Overview
Beyond Jiuzhaigou’s famous lakes and waterfalls, this itinerary also introduces you to a side of the national park that few travelers ever see.
This 4-day journey combines Huanglong’s spectacular mineral terraces, the classic Y-shaped valleys of Jiuzhaigou, and a guided trek into the remote landscapes of Zharu Valley. Open only from May to October and limited to a small number of hikers each day, Zharu Valley offers a rare chance to experience the park’s forests, rivers, and Tibetan mountain scenery away from the crowds.
It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a more active and immersive Jiuzhaigou experience.
Highlights
- Follow the complete Y-shaped sightseeing route through Jiuzhaigou's most famous lakes and waterfalls.
- Walk into Zharu Valley, one of the least-visited areas of Jiuzhaigou National Park.
- Experience a 12km guided trek through forests, rivers, and Tibetan mountain landscapes.
- Explore Huanglong's colorful calcified pools and alpine scenery.
- Discover the cultural connection between Jiuzhaigou's Tibetan communities and the surrounding mountains.
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu → Huanglongjiuzhai Station → Huanglong → Jiuzhaigou
Altitude: Chengdu (~500m) → Huanglong (~3,000–3,600m) → Jiuzhaigou (~2,000m)
The Experience:
We begin our journey with a high-speed train from Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. Upon arrival, our driver will meet you at the station and transfer directly to Huanglong Scenic Area. The private transfer takes about 40-60 minutes.
Known for its colorful limestone terraces, Huanglong is one of China’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As we walk along the mountain pathways, you’ll see hundreds of turquoise pools cascading down the valley like natural steps. When sunlight reflects across the mineral-rich water, the landscape feels almost unreal.
After exploring Huanglong, we continue by private vehicle to the Jiuzhaigou National Park. After checking into our hotel near the park entrance, you can have a rest or wander leisurely around.
Highlights
- Explore Huanglong’s famous colorful pools
Tips
- Walk slowly at Huanglong due to the altitude
- Bring a light jacket, even in summer
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
Day 2: Jiuzhaigou National Park
Walking: Approx. 15–20 km along the path in the park
Exploration Time: Full day
Altitude: ~2,000–3,100m
The Experience:
Today, we have a full day exploring the famous valleys inside the Jiuzhaigou National Park.
As you may know, Jiuzhaigou includes three valleys, shaped like the letter “Y”:
- Zechawa Valley (Left Branch): Home of Long Lake and Five Colored Pool
- Rize Valley (Right Branch): The Virgin Forest, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoals, Morror Lake, etc.
- Shuzheng Valley (Bottom branch): Nuorilang Waterfalls, Shuzheng Waterfalls, Reed Lake, etc.
Combining sightseeing buses and walking trails, we will explore all three valleys one by one. We’ll have enough time to enjoy the main attractions without rushing.
After visiting the valleys, we return to our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Highlights
- Explore the park by following the shuttle bus routes
Tips
- Start early to avoid peak visitor flows
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Jiuzhaigou Zharu Valley Trekking
Trekking Distance: Approx. 12 km
Trekking Time: Approx. 4-5 hours
Altitude: Approx. 2,000–2,800m
The Experience:
After meeting at the gathering point, we receive our activity kits, which include snacks, drinks, and basic trekking equipment for the day. A short transfer brings us to the Zhayizhaga Sacred Mountain Viewpoint, where we begin our journey through the Zharu Valley. As we walk, we’ll stop to observe native high-altitude plants and learn how they thrive in the harsh mountain environment.
We will take a stop at the Deer Sanctuary, where you can quietly observe the gentle sika deer or feed them under the guidance of our local team. It’s a peaceful experience and one that’s especially popular with families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Then, we continue to the ancient glacier suspension bridge. Along the way, we explore how ancient glaciers shaped the valleys and left behind the dramatic landscape that defines Jiuzhaigou today.
We will a visit a nearby Tibetan village on the route and experience their local daily life. We’ll have the opportunity to watch residents prepare traditional zanba, one of the staples of the Tibetan diet, and enjoy a freshly made taste yourself.
Later, we follow the scenic trail toward Huohua Lake and Shusheng Village. As we walk, our guide introduces the fascinating formation of the area’s colorful travertine (calcium carbonate) terraces, explains the park’s hydrological monitoring system, and visits the historic Shusheng Watermill, offering insight into how local communities have lived alongside these mountain streams for generations.
Our guided program concludes here, leaving you free to continue exploring Jiuzhaigou at your own pace for the rest of the day.
Highlights
- Explore the hidden side of Jiuzhaigou
- Guided 12km Zharu Valley trek
- Learn about local Tibetan mountain culture
- Experience quieter landscapes beyond the main park
Tips
- Wear proper hiking footwear
- Carry sun protection and water
- Follow the guide
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu by High-Speed Train
The Experience:
After breakfast, we transfer to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station and board the high-speed train back to Chengdu.Â
Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel.Â
Tips
- Keep essentials accessible during the train ride
- Arrive at the station with time for security checks
- Consider adding extra Chengdu sightseeing after arrival
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Jiuzhaigou: 3 Nights
We stay in carefully selected local hotels close to the Jiuzhaigou entrance, providing a comfortable base for exploring Huanglong, Jiuzhaigou, and Zharu Valley. Our preferred properties offer comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, heating during cooler seasons, and easy access to restaurants and local services. After a full day of sightseeing or hiking, you’ll appreciate returning to a warm and comfortable hotel in the evening.
As with all QuietRoutes journeys, this itinerary is 100% tailor-made. We can arrange accommodation ranging from comfortable local hotels to boutique mountain retreats and premium resorts, depending on your travel style and budget. We can also adjust transportation, pacing, and sightseeing arrangements to suit families, photographers, hikers, and independent travelers.
Cost
Included
- High-speed train tickets (Chengdu – Huanglongjiuzhai – Chengdu).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all local transfers.
- Expert English-speaking local guide.
- Jiuzhaigou entrance ticket and sightseeing bus.
- Huanglong entrance ticket and cable car round route.
- Zharu Valley trekking support and route coordination.
- 3 nights of hand-picked accommodation with breakfast.
- Travel insurance.
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Chengdu.
- Lunches and dinners (freedom to explore local tastes).
- Personal expenses and optional activities.
- Gratuities for guide and driver.
Transportation
This route combines high-speed rail and private transfers for a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
- High-Speed Rail: Chengdu East Railway Station ↔ Huanglong Jiuzhai Railway Station.
- Private Vehicle: Railway station transfers and local transportation throughout the trip.
- Sightseeing Bus: Internal transportation within Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area.
- Walking & Trekking: Exploration of Jiuzhaigou boardwalks and the Zharu Valley hiking route.
Essential Tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven mountain trails.
- Bring sun protection, as UV levels are strong at high altitude.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and light snacks during the Zharu Valley trek.
- Weather in Jiuzhaigou can change quickly; a light rain jacket is recommended.
- Start acclimatizing slowly if you are sensitive to altitude.
- Photography enthusiasts should bring extra batteries, especially during cooler months.
Gallery
FAQ
Is Zharu Valley open to visitors?
Zharu Valley opens to visitors only from May to October, 5-15 persons per day. It operates under special management and access arrangements. We organize the required local arrangements as part of the itinerary.
How difficult is the Zharu Valley trek?
The route is considered moderate, covering approximately 12 kilometers over about 6 hours. Most active travelers can complete it comfortably.
Can children join this tour?
Yes. Families with active children can enjoy this itinerary, although the Zharu Valley hiking day is best suited to children who enjoy walking and outdoor activities.
Is Jiuzhaigou worth visiting if I already plan to hike Zharu Valley?
Absolutely. Jiuzhaigou and Zharu Valley offer completely different experiences. Jiuzhaigou showcases world-famous lakes and waterfalls, while Zharu Valley provides a quieter wilderness experience.
What is the best time to visit Jiuzhaigou and Zharu Valley?
April to November is generally the best period for Jiuzhaigou. October is particularly popular for autumn colors.
Zharu Valley only opens from May to October.
How much walking is required in Jiuzhaigou?
Most sightseeing is done using a combination of shuttle buses and walking along well-maintained boardwalks. Walking distances can be adjusted according to your preferences.
Can this itinerary be customized?
Yes. We can add extra days, upgrade hotels, arrange photography-focused experiences, or combine Jiuzhaigou with Chengdu, Songpan, Huanglong, or other destinations in Western Sichuan.
Reviews
Daniel M., UK
Jul.18, 2025
We originally booked this tour for Jiuzhaigou, but the Zharu Valley trek ended up being our favorite day. No crowds, no shuttle buses. Everything was well organized, and the local guide shared interesting insights about local Tibetan culture.
MayT., KH
Jul.23, 2026
The trekking in Zhongcha Valley was amazing, we enjoyed it very much. And the guide very fun. My son loved it and the prairie on the top of the mountain was so beautiful. Jiuzhaigou is amazing too – but too many people. Only feedback I have is to have 1 extra bottle of water . Was so hot today.
