Pairing Your Panda Visit with Scenic Escapes in Sichuan
Sichuan panda tours are more than witnessing giant pandas in their natural reserves. It also involves visiting Jiuzhaigou National Park, Ruoergai, etc.
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A visit to Sichuan is often inspired by the Giant Pandas, one of the most adorable yet endangered species on earth. In order to protect and restore their population, the country has plenty of nature reserves perfectly designed for these creatures to thrive. However, beyond these gentle giants, the place allows travelers to explore some scenic landscapes to make the journey more enriching.
Let’s explore this article to discover the iconic landmarks that can be paired with a Sichuan panda tour. Of course, a local guide with expertise about the remote and complex terrains can help with this escape.
Pingwu County: Located near the Minshan Mountains, Pingwu County is definitely another panda habitat to explore. However, it’s also a great stop for those seeking a deeper connection with nature or to explore ancient architectural complexes. The mountain range is home to the largest population of Golden Snub-nosed Monkey. These beautiful primates in high mountainous, deciduous broadleaved, and coniferous forests are worth watching. Besides, cultural explorers may visit the Bao’en Temple, also known as “The Forbidden City hidden in the mountains”. This centuries-old temple is a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture, offering a powerful glimpse into Sichuan’s rich cultural legacy.
Jiuzhaigou National Park: Those looking for scenery and abundant natural resources, Jiuzhaigou National Park is a beautiful place to explore. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful virgin forest, magnificent waterfalls, snowcapped peaks, green lakes, numerous birds, and colorful Tibetan villages.
Tiebu Sika Deer Nature Reserve: Heading to this Tiebu Sika Deer Nature Reserve, travelers may encounter local endemic birds such as Black-necked Crane, Ruddy Shelduck, and mammals like Himalayan Marmot, Wolf, Tibetan Gazelle, and Sika Deer. While capturing the beauty of these wild species, they can even come across local Amdo Tibetans. It is a wonderful opportunity to observe rare and endemic species up close and learn about the ancient culture of ethnic minorities.
Ruoergai Grasslands: Another amazing place to wander is the Ruoergai Grasslands, featuring vast open plains, wetland reserves, and wide skies. A variety of habitats are found around the edge of the plateau, wetlands, and lakes, offering a scope to spot unique species, both regional and migratory. Some wildlife species to identify here are – Palla’s Cat, Himalayan Marmot, Upland Buzzard, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Blue-eared Pheasant, Black-necked Crane, Saker Falcon, and Blood Pheasant.
Conclusion
Sichuan is not only famous for its cute giant pandas, but it also attracts travelers for its surreal beauty, colorful festivals, wild charm, and spirituality. Overall, the journey brings a rewarding experience both for nature lovers and first-time travelers.
Anyone planning to pair up their Sichuan panda tour with other attractive places will experience the true depth of the region – its wildlife, its landscapes, and its soul. Consider reaching out to a trusted travel agency to curate a personalized Sichuan itinerary and set out for the adventure.
