Beijing – Xi’an – Xining – Lhasa Tour

This tour offers one of the best China travel experiences available. Explore the modern capital city of Beijing, China’s political and cultural center, and visit historic sites such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, and the Summer Palace. Continue on to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, where you’ll explore world wonders like the Terra-Cotta Warriors and Horses, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Shaanxi History Museum. Then take an overland trip to Xining, visiting the Tibetan Medical and Cultural Museum, Kumbum Monastery, Qinghai Lake, Tongren (Rebkong) Artist Village, the Yellow River, and Shachung Monastery.

Afterward, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Tibet via the scenic sky train. In the sacred city of Lhasa, visit the majestic Potala Palace, the holy Jokhang Temple, and the vibrant Barkhor Square. Watch monks debate at Sera Monastery and join pilgrims exploring the temples and prayer halls of Drepung Monastery.

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing.

You’ll be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, take a stroll or rest from your journey.

Day 2: Beijing sightseeing

Explore Beijing’s imperial landmarks including Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, once home to Ming and Qing emperors. Walk through the ancient alleyways of the hutongs and get a feel for local life.

Day 3: Beijing sightseeings 

Travel to the iconic Great Wall at Mutianyu, a less crowded and scenic section. Walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views. Return to the city in the afternoon and visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests.

Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an by highspeed train 

Train ride  to Xi’an, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties. Upon arrival, visit the old city wall and explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its lively street food and market stalls.

Day 5: Xi’an sightseeings

Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, a vast army built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. Explore the site’s museum before returning to Xi’an to see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and take an evening stroll or bike ride along the city wall.

Day 6: Xi’an to Xining 

Morning train to Xining on the Tibetan Plateau. Visit Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Si), one of the six great Gelug monasteries, known for its butter sculptures and sacred murals. In the evening, stroll around Dongguan Mosque or visit local markets.

Day 7: sightseeing around Xining 

Drive along the turquoise shores of Qinghai Lake, China’s largest saltwater lake sacred to Tibetans. Enjoy the highland scenery and local nomadic culture. Overnight near the lake or return to Xining.

Day 8: Tibet Train journey 

Take the scenic train from Xining to Lhasa, crossing the Tibetan Plateau. Enjoy the views of snow-capped mountains, herds of yaks, and vast grasslands as you acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day 9: Arrive Lhasa 

Arrive in Lhasa and settle into your hotel. Rest and acclimate before taking a gentle walk around the Barkhor circuit and visiting the revered Jokhang Temple, heart of Tibetan Buddhism.

Day 10: Lhasa sightseeing

Visit the iconic Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. In the afternoon, explore Norbulingka, the summer palace, and learn about Tibetan art and history at the Tibet Museum.

Day 11: Lhasa sightseeing

Head to Sera Monastery, known for its lively monastic debate sessions. Continue to Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, nestled in the mountainside. Later, wander through local markets or enjoy a cup of butter tea.

Day 12: Depart Lhasa

You’ll be transferred to the airport or train station for your onward journey, concluding your journey across China and Tibet.