This is a comprehensive journey through China, taking in the splendours of the south, including colourful Yunnan Province and the fabled hills around Guilin and Yangshuo, as well as the historical and natural icons of the north.
Beginning in Kunming and continuing to Dali and Lijiang, home to a wide array of ethnic minority people, we explore ancient historic towns and enjoy sweeping panoramic views. Tiger Leaping Gorge is the perfect place for a memorable walk in spectacular surroundings. Flying east to Guilin and Yangshuo we encounter more magical scenery, with picturesque villages set against a backdrop of jagged limestone hills. We experience a bicycle ride through stunning landscapes near Guilin, view giant pandas in Chengdu, see the world’s largest Buddha statue in Leshan, witness amazing Buddhist sculptures in caves in Dazu, visit the fabled Terracotta Warriors in Xian and enjoy a comfortable cruise on the fabled Yangtze River, surrounded by dramatic gorges. We also have the opportunity to dine on the famous hot and spicy cuisine of Sichuan. The final highlights are visits to vibrant Shanghai and the capital, Beijing - home to the renowned Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, not to mention the Great Wall of China.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Fri) Arrive in Kunming and transfer to hotel. |
| 2-3 | Walking tour of Kunming. Bus to Dali. Free time to explore Dali. |
| 4-5 | Bus to Lijiang. Free time to explore Old Town. |
| 6 | Bus to Tiger Leaping Gorge. Half day walk. |
| 7-8 | Half day walk. Short walk out and bus to Tibetan-influenced Zhongdian. |
| 9 | Tour to Songzanlin Monastery and surrounding valley. Visit Tibetan family. |
| 10 | Fly to Kunming. Free afternoon. |
| 11-13 | Fly to Guilin. Cycle tour around Yangshuo. |
| 14-15 | Fly to Chengdu. Visit the giant panda breeding centre and Giant Buddha at Leshan. |
| 16-17 | Visit Buddhist caves at Dazu. Drive to Chongqing and board boat. |
| 18-19 | Yangtze River Cruise, sailing through the spectacular Three Gorges, ending in Yichang. |
| 20-22 | Disembark. Overnight train to Xian. Terracotta Warriors and Muslim Quarter. |
| 23-25 | Fly to Shanghai. Walk along the Bund. Optional acrobat performance. Overnight train to Beijing. |
| 26-28 | Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, the Great Wall at Simatai. |
| 29 | Trip ends in Beijing this morning (Fri). |
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At A Glance
Trip Length |
29 days |
Trip Code |
PCCP |
Activities |
|
| Walking (Moderate), Culture (Moderate) | |
Countries Visited |
|
| China | |
Start City |
|
| Kunming | |
End City |
|
| Beijing | |
