groups up to three people, providing an intimate experience and flexibility.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for some customization in terms of timing or focus, depending on your interests and physical readiness.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own lunch and dinner during the tour.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn typically offer the best weather for sightseeing and walking.

How much physical activity should I expect?
Expect some walking and climbing, especially on Mount Emei. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level to comfortably enjoy the full day.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s designed for small groups, but if you’re a solo traveler, you might be able to book and join with others or request a private experience.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtful way to connect with Chengdu’s highlights — from adorable pandas to awe-inspiring Buddha statues and sacred mountains. It balances cultural insight with natural beauty, making it a memorable addition to your Sichuan adventure.