Pandas are loving creatures and are found in abundance in China. Millions of tourists visit China every year to watch these bamboo-munching animals. Here is a list of China National Parks, where you can get close and personal with pandas.
Bifengxia Panda Base
Bifengxia Panda Base is an extension of the Wolong Reserve. The Base lies in a scenic valley surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls.
It is a serene setting for panda encounters. Wolong was severely damaged during the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. Since then it continues to play a role in panda conservation.
Today, there are more than fifty giant pandas, many of which were transferred here after the earthquake. You can watch pandas in putdoor enclosures and even feed them under supervision.
Wolong National Nature Reserve
Wolong National Nature Reserve is known as the ‘Panda Capital of the World.’ The bamboos in this vast area are spread across Sichuan province and extend to thousands of hectare including Rocky Mountains and forest lands.
Tourists get a chance to view the animals in their native environment at the center. The program focuses on breeding and, releasing them into the wilderness. Here, you have the fun of watching pandas spending most of their time eating bamboo.
It also has self-driving tour. The road system is great for car trips and hiking trails, which lets you appreciate the beautiful views while watching the Bhutanese panda cubs playing with their mommies.
Whether you are eager to enjoy the nature or you are a wildlife photographer, Wolong is a place you could never forget, as it makes you understand the importance of forest and wildlife conservation.
Dujiangyan Panda Base
Drive towards Chengdu to visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base. The base focuses on panda rehab and disease prevention.
You get a chance to volunteer as panda caretaker for a day. It includes preparing the bamboo to feed these gentle giants and clean their enclosures.
Enjoy watching pandas roll, wrestle, and climb. You get to see how they use their specialized teeth and jaw to strip the bamboo leaves.
Qinling Giant Panda Research Center
The research center is nestled in the Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi province. You get to see the subspecies of giant pandas.
These subspecies have subtle differences from their Sichuan counterparts. It is smaller with a distinct skull shape. The center focuses on preserving this rare subspecies and their mountainous habitats.
Hiking and wildlife photography is appealing on the spectacular Qinling Mountains. Ensure to go on a guided tour, so you can learn more about the unique panda population and the challenges of conserving efforts to protect their environment.
Foping National Nature Reserve
Foping Reserve is in Shaanxi offering adventurous tourists a memorable experience. It is a remote reserve, where you will find a huge population of wild pandas.
When you encounter with an elderly pandas moving slowly or sitting below a canopy of leaves, it will touch your soul.
The experience is profound and compels you to appreciate the natural world and importance of conservation.
Conclusion
The pandas of China are a living legacy of a bygone era. Their survival depends on collective efforts. Watching them in their natural habitat is a privilege, reminding tourists to protect these wonderful creatures for future generations.
