This is a journey that will take you from the grand scale, historical riches and cultural treasures of the  Chinese capital to the mystical Buddhist kingdom of Tibet via a mammoth journey across “the roof the world” on the highest passenger railway line on the planet.  Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall of China before travelling for more than 40 hours across spectacular landscapes of snow-capped mountain peaks and rugged terrain and your arrival into Lhasa – the capital of Tibet and an intoxicating, captivating world of palaces, temples and timeless traditions, all immersed in the Buddhist way of life.

Trip Overview

Day 1 – Arrival in Beijing

On arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to the four-star Xiangda International Hotel for a three-night stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 – Beijing

Coach tour of the Chinese capital, taking in Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace.

Day 3 – Beijing

Morning visit to the Great Wall followed by an afternoon trip to visit the Ming Tombs and the Sacred Way.

Day 4 – Beijing/Lhasa

Morning at the Temple of Heaven and, after lunch, visit the National Stadium and National Aquatics Centre, two of the key settings for Beijing’s hosting of the 2008 OIympic Games. This evening, enjoy a delicious roasted duck dinner before being transferred to your train for the 45-hour journey across “the roof of the world” and where, at times, you will travel at 16,000 ft above sea level.

Day 5 – Aboard the Train

Sit back, relax and immerse yourself in the unfolding natural beauty outside, including the spectacular landscapes and the snow-capped peaks of the Kunlun Mountains and the Tanggula Pass as you travel along the highest passenger railway line in the world.

Day 6 – Lhasa

Evening arrival into Lhasa Railway Station. You will be met by your guide and transferred to the three-star House of Shambala for a three-night stay.  The rest of the evening is at leisure for acclimatisation or to explore and get your bearings.

Day 7  – Lhasa

Morning visit to Lhasa’s iconic landmark, the Potala Palace – dating back to the seventh century, it is magnificent from a distance, impressive close-up and a dominating sight of the city. After lunch you will visit Sera Monastery - the site is famous for the “monk debates” on the teachings of Buddha.

Day 8 – Lhasa

Morning exploring the most revered religious structure in Tibet – the Jokhang Temple (“Buddha’s House”) and the surrounding market of Barkhor. In the afternoon you will visit Norbulingkha, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama.

Day  9 – Lhasa/Departure

After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport or railway station where the service we have provided will come to an end.