Overview
Itinerary
Fly overnight to the relaxed city of Kunming, also known as the 'City of Eternal Spring'. (D)
This morning, meander through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest. Visit Dianchi Lake and the Western Hills. Return to Kunming and tuck into local delicacy 'Across the Bridge' noodles for dinner. (B/L/D)
Drive to Dali, a charming town that offers a peek into bygone China. Wander the ancient quarter and see the magnificent Three Pagodas. (B/L)
Weibaoshan is one of the Taoist religion's most sacred mountains and has twenty temples dotted on its forested slopes. Take a scenic walk and discover a handful of these temples and meet with a Taoist priest who will introduce you to Taoist meditation techniques. (B/L)
Drive to Shaxi ancient town, nestled deep in the Himalayan foothills. Learn about the fascinating minority people who live in the area and enjoy a local lunch. Continue to Lijiang and spend the evening wandering the old town. (B/L)
A magnificent mountain, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain soars to 5,500 metres. Taking a chairlift, explore one of the stunning high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. Admire the fascinating Ming Dynasty frescoes at Baisha and see the intricate creations of the embroidery school. Next, meet a Shaman who will teach you to write the forgotten language of Dongba Pictograms. (B/L/D)
Visit Black Dragon Pool Park for magnificent views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Journey to the 3,000-metre-deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it is one of China's most extraordinary sights. Continue to the Tibetan monastery town of Zhongdian, also known as Shangri-La. Visit Dafo Temple and spend some free time exploring the old town. (B/L)
Visit Songzanlin Monastery before hiking 2-3 hours to Napa Hai. Here you are surrounded by towering mountains and lush grasslands brimming with flora and fauna. Next, visit a rural Tibetan-style village where you will learn about the villagers' way of life, make butter tea and taste home-cooked dishes. (B/L/D)
Fly to Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet. The afternoon is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude. (B/D)
Lhasa is a quickly growing modern city but among the narrow, old streets you will feel a million miles from the stresses and strains of the modern world. Wander around the Barkhor Circuit to see traditionally dressed locals, stalls of religious trinkets and prostrating pilgrims. Inside the Jokhang Temple, the devotion is palpable as queues of people worship in the flickering light of yak butter candles. There will also be a visit to Sera Monastery, one of the three great monasteries of Tibet, to witness the debating monks.
Tonight, enjoy a Tibetan dinner and dance. (B/L/D)
The Potala Palace is an architectural wonder, towering over the city. The former winter palace of the Dalai Lama, it houses thousands of rooms filled with old treasures. Next, explore Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, set in parkland just outside the city. (B/L/D)
Travel across Tibet's stark plains to Shigatse. Dominated by a fort reminiscent of the Potala, Shigatse is Tibet's second city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Enjoy some free time to explore the local markets. (B/L/D)
Continue by road to New Tingri, admiring the awe-inspiring views of the mighty Himalayas as you go. (B/L/D)
Rise early to make the final assault across the Gue-La Pass to Rongbuk, a monastic village festooned in colourful prayer flags. With Mount Everest dominating the horizon, stop by the world's highest post office, then continue to Everest Base Camp Boundary Monument. Situated under the gaze of Everest's north face, the views of the world's highest peak are unsurpassed (weather permitting). A total of 1–2 hours will be spent on foot today. (B/L/D)
Rise early to see a glorious sunrise over Everest (weather permitting) before returning to New Tingri. (B/L/D)
Drive back to Shigatse, passing Tso La Pass and Gyatso La Pass on the way. (B/L/D)
Today, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery and join the pilgrims on their evening 'kora' of the monastery. Continue to the pleasant town of Gyantse to visit the Gyantse Kumbum located inside the Pelkor Monastery. Visit a traditional folk house for some home brewed 'chang'. (B/L/D)
Travel along the Brahmaputra River to Tsedang. Visit Gangpo Ri, the 'birthplace of the Tibetan people'. (B/L/D)
Perched on a hill over the Yarlung River, legend says that the ancient Yumbulhakang Palace was the first building in Tibet and the palace of the first Tibetan king. Continue to the Chang Chun Monastery and the King's Tombs before returning to Lhasa. (B/L)
Fly to Chengdu in Sichuan Province. (B)
Visit Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre, stroll around People's Park, see Matchmaker's Corner and stop by a traditional teahouse. In the evening, enjoy Sichuanese cuisine followed by an option to see a 'face-changing' show. (B/L/D)
Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Journey to Shangri-La
- Discover Shaxi ancient town
- Soak up mystical Lhasa
- Explore Tibet's temples
- Cross the Tibetan Plateau
- Gaze upon Mount Everest
- International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected)
- Most Meals (refer to itinerary)
- Domestic transportation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- 4 star accommodation, plus simple guesthouse
- Visa fees for Australian passport holders
- 21 Breakfasts, 18 Lunches, 15 Dinners
- Jinjiang Hotel, Kunming (4 star): JinJiang Hotel is located close to Kunming's main attractions. Each of its air conditioned, modern en-suite rooms include satellite television, a minibar, complimentary toiletries and tea making facilities. The hotel is home to one revolving restaurant as well as 6 dining options and a bar. The onsite fitness centre and spa is a highlight.
- Landscape Hotel, Dali Ancient Town, Yunnan (4 star): Landscape Hotel is a four-star business hotel situated inside the Dali Ancient Town, close to Dali railway station and Dali airport.
- Lijiang Wangfu Hotel, Lijiang (4 star): Ideally located in South Gate Square within the ancient city of Lijiang, the Lijiang Wangfu Hotel offers guests comfortable 4-star accommodation. Featuring ornate doorways and lanterns, and peaceful courtyards, you will feel truly immersed in your local surroundings. Each room features air-conditioning and Wi-Fi for your comfort and convenience.
- Shangri-laMao Yuan Hotel, Zhongdian (3 star): Located in the heart of the mountainous Shangri La county, and due to its close proximity to the local attractions of Guishan Park and Natural Bridge of Xianggelila, the 3-star Shangrila MaoYuan Hotel makes for a great choice of hotel. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with the hotel offering Wi-Fi and buffet breakfast.
- Metropolo Hotels, Lhasa (4 star): The 4-star Metropolo Hotels (Potala Palace store, Lhasa) offers a relaxing haven for travelers in Lhasa, integrating Chinese and Western elements. Conveniently situated, it is just 7km from Lhasa Railway Station and in close proximity to attractions like Potala Palace and Tibet Museum, adding to its appeal. Featuring a fitness area, restaurant, Wi-Fi and good quality toiletries, this is the perfect hotel to stay in Lhasa.
- Shiga Yangcha Grand Hotel, Shigatse (4 star): Formerly known as Tashi Choe Ta Hotel, this 4-star gem in Shigatse seamlessly blends Tibetan tradition with contemporary style. Enjoy a clean and comfortable stay in the spacious, air-conditioned rooms adorned in authentic Tibetan decor.
- Everest Hotel, New Tingri (2 star): Experience the awe-inspiring sunrise views of Mt. Everest by staying in the basic, shared multi-room Tibetan Tent or guesthouse (weather dependent) near Everest Base Camp. Though lacking amenities like hot water and Wi-Fi, the focus here is on the unique and immersive experience of being close to the world's highest peak. The simplicity of the accommodation enhances the adventure, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of your surroundings.
- Tibetan Tent or Guesthouse, Mt Everest (1 star): Experience the awe-inspiring sunrise views of Mt. Everest by staying in the basic, shared multi-room Tibetan Tent or guesthouse (weather dependent) near Everest Base Camp. Though lacking amenities like hot water and Wi-Fi, the focus here is on the unique and immersive experience of being close to the world's highest peak. The simplicity of the accommodation enhances the adventure, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of your surroundings.
- Yeti Hotel, Gyantse (3 star): The charming 3-star Yeti Hotel ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the heart of Gyantse County. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, room service, and breakfast.
- Xiangqu Garden Hotel, Tsedang (3 star): The 3-star Xiangqu Garden Hotel has distinctive Tibetan interiors, with each room offering a clean and comfortable stay. In the hotel restaurant you can dine on traditional Tibetan dishes, while the ornately decorated bar makes for a great spot to enjoy a drink.
- Xin Liang Hotel, Chengdu (4 star): The 4-star Xin Liang Hotel is centrally located in the Chunxi Road Business District, adjacent to Tianfu Square, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Chengdu. The hotel draws inspiration from Bashu culture, seamlessly blending elegant and modern elements, providing a tranquil oasis in the bustling city. Featuring Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast, the property also provides rooms with soundproof windows, a work desk, refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV featuring satellite channels.
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 August 2023. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB1,100pp (AU$244pp) is paid locally in China.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Wendy Wu's Go Beyond touring range are characterised by engaging cultural experiences, active adventures and getting off the beaten track. Read more
Wendy Wu include return international economy-class flights from Australia as part of their fully inclusive tours. Upgrades are available too! Read more
On all of our tours you will be escorted by a dedicated National Escort, tasked with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, entertained and inspired. Read more
Brochure
Wendy Wu India (2024-25)
Availability
Prices include air taxes and fuel surcharges, this amount is correct at time of brochure release and subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure city. The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart (based on a minimum of 10 passengers). We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Wendy Wu. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Wendy Wu. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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