In short
- CCRCGP Dujiangyan Panda Base closed for major renovations on April 23, 2026.
- Panda Valley is open and costs 55 RMB to enter.
- Panda Valley features a forested environment and a Red Panda Free-Range Area.
In this article
Dujiangyan is home to vital wildlife conservation facilities. These centers offer a natural environment to observe giant and red pandas away from the dense crowds of central Chengdu. However, facility changes in 2026 mean visitors must plan carefully. Here is what you need to know about visiting the pandas.
Is Dujiangyan Panda Base closed in 2026?
Yes, the CCRCGP Dujiangyan Panda Base closed for major facility renovations starting April 23, 2026.
You cannot visit this specific facility while it undergoes construction. It operates as the world's only giant panda disease control and rescue institute. Check official announcements before planning future trips, and detour to Panda Valley instead.
What is Panda Valley?
Panda Valley is a forested conservation facility focused on the wild training and reintroduction of giant pandas.
This is the primary open alternative in Dujiangyan. The facility covers an area of 2,004 mu (about 133 hectares). It sits at an elevation of up to 1,161 meters. Entry costs 55 RMB.
What is the difference between Dujiangyan Panda Base and Panda Valley?
The Panda Base is a closed disease control center, while Panda Valley is an open facility focused on rewilding.
Panda Valley operates as a branch of the Chengdu Research Base. It provides a natural habitat designed to prepare pandas for life in the wild. The CCRCGP base is strictly an institute for disease control and rescue.
What is the Red Panda Free-Range Area?
This is an immersive zone inside Panda Valley where red pandas roam freely.
Visitors walk on wooden boardwalks through the habitat. Red pandas often walk directly onto the path in front of you. You need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this specific area.
When should I arrive at Panda Valley?
Arrive right at opening, around 8:30 AM.
Mornings are the best time to observe the animals. The pandas are most active and eating breakfast at this hour. Expect to spend two to three hours touring the entire facility.
How do I book tickets for Dujiangyan Panda Valley?
Tickets require real-name registration using your original physical passport or Chinese ID.
An original physical passport is strictly required for entry verification. Unauthorized resale of tickets or booking through unofficial third parties is prohibited. Using unofficial channels may result in denied entry.
Questions travellers ask
How much time is needed for Panda Valley?
You need 2 to 3 hours to explore the main Panda Valley grounds. Allow an extra 30 to 45 minutes if you plan to walk through the Red Panda Free-Range Area.
Can I hold a panda at Dujiangyan?
No. Feeding, touching, or disturbing the pandas or other wildlife is strictly forbidden at all Dujiangyan facilities.
Are foreigners allowed to buy tickets on site at Dujiangyan?
Yes, but an original physical passport is strictly required for real-name ticket verification and entry. Bookings must be made through official channels.
