Trip Fact

Destination

China, Tibet

Duration

15 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Group Size

2-30 Persons

Max altitude

3656m.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Multi-day Combined Tour

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Start from

Beijing

End at

Shanghai

Classic China Tour with Tibet overview

The Classic China Tour with Tibet combines the timeless charm of traditional China with the breathtaking beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.

This journey covers China’s most iconic cities – Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin, and Shanghai — along with an unforgettable train ride on the Qinghai – Tibet Railway, one of the modern wonders of the world.

Experience the ancient wonders of the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, the mystery of the Terracotta Warriors, the spirituality of Lhasa’s Potala Palace, the adorable giant pandas of Chengdu, the majestic Leshan Buddha, the magical scenery of the Li River in Guilin, and the modern brilliance of Shanghai.

Connecting mainland China to Tibet via the world’s highest railway, this tour offers a perfect combination of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual discovery – making it one of the most comprehensive journeys across China and Tibet.

Classic China Tour with Tibet highlights

  • Explore China’s greatest landmarks — the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Terracotta Army
  • Experience the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, the world’s highest train journey
  • Discover Lhasa’s Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street
  • Visit the Panda Breeding Center and Leshan Giant Buddha in Chengdu
  • Cruise the scenic Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo
  • Marvel at the contrast of ancient traditions and modern wonders in Shanghai
  • Immerse yourself in local life, minority cultures, and breathtaking landscapes across China

Classic China Tour with Tibet itinerary

Upon arrival in Beijing, please take a taxi to our reserved hotel on your own. The rest of the day is free for leisure or independent exploration.
Overnight in Beijing

Begin your journey at the magnificent Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties for over 600 years. Then, visit the Imperial Ancestral Temple, where emperors once worshipped their ancestors. Later, explore the serene Beihai Park, one of China’s oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens.
Overnight in Beijing

Visit the world-famous Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, one of the most scenic and well-preserved sections, featuring 22 watchtowers over 2.5 km. A cable car ride is optional.
After the tour, transfer to Beijing West Railway Station and take the high-speed train to Xi’an (approx. 4–6 hours). Upon arrival, take a taxi to your hotel.
Overnight in Xi’an

Explore the Terracotta Army, one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries — thousands of life-sized soldiers guarding Emperor Qin’s tomb. Visit the Banpo Neolithic Village, dating back over 6,000 years, to see relics of early matriarchal culture. Stop briefly at a Terracotta Replication Factory before returning to the city.
Overnight in Xi’an

Take the train from Xi’an to Xining, then board the Qinghai–Tibet Train bound for Lhasa. This incredible journey offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, highland lakes, nomadic settlements, and wild Tibetan antelope across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau — the world’s highest railway.

Overnight on the train.

Enjoy the spectacular plateau scenery from the train — passing Yuzhufeng Peak, Kekexili Nature Reserve, Tuotuo River, Naqu Grassland, and Cuona Lake. Arrive in Lhasa in the afternoon or evening, where your guide will meet you at the railway station.

Overnight in Lhasa

Visit the majestic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Continue to the sacred Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s holiest shrine, and explore the bustling Barkhor Street, where pilgrims and traders create a lively spiritual atmosphere.
Overnight in Lhasa

In the morning, explore Drepung Monastery, once home to over 10,000 monks and a key center of Tibetan Buddhism. In the afternoon, visit Sera Monastery, famous for its unique monk debating sessions held between 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Overnight in Lhasa

After breakfast, transfer to Lhasa airport and fly to Chengdu (approx. 2 hours). On arrival, take a taxi to your hotel.

Spend the afternoon exploring Chengdu’s lively areas like Chunxi Road, Jinli Street, or Kuanzhai Alley.
Overnight in Chengdu

Visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center in the morning to see both adult and baby pandas during feeding time. In the afternoon, drive to Leshan to see the world’s largest stone Buddha — 71 meters tall and carved into a cliff during the Tang Dynasty. Return to Chengdu in the evening and end the tour at Tianfu Square.

Overnight in Chengdu

Fly to Guilin and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the scenic city — we recommend visiting Elephant Trunk Hill and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Park.
Overnight in Guilin

Take a day trip to the spectacular Longji Terraced Fields, built into the hillsides and resembling dragon scales from above. Visit a Yao Minority Village, where you’ll experience local culture and learn the secret behind the Yao women’s famously long, shiny hair.

Overnight in Guilin

Take a 4-hour Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, known for its stunning karst landscapes — considered among the most beautiful river scenes in the world. After exploring Yangshuo’s West Street or enjoying optional bamboo rafting, transfer to Guilin Airport and fly to Shanghai.

Take a taxi from Shanghai airport to your hotel.
Overnight in Shanghai

Discover both classic and modern Shanghai, including Yu Garden, The Bund, the Old French Concession, and the Shanghai Wax Museum. Witness the perfect blend of ancient heritage and futuristic skylines in China’s most vibrant city.

Overnight in Shanghai

Your tour ends today. Please arrange a taxi from your hotel to the airport for your departure flight.

End of the Tour

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • All guided city tours in Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa, Chengdu, Guilin, and Shanghai (Group Tour, Sit-in-Coach basis)
  • Hotel pick-up before and drop-off after each tour
  • All entrance fees listed in the itinerary
  • Lunches included in Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai city tours
  • Professional English-speaking local guides
  • Air-conditioned tourist vehicle
  • All domestic train tickets:  • Beijing → Xi’an (overnight sleeper)  • Xi’an → Xining (bullet train, 2nd class)  • Xining → Lhasa (Qinghai–Tibet Railway, soft sleeper)
  • All accommodations in well-located 3-star hotels with daily breakfast
  • Tibet Travel Permit
  • Lhasa airport/train station pick-up and drop-off
  • Guilin airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Government taxes and service charges

What’s Not Included

  • Domestic flight tickets:  • Lhasa → Chengdu (approx. USD 200–260 per person)  • Chengdu → Guilin (approx. USD 150–180 per person)  • Guilin → Shanghai (approx. USD 140–160 per person) (Prices vary and are best booked online directly or as part of your international ticket.)
  • Airport/train station transfers in Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Shanghai
  • Some meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Optional shows or activities (e.g., Kung Fu Show in Beijing)
  • Single supplement for private room
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Personal expenses and travel insurance

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Classic China Tour with Tibet cost & dates

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit?

Yes. Foreign travelers must have a Tibet Travel Permit. We will arrange it for you once you provide a valid passport and Chinese visa at least 20 days before departure.

When is the best time for this tour?

The ideal months are April to October, when weather is mild and landscapes are most scenic. Winter months (Nov–Mar) are less crowded but colder in Tibet.

Is altitude sickness a concern in Tibet?

Yes, as Lhasa sits at 3,650 meters. The itinerary includes gradual acclimatization, and the train helps your body adjust. Your guide will monitor your health and carry oxygen if needed.

What type of hotels are included?

All hotels are comfortable 3-star accommodations with convenient locations and daily breakfast. Upgrades to 4- or 5-star hotels are available upon request.

Can I customize this tour?

Yes, the tour can be customized with additional destinations, extended stays, or upgraded transport and hotels.

Are flights included in the price?

Domestic flights are not included due to fluctuating prices, but we can assist with booking at competitive rates.

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