3 day itinerary
Chengdu And Leshan
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu
Start your day by visiting the , also known as the Chengdu Panda Base. Here, you can see adorable pandas up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect these beloved animals. Make sure to arrive early to catch the pandas during their most active hours.
After spending the morning with the pandas, head to for lunch. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with traditional Sichuanese architecture, local snacks, and souvenir shops. Enjoy some delicious street food like spicy hot pot or Sichuan noodles.
In the afternoon, visit , a historical site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period. Explore the beautiful gardens and ancient buildings while learning about Chinese history and culture.
For dinner, try some authentic Sichuan cuisine at a local restaurant. Sichuan is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes like mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and hot and sour soup. Don't forget to sample some delicious Sichuan peppercorns!
Day 2: Leshan
Take an early morning bus or train from Chengdu to Leshan, a city known for its Giant Buddha statue carved into a cliff face. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect day trip from Chengdu.
Upon arrival in Leshan, head straight to the . Marvel at the 71-meter-tall statue, which is the largest stone Buddha in the world. You can also take a boat ride on the river to get a different perspective of the statue.
After exploring the Giant Buddha, visit the nearby , a Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. Take some time to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
For lunch, try some local Leshan specialties like Leshan Bobo Chicken or Leshan Spicy Duck. These dishes are flavorful and unique to the region, giving you a taste of authentic Sichuan cuisine outside of Chengdu.
In the afternoon, you can explore the , a charming area with traditional architecture, narrow streets, and local shops. Stroll around the town, visit the local markets, and interact with the friendly residents.
Day 3: Chengdu
On your last day in Chengdu, start by visiting the , a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, and socialize. You can join in on activities like tai chi, dancing, or playing mahjong with the friendly locals.
Next, head to the , a peaceful Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and a vegetarian restaurant. Take some time to explore the temple grounds, visit the tea house, and enjoy a vegetarian meal for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the to watch a traditional Sichuan opera performance. The opera features face-changing, fire-spitting, and other impressive acts that showcase the unique art form of Sichuanese opera.
For your last dinner in Chengdu, indulge in a hot pot meal at a local restaurant. Hot pot is a popular communal dining experience where you cook your own ingredients in a flavorful broth. It's a fun and delicious way to end your trip to Chengdu.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Chengdu and Leshan while staying within your budget. Enjoy your trip!