CHINA – Welcome to the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base in Chengdu! In this article, we will explore one of the world’s most renowned locations dedicated to the conservation and research of the beloved giant pandas.
Located in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base has played a significant role in the protection and study of these iconic creatures for many decades.
General Information
Apart from the adorable giant pandas, the facility is also home to red pandas, black swans, and peacocks. It functions as a research center, so unlike a typical zoo, it does not primarily focus on displaying animals.
- Chinese Name: 成都大熊猫繁育研究基地 Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì /chnng-doo daa-sshyong-maoww fan-yoo yen-jyoh jee-dee/
- Number of Giant Pandas: 50
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Don’t miss our comprehensive travel guide for Chengdu.
Best Time to Visit
The Giant Panda Base is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
The best time to visit is in the morning, especially during feeding time from 8:30 to 10:00 AM.
At other times, giant pandas are typically engrossed in their primary activity: SLEEPING.
Giant pandas prefer cooler weather. During cooler periods, they are more active outside. However, in the hot summer months (above 26°C), pandas tend to stay indoors to avoid the heat.
If you visit during the scorching summer months (June, July, and August) and don’t spot any pandas outside, be sure to visit their indoor enclosures.
Interesting Highlights Inside the Giant Panda Research Base
Giant Panda Museum
The Giant Panda Museum at the facility is the world’s only museum entirely dedicated to giant pandas. You can learn a lot about these endangered animals in the museum.
Seeing Baby Pandas (Depending on Luck)
Giant pandas usually give birth in August, so visitors may see newborn pandas or panda cubs in August and September.
If there are no newborn pandas to see, you can always visit the “Kindergarten” area to watch the energetic young pandas.
Viewing Fossils and Realistic Exhibits
Giant panda food samples are displayed, and the museum exhibits many lifelike, large-scale displays of giant pandas in their ancient and current natural environments. These realistic exhibitions cover an area of about 300 square meters.
Meditation Grove
Nestled amidst lush greenery and serene landscapes, the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base in Chengdu serves as a sanctuary for these endangered giant pandas.
Covering a vast area, this conservation site replicates the pandas’ natural habitat, providing them a safe and comfortable environment.
Conservation Efforts
The main goal of the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base in Chengdu is to promote the conservation of giant pandas and prevent their extinction.
The facility collaborates closely with international organizations and wildlife experts to develop breeding, rehabilitation, and reintroduction strategies for giant pandas into the wild.
Advancing Panda Research
The facility is a hub for research activities focused on gaining a deeper understanding of giant pandas. Scientists and researchers conduct studies on behavior, genetics, and ecology to contribute knowledge about these fascinating creatures.
Community Awareness and Education
In addition to conservation efforts, the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base in Chengdu is proud of its commitment to raising community awareness and education. Visitors can attend informative sessions about giant pandas, their habitats, and the importance of conservation.
Giant Panda Post Office
There is a post office inside the Giant Panda Base. You can send an adorable giant panda-themed postcard to your friends, family, or even yourself. The postcards will be stamped with cute panda postmarks.
Location of the Base
It’s about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the city center of Chengdu.
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/813Y6GURuzHRmdgy7
Tips for Visiting the Giant Panda Base in Chengdu
Giant pandas at the base:
- This facility is quite large but often crowded. A private tour is the best way to navigate the site to see as many pandas as possible and have the best experience.
- If you visit during peak times, such as summer holidays (July and August), May Day holidays (May 1-3), and China National Day holidays (October 1-7), book your tour as early as possible and arrive early.
- Visit the base during cooler weather because you are more likely to see giant pandas in the outdoor area or in the backyards of the giant panda homes.
- When you hear a sudden loud noise, don’t miss it. Go and see what happened. It might be a playful panda falling from a tree or the “panda dad” (the caretaker) feeding them.
Learn more: Top Giant Panda Viewing Locations in China.
FAQs
Are giant pandas still endangered?
Yes, giant pandas are still classified as endangered due to habitat loss and other threats.
Is the Giant Panda Research Base in Chengdu open to the public year-round?
Yes, the Giant Panda Research and Breeding Base in Chengdu is open for visitor tours throughout the year.
Can I adopt or sponsor a giant panda at the base?
Yes, the facility has an adoption program that allows you to symbolically adopt a giant panda and contribute to their conservation efforts.
