The Chengdu Panda Base or Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-visit for the whole family not only to see these adorable creatures but learn more about them too.
Planning a Visit
The Chengdu Panda Base is only around 10 km from the city centre of Chengdu; apartments for rent can be found in the Chengdu High-tech Zone CBD at properties like Citadines Gaoxin Chengdu that are also within easy reach of this attraction. Using public transport to get there involves the metro and bus which can take around an hour; ideally, join a tour with transport included and remember you will need about half a day at this site too.
Best Times to Go
This attraction is open from around 7:30am to 6:00pm though don’t miss visiting between 8:30am and 10:00am to witness panda feeding. At other hours of the day, they are most likely to be engaged in one of their favourite pastimes… sleeping! Keep in mind that giant pandas prefer cooler climes; for summer visits (June to August), the indoor enclosures are where you can see them, while when it gets cooler, you can view them outdoors.
Panda Cubs
While giant pandas are adorable, giant panda cubs achieve a whole other level of cuteness! One of the best things to do at the Chengdu Panda Base is to catch sight of newborn pandas; generally, a visit around August or September is the ideal time to see these cubs. Even if there are no cubs, you can always see active young pandas here which are great to watch too.
More to Discover
This site is not just a place to see giant pandas, but to also find out more about how its actively involved in breeding, conducting research and conservation measures. Interestingly, it’s a sanctuary for red pandas and other endangered wildlife of China as well. Don’t miss a visit to the Giant Panda Museum with its fascinating exhibits and fossils that offer informative insights, while you can also send some great panda postcards from the onsite post office!
