Tibetan Railroad

Tibetan Railroad

107 Views
17 Days From

$5727

Tibetan Railroad

17 Days Starting in Xian, China and ending in Chengdu, China

Visiting: Xian, Xi'an, Xining, Lhasa, Shigatse, Mount Everest, Gyantse, Tsedang, Chengdu

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

2434

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level4

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $5727

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of China and Tibet with the Tibetan Railroad tour. Begin your adventure in the ancient city of Xian, where you will explore the legendary Terracotta Warriors and stroll along the historic city walls. Travel by bullet train to Xining, home to the world's largest hand-painted thangka, before boarding the iconic Qinghai-Tibet Railway for a breathtaking overnight journey to Lhasa. Discover the spiritual essence of Tibet as you visit the Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, and the vibrant Barkhor Circuit. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Everest from the base camp and explore the rich cultural heritage of Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang. Conclude your adventure in Chengdu, where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of this once-in-a-lifetime tour.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient city of Xian, home to the Terracotta Warriors.

  • Experience the world's highest rail journey on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa.

  • Visit the iconic Potala Palace, the largest monastery in the world, in Lhasa.

  • Witness the devotion of pilgrims at Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Circuit.

  • Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mount Everest from the Everest Base Camp.

  • Discover the sacred Kumbum Monastery and the vibrant Qinghai Tibet Cultural Centre in Xining.

  • Travel through Tibet's stunning landscapes to Shigatse, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Xian

Location: Xian

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to Xian, the ancient former capital. You will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Terracotta Warriors

Location: Xi'an

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. Visit the workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts and stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town. In the evening, enjoy a dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show.

Day 4: Bullet Train To Xining

Location: Xining

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to the train station to board the 5-hour bullet train to Xining, the capital city of Qinghai province in western China. Head to the Qinghai Tibet Cultural Centre to see the impressive 618-metre-long hand-painted thangka (a traditional Tibetan Buddhist painting) and the largest display in the world. End the day at the lively night street markets and sample some of the delicious local cuisine.

Day 5: Overnight Train To Lhasa

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore the sacred Kumbum Monastery, also known as Ta'er Temple. Later, transfer to the railway station to embark on the incredible 21-hour overnight train to Lhasa onboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest rail journey in the world.



Please refer to the tour dossier for further information on the rail experience.

Day 6: Arrive Lhasa

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Traverse the 5,072 metre Tanggula Pass and across the stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau to the 'roof of the world', Lhasa. Watch from your window as you cross huge plains and permafrost and pass spectacular lakes, mountains and wildlife. Whether you prefer to unwind with a book, engage in a game of cards, or enjoy a meal in the dining carriage, there's ample opportunity to relax during this scenic rail journey. Arrive in Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet, in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude.



Please refer to the tour dossier for further information on this rail journey, facilities onboard and managing Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Day 7: Jokhang Temple And Barkhor Circuit

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. This evening, enjoy a tasty Tibetan dinner and dance performance.

Day 8: Potala Palace

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, visit the iconic palace of Potala, the largest monastery in the world. Sitting atop Red Mountain, the Potala Palace is painted in a traditional Tibetan blend of deep red and white. Next, visit Norbulingka, Lhasa's answer to Beijing's Summer Palace, set in parkland just outside the city.

Day 9: Train To Shigatse

Location: Shigatse

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Day 10: Shigatse

Location: Shigatse

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit Shalu and Tashilhunpo Monastery, which was founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, and join the pilgrims on their 'Kora' (circumnavigation) of the Monastery.

Day 11: Mt Everest Base Camp

Location: Mount Everest

Accommodation Name: Tibetan tent camp or guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rise early for the drive through some of the world's most incredible scenery to the Rongbuk Township with stops along the way. 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). Visit Rongbuk Monastery, draped in colourful prayer flags, as well as the small Old Rongbuk Monastery. Stay overnight in a Tibetan tent camp or guesthouse, depending on the weather conditions.

Day 12: Sunrise Over Everest

Location: Shigatse

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rise early to see a glorious sunrise over Everest (weather permitting) before returning to Shigatse, passing the Tso La Pass and Gyatso La Pass and enjoying the awe-inspiring views.

Day 13: Gyantse

Location: Gyantse

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue to the pleasant town of Gyantse. Visit Gyantse Kumbum as well as the Tsang Traditional Folk House to see a traditional kitchen and taste some local snacks and homebrewed 'chang'.

Day 14: Tsedang

Location: Tsedang

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel along the Brahmaputra River to Tsedang. Visit Gangpo Ri, the 'birthplace of the Tibetan people'.

Day 15: Yumbulhakang Palace

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

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 Tradruk Monastery and the King's Tomb before returning to Lhasa for an evening at leisure.

Day 16: Chengdu

Location: Chengdu

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Fly 2 hours to Chengdu. On arrival, transfer to your hotel where the rest of the day will be at leisure before a farewell dinner this evening. Your guide will be on hand to suggest activities or places to explore, or you can use the time to just relax in your hotel.

Day 17: Depart Chengdu

Location: Chengdu

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • Local Guide

    You will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.

  • Meals

    Meals are included throughout the tour, including a dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided throughout the tour, including a stay in a Tibetan tent camp or guesthouse.

  • Transportation

    Transportation includes flights, bullet train, and the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Visits to cultural sites such as the Terracotta Warriors, Potala Palace, and Jokhang Temple are included.

  • Scenic Rail Journey

    Experience the highest rail journey in the world on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees for entry into China are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes an overnight flight to Xian, a 5-hour bullet train to Xining, and a 21-hour overnight train to Lhasa on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest rail journey in the world.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided in the tour description.

Experiences

Watch the Sunrise over Mt Everest

Watch the sun's rays spread over the rugged, snowy peak of Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain, in what must surely be considered one of the most dramatic and spectacular places to watch the sun rise (weather permitting).


Monks debate at Sera Monastery

Visit the debating courtyard of Sera, one of Tibet's most prolific monasteries, to watch the monks discussing Buddhist doctrine, using traditional gestures such as clapping, pushing and even screaming to emphasise their points.


Ride the Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Overnight on the 21-hour sleeper train from Xining to Lhasa, the world's highest railway and a marvel of engineering reaching over 5,000 meters in elevation. This specially designed train equipped with two oxygen supply systems passes through stunning mountains, vast plains, and the icy expanse of permafrost.


Check out our Q&As

  • What can I expect to see at the Terracotta Warriors site?

    You will spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. There is also a workshop where you can see the warriors being intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts.

  • What is special about the train journey to Lhasa?

    The train journey to Lhasa is onboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest rail journey in the world. You will traverse the 5,072 metre Tanggula Pass and cross the stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau, offering views of huge plains, permafrost, lakes, mountains, and wildlife.

  • What activities are included in Lhasa?

    In Lhasa, you will visit the Jokhang Temple and wander around the Barkhor Circuit. You will also visit Sera Monastery to witness the debating monks and enjoy a Tibetan dinner and dance performance.

  • What is the significance of the Potala Palace?

    The Potala Palace is the largest monastery in the world and is an iconic symbol of Tibet. It is painted in a traditional Tibetan blend of deep red and white and sits atop Red Mountain.

  • What can I expect at the Everest Base Camp?

    At the Everest Base Camp, you will have the opportunity to see the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, from the north face. You will also visit the Rongbuk Monastery and the world's highest post office.

  • What is unique about the Yumbulhakang Palace?

    Legend says that the Yumbulhakang Palace was the first building in Tibet and the palace of the first Tibetan king. It is perched on a hill over the Yarlung River.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

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26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

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06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam

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24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control..

Excellent

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May 09, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$5727

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Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

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$6997

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May 23, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
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Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$6952 $6630

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$6997

Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$8223 $7900

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$5727

Friday - Sunday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$6952 $6630

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$6997

Friday - Sunday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$8223 $7900

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$5727

Friday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$6952 $6630

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$6997

Friday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$8223 $7900

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$5856

Friday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$7081 $6759

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$7197

Friday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$8423 $8100

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

May 08, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$5856

Friday - Sunday

May 08, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$7081 $6759

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

May 08, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$7197

Friday - Sunday

May 08, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$8423 $8100

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$5856

Friday - Sunday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$7081 $6759

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$7197

Friday - Sunday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$8423 $8100

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$5985

Friday - Sunday

Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$7210 $6888

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$7326

Friday - Sunday

Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$8552 $8229

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$5985

Friday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$7210 $6888

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$7326

Friday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$8552 $8229

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$5985

Friday - Sunday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$7210 $6888

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Friday - Sunday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$7326

Friday - Sunday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$8552 $8229

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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