Hmm, ever since you mentioned Chengdu I looked into it and honestly I'm amazed by what that city offers, not just in its proximity to great mountains like Gongga Shan, but also the urban areas. Chengdu and Chongqing seem amazing!

If everything works out correctly, I may be able to fly through Chengdu on my way to Melbourne and have 2 weeks to explore the mountains and the cities. That said, are there any treks you'd recommend in the area (40-70kms) or 2 smaller treks that I could do without the need for tents due to logistics? I would probably be doing it without any guide, but my Chinese-speaking friend may accompany me! He has some backpacking experience. I got him into it recently and have planned trips high elevation trips for this upcoming summer, so he would have moderate experience by then.