Sichuan

There is a popular saying in China, ’do not visit Sichuan when you are young’, the idea being that once you visit the province you will never want to leave. Situated in the Sichuan Basin and surrounded by the Himalayas to the far west, the nearby Tibetan Plateau to the North East, and mountainous Yunnan to the south, Sichuan has historically been known as the ‘Heavenly Kingdom’, a reference to the province’s abundance of natural resources and cultural heritage.  With some of Asia’s most stunning mountains, ravines, limestone caves, basins and plains, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, and home to Tibetan culture and the Giant Pandas, the province is ideal for adventure and educational programs.

Chengdu- Is the capital of Sichuan province with a history dating back more than 4000yrs to the prehistoric Bronze Age Culture of Jinsha. Situated in a basin and surrounded by hills, Chengdu is home to the Panda Research Base, Sichuan Hot pot, Sichuan Opera, countless Taoism temples, the world famous Jinli Street and Tibetan communities. Chengdu features in all our Sichuan Programs as it is the main transportation hub for heading out and exploring the province, and ignites the students interested in the regions unique history and culture.   

Kangding- located in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in western Sichuan province, Kandging provides the starting point for our Sichuan Himalayan treks. Part of the historical Tibetan Region of Kham and populated by both Han Chinese and Tibetans the quiet mountain town is home to several Buddhist temples, traditional Tibetan restaurants, flowing rivers and incredible mountain views. From Kangding we head higher into the Mountains and embark on multi day hiking expeditions, specifically designed to suit your school.
   
Hailuogou - A unique Glacier forest park in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, the many geographical attractions make the area well suited to both education and adventure programs. From Hailuogou we explore ancient glaciers, the grand glacier cascade, hot springs, wild animals and untouched forests and ice lakes.  

Ya'an- home to the discovery of the first Giant Panda, today Ya'an is houses the world renowned Panda breeding centre. We offer student the opportunity to spend a day with the researchers and scientist, see the giant pandas and learn about the breeding and conservation efforts. Ya'an is also one of the birthplaces of Tea Culture, with a tea growing history dating back to the western Han Dynasty over 2000yrs ago. The area also has primitive forests, varied wildlife, rugged mountains and unspoiled streams, making it an ideal location for hiking and environment studies. 
 

Types of Sichuan School Programs

Adventure Programs: Kangding Himalayan Trek & Glacier trek

Educational Programs:  Glacier studies, River studies, Panda Research, Tibetan Cultural Studies, Tourism and conservation studies)

The Mix: Combine elements of different programs to provide a unique and varied experience.
 

Activities in Sichuan:

Kung Fu and Tai Chi
Multi day trekking & camping
Cultural immersion
Sichuan opera
Traditional Sichuan hot-pot
The Panda Research base
Moon Bear Rescue Centre
Tibetan Home stay
Glacier treks.