Cycling itineraries in Sichuan

Hiking guide in Sichuan

Sichuan, a vast and diverse province in southwestern China, offers numerous exciting and scenic biking itineraries, catering to different interests and skill levels.

For adventurous mountain bikers, the Western Sichuan Plateau and the Tibetan regions of western Sichuan offer some of the most challenging and breathtaking biking routes, with rugged terrains, high altitude, and stunning landscapes, such as the famous Kangding to Litang route and the Daocheng to Yading route.

For those who prefer a more leisurely and cultural experience, the Chengdu Plain and the ancient towns and villages along the Yangtze River provide excellent biking opportunities, with well-maintained roads, charming scenery, and rich history and culture, such as the ancient town of Huanglongxi, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Leshan Giant Buddha, and the scenic route along the Jinsha River.

For nature lovers, the Jiuzhaigou Valley and the Mount Emei Scenic Area offer spectacular biking routes with lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning waterfalls, such as the Moun Emei downhill route and the Jiuzhaigou to Huanglong route.

Overall, biking in Sichuan can be a fantastic way to explore the province's diverse and captivating landscape, culture, and history, and create unforgettable memories.

7-day Sichuan leisure biking itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu, Upon arrival, you can explore the city of Chengdu and visit some of its famous attractions, such as the Wenshu Monastery, the Jinli Ancient Street, and the People's Park.

Day 2: Chengdu to Dujiangyan (about 65 km), Start your biking trip from Chengdu to Dujiangyan, a famous irrigation system that has been in use for over 2,000 years. Along the way, you can stop at the Qingcheng Mountain, a Taoist holy mountain, and the Dujianyan Panda Valley, a sanctuary for giant pandas.

Day 3: Dujiangyan to Mount Qingcheng (about 25 km), Bike from Dujiangyan to Mount Qingcheng, another sacred mountain of Taoism, and explore its temples, pavilions, and forests. You can also take a cable car to the summit for a panoramic view of the area.

Day 4: Mount Qingcheng to Leshan (about 95 km), Cycle from Mount Qingcheng to Leshan, home to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 8th century. You can also visit the Lingyun Temple and the Wuyou Temple along the way.

Day 5: Leshan to Emei (about 60 km), Bike from Leshan to Emei, a famous Buddhist mountain that is home to many temples, shrines, and natural wonders, such as the Baoguo Temple, the Fuhu Temple, and the Qingyin Pavilion.

Day 6: Emei to Huanglongxi (about 80 km), Ride from Emei to Huanglongxi, a picturesque ancient town that is known for its well-preserved architecture, bridges, and canals. You can also try some of the local snacks and delicacies, such as the Huanglongxi tofu and the Ma La Tang.

Day 7: Huanglongxi to Chengdu (about 40 km), Finish your biking trip by returning to Chengdu, where you can relax and enjoy some of the city's amenities, such as the hot springs, the tea houses, and the night markets. You can also extend your trip by visiting other nearby attractions, such as the Jiuzhaigou Valley or the Mount Siguniang.

12-day Western Sichuan Plateau biking itinerary

Day 1-2 could be spent in Chengdu exploring the city and acclimating to the altitude, followed by

Day 3-4 biking to Kangding, a historical and cultural town nestled in the mountains and known for its hot springs and yak meat;

Day 5-6 biking through the Tagong Grasslands, a vast alpine meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dotted with Tibetan settlements and monasteries;

Day 7-8 biking to Litang, the highest city in the world at an elevation of 4,014 meters and a hub of Tibetan nomadic culture with colorful prayer flags and traditional festivals;

Day 9-10 biking to Daocheng Yading, a picturesque nature reserve with crystal-clear lakes, glacier-capped mountains, and stunning hiking trails;

Day 11-12 biking back to Chengdu through scenic countryside and rural villages, with opportunities to sample local cuisine and interact with friendly locals along the way.

18-day circle western Sichuan biking itinerary

Day 1: Chengdu - Kangding, Arrive in Chengdu and transfer to Kangding (6-7 hours' drive).

Day 2: Kangding - Tagong, Bike from Kangding to Tagong (75 km) via Zheduo Mountain Pass.

Day 3: Tagong - Yajiang, Bike from Tagong to Yajiang (88 km) via the scenic Haizi Mountain Pass.

Day 4: Yajiang - Litang, Bike from Yajiang to Litang (115 km) via the picturesque Jinsha River.

Day 5: Litang, Rest day in Litang to explore the town's Tibetan culture and historic sites.

Day 6: Litang - Xinduqiao, Bike from Litang to Xinduqiao (94 km) via the scenic Haizi Mountain Pass.

Day 7: Xinduqiao - Danba, Bike from Xinduqiao to Danba (90 km) via the Balang Mountain Pass.

Day 8: Danba, Rest day in Danba to explore the town's unique watchtowers and local culture.

Day 9: Danba - Rilong, Bike from Danba to Rilong (100 km) via the stunning Balang Mountain Pass.

Day 10: Rilong, Rest day in Rilong to explore the Mount Siguniang Scenic Area.

Day 11: Rilong - Wolong, Bike from Rilong to Wolong (90 km) via the Balang Mountain Pass.

Day 12: Wolong - Dujiangyan, Bike from Wolong to Dujiangyan (75 km) via the scenic Balang Mountain Pass.

Day 13: Dujiangyan, Rest day in Dujiangyan to explore the town's famous irrigation system and temples.

Day 14: Dujiangyan - Qingcheng Mountain, Bike from Dujiangyan to Qingcheng Mountain (25 km) and explore the scenic area.

Day 15: Qingcheng Mountain - Dujiangyan, Bike from Qingcheng Mountain back to Dujiangyan (25 km) and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

Day 16: Dujiangyan - Chengdu, Bike from Dujiangyan to Chengdu (60 km) and explore the city's historic sites and culture.

Day 17: Chengdu, Rest day in Chengdu to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base and experience the local cuisine and entertainment.

Day 18: Departure, Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

This itinerary covers some of the most scenic and challenging routes in western Sichuan, allowing you to explore the province's unique Tibetan culture, stunning natural landscapes, and historic sites, and create unforgettable memories. Please note that the actual biking distances and routes may vary based on weather conditions and individual preferences.