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 (HSR) → Huanglong → Jiuzhaigou
Altitude: Chengdu (500m) → Huanglong (3,000–3,600m) → Jiuzhaigou (2,000m)
The Experience:
We begin our journey with a high-speed train ride from Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. This modern rail connection has transformed access to northern Sichuan, allowing us to spend more time exploring and less time on the road.
Upon arrival, our private vehicle takes us directly to Huanglong Scenic Area.
Known for its colorful limestone terraces, Huanglong is one of China’s most unique 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. The landscape feels almost unreal, especially when sunlight reflects across the mineral-rich water.
Along the route, we also gain a better understanding of the region’s fragile alpine ecosystem and its connection to the eastern Tibetan Plateau.
After exploring Huanglong, we continue by private vehicle to the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. After checking into our hotel near the park entrance, the rest of the evening is free for you to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration of Jiuzhaigou.
Highlights
- Explore Huanglong’s famous colorful pools
- Experience the transition from Sichuan Basin to the Tibetan Plateau
Tips
- Walk slowly at Huanglong due to the altitude
- Bring a light jacket, even in summer
- Keep your camera accessible throughout the day
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
Day 2: Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park
Distance: Approx. 15–20 km walking throughout the park
Exploration Time: Full day
Altitude: 2,000–3,100m
The Experience:
Today, we explore the famous valleys that make Jiuzhaigou one of the world’s most celebrated national parks.
By viewing the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area map, you’ll see that it 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.
Using a combination of sightseeing buses and walking trails, we will follow the classic route through the valleys while allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace.
Along the route, we visit some of Jiuzhaigou’s most iconic landscapes. Shaped by mineral deposits, forests, and crystal-clear mountain water, each lake has its own character.
Rather than rushing between viewpoints, we focus on understanding why Jiuzhaigou became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The combination of Tibetan culture, ancient forests, biodiversity, and unique hydrological systems creates a landscape unlike anywhere else in China.
After a full day exploring the valleys, we return to our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in Jiuzhaigou.
Highlights
- Follow Jiuzhaigou’s complete Y-shaped sightseeing route
- Experience one of China’s most beautiful national parks
Tips
- Start early to avoid peak visitor flows
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring a reusable water bottle
- Overnight: Jiuzhaigou
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Jiuzhaigou Zharu Valley Trekking
Trekking Distance: Approx. 12 km
Trekking Time: Approx. 6 hours
Altitude: Approx. 2,000–2,800m
The Experience:
Today, we leave the main tourist routes behind and discover a side of Jiuzhaigou that few visitors ever experience.
At around 9:00 AM, we meet at the Digital Exhibition Hall in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. After a brief explanation of important notes, we will take a private vehicle to Zharu Valley.
Unlike the famous lakes of Jiuzhaigou, Zharu Valley offers a more intimate connection with the region’s forests, rivers, and Tibetan mountain landscapes. The trail follows ancient pathways used by local communities and pilgrims, providing insight into how people have interacted with these mountains for generations.
Around midday, we stop for a simple outdoor lunch surrounded by nature.
The second half of the trek continues through quieter sections of the valley, where birdlife, streams, and mountain scenery replace the crowds found elsewhere in the park.
By late afternoon, we reach the end of the trekking route and return to our hotel by private vehicle.
This combination of world-famous scenery and genuine wilderness is what makes Zharu Valley such a rewarding experience.
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
- Bring trekking poles if preferred
- 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
This journey offers a final opportunity to reflect on the contrasts that make northern Sichuan so special: from Huanglong’s colorful terraces and Jiuzhaigou’s famous lakes to the peaceful forests and hidden trails of Zharu Valley.
Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel.Â
Highlight
- Experience both classic and hidden Jiuzhaigou
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.
