In many ways, the giant panda has become an iconic image that’s been associated with China – it is one of the most recognizable and popular animals all across the world. One of the best places to see these animals up-close is at the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base.
Best Time to Visit
The base is open from 7.30am to 6pm on all days of the week. It’s best to try and visit during the morning – between 8am to 10am – as that’s when the pandas are fed. Also, try visiting the base on a cool day if possible; pandas love the cold and are likely to be more active then.
Finding the Base
If you’re staying at one of the centrally located hotels or serviced apartments Chengdu has to offer – say for example, the Ascott Raffles City Chengdu – reaching the base will take approximately an hour via bus or metro. You can also book a private tour with the base which will offer direct transport.
Witness Baby Pandas!
One of the most fascinating sights you can see here at the base are new-born pandas. You can visit the kindergarten and watch these babies playfully interact with each other. Pandas give birth around august and September usually, so time your visit accordingly.
The Panda Museum
The Panda Museum is found at the very centre of the base and it’s the only museum in the world that focuses entirely on the giant panda. You can learn all sorts of new things about this endangered animal here.
