2017 - TM China

31 Coach Rail Included flight Stay (no. of nights) Beijing 3 Lhasa 4 Shigatse 1 Gyantse Xi'an 1 2 Chengdu 1 China Sleeper Train to Tibet 1 down amid the Himalayas, settle in for the night and be prepared to awake in spectacular surrounds. Stay: Overnight Sleeper Train. BL Day 7. Lhasa Early this morning the train crosses the Tanggula Pass, home to long-haired yaks and frosted peaks. From here, begin the long and lazy descent into Lhasa, with the scenery becoming noticeably more rural and verdant. Enjoy a simple breakfast and lunch on the train, as it continues through Tibet's rolling pastoral scenery. In the late afternoon, arrive in Lhasa, Tibet's remote capital. Three Nights: Lhasa, Four Points By Sheraton Lhasa. BD Day 8. Lhasa Today's wonderful exploration of Tibet begins after breakfast with a walk along the Barkhor Circuit, a fascinating rectangle of streets where pilgrims mingle with red- robed monks and street traders. Later visit the ancient Jokhang temple, possibly Tibet's most revered structure. Here, the aroma of incense fills the air in the warren of beautiful and ornate chapels. Enjoy time to wander around and admire the sculptures and tapestries before returning to your hotel in Lhasa. BLD Day 9. Lhasa This morning, visit the intriguing Sera Monastery, a complex of colleges and temples where monks are trained in the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. You are free to explore the buildings in and around the cobblestoned courtyards. Later, visit Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a true wonder of architecture. Containing more than a thousand rooms, the imposing white citadel somehow manages to tower over one of the world's highest cities. BLD Day 10. Gyantse Leave Lhasa this morning and travel through the mountains on the way to Gyantse. Enjoy a stop at the glorious Yamdrok Lake, said to be populated by powerful deities. Lying several hundred metres below the road, this tranquil lake is a brilliant shade of turquoise, contrasting with the sandy inlets that surround it. A fterwards, continue to Gyantse. Stay: Gyantse Hotel. BLD Day 11. Gyantse, Shigatse Today's touring includes a visit to the Palkor Chode Monastery. Housed within a ring of protective walls high up on the tree-lined hillside, the 15th-century complex is known for its gold-domed temple Across the Roof of the World filled with detailed murals and effigies of Buddha. From Palkor Chode, continue to Shigatse, with majestic views of Mt Everest appearing along the route. Stay: Shigatse Hotel. BLD Day 12. Shigatse Explore some of Shigatse's grand landmarks on a sightseeing tour, visiting the Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded by the first Dalai Lama. Covering several acres, this huge monastery resembles a walled town, with ochre and whitewashed buildings dominated by gilded- bronze temples. Before leaving Shigatse, visit a local family to learn more about Tibetan life. This afternoon, return to the Tibetan city of Lhasa. Stay: Lhasa, Four Points By Sheraton Lhasa. BLD Day 13. Chengdu Today, take a short included flight to the Chinese city of Chengdu. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, home to more than 100 of these endangered animals. See pandas at close range and learn how they are being protected. Stay: Chengdu, Tibet Hotel. BLD Day 14. Chengdu This morning after breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B 1 1. See the magnificent long-haired yaks of Tibet SAVE $1,000 per couple* See page 22 for details Tour Notes All prices include transfers, port charges and tipping. Itineraries and hotels may be subject to change. See pages 50-51 for full terms and conditions. 2017 Dates & Prices (A$) travelmarvel.com.au/RJTCTG14 14 Days – Beijing to Chengdu (RJTCTG14) Per Person Twin Share Solo Traveller May 25. $6,695 $8,145 June 16. $6,695 $8,145 Sept. 8. $6,995 $8,745 Oct. 6. $6,995 $8,745

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