Overview
Jiuzhaigou (九寨沟, "Valley of Nine Villages") is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan's Min Shan mountains, 350 km north of Chengdu. The 720 km² park features three main valleys—Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa—stretching 80 km in a Y-shape with stunning lakes, multi-level waterfalls, and mountain views.
Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Etiquette
Lodging inside the park is illegal. Respect Tibetan cultural sites in the nine villages.
Money
Peak season tickets ¥310/person (¥220 + ¥90 bus); off-season ¥160/person. Food inside is expensive—bring supplies from outside.
Safety
Altitude sickness risk above 3,100 m. Crowded buses involve pushing. English not widely spoken.
Transport
435 km from Chengdu; 88 km from Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport. Daily buses to Songpan (07:20, 2 hours), Chengdu (10 hours), and Huanglong National Park.
Weather
Summer (19-22°C) is best; July-August rainy. Autumn cool with large day/night temperature swings. Winter around 0°C. Altitude 2,000-3,000 m.