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At Zaru Waterfall, visitors can enjoy scenic hikes along the trails leading to the waterfall, take in the natural beauty of the surrounding lush forests, and photograph the spectacular views. The waterfall is a popular spot for picnics and relaxing by the water, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Zharu Waterfall, nestled in the dense forest halfway up Zhayi Zhaga Mountain, cascades down a precarious cliff, cascading down four steps into a ravine. Looking up from the steps, you'll see dense shade surrounding the waterfall, and a cascade of hadas, like several feet tall, falling from the sky. Locals consider it sacred water.
Jiuzhaigou's scenery has its own unique characteristics in each season, but most people prefer to visit in late autumn. The colorful forests and the blue-green lakes create a vibrant world.
Suggested playing time: about half an hour
Tickets are included in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket
Off-season (November 16th - March 31st of the following year) 8:30-18:00
Peak season (April 1st - November 15th) 7:00-18:00
Zaru Waterfall is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, an area known for its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. The waterfall is a natural landmark and a symbol of the local Tibetan and Qiang culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's stunning landscapes and traditional ways of life.
Zaru Waterfall is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, China. The nearest town is Songpan, and from there, you can take a taxi or a private car to reach the waterfall. Public transportation options may be limited, so it's recommended to plan ahead for private transport.
Zaru Waterfall is open year-round, and the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscape is especially beautiful. The waterfall is less crowded on weekdays, making it ideal for a peaceful visit.
The entrance fee for Zaru Waterfall is typically around 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official tourism website of the region.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the peak tourist seasons (summer and public holidays). It's best to book at least a few days ahead of time to ensure availability.
You will need about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the waterfall area, including time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the scenery. If you plan to spend time at nearby attractions or for a picnic, allow for additional time.
The main highlight is the waterfall itself, which is a stunning natural feature. The surrounding forested area and the nearby hiking trails also provide beautiful views and are great for nature walks and photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. It is advisable to arrange for a guide in advance if you prefer a more in-depth experience, as English-speaking guides may not always be available.
The best viewpoints are along the main trail leading to the waterfall, where you can capture sweeping views of the falls and the surrounding mountains. The mist created by the waterfall also offers great opportunities for unique shots.
Start by walking along the main trail toward the waterfall, stopping at the designated viewpoints for photos. After visiting the waterfall, you can explore the surrounding forest or relax by the water before returning to the entrance.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Zaru Waterfall. However, special tours can be arranged upon request for larger groups or special events.
The waterfall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning hours.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no major food stalls or shops directly near the waterfall, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water, especially for longer stays.
The trail leading to the waterfall may not be fully accessible to elderly or disabled visitors due to its uneven terrain and steep sections. Children will enjoy the hike, but it's recommended to ensure their safety around the waterfall area.
Cash is typically required at the entrance. Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay may be available in the area, but it’s always good to have cash on hand for small purchases or entry fees.
There are no major restaurants or cafés directly at the waterfall site. However, nearby towns like Songpan offer a variety of local restaurants serving Sichuan cuisine.
In the nearby towns, you may find vegetarian and vegan options, but halal food is less commonly available. It’s recommended to check ahead or bring your own food if you have dietary restrictions.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Songpan, which is the nearest town to Zaru Waterfall. From there, you can easily reach the waterfall by taxi or private car.
Nearby attractions include the Jiuzhaigou Valley, known for its stunning lakes and waterfalls, and the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area, which features a unique series of colorful pools. Both can be easily combined with a trip to Zaru Waterfall.
Souvenir shops in the nearby towns offer traditional Tibetan crafts, including handmade jewelry, textiles, and local artwork. You can also find local snacks and teas as souvenirs.
From Zaru Waterfall, you can take a taxi or private car back to Songpan, where you can catch buses to other nearby destinations like Jiuzhaigou or Chengdu. Renting a car is often the most convenient option for continued travel in the area.
