14 Days Best China Tibet Tour from Shanghai

Tour Route: Shanghai - Chengdu - Train to Lhasa - Xian - Beijing

Trip Overview:

Take this 14-day trip of exploration across China to the Tibetan capital and back and you will discover the long history of this ancient nation. First explore the delights of Shanghai, China’s largest city, and stroll through the fabulous Yu Garden and along the lit streets of The Bund at night. Then in Chengdu, visit the cute yet auspicious giant pandas that were mythical in early China and explore the exquisite halls of the city’s most famous temple.

On the high Tibetan plateau, explore the many monasteries that sit in the City of Sunshine, and climb up to the high palace on the Red Hill, before kneeling in prayer at the most sacred of Buddhist temples. As you move to Xi’an, you will go on to tour around the ancient Chinese Imperial capital and discover why the First Emperor of China made thousands of soldiers to aid his journey to the afterlife. At last, in Beijing, roam the “once” Forbidden City, climb onto the Great Wall of China, and visit the tombs of the ancient Ming Emperors.

Tour Code: TTO-TT-STT15
Trip Level:
Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle
Time to Visit:

Highlights:

Experience the thrills of visiting the ancient and modern capitals of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
Stand on top of the Great Wall of China and be seen from space.
Kneel to pray at the world’s most sacred temple in Lhasa and join the pilgrims on their circumambulations.
See the auspicious pandas that were once just a myth in ancient China.
Discover the army that lay hidden beneath China for thousands of years.

15 Days Best China Tibet Tour from Shanghai

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai

When international flight lands in Shanghai, please take a taxi by yourself to our reserved hotel. The rest of the day free for you to be on your own.

Stay overnight in Shanghai.

Day 2: Shanghai Day Tour: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and the Bund

In the morning, visit Shanghai Museum. It is a large museum exhibiting the ancient art while featuring bronze ware, chinaware, calligraphy and painting. Then, travel to the Yu Garden, which is a famous classic garden of south region. The beautiful scenery and quiet atmosphere here make it a peaceful place in bustling Shanghai.

In the afternoon, we will transfer you to the Bund area for a short cruise on the Huangpu River. Standing on the cruise ship, you will see many western-style buildings from Shanghai's colonial days in Puxi area. While on Pudong side, rows of skyscrapers will come into view. The utterly different buildings are the best records of the development of the city. You will explore the Bund area and then visit an old street in Shanghai.

Stay overnight in Shanghai.

Day 3: Shanghai Half-day Tour; Fly to Chengdu

Today, you will first visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center and Jade Buddha Temple. As an important window for publicity of Shanghai, Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center will let tourists (especially the first-time visitors) have a better understanding of this charming city. And the Jade Buddha Temple is venerable Buddhist temple, built to keep two jade Buddha statues which were brought from Burma by a monk named Huigen.

After that, you will be escorted to the airport for the flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to the hotel in Chengdu.

Stay overnight in Chengdu.

Day 4: Chengdu City Tour and Train to Xining

In the morning, you will have a special date with the adorable giant pandas in Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center. Morning is pandas' feeding time, you will visit both adult and baby pandas and watch them eating fresh bamboo. This 230-hectare park, located 10 km (6 miles) north of Chengdu, houses a wealth of information and features a panda museum. Plan to spend about 2.5 hours exploring this site.

In the afternoon, we'll return to downtown Chengdu to explore Kuanzhai Alley. You can leisurely stroll along the street and shop for souvenirs. Following that, we'll head to Renmin Park, a charming city park bustling with locals. Here, you can unwind with a cup of tea and experience Chengdu's leisurely pace of life.

In the evening, you will take the overnight train bound for Xining. Our local guide will accompany you to the train station, and comfortable sleeping arrangements onboard will ensure a restful journey.

Stay overnight on the train.

Day 5-6: Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Sightseeing by train; Arrive in Lhasa

The train will move on Qinghai Tibet Plateau, and you will pass by Yuzhufeng, which is the main peak of Kunlun Mountain, World Natural Heritage Kekexili Naturel Preserve, Tuotuo River-the resource of Yangtze River, Naqu Grassland and Cuona Lake. In the morning of the next day, the train will arrive in Lhasa. Tour guide will meet you at railway station.

Overnight in Lhasa.

Day 7: Lhasa Day Tour: Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

Today, you will first visit the Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet that once housed over ten thousand monks. Here, you'll explore the Coqen Hall, where your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the Tibetan Buddhist worldview and narrate the stories of renowned figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.

Additionally, you'll tour the Loseling College (or an equivalent) within Drepung Monastery to understand monks' practices and studies. Exploring their dormitories will offer insight into their daily routines and living conditions.

In the afternoon, the tour proceeds to Sera Monastery, established in 1419 and long regarded as a significant Buddhist seminary. Here, you'll observe the renowned monk debates, a highlight of Sera Monastery. Your guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of how these debates aid monks in acquiring knowledge and advancing through academic degrees.

After today's sightseeing, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow members.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 8: Lhasa Day Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street

After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to visit the magnificent Potala Palace, where you'll stand atop its heights and gaze down upon the city of Lhasa. Your guide will narrate the life and tales of the successive Dalai Lamas within the Potala Palace and meticulously introduce the various halls and treasures housed within its walls.

Once you've explored the grandeur of the Potala Palace, your next stop will be Longwangtan Park nestled at its base. This tranquil spot offers a unique vantage point to admire the majestic Potala Palace and partake in traditional Tibetan cultural experiences.

In the afternoon, you'll head to the sacred Jokhang Temple—the heart of Tibetan faith and life. Within the temple resides the rare and revered 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, an image so lifelike that it resembles seeing the Buddha in person. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can take a clockwise kora, witnessing how local Tibetans practice their Buddhist beliefs.

Following this, your guide will take you to the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea house in Lhasa, where you can enjoy Tibetan sweet tea with locals. Your guide will join everyone, sharing insights into the social relations and daily leisure life of Tibetans.

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 9: Flight from Lhasa to Xian

Today, you will head to take the flight to Xi’an from Lhasa. Your guide will transfer you to the airport.

Upon arrival in Xi’an, the local guide will pick you up upon your arrival, and then take you to the reserved hotel. The rest of the day is for you to have a good rest.

Stay overnight in Xi'an.

Day 10: Xian Day Tour: Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

In the morning, you will visit the Museum of Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, a must-see when in Xi'an. Around 8,000 ancient, life-sized figures were created to accompany the first Emperor of China to the afterlife and were part of his mausoleum. Each figure has a unique facial structure and expression as if they had been made from living people. The warriors were buried with the Emperor in 208BC and were not discovered until 1974.

After the warriors, you will head over to the Ancient City Wall of Xi'an for a leisure bicycle tour. The wall around the inner part of the city was built in the 14th century and is 14km long. It is an amazing example of ancient defensive structures. Then you will travel to the Muslim Quarter, the largest area of Muslim business in the city. It is the perfect place to buy souvenirs of Xi'an and China, with a wide range of local snacks and handicrafts.

Stay overnight in Xi'an.

Day 11: Xian Tour: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum; High Speed Train to Beijing

In the morning, you will continue exploring this fascinating city of Xi’an. First, you will visit one of the most popular sites in Xi'an, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Built in 652, the pagoda is a repository of Buddhist figures and scriptures brought to Xi'an from India by, Xuanzang, the first abbot of Daci'en Temple.

Afterwards, you will head to Shanxi History Museum, where you can take in the glory and ancient history of China. The museum holds artifacts that date back as far as the Paleolithic era, up to the more recent Qing Dynasty. The museum is packed with thousands of exhibits from all periods of history, and is a busy, popular attraction.

Finally, the guide will take you to the railway station for your high-speed train to Beijing. On arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel.

Stay overnight in Beijing.

Day 12: Beijing Tour: the Great Wall, Ming Tomb

In the morning, you’ll visit the Great Wall’s Badaling section, where you’ll experience firsthand one of the world’s greatest wonders. This well-preserved and iconic segment of the Great Wall offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich history. As you hike along the ancient walls, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy lunch and explore the famous Beijing Jade Factory, a perfect spot for shopping and learning about traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

In the afternoon,you will discover the Ming Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Beijing. Built in 1590 during the Ming Dynasty, it's the resting place of Emperor Shenzong and his queen. Renowned for its grand scale, spanning 100,000 square meters, the tomb showcases the traditional layout of Ming Dynasty imperial mausoleums. You’ll also explore the underground palaces to gain firsthand insight into this historical marvel.

Overnight in Beijing.

Day 13: Beijing Tour: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tianenmen Square

After breakfast, you will be collected from your hotel and head to Tiananmen Square, the first site of the day. It is the world’s largest city square. While exploring the square, you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as Tiananmen Tower, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum.

Next, you will enter the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, boasting over 500 years of history as the residence of 24 emperors. With its staggering 9,000 rooms, though only a fraction are accessible to the public, you'll get an image of how the ancient Chinese emperors managed the country and what their daily life was like.

In the afternoon, you will go to visit the Temple of Heaven, located 6 kilometers from the Forbidden City. This sacred site served as a place where ancient Chinese emperors worshipped the sky, offering prayers for rain, prosperity, and peace for the country and its people.

Overnight in Beijing.

Day 14: Beijing Departure

Today, you will be transferred to Beijing International Airport for your flight home or next destination.

What’s Included?

1. Tibet travel documents such as Tibet Travel Permit (excluding expedited processing fees), and delivery of the permit to your hotel in mainland of China.

2. Comfortable, clean and safe tourist vehicles with experienced local drivers offering attentive service.

3. Accommodations depend on your preference. Please tell us your preferred accommodation class when submitting the enquiry, and we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.

4. All meals listed in the itinerary.

5. Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guide.

6. Admission tickets for all tourist attractions listed in Itinerary.

7. Travel accident insurance.

8. Other services: exquisite Tibetan souvenirs, tourist map, portable oxygen, medical oxygen in the vehicle, bottled mineral water, and more.

What's Excluded?

1. Chinese Visa (for any visa assistance services, please contact us for details)

2. International flights to and out of China.

3. Domestic flight or train to and out of Lhasa (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inquiry form.)

4. Some meals not included in the itinerary.

5. Tips to the guide and driver based on your satisfaction with their services. We recommend paying a total of $7 per person per day for both the guide and driver.

6. Additional expenses resulting from force majeure events (such as natural disasters, traffic controls, loss of valuables, visa delays, flight delays or cancellations, etc.).

7. Personal expenses and any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusion list.

Trip Notes

1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.
2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.
3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.
4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.
5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.
Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.
6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.
7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.
While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.
Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

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