The waterfall here is truly spectacular!

Nuorilang Waterfall is located in Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. It is one of the iconic attractions of Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area and the widest travertine waterfall in China. Below is a detailed travel guide to help you better plan your trip: --- ### **1. Basic Information** - **Location**: Inside Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, between Mirror Lake and Five-Flower Lake, near Zechawa Gully. - **Altitude**: Approximately 2,365 meters. - **Waterfall Features**: About 270 meters wide and 24.5 meters high, forming a stunning ice waterfall in winter. - **Best Seasons to Visit**: - **Autumn (September–October)**: The surrounding forests are ablaze with color, creating a picturesque contrast with the waterfall. - **Summer (July–August)**: The waterfall is at its most powerful due to abundant water flow. - **Winter (December–February)**: The frozen waterfall is crystal clear and offers a serene yet awe-inspiring sight. --- ### **2. How to Get There** 1. **External Transportation**: - **By Air**: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (about 1.5 hours by car to the scenic area). - **By Bus**: Direct buses are available from Chengdu's Chadianzi Bus Station or Xinnanmen Bus Station (about 8–10 hours). - **By Car**: Drive from Chengdu via G213/G247 (about 7–8 hours; watch for falling rocks during rainy seasons). 2. **Transportation Within the Scenic Area**: - Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is shaped like a "Y," with Nuorilang Waterfall located at the intersection of the three main gullies (Nuorilang Center Station). Take the sightseeing bus directly there. --- ### **3. Recommended Itineraries** - **One-Day Tour**: Scenic Area Entrance → Sightseeing Bus to Nuorilang Center Station → Walk to the Waterfall (about 15 minutes) → Continue exploring Zechawa Gully (Long Lake, Five-Color Pond) or Rize Gully (Five-Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal). - **In-Depth Tour**: Combine Nuorilang Waterfall with nearby attractions: - **Mirror Lake**: Stunning reflections in the early morning when there’s no wind. - **Five-Flower Lake**: The most colorful lake in Jiuzhaigou. - **Pearl Shoal Waterfall**: Filming location for *Journey to the West*. --- ### **4. Important Notes** 1. **Tickets and Opening Hours**: - Peak Season (April–November): Entrance fee ¥169 + sightseeing bus ¥90. - Off-Season (December–March): Entrance fee ¥80 + sightseeing bus ¥80. - Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (may open at 7:30 AM during peak season). 2. **Altitude Sickness**: - Jiuzhaigou is at a high altitude; avoid strenuous activity and consider bringing Rhodiola or oxygen. 3. **Eco-Consciousness and Safety**: - Do not climb over railings or play in the water (travertine formations are fragile). - Winter paths may be icy; wear anti-slip shoes. 4. **Additional Tips**: - Only Nuorilang Service Center offers dining (prices are high; bring snacks). - Drones require prior approval; some areas prohibit flying. --- ### **5. Photography Tips** - **Best Spots**: - Observation deck opposite the waterfall (for full views). - Side paths for close-up shots of the water flow. - **Time**: 9:00–11:00 AM for soft light; avoid afternoon backlighting. - **Gear**: Wide-angle lens for panoramas, tripod for slow-shutter water effects. --- ### **6. Nearby Accommodations** - **Near the Entrance**: Many hotels (e.g., InterContinental Jiuzhai Paradise, Sheraton) for easy access the next day. - **Zhangzha Town**: Concentrated dining and supermarkets, about 10 minutes by car from the scenic area. - **Inside the Scenic Area**: Currently, only Tibetan homestays in the villages are allowed (book in advance). --- ### **7. Unique Experiences** - **Tibetan and Qiang Culture**: Enjoy ethnic song and dance performances at Nuorilang Visitor Center (fee applies). - **Winter Ice Waterfall Festival**: Held around January, featuring illuminated ice waterfalls. --- Nuorilang Waterfall is the soul of Jiuzhaigou, beautiful in every season. Choose the best time to visit based on your schedule!