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How to Get to Panzhihua

How to Get to Panzhihua

Panzhihua Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Air Travel to Panzhihua

Airport & Airlines

Panzhihua Bao'anying Airport (TXM) is the city's regional airport. Major Chinese airlines operate domestic flights.

Flight Details

  • Airlines: China Eastern, Sichuan Airlines, Air China, Joy Air, Spring Airlines.
  • Routes: Connects with Chengdu, Kunming, Xi'an, Chongqing, Beijing, Shanghai.
  • No direct international flights. Connect through major Chinese hubs.

Airport Transfers

Transfer from airport to city center by shuttle bus, taxi, or Didi Chuxing.

Transfer Options

  • Airport Shuttle Bus: Cost-effective option to the downtown area.
  • Taxi: Available outside terminal. Confirm meter use.
  • Didi Chuxing: Book via app. Chinese phone number and mobile payment needed.

Flight Availability

Consistent throughout the year. Prices change during Chinese public holidays.

Peak Travel

Chinese New Year, National Day Golden Week, May Day see higher prices.

Airport Facilities

Panzhihua Bao'anying is a small regional airport with basic facilities.

Booking Advice

Domestic Flights

  • Book well ahead of time.
  • Especially during Chinese national holidays.
  • Prices increase during peak periods.
  • Consider connecting through Chengdu or Kunming.

International Connections

  • All foreign travelers connect through major Chinese hubs.
  • Chengdu, Kunming are convenient connecting points.
  • Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou offer many connections.
  • Check visa requirements for transit.

Price Fluctuations

Domestic Peak

Significantly elevated prices in holidays.

Off-Peak Savings

More affordable go outside of major holidays.

Early Booking

Booking in advance often results in better fares.

Land Transportation to Panzhihua

Train Travel

Panzhihua links well by rail and bus, presenting alternatives to air travel, especially for regional journeys.

Train Stations & Routes

  • Panzhihua Railway Station & Panzhihua South Railway Station.
  • Connects to Chengdu, Kunming, Chongqing, Xi'an.
  • Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes.

Long-Distance Buses

Buses link Panzhihua to surrounding cities and towns within Sichuan and neighboring Yunnan province.

Bus Options

  • Panzhihua General Bus Station. Various regional companies.
  • Connects to Xichang, Lijiang, Kunming.
  • More inexpensive alternative than trains for some routes.

Self-Driving

International Driving Permits are not recognized inside China. Foreigners must obtain a Chinese driving license.

Driving Requirements

  • Chinese driving license mandatory.
  • Process consumes time, often impractical for short-term visitors.
  • Navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are needed.

Driving Conditions

Road conditions are generally good on key thoroughfares. Mountainous areas have winding roads. Toll roads are common.

Safety & Traffic

  • Traffic can be heavy and aggressive in urban areas.
  • Be aware of varying driving standards.
  • Driving laws generally follow international standards.

Sea/River Arrivals

  • Panzhihua is a city not on the coast.
  • Sea or major river arrivals are not a main mode of transport for tourists.
  • No ferry services or cruise ports.
  • Jinsha River flows through Panzhihua.
  • Limited organized tourist boat services for transport.
  • Not a main means of arrival or departure.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Plan your departure carefully to ensure a smooth exit. No specific exit fees or taxes apply.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airports: 2-3 hours before departure for domestic flights.
  • Train/Bus Stations: 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Have passport and boarding pass readily accessible.

Airport/Station Facilities

Panzhihua Bao'anying Airport is a regional airport. Train and bus depots are functional.

Amenities

  • Airport: Basic waiting areas, some retail shops, dining.
  • Stations: Waiting rooms, restrooms, small shops, food vendors.
  • Amenities are functional, not luxurious.

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes for departing China by air or land for international travelers.

Ticket Costs

Cost of fees typically sees inclusion in your flight or train ticket price.

Check-in Time

Allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.

Departure Reminder

Domestic Flights

Book domestic flights connecting to Panzhihua well ahead of time, especially if your travel coincides with Chinese public holidays.

Peak Travel Advisory

  • Prices fluctuate significantly during Chinese public holidays.
  • Consider booking flights well in advance for these periods.
  • Early booking helps secure better fares and availability.

Travel Essentials

Confirm your departure details and transportation to the airport or station the day before you go.

Checklist

  • Verify departure time and terminal/station.
  • Arrange transport to the airport/station.
  • Ensure all documents are accessible.

Connecting Flights

Major Hubs

All foreign travelers must connect through a major Chinese hub city.

Convenient Points

Chengdu and Kunming are convenient connecting points due to their proximity.

Many Options

Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou also maintain numerous international and domestic connections.

Travel Advice

Confirm your departure details and transportation to the airport or station the day before you leave. This helps prevent last-minute stress.

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