Beijing (China) | Chengdu (China) | Lhasa (Tibet, China) | Mutianyu | Xi'An (China)
The following are China & Tibet: Great Wall, Lhasa & Terracotta Warriors tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Begin your adventure in Beijing with an included arrival transfer to your hotel before meeting your fellow travellers and CEO at a welcome briefing. Then, set out on a short orientation walk through the neighbourhood to get acquainted with nearby restaurants, shops, and local amenities before gathering for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, return to the hotel, with the rest of the evening at leisure to relax before the journey ahead.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour and join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Begin the day at the symbolic heart of Beijing with a visit to Tiananmen Square before stepping through the gates of the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace that served as the seat of China's emperors for nearly 500 years. After savoring a classic Peking duck lunch, wander the narrow hutong alleyways for a glimpse into traditional Beijing life. Later, travel to your OMG Stay at The Mutianyu Great Wall, enjoy an orientation walk through the surrounding area, and spend the evening at leisure.
Explore one of the world's largest public squares and the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by the Gate of Heavenly Peace with its Mao portrait, Mao's Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, and with elaborate flag raising and lowering ceremonies at dawn and dusk, it's a place of pilgrimage for the Chinese tourists who consider it the heart of their nation.
Enjoy a lunch of one of Beijing's most iconic dishes, peking duck! Known for its crispy skin and tender meat roasted with fruitwood, it will be served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, scallions, cucumber, and more!
Take a walking tour through some of Beijing's traditional alleyways and backstreets (known as hutongs) and get a taste of this magnificent metropolis.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Check out the iconic Forbidden City in the heart of Beijing. For 500 years the palace was only accessible to the emperors' attendants and officials by invitation only. Visit sights and wander through the Three Great Halls or stand in the shade of the cypress trees in the Imperial Garden.
Journey to the magnificent Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where you'll hike along one of China's most iconic landmarks while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. This afternoon, discover life beyond Beijing with a visit to a traditional village, learning about its history before touring a family-run winery and sampling locally produced spirits. End the day meeting a local artist and creating your own plant-dyed tie-dye keepsake using centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
Climb the rolling hills of Huairou County at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Enjoy scenic views as the wall winds along mountain ridges, and take brag-worthy photos of the wall from any of the 22 towers. The Great wall is an incredible piece of engineering stretching 6000 km west from the mountain ridges north of Beijing. It was originally constructed to protect Chinese empires from nomadic northern tribes, and even though it failed in this purpose, it's still one of the country's most remarkable achievements and an iconic destination. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is located about 80km away from the Beijing City Center. The walk is approximately 5 kilometres and will take 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of fitness.
Step inside a family-run village distillery where centuries-old winemaking traditions are still practiced today. Discover the journey from whole grains to handcrafted mountain wine as you explore the fermentation workshop, witness traditional distillation techniques, visit the historic wine cellar, and finish with a tasting of authentic local wines.
Meet a local artist and discover the ancient art of Chinese plant dyeing in his community-based workshop. Learn how natural dyes are created from local plant materials, design and hand-dye your own textile using traditional tie-dye techniques, and gain insight into a centuries-old craft that supports both cultural heritage and sustainable local livelihoods.
Check out this morning and board a high-speed train bound for Xi'an, watching the landscapes of northern China unfold along the way. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before joining your CEO for an orientation walk, ending in the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where lively markets, historic streets, and tempting local street food create an unforgettable first impression of China's ancient capital.
Sit back and relax on your speedy journey from Beijing to Xi'an.
Travel to one of China's greatest archaeological treasures, the Terracotta Warriors, where thousands of life-sized soldiers stand guard over the tomb of the country's first emperor. After enjoying a home-cooked lunch with a local family near the site, return to Xi'an to explore the remarkably preserved Ancient City Wall, with the option to cycle along its historic ramparts while taking in panoramic views of the city.
Visit the site of the Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological treasure where approximately 8,000 soldiers and hundreds of horses stand on guard in three excavated pits in an on-site museum. Learn how the underground warriors were discovered (by accident) in 1974, and why Emperor Qin Shihuang commissioned the statues to serve as his army in the afterlife.
Xian City Wall is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. Along the moat is a beautiful park. You could either walk on the wall or rent a bike and cycle around, traffic free! The wall was first built in 1370. In rectangular shape the whole length is 13.7 Km.
This morning, fly from Xi'an to Lhasa, where the dramatic landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau signal the start of the next chapter of your adventure. After arriving in Tibet's captivating capital, settle into your hotel and take time to acclimatize to the altitude before joining your CEO for a short orientation walk to discover the neighbourhood and prepare for the days ahead.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Discover the spiritual heart of Tibet with a guided visit to the revered Jokhang Temple, where pilgrims have gathered in devotion for centuries. After lunch, continue to Sera Monastery to witness the fascinating tradition of monk debates, an animated display of Buddhist learning and philosophy. Later, return to your hotel or spend free time exploring the vibrant Barkhor Street at your own pace.
Join your CEO for a guided visit to Tibet's most sacred temple, where centuries of history, culture, and devotion come to life. Explore the magnificent Jokhang Temple, admire its unique blend of architectural styles, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Barkhor Street as pilgrims circle this revered spiritual landmark.
Visit the Sera Monastery and witness the monks engaged in lively debate, a philosophical practice they have held for hundreds of years.
Today is your OMG Day! Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, where towering white and red walls rise above Lhasa and reveal centuries of Tibetan history and devotion. In ther afternoon, you'll have the chance to choose between two unforgettable cultural experiences: learning the intricate art of traditional Thangka painting with local artists, or joining a hands-on Tibetan cooking class to prepare classic dishes and handmade momos. End the day gathering for dinner together and sharing the flavours and stories of your chosen experience.
Enjoy a tour of Potala Palace, a magnificent structure and true architectural wonder built in the 1600s and steeped in history. This is where the Dalai Lamas would meditate, handle affairs of state, and eventually where their burial stupas remain. Check out the golden statues, three dimensional mandalas, ancient scriptures, and the devoted pilgrims who circle the palace day and night. This is truly a remarkable place.
Personalize your day with one of two immersive Tibetan experiences. Try your hand at traditional Thangka painting, learning the intricate techniques behind Tibet's iconic sacred art under the guidance of local artists, or join a Tibetan cooking class, shopping for fresh ingredients at a local market before preparing classic dishes, including handmade yak and vegetarian momos. Whichever experience you choose, everyone comes together to enjoy a delicious homemade Tibetan dinner.
Begin the day with a journey to the remote Ganden Monastery, the first monastery of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, dramatically set high above the Lhasa Valley on a mountainside ridge. Explore its sacred temples and monastic halls before continuing along the kora path for a picnic lunch surrounded by sweeping Himalayan views. Later, visit a local Tibetan family to gain insight into everyday life and traditions in this high-altitude region. Return to Lhasa in the afternoon with time to rest or explore at leisure.
Journey to the spectacular Ganden Monastery, the oldest monastery of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, dramatically perched high above the Lhasa Valley. Explore this remarkable mountaintop complex before taking a short walk along the monastery's scenic kora trail to a peaceful picnic spot, where you'll enjoy lunch surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan views.
Enjoy free time to explore Lhasa at your own pace.
Depart Lhasa and fly to Chengdu, trading high-altitude mountain views for the relaxed rhythm of Sichuan's capital. On arrival, head to Tianfu Square before continuing to People's Park, where you'll stroll tree-lined paths and experience Chengdu's famous tea culture in a traditional teahouse with over a century of history. This evening, celebrate your arrival in Sichuan with an included traditional hot pot dinner, a local culinary specialty.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Built in 1911, the People's Park was the first public park in Chengdu. It's the largest green area in downtown. The park features an artificial lake, gardens, teahouses, and is a popular place for locals to enjoy the outdoors.
Begin the day at the Dujiangyan Panda Base, a leading conservation centre where bamboo forests and semi-wild habitats support vital research and preparation for panda reintroduction into the wild. After time with these iconic animals, continue to Qingcheng Mountain for a grounding Tai Chi class at the entrance before ascending by cable car to the Ciyun Pavilion. From here, explore forested paths towards the Laojun Pavilion, taking in the tranquil mountain scenery before descending and returning to Chengdu. End the day with time to rest and a farewell dinner with your group.
Visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base, a leading conservation and research center dedicated to protecting China's iconic giant pandas. Set within a sprawling bamboo forest, you'll observe pandas in a naturalistic environment while learning about the pioneering breeding, rehabilitation, and reintroduction programs helping secure the species' future.
Ride the cable car to Ciyun Pavilion before enjoying a scenic walk through the tranquil mountain landscape to Laojun Pavilion. Take in the peaceful surroundings and panoramic views before returning to Ciyun Pavilion for the cable car ride back down.
End your journey with breakfast and a final morning at leisure, with time to depart at any time that suits your onward travel plans.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their China & Tibet: Great Wall, Lhasa & Terracotta Warriors tour:
3-18 Chongwenmenwai Street, behind Chongwenmen New World Shopping Mall
Beijing, China
CHJ2+C54, Beigou Village, Huairou District
Beijing, China-101405
10 Renmin North Rd Section 1, Jinniu District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, 610084
Chengdu, China
No.10, Yutuo Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa, Tibet
Tibet Autonomous Region, China-850012
1st Floor, Building 1, No. 32 South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
Xi'an, China
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their China & Tibet: Great Wall, Lhasa & Terracotta Warriors tour:
Max 16, avg 12
Your Foodie Moment: Peking Duck Lunch, BeijingYour OMG Day: Tangka Painting or Cooking Class, Lhasa. Arrival airport transfer in Beijing. Guided Beijing city tour. Visit to Tiananmen Square. Visit to the Forbidden City. Hike along the Mutianyu Great Wall. Visit to a local community in Beigou Village. Traditional local winery experience with wine tasting. Meet a local artist and participate in a plant-dyeing workshop. High-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an. Visit to the Terracotta Warriors Museum. Visit to the Ancient City Wall of Xi'an. Internal flights. Visit to Jokhang Temple. Visit to Sera Monastery. Watch the monks' daily scripture debate (subject to monastery schedule). Visit to the Potala Palace. Choice of one OMG experience: Tibetan Thangka painting workshop, or Tibetan cooking class. Visit to Ganden Monastery. Visit to People's Park with traditional tea house experience. Visit to the Dujiangyan Panda Base. Tai Chi class at Qingcheng Mountain. Explore Qingcheng Mountain via shuttle and cable car. Transportation to/from all included activites. All tips included, except porterage and CEO tips.
Walk the Great Wall at Mutianyu beneath sweeping mountain views, Stand face to face with Xi'an's ancient Terracotta Warriors army, Wander Beijing's imperial heart from Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City, Step into Lhasa's Potala Palace and sacred Jokhang Temple, Meet China's giant pandas at the Dujiangyan conservation base
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Xi'an- Cycling Xi'an City Walls (45-45CNY per person)
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (11 nts)
11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips, please refer to the meals included and budget information.
English-speaking Chinese CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout with local guide in TIbet.
All our G Adventures group trip is accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) in China. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Private vehicle, walking, bullet train, plane.
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. While suitcases are not recommended for most G Adventures trips a rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) is quite suitable for this trip as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.Do not bring any knives or swords into China (gifts or otherwise). If they do make it into the country, they will not be permitted on trains. If you purchase a knife or sword while travelling elsewhere before arriving in China your best option is to post/mail it home before entering the country as no post/mail companies in China will accept it as a parcel.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.