Providence Valley

Introducing Tianyi Valley

Tianyi Valley is located in Ganba Township, Linshui County, Guang'an City, Sichuan Province. The canyon is winding, steep and deep. Waterfalls, caves, bamboos, bizarre rocks and various peaks constitute the magnificent spectacle of the Grand Canyon. There are more than 200 caves and waterfalls of various sizes in the valley. The most famous of them is the Tianhe in the cave formed by nearly a thousand-meter-long cascading waterfalls, which is unparalleled in the world.

Inside the cave lies a giant Buddha, formed by molten lava over millions of years. It's the largest in the world. The main peak resembles a voluptuous Sleeping Beauty, with the mountain as its body, peaks as its breasts, gorges as its legs, valleys as its crotch, caves as its vagina, and waterfalls as its fluid. Within the vast Nymph Cave lies a natural Buddha, tens of meters tall. Within the magnificent and mysterious caverns, the sky suddenly opens, and a hundred-meter-high river descends from the heavens, resembling the momentum of a galloping horse.

The river flows through the cave toward the Buddha, cascading down from dozens of meters above, passing under the Buddha's feet and out through the genitals. This cave, combining the Heavenly Mother, the Heavenly Buddha, and the Heavenly River, is known as the "Three Heavenly Gods Cave," a unique natural wonder.

Climate and best time to travel

Best for summer vacation

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The main attractions include the Whisk Waterfall, the Welcoming Waterfall, the Shimen Pass, the Laolongtan Waterfall, the Difeng Gorge, the Natural Bridge, the Tianxin Cave, the Tianhe in the Cave, the Wangyue Waterfall, the Tianyi Valley - the Tianfo Chuanxin Cave, the Tianmu, the Tianfo, the Tianhe, etc.

Recommended play time: about half a day

Tickets

115 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Providence Valley

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Providence Valley is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. It has been a spiritual center for local communities for centuries, with several ancient temples and shrines that reflect the area's rich cultural heritage. The valley is also a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers due to its stunning landscapes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Providence Valley is located in Guang'an, Sichuan. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Guang'an or Chengdu. There is no metro service directly to the site, so a taxi or private car is recommended for ease of access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Providence Valley is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 40-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or online through local tourism websites or apps like WeChat.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

While tickets are generally available on-site, it’s recommended to book in advance during peak seasons or weekends, especially for guided tours. Booking a few days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 3-4 hours to explore Providence Valley, including hiking trails, visiting temples, and taking a boat ride along the river. For a more relaxed visit with photography breaks, you may want to allocate extra time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The scenic river that flows through the valley, offering stunning views and opportunities for boat rides.
• The local temples and cultural sites, including ancient structures and shrines.
• The hiking trails that lead to elevated viewpoints with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it is recommended to arrange this in advance. Audio guides are also offered in several languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Viewpoints along the hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the entire valley.
• The riverbanks, where you can capture the tranquil scenery of the water and surrounding mountains.
• Near the temples, where the ancient structures contrast beautifully with the lush greenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the cultural sites, then take a hike along the main trail to the best viewpoints. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride along the river to unwind and take in the final scenic views. Finish your visit with a meal or tea at one of the nearby local restaurants.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically offered, though some cultural events or performances may occur during special holidays or festivals. It’s best to visit during the day to fully experience the beauty of the valley.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The valley can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, particularly during the tourist season in spring and autumn. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets at key locations, food stalls, and rest areas throughout the valley. Shops selling local handicrafts and snacks are also available at the entrance and near the main attractions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main areas of Providence Valley are accessible to elderly and children, though some hiking trails may be challenging. It’s advisable to check the accessibility of specific trails in advance for those with mobility concerns.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, but it’s always good to carry some cash as smaller shops or food stalls might not accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuanese restaurants offering hotpot and traditional dishes.
• Small cafes and tea houses where you can relax and enjoy local snacks or tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, so it's recommended to inquire with the restaurants ahead of time.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and mid-range hotels are available in the nearby town of Guang'an.
• For a more authentic experience, look for boutique stays close to the valley.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Guang'an area itself offers several historical and cultural sites, including the birthplace of Deng Xiaoping.
• The nearby Mount Zhaohua is another popular hiking destination.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local crafts, Sichuan spices, and handmade pottery. Traditional Chinese paintings and small carvings are also popular items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Providence Valley, you can take a bus or taxi back to Guang'an or Chengdu. Ride-sharing apps like Didi are also available for convenience.