17-Day Silk Road & Tibetan Culture Journey | Ancient Routes and Sacred Lands
17 Days · From $6,299
Travel deep into western China on this 17-day journey. Follow the Silk Road and explore Tibetan culture, sacred monasteries, dramatic landscapes and historic trade cities.
Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an
Upon arrival in Xi'an by train or flight, your private guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest or light exploration, with dining recommendations available upon request.
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Day 2: Xi'an
After breakfast, visit the legendary Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often described as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" Special Experience Included: Hands-on Terracotta figurine making or restoration experience. In the afternoon, cycle atop the ancient Xi'an City Wall, followed by visits to the Bell and Drum Tower area and the vibrant Muslim Quarter. In the evening, enjoy the illuminated Datang Everbright City, where dazzling lights recreate the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. Complimentary Experience: Hanfu traditional costume experience.
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Day 3: Xi'an to Lanzhou
Take a high-speed train to Lanzhou. After lunch, visit the Gansu Provincial Museum, home to some of China's most important Silk Road artifacts, including the iconic Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu.
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Day 4: Lanzhou
Travel to Liujiaxia Reservoir and admire the dramatic confluence of the Yellow River and Tao River. Continue by speedboat to the Bingling Temple Grottoes, one of China's earliest Buddhist cave complexes, dating back to the 5th century. Return to Lanzhou in the evening.
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Day 5: Lanzhou to Zhangye
Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Lanzhou's local food culture. After lunch, transfer to the railway station for a high-speed train to Zhangye, an important stop along the ancient Hexi Corridor of the Silk Road.
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Day 6: Zhangye
Explore Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, famous for its spectacular rainbow-colored sandstone formations—often described as nature's overturned paint palette.
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Day 7: Zhangye to Jiayuguan
Travel to Jiayuguan Pass, the western terminus of the Great Wall and a key military stronghold of the Ming Dynasty. En route, visit Zixuan Winery for a guided tour of grape cultivation and wine production, including a wine-tasting session hosted by a professional sommelier.
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Day 8: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang
Drive across the Gobi Desert to Dunhuang. Visit the world-renowned Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite Buddhist murals and sculptures spanning over a thousand years.
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Day 9: Dunhuang to Turpan
Visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring, a stunning oasis surrounded by singing sand dunes.After lunch, transfer to Yumen Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Turpan.
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Day 10: Turpan
Explore Jiaohe Ancient City, one of the world's largest and best-preserved earthen cities. Continue to the Karez Irrigation System, an underground engineering marvel, and visit Grape Valley to enjoy fresh local grapes and Uyghur music and dance performances.In the evening, sample local snacks along Old City East Road.
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Day 11: Turpan to Urumqi
Visit Turpan Museum to gain deeper insight into Silk Road trade and cultural exchange.Drive to Urumqi and explore the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, featuring ethnic crafts, music, and folk performances.
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Day 12: Urumqi to Chengdu
Fly to Chengdu, the cultural and culinary heart of Sichuan Province. Upon arrival, your local guide will escort you to your hotel.
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Day 13: Chengdu
Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for a close encounter with China's beloved national treasure. In the afternoon, stroll through Kuanzhai Alley and People's Square, experiencing Chengdu's relaxed pace of life.
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Day 14: Chengdu to Lhasa
Visit Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the legendary strategist Zhuge Liang, followed by a short city walk through historic Chengdu neighborhoods. After lunch, fly to Lhasa. Upon arrival, your Tibetan guide will assist with hotel check-in and acclimatization.
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Day 15: Lhasa
Explore the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual symbol of Tibet. In the afternoon, walk along Barkhor Street, a sacred pilgrimage circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple.
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Day 16: Lhasa
A full day dedicated to Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Visit Norbulingka, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lamas, followed by Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Tibet. Continue to Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates held in the afternoon.
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Day 17: Departure from Lhasa
At the appropriate time, your guide and driver will transfer you from your hotel to Lhasa Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of this unforgettable Silk Road and Tibetan cultural adventure. We wish you a pleasant journey home and look forward to welcoming you back to China in the future.
What's Included
- ✓Costs for a private, air-conditioned business vehicle throughout the tour.
- ✓Services of a private English-speaking tour guide.
- ✓Hotels, entrance fees to scenic spots (first gate tickets), and meals as listed in the itinerary.
- ✓Travel insurance coverage during the tour (details available on the Insurance Policy page).
- ✓Inter-city flights or high-speed train travel.
- ✓24-hour customer service support during the trip.
- ✓Service fees, covering tour planning, handling, operation, and communication costs.
- ✗Chinese Visa fees.
- ✗Round-trip ticket. (We offer Air Ticket Booking Service, if you need it, please let us know.)
- ✗Personal expenses.
- ✗Meals, transportation transfers, and tourist attraction fees not listed in the itinerary.
- ✗Optional activities recommended at scenic spots or other commercial establishments.
- ✗Luggage overweight charges.
- ✗Optional activities provided by the driver or guide.
- ✗Personal Accident Insurance during Travel .
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