Chengdu - Jiuzhaigou Train

Neither high speed trains nor non-bullet trains are available between the two cities up till now. But here comes the good news:  Chengdu-Lanzhou Railway has been under construction with a stop in Jiuzhaigou; when completed, train travel between Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou will be possible.
  Running distance: 235 miles (378 km)
 Top speed: 124 mi/h (200 km/h)
 Duration: about 2 hours
 Stations along the way: Sanxingdui, Shifang West, Mianzhu South, Anxian, Gaochuan, Maoxian, Longtang, Taiping, Zhenjiangguan, Songpan, Chuanzhusi, Huangshengguan, and Dalu.
 Scheduled Open Time: 2023
 This project has been put into construction since 26th February, 2011. However, the previous planned running route will go through and affect the habitat of precious animals such as Giant  Pandas and Golden Monkeys, hence the construction was stopped. After redesigning, the construction begun with more bridges and tunnels to avoid any disturb to both geological and ecological environment. Undoubtedly, this makes the construction work more difficult, and the railway doesn't come a long way until 2016. On 16th June, 2016, the railway's girder erection operation started between Chengdu and Chuanzhusi. On 24th June, 2016, the girder erection equipment was constructed in Shifang, Deyang City. On 19th July, 2016, Huangshengguan Tunnel was excavated successfully, which is the first tunnel dug along this Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou Railway.
 As the first railway running through northwest Sichuan Province, you will have a chance to appreciate the unique scenery and customs at a leisurely pace, including the colorful customs of Qiang ethnic minority, and the beautiful natural sceneries such as Diexi and Songpinggou Scenic Area. As Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou trains keep going northward, you will arrive at the Qianfoshan National Forest Park to experience the serenity and beautify of the nature. Finally, the train will take you to Jiuzhai Valley National Park. The sceneries along the way will leave you a deep impression.

 In Chengdu:
Chengdu is the capital city of Sichuan Province and is abundant with profound culture heritage and beautiful natural sceneries. After going there, you can see the cute fluffy animals in Panda Base, or show yourself around to relax in Chunxi Road. You can also explore Wide and Narrow Alleys of the city to taste the mouth-watering snacks and enjoy the Sichuan Cuisine there.

 In Songpan:
Songpan County is about 16 miles (25 km) from Jihuang Airport. Huanglong National Scenic Reserve, Mounigou Valley, Shangniba Temple, Chuzhusi Temple and Songpan Ancient Town are famous attraction sites there.

 In Jiuzhaigou:
It's a small county located in the northeast of Aba city and it is famous for the well-known Jiuzhai Valley National Park which is a must-see in Sichuan province. The blue lakes, waterfalls, verdant forests, snow-capped mountains, and the folk customs of the Tibetan and Qiang peoples make it a must for visitors to Sichuan.
 One can only travel between the two places by flight or coach currently. Flights do take less time, but cost more, while coaches cost less, but take longer time. Also, both flights and coaches can be easily affected by weather.

 By flight:
At present, direct flights are available between Shuangliu International Airport and Jiuhuang Airport on each Mon. Wed. Fri. and Sat. with duration of an hour and ticket fare is CNY 1,000 or so for economy class. After arrive at airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus to Jiuzhai Valley National Park. The ticket price is CNY 90 and duration is 1.5 hours.

In addition, direct flights between Jiuzhaigou and Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chongqing are also available. But it will cost even more.

 By long-distance bus:
Visitors can take long-distance buses at Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station, East Bus Station or Xinnanmen Bus Station to Jiuzhaigou. Duration is 8-9 hours or so.

Buses from Chadianzi Bus Station are reachable ay 09:10. Ticket fare is about CNY 160.

Buses at East Bus Station depart at 08:10. And the ticket costs about CNY 160.

Buses from Xinnanmen Bus Station are catchable at about 08:15. Ticket fare is around CNY 150. And usually, more buses are available at this station than Chadianzi.

 Further Reading: Best Way to Travel between Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou
 Major Rail Lines from Chengdu to: