China and Tibet An Epic Journey

Welcome to China! Upon your arrival in Beijing, we will transfer you to your hotel. As evening approaches, join us as we head to Wangfujing Street. This bustling pedestrian avenue is famous for its lively ambiance, wide array of shops, and diverse dining options. It's an ideal introduction to the vibrant pulse of the city. Dinner is included in our plans, after which we will return you to the hotel for the night. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Our day in Beijing sets off with an exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks. We will take a full-day tour, beginning with a visit to the Forbidden City, officially known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace. This vast complex, serving as the majestic domain of 24 emperors over nearly five centuries, stands as the most significant architectural icon of China. Our next stop is Jingshan Park, where we can ascend Coal Hill for sweeping views of the Forbidden City, weather allowing. Strolling through Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public spaces, we will also get a glimpse of the modern Great National Theatre.After our included lunch, we will head to the Summer Palace, famed as the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, where its peaceful gardens and lakes offer a serene moment. In the afternoon, we will dive into traditional Beijing with a tricycle ride through the Hutongs, exploring the charm of these historic neighbourhoods filled with cultural heritage, quaint shops, and a classic Siheyuan courtyards. We will return to the hotel in the evening, ready for a restful overnight stay. Please note: Due to heritage protections and safety protocols, access to the Forbidden City can be restricted. Should we be unable to visit, we will instead discover the Confucius and Lama Temples, which are significant to Chinese history and culture.

On the third day of our journey, we embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. This iconic structure, steeped in over 2,000 years of history, offers a remarkable glimpse into the architectural prowess of ancient China. We’ll take a cable car ride to the Wall – your tickets are included – allowing you to fully appreciate the majestic views. After a memorable morning, we’ll return to Beijing for a delightful lunch, featuring the renowned Peking duck.In the afternoon, we say goodbye to Beijing as we travel to the train station to board a high-speed train to Shanghai. This efficient and comfortable journey introduces us to the dynamic and modern vibrancy of China's eastern powerhouse. Once we arrive in Shanghai, a transfer will take us to our hotel, where we’ll settle in for an overnight stay.

Today, we delve into the vibrant city of Shanghai, starting with a visit to the impressive Pudong district. This area is renowned for its towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, and offers a glimpse into Shanghai's modern financial prowess. We then embark on a delightful ferry ride across the Huangpu River, which provides stunning views of both the historic and contemporary faces of the city. Our journey continues with a walk through the Old City and a visit to the tranquil Yuyuan Garden. This beautifully preserved site, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustle of the city. Here, we partake in a traditional tea ceremony, a cherished ritual that highlights China’s rich cultural heritage. Next, we explore Xintiandi, one of the trendiest parts of Shanghai, famed for its stylish boutiques and lively ambience. After our included lunch, we set off to explore Tianzifang, a former residential district that has transformed into a maze of charming alleyways filled with craft shops and contemporary art galleries. We conclude our day with a walk along The Bund, where the grandeur of colonial-era architecture reflects Shanghai's past significance as a hub of international trade. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. You may opt for a magical evening boat trip to experience the city’s dazzling lights, a memorable way to conclude your Shanghai adventure.

On the morning of the fifth day, we will head to the train station and board a high-speed train departing at 07:17 a.m., covering 1,000 km in just over five hours. As we travel, you'll be treated to scenic views of the countryside, offering a glimpse of China's picturesque landscapes before we arrive in Luoyang. Upon arrival, lunch will be provided. Our first stop will be the impressive Longmen Buddhist Caves, a renowned archaeological site that stretches over a kilometre along majestic rocky cliffs by the river. Here, you will find over 100,000 intricate Buddha statues and carvings carved directly into the stone—a testament to the site's historical significance and craftsmanship. To enhance your experience, we'll enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river, allowing you to fully appreciate the magnificence of this site. Following this, we'll make our way to the ancient city of Luoyang. You'll have the chance to wander through its historic streets, experiencing the vibrant local life and the charming allure of its traditional illuminated settings.

Early in the morning, we head to the outskirts of Luoyang to visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery. This expansive site is a historic centre of Buddhist scholarship that welcomes scholars and devotees from around the globe. Our journey continues to Sanmenxia, a city steeped in history. Here, we explore the impressive Yellow River and visit the Baolun Temple, renowned for its striking tall pagoda. We will also explore the Guo Museum, esteemed as one of China's finest, where you'll see the ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo, offering a compelling insight into the region's past. Lunch is provided as part of our day. We then travel eastward, passing by the sacred Mount Hua, famous for its dramatic peaks and spiritual importance. We arrive in Xian by late afternoon, where our day concludes.

In the captivating city of Xian, where the ancient Silk Road once began, our day unfolds with a visit to the legendary Terracotta Army. This remarkable archaeological site reveals thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that have stood guard over the tomb of China's first emperor for centuries. Once we've marvelled at this spectacle, we'll return to Xian to explore the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist structure over a thousand years old. Our journey continues through the historic, walled centre of Xian, where we’ll visit the vibrant Muslim Quarter, home to the Great Mosque. This site beautifully reflects the unique blend of cultures and religions that have influenced China throughout history. Included in our tour is a visit to the Drum Tower, where a performance of traditional Chinese music, played on ancient instruments, offers a delightful glimpse into the nation's musical heritage. After the organised activities, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore the city at your leisure, discovering its hidden treasures and lively streets.

We depart Xian aboard a state-of-the-art high-speed train, covering the 700 kilometres to Chengdu in just over three hours. Upon arrival, we will visit the esteemed Panda Research and Breeding Centre, home to 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas. A delicious lunch is included as part of our day. In the afternoon, we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through People's Park, where you can see locals practising Tai Chi by the lake and enjoy the atmosphere of the tea houses.

Today, we embark on a full-day tour of Sichuan Province, immersing ourselves in its pleasing landscapes and traditional villages. Our journey takes us to Dujiangyan, where we explore the ancient irrigation system. This remarkable engineering feat has been operational for over 2,000 years and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We continue to Qingcheng Shan, known as the "Mountain of the Green City," a sacred Taoist mountain. Here, the forest paths lead us to caves, pavilions, and centuries-old wooden temples. Lunch is provided during our excursion. Later, we visit the historical Jiezi Ancient Town, with its alleys that have witnessed over a thousand years of history. As the day concludes, we return to Chengdu, enriched by the experiences and insights of the day.

Today, we take a flight from Chengdu to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, situated at an altitude of 3,700 metres. Upon arrival at Gonggar Airport, our guide will meet us, and we will travel by bus to our hotel in Lhasa, a journey of approximately one and a half hours. Once checked in, you have the evening free to acclimatise to the altitude. Take the opportunity to explore the local bazaars at your leisure, absorbing the unique atmosphere and perhaps sampling some local delights.

Following breakfast, we embark on a guided exploration of Lhasa's most renowned symbol, the Potala Palace. This majestic 13-storey edifice once held the title of the tallest building of its era and served as the winter abode for the Dalai Lamas. The palace's impressive architecture, visible from various parts of the city, stands as an extraordinary relic from the 7th century AD, serving as a testament to Tibetan history and culture. We'll pause for an included lunch before continuing our tour at the Sera Monastery. Established by Sakya Yeshe in 1419, a disciple of the revered Tsongkhapa, this monastery is famed for its traditional 'Debate on Buddhist Scriptures' – an engaging spectacle unique to Sera. We conclude our day by returning to the hotel for an overnight stay in Lhasa.

Today, we will delve into Tibet’s spiritual heart with a guided tour of the Jokhang Temple, famously referred to as the 'House of Buddha' in Tibetan. This revered sanctuary reputedly houses a statue crafted by Buddha Sakyamuni himself. Serving as a nexus for both religious and secular life, the temple draws people from all Tibetan tribes, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Around the temple lies Barkhor Market, a bustling hub renowned for being both an essential religious path and a lively marketplace for locals and visitors alike. Lunch is included. In the afternoon, we will explore Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama. Following our visit, we’ll return to the hotel for the night in Lhasa.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your experiences.