Jiuzhai Valley, Aba Tibetan and Qiang autonomous prefecture

Jiuzhai Valley, Aba Tibetan and Qiang autonomous prefecture

阿坝藏族羌族自治州九寨沟旅游景区 （ā bà zàng zú qiāng zú zì zhì zhōu jǐu zhài gōu lyǔ yóu jǐng qū）

The Northwestern Sichuan Plateau is noted for its picturesque natural beauty. One of its best scenic areas is Jiuzhaigou, or Jiuzhai Valley, located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang autonomous prefecture.

Stretching over 72,000 hectares in the northern part of Sichuan province, the jagged Jiuzhaigou valley reaches a height of more than 4,800 meters, thus comprising a series of diverse forest ecosystems. Its superb landscapes are particularly interesting for their series of narrow conic karst landforms and spectacular waterfalls. Some 140 bird species inhabit the valley, as well as a number of endangered plant and animal species, including the giant panda and the Sichuan takin.

In 1992, it was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List. Autumn is the best season to visit Jiuzhai Valley when the leaves change color and strike a lively contrast with the clear, emerald water.

Scenic Spot Level: AAAAA

Ideal Sightseeing Season: autumn

Official Park Opening hours:

May 1 – November 15 - 7:00am to 7:00pm
November 16 – April 30 – 8:00am to 6:00pm

Peak Season: April 1 – November 15
Off peak:  November 16 – March 31

Ticket Price:

       220 yuan ($ 30.80) in peak season (from April 1 to Nov 15)

        80 yuan ($ 11.20) in off season (from Nov 16 to March 31)

Address: Zhangzha town, Jiuzhaigou county, Aba Tibetan and Qiang autonomous prefecture

Note:
Opening hours and entrance prices for the park differ according to the season. During the winter season the park is at its driest and the threat of forest fires is at its highest. Because of the destruction that fire could cause the local eco-system and residents (most villagers still live in wooden homes) some trails and parts of the park are closed.