The tourist attractions in Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan are among the true natural wonders of China. Also known as the Nine Villages Valley, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
Location
This nature reserve is located at the north of Sichuan. Sichuan is in southwestern China. Majority of tours to the reserve start with a shuttle bus ride up to the Shuzheng gully or the end of Rize. From there, the visitors can take the bus to the next site or walk at the boardwalks.
What to See
Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Jiuzhaigou Valley are its lakes and waterfalls. The snow-capped mountain and the grasslands are also spectacular. Other interesting places are the Zechawa Valley and the Rize Valley. There is also the Panda Breeding and Research Centre and the Du Fu Cottage.
The Rize Valley is known for the Primeval Forest. It is surrounded by awe inspiring cliffs and mountains. There is also Swan Lake, Grass Lake and Pearl Shoal. The Shoal empties into the Pearl Waterfalls. The Zharu Valley is the eco-tourism center. It is a great place to go camping and hiking.
History
Although the valley is remote, there is evidence it was inhabited by the Qiang and Tibetan peoples for hundreds of years. However, the area was not ”officially” discovered in 1972. Logging was extensive in the area until it was banned in 1979. In 1982, the government declared it a national park.
After an Administration Bureau was set up, it was opened to tourists in 1984. The regulations and facilities were completed in 1987. In 1984, a total of 5,000 visited the place. By 2004, the reserve was getting 7,000 visitors a day. Due to the increase in tourism, the place has seen an increase in the number of hotels and restaurants nearby.
Cost
The costs of the valley tours depend on the duration and what places are covered. Generally though, a five day tour will cost about 1600 USD per person. Shorter tours (i.e., 2 to 3 days) will cost less.
Other Info
The Zechawa Valley is known for the Long Lake, the biggest and the deepest in Jiuzhaigou. It is 103 m deep and 7.5 km long. Legend states there is a mysterious creature inhabiting the lake. Other notable features include Five-Color Pond and the Seasonal Lakes.
Other tourist attractions in Jiuzhaigou Valley include the Shuzheng Valley. Its most notable features are the Nuorilang Falls, Sleeping Dragon Lake and Reed Lake.
