The bustling capital of Sichuan Province is home to some of the best (and spiciest!) food in the world. It is also a city of temples, gardens, teahouses, Sichuan Opera performances and the Giant Panda research center. It is easy to spend a day or two here soaking up the traditional Chinese atmosphere.
If you have a few days, you can also include visits to Leshan Giant Buddha (day trip) or Emei mountain (2 days best, overnight at a guest house on the mountain, though also possible as a day trip taking cable car up & down).
7+ flights daily. Train daily except Mondays (38hrs)
Daily flights to/from Linzhi & Shigatse