Want to experience Chongqing like a local? This mountain city brims with adventures, cultural gems, and breathtaking natural beauty ready to be discovered. From ancient relics to stunning vistas, every turn tells a new tale. Visit Wulong Geological Park, home to the incredible Three Natural Bridges and the dramatic sinkholes of Wulong Tiankeng. These natural formations are straight out of a movie set—literally!

For history enthusiasts, the intricate Dazu Rock Carvings at Baoding Mountain bring stunning artistry and spiritual tales carved into stone. Feeling adventurous? Brave the mysterious allure of Fengdu Ghost City, where folklore and legends come alive in a spooky yet fascinating way. Can’t wait to see all that Chongqing has in store? Here are the must-visit spots and unique finds that make this city one-of-a-kind!

Located around 130km from downtown Chongqing in Wulong District, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is famous for its stunning Three Natural Bridges, and colossal limestone arches that span across deep sinkholes. The park is a paradise for nature lovers with trails, caves, and opportunities for breathtaking photos. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and nice landscapes. To get there, take a train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Wulong Station, about a 2-hour journey, then use local transport to reach the park. Don’t forget to snag Traveloka’s JOMPLAY promo code for up to RM300 off your private day tour!

Hongya Cave near the Jiefangbei CBD is a riverside shopping complex with local snacks, souvenirs, and panoramic views of the city’s skyline, particularly stunning at night. A short trip from there takes you to Ciqikou, an ancient town known for its cobblestone streets, teahouses, and traditional crafts. People’s Auditorium, located in Yuzhong District, is an architectural gem, often hosting cultural events. For a full experience, visit Hongya Cave and Ciqikou in the evening to enjoy the lights, and explore the grand People's Auditorium during the day. You can reach all three attractions via Chongqing Metro, with stops at Linjiangmen (Hongya Cave), Ciqikou Station, and Zengjiayan (People’s Auditorium).

Wulong, known for its dramatic karst landscapes, offers a deeper exploration of its natural beauty beyond the famous Three Natural Bridges. This adventure takes you on treks through tranquil valleys, hidden caves, and more unique geological formations. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful. To get there, travel by train from Chongqing North to Wulong Station, and use local transport to explore the natural wonders of this lesser-known gem.

The Dazu Rock Carvings are a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than 50,000 Buddhist carvings, showcasing China's ancient history and craftsmanship. The Baoding Mountain Carved Stone, nearby, is known for its impressive, large-scale stone sculptures. These carvings are particularly striking in the morning light. Best visited in the cooler months, particularly spring and autumn, for comfortable sightseeing. You can reach these sites by taking a bus or train from Chongqing to Dazu, which takes around 2 to 3 hours, and then use local transportation to explore the carvings.

Porcelain Port is a location with a rich history tied to China's porcelain trade with stunning riverside views and a glimpse of Chongqing’s past. The Dazu Rock Carvings are just a short journey from here, providing an in-depth look into ancient Chinese culture. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting when the weather is most pleasant. To reach these attractions, take a high-speed train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Dazu, and then use local transport to visit the nearby rock carvings and the Porcelain Port.

Wulong Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a landscape of limestone peaks, caves, and valleys. Known for its natural beauty and unique geological formations, this destination includes Wulong Tiankeng (Three Natural Bridges), and a maze of underground tunnels. Ideal for hiking and nature walks, spring and autumn provide the best weather for exploring. To get to Wulong Karst, you can take a train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Wulong Station, and then use local buses or taxis to reach various scenic spots in the area.

Ciqikou is an ancient village that offers a glimpse into traditional life with its narrow streets, old shops, and ancient temples. Famous for its preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, the village is a great spot for strolls, souvenir shopping, and tasting local snacks. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is cool and pleasant for exploring. You can reach Ciqikou by metro (Line 1, Ciqikou Station), which takes about 30 minutes from the city centre.

This itinerary covers multiple highlights of Chongqing, starting with the Three Gorges Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Yangtze River. From there, visit Ciqikou for a traditional village experience, followed by a scenic ride on the Yangtze River Cableway for stunning views of the city. Lastly, Jiefangbei is the shopping and commercial heart of Chongqing, where you can find local goods and trendy stores. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn. To explore all these attractions, use Chongqing’s metro system, which efficiently connects most locations.

Perched on Eling Hill, Eling Park offers stunning views of Chongqing City, providing a calm retreat from the busy streets below. The park is dotted with beautiful pavilions, gardens, and historic buildings, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. The best time to visit is during the cooler months (spring and autumn) when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. You can reach Eling Park by taking a metro to Eling Station (Line 2), followed by a short walk to the park entrance.

Fengdu Ghost City is an eerie and fascinating destination steeped in Chinese folklore. It’s said to be the home of ghosts and spirits, and visitors can explore temples, statues, and eerie structures that depict the afterlife. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is cooler. To reach Fengdu Ghost City, take a bus or a private tour from Chongqing, which typically takes around 2-3 hours.

Located in the Wulong Karst National Geopark, the Three Natural Bridges are a stunning natural formation consisting of three massive limestone arches. The area is known for its awe-inspiring views and is perfect for hiking and photography. The best time to visit is from March to October when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. You can reach the Three Natural Bridges by taking a bus or private tour from Wulong County, which is approximately 120km from Chongqing.

Furong Cave is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in China, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can take a guided tour through the cave to marvel at the striking formations and underground rivers. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the temperatures are pleasant for cave exploration. To get there, take a bus or a private tour from Chongqing, which takes around 2-3 hours.

The Ropeway of the Yangtze River is a ride across the mighty river with views of Chongqing’s skyline and the surrounding landscapes. It’s an excellent way to see the city from above, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. To reach the ropeway, take a taxi or public transport to the upper cable car station near the Yangtze River, located close to the city centre.

Chongqing Amusement Park is an exciting family-friendly destination with various thrilling rides, games, and attractions for all ages. From roller coasters to water rides, there’s something for everyone. It’s best visited during the warmer months (March to September) when the park’s outdoor rides are fully operational. You can easily get there by taking a bus or taxi from Chongqing’s city centre, with the park located in the southern part of the city.

Pipashan Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. The South Gate area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the city below. It's especially beautiful during autumn when the foliage changes colour. To get there, take a bus or taxi from Chongqing's city centre. The park is located about 10-15 minutes south of the central district, making it a quick and easy escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Longshuixia Difeng is a scenic spot located on the outskirts of Chongqing, famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush green surroundings, and picturesque views. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy hiking, as the area offers several trails that lead to impressive vantage points. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most stunning. To get there, you can take a bus or a taxi from Chongqing city centre, with the area located roughly 2 hours away by car.

The Luohan and Huayan Temple complex is a peaceful and historic site, perfect for those seeking a glimpse into Chongqing's spiritual heritage. The temples are known for their exquisite architecture and beautiful statues of the Luohan (arhats). The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The temple is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting the site to the city centre. It's located in the western part of Chongqing, about a 30-minute drive from downtown.

Chaotianmen Bridge is one of Chongqing’s most iconic landmarks, spanning the Yangtze River and offering breathtaking views of the city and river. It’s particularly striking at night when the bridge is illuminated, making it a popular spot for photos. The best time to visit is in the evening for the spectacular light display. The bridge is easily accessible by taxi, and it’s located near the Chaotianmen Dock, which is a short drive from the city centre. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Chongqing.

The Stilwell Museum in Chongqing’s historic Shapingba District is dedicated to the life and legacy of General Joseph Stilwell, a key figure in the Second World War. The museum offers an insightful look at the history of the Chinese-American military relationship and showcases wartime memorabilia, including artefacts, photographs, and military equipment. The best time to visit is year-round, with weekends being a bit busier. The museum is easily accessible by bus or taxi from the city centre, and it’s a great spot for history buffs and those interested in Chongqing’s role during WWII.

The Chongqing Huguang Guild Hall is an architectural gem with rich cultural significance, once serving as a gathering place for people from the Hunan and Guangdong provinces. The hall is renowned for its classical Chinese design and stunning carvings, making it a must-see for anyone interested in traditional architecture and history. The best time to visit is during the morning when the site is quieter. Located in the city centre, it's easily accessible by bus or taxi. The guild hall is a perfect stop for exploring the city's cultural heritage.

With so much to see and do in Chongqing, you're sure to have a memorable adventure. From ancient rock carvings and mystical ghost cities to stunning parks and traditional markets, Chongqing is worth discovering. Excited to make the most of your trip? Book your flights, hotels, and attractions through Traveloka for the best deals and an easy travel experience. Let the journey to Chongqing begin!