Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan Province, is famed for its crystal-clear turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant Tibetan culture. Known as the “King of Water Scenery,” it features 108 alpine lakes (or “haizi”), primeval forests, and the iconic “Six Wonders”: emerald lakes, layered waterfalls, colorful foliage, snowy mountains, Tibetan customs, and glacial ice. Key highlights include Five Flower Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall, and Long Lake—the highest and largest alpine lake in the valley.

By Air

 Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) from Chengdu (40-min flight), then take a 1.5-hour shuttle to the park entrance.

• • Spring (Mar–May): Mild (5–15°C), blooming flowers; pack layers and rain gear.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season (10–22°C); ideal for waterfalls but crowded.
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Best for photography with fiery foliage; temperatures 0–15°C.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy landscapes (-5–5°C); fewer crowds but some trails may close.

Pack: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evenings.

• 3–4 Days is ideal to explore Jiuzhaigou and nearby Huanglong:
• Day 1: Shuzheng Valley (Main Gully)
  • Highlights: Shuzheng Lakes, Reed Lake, Rhinoceros Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall.
• Day 2: Rize Valley (Right Branch)
  • Must-sees: Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall and Mirror Lake.
• Day 3: Zechawa Valley (Left Branch)
  • Visit Long Lake and Five-Color Pond, then head to Huanglong National Park for travertine terraces.

• 1. Five Flower Lake: Capture rainbow-like reflections at Tiger Mouth Viewing Platform.
  2. Nuorilang Waterfall: Shoot at sunrise for misty, golden hues.
  3. Long Lake: Frame snow-capped peaks mirrored in icy waters.
  4. Reed Lake: Golden reeds contrast with azure waters in autumn.
  5. Mirror Lake: Visit before 9 AM for glass-like reflections.

• 3–4 Days is ideal to explore Jiuzhaigou and nearby Huanglong:
• Day 1: Shuzheng Valley (Main Gully)
  • Highlights: Shuzheng Lakes, Reed Lake, Rhinoceros Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall.
• Day 2: Rize Valley (Right Branch)
  • Must-sees: Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall and Mirror Lake.
• Day 3: Zechawa Valley (Left Branch)
  • Visit Long Lake and Five-Color Pond, then head to Huanglong National Park for travertine terraces.

Savor Tibetan and Sichuan flavors:
• Yak Meat Hotpot: Try at Zangyage Yak Hotpot (near park entrance).
• Tibetan BBQ: Succulent skewers at Chongqing Renjia Sichuan Restaurant.
• Potato Sticky Cake: A local snack at Mr. G’s Snack Shop.
• Butter Tea: Warm up with this traditional drink at Tibetan guesthouses.