Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa & Shanghai (4-5 Star) - 13 days

Welcome to China! Upon arrival in Beijing, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. If arriving in the morning, visit the Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat renowned for its scenic views, historic courtyards, and Kunming Lake. Spend the rest of the day exploring Beijing or relaxing at the hotel before enjoying a welcome dinner in the evening.

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll set out to visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. In spring, the mountain is covered with beautiful flowers; in summer, it is lush and accompanied by the sound of flowing water; in autumn, the mountains are adorned with red leaves and abundant fruits; and in winter, it is blanketed in white snow, presenting a picturesque northern scenery. Perhaps even take the cable car, which can be arranged locally.

Next, visit a local jade factory where you can explore a variety of exquisite designs. Following this, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before driving back to downtown Beijing. Spend the afternoon walking around the Olympic Park, where you can view the iconic Water Cube and Bird’s Nest from the outside.

Return to your hotel for some relaxation before the evening, which will be spent at your leisure.

You’ll start your day by visiting Tiananmen Square, a site of profound historical importance where the People's Republic of China was founded and which has been the backdrop for numerous significant events in China’s history. Take a moment to admire the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong that hangs over the Tiananmen gates.

Next, you’ll proceed to the Forbidden City, the grand palace complex that served as the imperial residence for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This vast palace boasts over 800 opulent buildings and 9,000 chambers. Please note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. If your visit coincides with a Monday or if tickets are sold out, you will have the option to visit the Lama Temple or Confucius Temple as alternatives.

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, followed by an afternoon visit to the Temple of Heaven, renowned for its impressive religious architecture. Continue to the bustling Marriage Market, where parents gather to find suitable matches for their children.

As evening falls, return to your hotel to relax and unwind, with the night at your leisure.

Beijing - Xi'an. Begin the day at the tranquil Summer Palace, where you can admire the blooming gardens grand pagodas. The Summer Palace is an impressive example of man-made beauty centered around Kunming Lake, an artificial body of water that was created by a labor force of over 10,000 workers.

Break for lunch before transferring to Beijing West Railway Station. Here, you’ll board a high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival in Xi’an, you’ll meet your local guide at the railway station and be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Dive into history at the Terracotta Warrior Museum, where you can marvel at the collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These life-sized figures were meticulously modeled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army, and the site includes approximately 8,000 soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses - none of which are identical.

This impressive army was created to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, which are housed in a vast mausoleum complex. As a special highlight, you may also have the opportunity to meet one of the farmers who discovered the Terracotta Army!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting a jade carving store, where you can admire the intricate craftsmanship of jade artisans and perhaps even purchase some pieces yourself.

In the afternoon, explore the bustling Muslim Street in the heart of Xi’an. The neighborhood is vibrant with the aroma of sizzling lamb skewers and fragrant spices from numerous food stalls. Opt to try local delicacies, including the famous Biangbiang noodles or pita bread soaked in mutton soup. While here, don’t miss the Great Mosque, an important religious site for China’s Muslim community.

Xi'an - Lhasa. After breakfast, start your day with a stroll around the morning market to observe local life and get a taste of the daily hustle and bustle.

Next, visit the Xi'an City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved Chinese city walls still standing. You can explore the wall by walking or biking, taking in the historic structure and enjoying stunning views of the city.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before preparing for your flight to Lhasa in the afternoon or early evening. Upon arrival in Lhasa, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Tonight is at your leisure, but it's highly recommended to rest for the remainder of the day to acclimatise to the high altitude.

Explore what Lhasa has to offer as you embark on a visit to the Potala Palace, a monumental structure that rises more than 130 metres above the Red Hill of Lhasa Valley. This iconic landmark stands as a symbol of Tibetan culture and religion.

Then, proceed to Jokhang Temple, the most revered monastery in Tibet. Central to Tibetan Buddhism, the temple holds deep spiritual significance and is a focal point for Buddhist pilgrimage, playing a crucial role in Tibetan religious practices.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before venturing into the Barkor area. Here, you can explore the bustling marketplace, known for its traditional crafts, souvenirs, and vibrant street life. Dinner is at your own leisure.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before visiting Norbulingka, often called the "Plateau Botanic Garden" and the "Summer Palace of Lhasa." This expansive garden, covering 3.6 million square meters, showcases over 100 rare plant species from the Himalayas and beyond.

After lunch, head to Sera Monastery for a glimpse into life in a Tibetan monastery. Here, you may witness a lively debating session among the monks in the Debate Courtyard, a traditional method of learning and discussing Buddhist doctrines. Monks engage in this animated debate by clapping their hands and pointing, making for a dynamic and engaging experience. Dinner will be at leisure.

Lhasa - Gyangtse - Shigatse. This morning, embark on a driving adventure to Shigatse, passing by the stunning Yamdrok Lake. As you travel, you’ll cross the Karo La Pass (5010m), where you can witness the year-round glacier. This mountain pass is nearly as high as the base camp of Mt. Everest, offering dramatic and breathtaking views.

Enjoy lunch before visiting the Pelkor Chode Monastery in Gyangtse. The monastery is renowned for its unique blend of Han, Tibetan, and Nepali architectural styles and holds significant status in Tibetan Buddhism history. It houses three major sects: Sakyapa, Kadampa, and Gelugpa. Don’t miss the Kumbum, a distinctive feature of the monastery, which is a large, multi-storied stupa adorned with numerous chapels and murals.

In the afternoon, continue your drive to Shigatse. Upon arrival, the rest of the evening is yours to spend at your own leisure.

Shigatse - Lhasa. Today, visit Shigatse's Tashilhunpo Monastery. Founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, this monastery is one of the Six Big Monasteries of the Gelugpa (or Yellow Hat Sect) in China.

It is the largest Tibetan Gelugpa Buddhism monastery in the Tibet Autonomous Region and holds great historical and religious significance. The monastery is renowned for its impressive architecture, including the grand Buddha statue in the Maitreya Chapel, and its vibrant collection of Tibetan art and scriptures. It also serves as the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism.

After your visit, drive back to Lhasa. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before spending the rest of the day at your leisure.

Lhasa - Shanghai. After breakfast at your hotel, you will fly to Shanghai with a stopover in Chengdu or Chongqing, depending on your flight route. Upon arrival in Shanghai, you will meet your local tour guide, who will assist you with your transfer and provide an introduction to the city.

The rest of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to explore local dining options or enjoy a meal at your hotel.

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai! Begin your day with a visit to the Propaganda Poster Art Center. This unique museum showcases hundreds of original posters from China’s Mao Zedong era, particularly the Cultural Revolution period, providing a fascinating insight into that historical period.

Next, explore the Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully restored Suzhou-style garden created during the Ming Dynasty. The Yu Yuan Garden serves as a serene oasis amidst the busy city of Shanghai.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to a silk factory, where you can learn about the traditional process of silk production and perhaps purchase some exquisite silk products.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Bund, soaking in the dramatic skyline of modern Shanghai. Finish your day with a visit to the French Concession, an area that blends cultural and historical influences. Stroll through its tree-lined streets and admire the elegant architecture, where Chinese and Western styles merge to create a charming and vibrant atmosphere.

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. We hope you enjoyed your journey through China and Tibet. Safe travels!