2-Day Private Tour of Leshan Grand Buddha and Emei Shan Including Monastery Stay

Nestled in the heart of Sichuan, China, the majestic Leshan Grand Buddha and the serene Emei Shan offer a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural wonder. This private 2-day tour promises an immersive experience, from exploring the awe-inspiring 233-foot stone Buddha to ascending the breathtaking Golden Summit of Emei Shan via a scenic cable car ride. But the true highlight of this journey may very well lie in the historic Baoguo Monastery, where one can indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine and witness the enduring traditions that have shaped this remarkable region for centuries.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best 2 Day Tours In Chengdu.

Key Points

• A 2-day private tour focusing on UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Leshan Grand Buddha and a cable car journey to Emei Shan’s Golden Summit.
• Overnight stay at the historic Baoguo Monastery, showcasing a blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian architectural styles and traditions.
• Guided exploration of the Leshan Grand Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha, with insights into its intricate carvings and history.
• Scenic cable car ride to the Golden Summit of Emei Shan, with opportunities to visit sacred temples and witness the sunrise.
• Inclusive package with private transportation, guided services, select meals, and flexible cancellation policy for convenience and customization.

Tour Highlights and Overview

The two-day private tour offers an immersive exploration of UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites.

Travelers will marvel at the Leshan Grand Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha statue standing at an impressive 233 feet high and 92 feet wide.

They’ll then ascend Emei Shan, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains, via cable car to the Golden Summit reaching 9,842 feet above sea level.

Along the way, visitors will discover sacred shrines, traditional temples, and savor authentic Chinese cuisine.

The highlight is an overnight stay at the historic Baoguo Monastery, where they’ll witness the unique blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements.

Detailed Itinerary

On the first day, guests depart from Chengdu and embark on a 2-hour drive to the Leshan Grand Buddha. They’ll explore the UNESCO-listed site with a guided tour, including a visit to the Lingyun Temple. Next, they’ll visit the Fuhu Temple at the foot of Emei Shan. The day concludes with an overnight stay at the Baoguo Monastery, where they’ll witness the interplay of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

Day	Destination	Activities
1	Leshan Grand Buddha	Guided exploration, Lingyun Temple visit
	Emei Shan	Fuhu Temple visit
	Baoguo Monastery	Overnight stay
2	Emei Shan	Cable car to Golden Summit, Woyun Nunnery and Hua Zang Si exploration

Leshan Grand Buddha Exploration

After exploring the Lingyun Temple, guests embark on an immersive guided tour of the Leshan Grand Buddha.

The world’s largest stone Buddha statue, standing at an impressive 233 feet high and 92 feet wide, captivates visitors with its sheer grandeur. The guide provides insights into the Buddha’s intricate carvings and the history behind its construction, which began in the 8th century during the Tang Dynasty.

Guests have the opportunity to witness the stunning natural landscape surrounding the Buddha, including the convergence of the Dadu, Qingyi, and Minjiang Rivers.

This in-depth exploration of the Leshan Grand Buddha offers an unforgettable glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage.

Emei Shan Cable Car Journey

A thrilling ascent awaits as guests board the cable car for their journey up Emei Shan, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China.

The 20-minute ride takes them to the Golden Summit, which stands at an impressive 9,842 feet above sea level. Along the way, travelers are treated to stunning vistas of the lush, forested slopes and the sacred temples and shrines that dot the mountainside.

Once at the top, they can explore the Woyun Nunnery and Hua Zang Si, seeing the spiritual heritage of this revered site.

For those seeking an extra special experience, the option to witness the sunrise from the summit is available.

Baoguo Monastery Overnight Stay

As part of the 2-day private tour, guests have the opportunity to witness the blending of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements during an overnight stay at the Baoguo Monastery. This historic monastery, located at the base of Emei Shan, provides a unique glimpse into China’s spiritual traditions. Guests can explore the monastery’s various halls and shrines, attend monastic rituals, and enjoy authentic vegetarian cuisine. The overnight experience offers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and take in the tranquility of this sacred space.

Monastery Highlights	Description
Architectural Styles	Blend of Chinese Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian influences
Monastic Rituals	Opportunities to observe daily chanting and meditation practices
Vegetarian Cuisine	Freshly prepared meals using local, seasonal ingredients
Spiritual Atmosphere	Quiet contemplation and connection with the natural environment

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour comes with a range of inclusions and logistical considerations to ensure a seamless experience for guests. A private guide accompanies the group, providing a personalized experience.

Transportation is via a private air-conditioned vehicle, and breakfast, dinner, and gratuities are all included. Guests have the option to take a boat trip at the Leshan Buddha site for an additional $10 per person.

Pickup is available from hotels within Chengdu’s 3rd Ring Road, with alternative pickup arrangements for locations outside. While extensive walking is involved, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Accommodations at the Baoguo Monastery offer twin rooms with standard amenities, though guests should bring their own toiletries.

Additional Information

Extensive walking is involved throughout the tour, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Accommodations at the Baoguo Monastery will be in twin rooms with standard amenities, so participants should bring their own toiletries.

For the monastery, the dress code is casual – shorts are allowed, but tank tops and bikinis aren’t recommended.

Plus, the tour includes:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.
2. Pickup from hotels within Chengdu’s 3rd Ring Road, with alternative pickup options for locations outside.
3. An optional boat trip at the Leshan Buddha for an additional $10 per person.

Review Summary

Reviewing the overall tour experience, the tour received an average rating of 4.5 stars from 7 reviews.

Positive feedback highlighted the knowledgeable and attentive guides, such as Andy and Rachel Pan, who provided a personalized experience. Guests found the visits to Leshan and Emei Shan to be unforgettable, despite occasional weather challenges.

While some reviewers noted the high cost compared to similar tours elsewhere, the majority were satisfied with the value provided.

The tour’s combination of UNESCO World Heritage sites, culture, and comfortable accommodations at Baoguo Monastery seems to have resonated well with travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Sichuan’s spiritual and natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary, activities, and logistics to suit your interests and needs.

Is Wifi Available During the Monastery Stay?

Wifi availability at the monastery stay is limited. While some common areas may offer basic connectivity, guests should expect limited or no internet access during their overnight at the monastery as part of this tour.

Can I Request Vegetarian or Halal Meals During the Tour?

Travelers can request vegetarian or halal meals during the tour. The tour provider is accommodating of dietary restrictions and will work to ensure suitable meals are provided throughout the experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can cancel their booking without penalty if their plans change within this timeframe.

Do I Need to Obtain Any Special Permits or Visas for This Tour?

No special permits or visas are required for this tour. Travelers will need a valid passport, and the tour operator handles all necessary transportation and entrance tickets. It’s recommended to check your country’s visa requirements for travel to China.

Recap

This 2-day private tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the cultural and spiritual richness of Sichuan, China. Visitors will be awed by the grandeur of the Leshan Grand Buddha, embark on a captivating cable car journey up Emei Shan, and experience the tranquility of a historic monastery stay. This transformative journey blends stunning landscapes with ancient traditions, creating an unforgettable and enriching experience.