TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Diverse cultures, including Tibetan, Bai, and Naxi
  • Quintessential Asian vistas of Tiger Leaping Gorge, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Lhasa’s Potala Palace
  • Active itinerary exploring traditional villages in idyllic settings

TOUR DETAILS

  • 13-day trip begins in Beijing and ends in Shanghai, China
  • 12 nights in traditional, authentic hotels and lodges
  • All meals included

TOUR RATING

ActRating

Easy to moderate cultural touring with altitudes up to 12,300 feet; easy to moderate walking and hiking options on some days; one moderately strenuous hiking option.

Located at the crossroads of China and Southeast Asia, the provinces of Yunnan and Tibet are home to a mix of ethnic groups – including Bai, Naxi and Tibetan. “South of the Clouds” is the literal translation of Yunnan, and from the high Tibetan Plateau down to the subtropical climes bordering Southeast Asia, it is an amazingly diverse place.

With colorfully dressed monks and clouds of incense wafting out of beautiful monasteries, Tibet is a land of mysteries that has long intrigued outsiders. With Buddhism permeating every aspect of Tibetans’ lives, it is a holy and sacred land that inspires many. Our exploration of these beautiful and important provinces reveals that there is still much to be discovered here.

China: Yunnan to Tibet Tour Overview

Days 1-3: Arrive in Beijing and enjoy a welcome dinner in this animated city. Fly to Dali, known for its beautiful batiks, and begin our exploration of the Bai and Naxi cultures. Take a private boat cruise across Er Hai Lake to Shuang Lang, a small fishing village.

Days 4-6: Explore the Monday village market and cobblestone streets in Lijiang, whose traditional architecture has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and join a martial arts master for a Tai Chi lesson. Ride horses into the hills above the Lijiang Valley, hike through a rhododendron forest to Wenhai Village, and learn about the Naxi culture of the region.

Days 7-8: Drive from Lijiang to Zhongdian via the Tiger Leaping Gorge, which we explore on foot. Ascend onto the Himalayan Plateau, and into rich Tibetan culture. Visit Nixi potters and the 300-year-old Songzanlin Monastery.

Days 9-11: Fly to Lhasa, Tibet, the “rooftop of the world.” Discover the ancient sites of the Potala Palace and Norbulingka (the Dalai Lama’s summer palace), and explore the museum of Lhasa. Join pilgrims in performing koras, or circumambulations of sacred sites, throughout the city. Take an optional challenging hike to the monks’ retreat in the hills surrounding the valley and witness their flamboyant debating sessions.

Days 12-13: We drive to Shigatse, enjoying a picnic lunch en route, and visit the local market upon arrival. We discover the rich Tibetan sites before returning to Lhasa for onward flights to the modern city of Shanghai and farewell.

Step Away from the Ordinary ~ Yunnan to Tibet Tour

Lhasa, ancient capital of the Tibetan kingdom, a city unlike any other in the world and one of the most revered travel destinations of all time. As the center of Tibet Buddhism, religion here is never simply an abstract belief; it's a tangible and all permeating force seen in each of the weathered faces of the city's many believers. This spirituality, together with inspired culture and a beautifully harsh landscape, gives Lhasa an incredible richness and depth.

More Information

2009 Dates

  • April 19-May 1
  • September 13-25

    2010 Date

    • April 11-23

Land Cost