15 Days Classic China, Panda & Holy Tibet Tour in Small Group

Be picked up at the Beijing Capital Airport & transfer to the hotel located in the downtown Beijing (just transportation).

After checking in, relax and explore Beijing at your own pace. Unwind in your room or take a casual stroll nearby to feel the city's vibe.

In the evening, enjoy Beijing's lively nightlife. Older guests may love traditional tea‑house shows like opera and acrobatics, while younger travelers can visit cool bars and cafes. Top night spots include Panjiayuan Antique Market, Wangfujing, Houhai and Niujie, perfect for local snacks and night views.

Today you will spend the whole day exploring the ancient citadel of Beijing through China's famous landmarks, imperial grandeur, and royal gardens.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and head to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square and symbol of China. It has witnessed many major events in China's history over the past decades, and from here you can take great photos of Tiananmen Gate, seen daily on CCTV News.

Walking across the square, you will visit the mighty and splendid Forbidden City, the world's largest palace complex and former home of 24 Chinese emperors. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Forbidden City has about 500 years of history, serving as the political and ritual center of China during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. With over 8,700 rooms, it is not only China's largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings, but also a city within a city, like the Vatican in Rome. Enter through the Meridian Gate and visit along the central axis to ensure you see all the highlights. Admire the brilliant architecture and numerous ancient treasures while listening to your guide share stories of the emperors who once lived here.

Later, take a 15-minute walk up to Jingshan Park, where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views over modern Beijing and the Forbidden City's russet roofs.

In the afternoon, drive to the Summer Palace, the "Museum of Royal Gardens," once a summer retreat for royal families. The grounds, temples, gardens, pavilions, lakes, bridges, gate-towers, and corridors are marvels of landscape design. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the imperial architecture, hilltop views, and beautiful lakes, which offer a pastoral escape into the landscapes of traditional Chinese painting.

(Travel Note: The Forbidden City in Beijing is closed on Mondays. If your tour falls on that day, the itinerary will be adjusted to ensure you visit the Forbidden City.

In this morning, you will head northwest of Beijing (about 1.5-2 hours' drive, 73km) to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. The Great Wall boasts a history over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient masterpieces on the planet. Mutianyu Great Wall is connected with the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. Mutianyu is the longest and best fully-restored Great Wall with fewer tourists and is also famed for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers and stunning views. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and then enjoy the memorable hiking time on the wall while visiting its western route. With the green pines and cypresses covering the surrounding area, and the winding wall standing majestically on the vast land, you will capture the most stunning natural scenery in this section. Challenge yourselves while climbing up to the 20th watchtower where you could fulfill your Great Wall dream. Cherish the chance and take photos as many as you like!

After the once-in-lifetime experience, head back to downtown Beijing and have the chance to take photos with the exterior of the Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). They were both designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and used for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

After that, transfer back to your hotel and have a good rest tonight.

After breakfast, your group will be escorted to the train station for high-speed train to Xi'an (about 4.5-5.5 hours). Welcome to Xi'an, the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties! Upon arrival at the train station, your driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel in Xi'an.

In the afternoon, you will visit Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi'an's most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty. This seven-story pagoda, standing in the tranquil Da Ci'en Temple, is one of China's best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West.

Later, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant and bustling Muslim Quarter, one of the most famous neighborhoods in Xi'an. Stretching for about 500 meters, this area is home to the city's Hui Muslim community. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and especially the mouthwatering street food. You can try famous Xi'an specialties such as Roujiamo, Yangrou Paomo, Biangbiang noodles, and kebabs.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Drive about 40km (about 1 hour) to uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world - the Terracotta Army Museum, built by the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, to protect him in the afterlife. Around 8,000 vivid life-size Terracotta Warriors have been found so far. First, visit the largest and most imposing pit, believed to contain over 6,000 terracotta figures of soldiers and horses. You will be amazed by this subterranean life-size army of thousands standing silently to guard the emperor. Marvel also at the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. Next, move to another pit where you can see around 1,300 warriors and horses. Examine the ancient army formation, including the kneeling and standing archers, the chariot war array, and numerous troopers holding weapons.

After lunch, head to visit the Ancient City Wall, also known as the Fortification of Xian, representing one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved Chinese city walls. Spend time leisurely walking the wall and enjoying its inner and outer walls, watchtowers, and moat, taking in panoramic views of modern Xian, there, you will also visit the awe-inspiring Bell Tower, a landmark from the Ming Dynasty dating back 600 years, will be beautifully illuminated, creating a captivating backdrop for stunning photos showcasing the harmonious blend of ancient history and modernity in Xian. In the evening, you may also have the chance to witness the lively square dancing near Bell & Drum Tower Square (Zhongulou Square), allowing you to immerse yourself in Xian's vibrant nightlife like a local.

On this day, you will be transferred to the train station for a high-speed train to Chengdu (about 3-4 hours). Upon your arrival in Chengdu, your driver will meet you at the exit of the train station and escort you to your hotel in Chengdu downtown area. The rest of today is free on your own to explore this laid-back city well known for Giant Pandas and Sichuan cuisine.

After breakfast, you will travel approximately 17 kilometers by coach to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, located in the northern suburbs of Chengdu. Here you can admire China's endearing national treasure—the giant panda, and learn about their living habits and conservation efforts.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (commonly known as Chengdu Panda Base) is home to more than 100 giant pandas, making it the base with the largest captive giant panda population in the world. You can watch giant pandas of all ages playing, eating, climbing hills, climbing trees, sleeping and engaging in other lovely and interesting behaviors. Accompanied by a guide, you may also visit the Panda Museum to discover more stories about pandas. Additionally, visitors traveling in autumn will have the chance to see incredibly adorable giant panda cubs at the Moon Nursery and Sun Nursery.

In the afternoon, you will take a roughly 50-kilometer (1-hour) coach ride to the Sanxingdui Museum, known for the reputation of “Sleeping for three thousand years, astonishing the world at one awakening.”

First unearthed in 1929, Sanxingdui is the largest, longest-lasting ancient cultural site with the richest cultural connotations ever discovered in southwest China. At the site, you will view the majestic and imposing Bronze Standing Figure, the exquisitely crafted Bronze Sacred Tree, the gold mask as thin as a cicada's wing, the intricately patterned Golden Scepter, and many other extraordinary relics. Following your guide, you will travel through the dust of history, explore the ancient Shu civilization, and unlock the mysterious stories behind these cultural relics.

Note: The Sanxingdui Museum attracts massive crowds during holidays and public festivals, and tickets are often extremely difficult to obtain. We will make every effort to secure tickets for you. If we are unfortunately unable to do so, the itinerary for the day will be adjusted to Chengdu Panda Base + Chengdu Museum + Kuanzhai Alleys + People's Park based on actual conditions. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

After the visit, you will return to downtown Chengdu and take a leisurely stroll along Jinli Ancient Street.

Jinli is the oldest, most bustling and prosperous commercial street in Chengdu, with a long history dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties. Here you can explore and savor traditional Chengdu snacks and delicacies, watch fascinating folk performances, and appreciate the beauty of traditional Chinese ancient architecture.

After breakfast, you will have some time in Chengdu and explore more on your own till you be escorted to airport for your flight to Lhasa (Economy Class Flight Ticket arranged by AOT).

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Lhasa, the driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel in Lhasa. You can have a good rest to get used to the altitude (3,650m) in your hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa the next day.

Kind Reminds:

1. It is good to avoid the highland sickness by slow down, keep warm, drink some water frequently, no shower for the first one or two days, take it easy, and sleep well.

2. You should always follow your doctor's advice on altitude according to your health condition.

3. Be sure to let your guide or the hotel staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to help and good at dealing with altitude sickness

Today, it is the time to explore Lhasa by visiting the world-famous Potala Palace, a World Heritage site and the picture behind the 50 RMB. And then, you will explore Lhasa by visiting Jokhang Temple, a world cultural heritage site renowned for its brilliant architecture, culture, art, and history. Finally, you can stroll through the famous Barkhor Street with locals and learn more about the daily kora life of Tibetans.

In the morning, you can walk up to the Potala Palace to explore. Not only is it the landmark of Tibet, but it is also the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lama (1649-1959). After climbing 365 steps from the gate of the Potala Palace to reach the Red Palace, you will arrive at the highest palace in the world at an altitude of 3,700m, where you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of Lhasa city. As you explore the principal halls, chapels, and shrines of past Dalai Lamas in the Red Palace, you will be amazed and moved by its remarkable paintings, gorgeous jeweled works, skilled carving, colorful ornamentation, and the mystery stories behind the treasures. Inside the Potala Palace, you will meet many Tibetan pilgrims who come from afar to pray at this sacred site, making it a lifetime destination for them. You can also ask your guide to provide more stories about Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of Tibet, who first built the Potala Palace in the 7th century for his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the visiting time specified on your Potala Palace ticket. All visitors are required to visit the palace with a tour group and remain inside for one hour. Please be advised that photography is prohibited inside the palace.)

Located in the heart of Lhasa for over 1300 years, the Jokhang Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. Famed as the spiritual center of Tibet, it is said that the Jokhang Monastery was built for King Songtsen Gampo's two brides: Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti. "Jokhang" means "House of Buddha", and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, which is considered a treasure of the Buddhist world. This is why Buddhist pilgrims consider it the holiest destination. The Jakhong temple is also renowned for its beautiful architecture. You can admire the intricate carvings, colorful murals, ornate decorations, and details of the building, which is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Time seems to stand still as you watch people pray in front of the temple during the day and night. (Please note that the visit order may be adjusted based on the reservation of your Jokhang Temple Ticket Reservation.)

Afterward, take a walk on busy Barkhor Street near the Jokhang Monastery, which was a place for Buddhists to do a kora (pilgrim circuit) in ancient times. Nowadays, it has become a thriving local market where you can drink a pot of yak butter tea, dress in Tibetan clothes for photos, and pick up some local Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts and souvenirs.

In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring delicious Tibetan cuisine, specially offered by AOT team.

On this day, drive about 8 to 9 hours (340km) from Lhasa to Shigatse via a visit to two amazing natural landscapes - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier on the way.

In the morning, after about 3 to 4 hours' drive (200km), you'd better have your camera ready. When reaching Kampala Pass (4,797 meters), you'll have a breathtaking view of Yamdrok Lake (a freshwater lake) down below as well as spectacular views of the holy Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar in the distance. It is one of the four largest sacred lakes in Tibet along with Lake Lhamo Latso, Lake Manasarovar, and Lake Namtso. And Lake Yamdrok is said to be able to help Tibetans find the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You will be happy to see dressed-up Tibetan mastiffs/dogs, goats, and yaks there. It is optional for you to pay 5-10 yuan to pose with and take photos of them, for local Tibetans, it's a subsidy income for their family.

In the afternoon, drive about 1.5 hours (70km) to visit one of the most beautiful Glaciers in Tibet - Karola Glacier, the location of the film Red Valley (Hong He Gu). As one of Tibet's three major continental glaciers, backed by the southern slope of Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 meters), one of the four highest peaks in Tibet, this white glacier is also the source of the eastern part of the Nianchu River. The Karola Glacier (5,012m) is only 300 meters away from the Highway connecting Lhasa to Gyantse town. You can view it right off the highway from your car. Sure you can easily walk to the foot of the charming glacier which shape is like a frozen waterfall right above the road and you. Besides the fantastic hike to the Karola Glacier, on the opposite side of the road, you can appreciate the beautiful snow-capped mountain of Mt Kalurong.

Karola Glacier Visiting Notes:

1. The altitude at the glacier scenic spot is about 5,012m, be sure to slow down to avoid altitude sickness.

2. The public toilet at the glacier is very basic.

3. Local people would ask you to take photos with them for a fee. Be sure to ask before taking photos to avoid potential little troubles.

After that, drive about 3.5h (170km) to your hotel in Shigatse, the nearest town on the Friendship Highway between Tibet and Nepal. Have a good rest and get ready for a lifetime trip to EBC the next day

After breakfast, drive about 6.5 hours (330km) to the peak of the world - Mount Everest, while stopping by the Rongbuk Monastery - the world's highest altitude monastery before spending the night at the Everest Base Camp.

Departing from Shigatse, after about 4.5 hours of driving (240km), you would get your first glimpse of Mt. Everest from the Gyawu La Pass (5,200m, Gyatso La Pass), between Lhatse and Shelkar. Apart from Mt. Everest, you will be marveled at the zigzag road that looks winding to the end of the world. On the road, you may see local people biking or hiking all the way to Everest Base Camp, for them reaching the base of the world's highest mountain is a must do goal or holy belief that is worth the effort.

After enjoying the beautiful and unique scenery on the pass with incredibly snow-capped mountain ranges, blue skies, floating high clouds, and endless grasslands, it is time to head to Rongbuk Monastery (about 3.5 hours,122km) for the first good view of Mt. Everest. At an altitude of 5,154m, Rongbuk Monastery is the world's highest monastery, a must-visit for spiritual travelers, and you will find it photo worthy. It used to be an area of meditation huts, and you can find hermitage meditation caves with a history of over 400 years, dotting the cliff walls all around the monastery and the valley. Along with incredible Mt. Everest views, at Rongbuk Monastery you will be touched by the breathtaking scenery such as large white chorten, piles of mani stones, colorful prayer flags, devout pilgrims passing by...

Notes:

1.Travelers can only go as far as the Rongbuk Temple area rather than a few kilometers farther as before. But it's no big difference in terms of viewing Mt. Everest.

2.Today's food and lodging is very basic. Due to the high altitude, it is possible that you may have some symptoms of altitude sickness. We recommend that you stay well hydrated, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery to minimize your symptoms

You will get an early start to catch the sunrise over Mt. Everest, then head back to Gyatso La Pass (Gyawu La Pass, the Dingri Boundary, 122km, 3.5 hours) for a quick photo stop. After that, drive back to Shigatse (240km, about 4.5 hours). And be escorted to your hotel in Shigatse, take a shower, and prepare for the departure the next day.

On this day, you will be transferred to Shanghai by flight. Welcome to Shanghai, China's most internationalized and vibrant city! Upon your arrival in Shanghai, your driver will meet you at the exit of the airport and escort you to your hotel in downtown Shanghai. You will have some time after your hotel check-in.

Important Notice for Transfer from Tibet to Shanghai:

Due to seasonal adjustments in flight and high-speed train schedules, Asia Odyssey Travel is committed to ensuring a smooth connection to your next destination - Shanghai. There are three possible plans, and we will select the most suitable one based on the current schedules:

Plan A: On Day 13 in Tibet, take the high-speed train from Shigatse to Lhasa in the morning, then fly out of Lhasa in the afternoon.

Plan B: On the evening of Day 12 in Tibet, take the high-speed train from Shigatse back to Lhasa, then fly out of Lhasa on Day 13.

Plan C: On Day 13 in Tibet, fly directly from Shigatse (with a transfer/layover).

Today, your group will have full day to experience the perfect blend of East and West in the "Paris of the East." Explore brilliant museums, classical gardens, futuristic skyscrapers, and stunning architecture - all in one vibrant city.

First, head to Pudong and the Lujiazui financial district, home to a trio of iconic skyscrapers. The Shanghai Tower, China's tallest and the world's second-tallest building at 632 meters (2,073 ft), soars with a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world's fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center below.

Later, visit the Shanghai Museum (East), one of the world's finest museums of ancient Chinese art. Its sleek, modern design is inspired by the traditional Chinese jade bi disc. Inside, explore galleries of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, jade, furniture, coins, and sculptures. Don't miss iconic treasures like the Da Ke Ding, a 3,000-year-old bronze vessel, displayed with the Zi Long Ding and Marquis of Jin Bells - a rare highlight of the Bronze Gallery. Also, see the legendary Sword of King Goujian of Yue, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.

Next, visit Yu Garden, Shanghai's most famous classical garden, hidden in the heart of the city. Stroll through elegant pavilions, rockeries, and lotus ponds, and admire exquisite carvings and traditional architecture. Outside, Yuyuan Bazaar offers local snacks, souvenirs, and handcrafted art.

In the afternoon, walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with global brands, cafes, and historic buildings. End at the Bund, Shanghai's top must-see landmark. Known as the "Exhibition of International Architecture," it features 52 grand buildings in Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco styles. From here, enjoy a stunning view of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River.

Travel Notes:

l Yu Garden is closed on Mondays. In this case, we may visit the City God Temple, or French Concession instead.

l Shanghai Museum (East) is closed on Tuesdays. You will visit Shanghai Museum (People's Square) on that day. If access to the People's Square location is unavailable, we will arrange an alternative city attraction.

It is time to end your 8-day Beijing Xian Shanghai China group tour. You will have some time in Shanghai and explore more on your own till be escorted to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

Trip Extension Ideas: If you want to explore  other Asia destinations rather than return home right away, we would be glad to assist you with an extension trip. Feel free to tell us your ideas!