Step into Jiuzhaigou Valley and the rest of the world will almost seem to melt away as you discover the hidden delights of this southwest corner of China.
Away from the hustle and bustle of cities such as Shanghai, Jiuzhaigou Valley is a sanctuary surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery you will ever see. With 200,000 hectares of lush forest, dramatic waterfalls, jewelled lakes and snow-capped mountains, Jiuzhaigou feels like an enchanted kingdom. Immerse yourself in the unspoilt beauty of this magical landscape with a professional tour.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is unique as it changes through the seasons, with some natural phenomena only visible for a few days at a time. Sandhills Travel offer expert tours of Jiuzhaigou Valley, providing exclusive glimpses into this secret world.
Cascading Waterfalls and Tibetan Traditions
Jiuzhaigou translates as “Nine Settlements” and is called because it’s home to nine Tibetan fortified villages, seven of which are still occupied today. Nestled in clumps throughout the forested landscape, the traditional coloured homes are a sight to behold. Those living there offer handicrafts and other souvenirs tourists can purchase.
Aside from these tiny settlements, the whole of the nature reserve feels completely removed from civilisation, offering an opportunity to experience complete tranquility. The forest changes in colour throughout the seasons, with waves of green, gold, red, russet and orange rippling through the treetops. Even in the depths of winter, the forest isn’t barren but offers a different view to the peak of summer.
Waterfalls come bursting out of the forest at many points, with Nuorilang Waterfall one of the most striking. At 20 metres high and 300 metres wide, it’s the largest calcified waterfall in China and from a distance appears just like a white foam bubbling down the mountainside.
Some of the most popular lakes include Panda Lake, Five Colour Lake, Pearl Shoal and Mirror Lake. Crystal clear waters offer a myriad of colour, with fish swimming below the surface and the reflection of the trees creating a virtual kaleidoscope.
Make the Most of Your Trip
Jiuzhaigou Valley is so vast, it’s almost impossible to see the best sights without a professional tour guide. In the winter, the waterfalls are frozen mid-flow, and for around 12 days only a rare type of blue ice is visible.
The atmosphere in Jiuzhaigou Valley changes every season, a magical landscape that slowly reveals its secrets throughout the year. Whether it’s the blue and green lakes, the snowy silence or the majesty of the waterfalls that capture your heart, it’s a place you won’t want to leave!