One of the highlights during my first visit to China was the chance to see the Giant Pandas at the Chendgu Research Base. These cute, white and cuddly pandas are considered to be China’s treasure! There are not a lot of them in the wild, given their delicate nature, so if you intend to see or even hold them (USD350 for a 5 minute cuddle) this is your best bet. Please not that even though you might be willing to pay the said amount, Panda behaviour is not predictable and you might easily be refused.

A little about pandas: They are native to south-central China and there are less than 2,000 in the wild and are considered to be a vulnerable species. They continue to be at risk due to loss of habitat combined with the fact that they don’t reproduce quickly.

The normal reproductive rate is a baby once in two years, rather ambitious to expect this because the females are only fertile for 2-3 days a year. It’s no wonder so many early conservation efforts failed in the past.

Pandas are rarely seen in the wild – but your best chance of seeing one in China would be at the Chengdu Research Base for Pandas. Remember to go early especially during summer – or the pandas will quickly disappear under shade.

Ideally, you should also sit through the presentation to learn all about these animals.

Getting there

Plenty of public transport options are available as it is a popular day trip from Chengdu. You could get a shared taxi as well.

Things to know

  • The best time to visit is early. Pandas are active  in the morning (9 – 10 AM) and it is also their feeding time.
  • The centre opens from 7.30 am until 6 pm.
  • Entry is 10 USD. Free for children under 4.3 feet in height.
  • The base can get crowded, but the further you move into the center the more the crowd disperses
  • Close contact, taking pictures with pandas, and holding the young are currently prohibited.
  • Be ready for a lot of walking as the panda base is large.

There are quite a few panda conservation reserves all over the country. The Sichuan Panda Sanctuaries (the covers 7 natural reserves) has nearly 70% of the world’s wild panda population and is a designated World Heritage Site.