13 Days Tibet and China Silk Road Group Tour
Destination:Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Lanzhou, Lhasa, Shigatse, Turpan, Urumqi, Xining
Tour Code: SKGT03
Tour Duration: 13 Days
- Tour overview:
- Tour Dates: May 24-Jun 05, 2020; Price: USD3299; Single Room Supplement: USD1370; Tour Dates: Sep 05-Sep 17, 2020; Price: USD3499; Single Room Supplement: USD1480; Minimum persons per booking: 2pax
Free Inquiry From $3299
Tour Summary
Day by Day Itinerary
Reviews
B=Breakfast,L=Lunch,D=Dinner
Tour Dates | Destinations | Services Provided | Meals Included | ||||||||||||||
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Day 1 |
Lhasa
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Upon arrival in Lhasa, you will be met by our guide and transferred to hotel to take rest for acclimatization of the high altitude.
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Day 2 |
Lhasa
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Have a full day tour to visit The Potala Palace , Jokhang Temple , Barkhor Street .
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Day 3 |
Lhasa/Shigatse
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Depart for Shigatse. On the way you will visit Yomdrok .
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Day 4 |
Shigatse/Lhasa
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In the morning, visit the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery . Then we proceed back to Lhasa. On the way we can enjoy scenic views of the Yarlung Zangbo Gorge/ Bhamaputra River.
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Day 5 |
Lhasa/Xining
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In the morning board the train heading for Xining on the world's highest railway and begin the scenic train journey.
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Day 6 |
Xining
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Arrive at Xining train station, be met and transferred to visit the Ta'er Monastery .
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Day 7 |
Xining/Lanzhou/Jiayuguan
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After breakfast, we will take the high speed train to Lanzhou and visit Yellow River Iron Bridge / Zhongshan Bridge , Ancient Water Mill . In late afternoon take the high speed train to Jiayuguan.
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Day 8 |
Jiayuguan/Dunhuang
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Have a leisure tour to visit Jiayuguan Fort , Overhanging Great Wall . In the afternoon, take the high speed train to Dunhuang.Upon your arrival, be met and transferred to the hotel.
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Day 9 |
Dunhuang
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In the morning, you will visit the Mingsha Shan & Yueya Quan (Singing Sand Mountains & Crescent Moon Spring) . In the evening move to Shazhou Night Market.
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Day 10 |
Dunhuang/Turpan
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In the morning let's visit the world famous Mogao Grottoes . Late afternoon take flight to Turpan.
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Day 11 |
Turpan/Urumqi
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It’s a day for Turpan sightseeing. Visit the Karez Well System, Turpan , Flaming Mountain, Turpan , Ancient City of Jiaohe (Yarkhoto) . After the sightseeing tour board the high speed train to Urumqi.
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Day 12 |
Urumqi
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Full day tour to visit Heavenly Lake , Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar .
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Day 13 |
Urumqi
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After breakfast free at leisure till the assemble time for the transferring to airport for the flight to your next destination. |
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Price
Season | Tour Class | Group Size | Single Room Supplement |
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2-5pax | 6-9pax | |||
Peak Season | 5*(First Class) | $3499 | $3499 | $1480 |
Shoulder Season | 5*(First Class) | $3299 | $3299 | $1370 |
-NOTE:
1. Normally hotels allow a maximum of 3 adults per room with an extra bed, at extra charge. Some hotels will allow three adults and a small child.
2. Tour price is indicative only, please enquire for a detailed quotation.
3. More people more discounts. Please enquire for more details.
Price Includes
1. Experienced Tour ManagersOur experienced tour managers and their assistants on train are selected for their travel knowledge and organizational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your tour of a lifetime.
2. Arrival and Departure Transfers
Arrival and departure transfers are included.
3. Hotel and Onboard Accommodation
Although you will spend much of your time sightseeing or relaxing in the train’s public areas, you will find your hotel room or cabin a welcome retreat at the end of a rewarding day. Hotel and onboard accommodation as described in your individual tour itinerary are included in the tour price. All hotels are of 5 star standard or, in certain locations, the best available. Room upgrades are available on request and at extra cost.
4. Route Guide, Itinerary and Information Pack
When you board the train there will be a brochure in your cabin detailing more about your journey and the places en-route. Our Tour Manager will give brief introductions on the cities or places we visit and, each evening, will issue a program for the next day’s touring schedule.
5. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily
All departures feature one or two uniquely designed restaurant cars where you can enjoy the excellent waiter-served food. Several times during the tour we will also sample authentic local cuisine off the train.
6. Drinks with Meals Onboard
A drink allowance is included with lunch and dinner.
7. On Board Service
Throughout your tour you can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unobtrusive. The high ratio of staff to passengers means there is always someone available should you need assistance.
8. On Board Doctor and Medical Facilities
To give you peace of mind our tours are accompanied by a doctor who travels with us for the entire journey; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is always available. On call 24 hours a day, the doctor is on hand to give primary care as required.
9. 24 Hour Service Attendant Onboard
Your car attendants provide 24-hour housekeeping and bedding turndown services, with one attendant always on duty to assist you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. Complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water are available in your cabin 24 hours a day.
B=Breakfast,L=Lunch,D=Dinner
Day 1
Arrive Lhasa
Transfer via: Flight on your own arrangement
Upon arrival in Lhasa, the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region, you will be met by guide and represented a hada --a white scarf which is the Tibetan traditional way to wish you good luck. Then you will be transferred to hotel to take rest for acclimatization of the high altitude.
Day 2
Lhasa (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Barkhor Street
After breakfast, we begin our tour to visit the famous Potala Palace. Its name means 'sacred Buddhist site' in the Tibetan language. Firstly built in the 7th century A.D., it had been the winter palace of Dalai Lamas throughout the ages. The palace also houses priceless artifacts and artworks.
Continue to Jokhang Monastery. Situated in the center of Lhasa, it was first built in 674 A.D. The monastery underwent expansion over the years and today, its four-level main hall sports a gilded roof and a blend of Han Chinese, Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian architectural styles.
Proceed to Barkhor Street in the old city, which offers glimpses of traditional Tibetan life. In this circular street there are also shops selling a wide variety of crafts such as Tibetan knives, bangles, shoes and more.
Day 3
Lhasa/Shigatse (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Yamdrok Lake
Following breakfast, we depart for Shigatse. Along the way, we pass Yamdrok Lake, whose name means 'swan lake'. It is wedged between two mountains, hence like a swan spanning its wings. The crystal-clear lake, located over 4,000m above sea level, has an area of 638 square kilometers, making it the largest freshwater lake in Tibet.
After seeing the breathtaking scenery of Yamdrok Lake, we continue to Shigatse.
Day 4
Shigatse/Lhasa (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Yarlung Zangbo Gorge
In the morning, visit the famous Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, where you can see the well preserved largest statue of Jampa (future Buddha) in the world. This monastery, whose beauty is on par with that of Potala Palace, was founded by the first Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gendun Drup, in 1447A.D. Its name means 'all fortune and happiness gather here’. Don't miss the Tenth Panchen Lama's Stupa. The Tenth Panchen Lama was a highly respected Tibetan Buddhist leader.
Then we proceed back to Lhasa. On the way, we can enjoy scenic views of the Yarlung Zangbo Gorge/ Bhamaputra River (the longest river in Tibet). Stay Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 5
Lhasa/Xining (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van, train of Qingzang (Qinghai-Tibet)
Sightseeing: Yuzhu Peak, Mt. Kunlunshan, Kekexili Reserve, Tuotuo River, Fenghuo Mountain Tunnel, Qiangtang Grassland
After breakfast, free at leisure till we board the train on the world's highest railway and begin the scenic train journey. Along the way, we pass the following magnificent sights: snow-capped mountains such as Yuzhu Peak and Mt. Kunlunshan; Kekexili Reserve; Tuotuo River, the source of Yangtze River; Fenghuo Mountain Tunnel, the world's highest mountain tunnel; Tanggula Station, the world's highest railway station located at 5,072m above sea level; Qiangtang Grassland and more.
Day 6
Xining (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Ta'er Monastery
You could enjoy the fabulous scenery along your train trip. Today you will arrive at Xining station, be met and transferred to visit the Ta'er Monastery, whose name means '10,000 Buddha'. Its construction began in the ancient China’s Ming Dynasty, and it was one of the six principal temples of the Tibetan Buddhist Yellow Sect. Don't miss its three treasures-- butter sculptures, murals and satin appliqués, which are of high artistic value. Then you will be escorted to the hotel for check-in.
Day 7
Xining/Lanzhou/Jiayuguan (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van, High speed train on our arrangement
Sightseeing: Zhongshan Bridge, Waterwheel Garden
After breakfast, we will take the high speed train to Lanzhou and visit Zhongshan Bridge, also called the first bridge over the Yellow River. In the year 1907, with the proposal of local officers and the help of a German businessman, the Qing Government began to build this first iron bridge over the upper reaches of the Yellow River. All materials, even the rivets, were transported from Germany to China using ships, trains, carts and any other means possible. The bridge was completed in two years.
And then, we continue to visit the Waterwheel Garden, which is a theme garden exhibiting the waterwheel culture.Originated from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the waterwheel is the oldest irrigation tool in Yellow River area of Lanzhou. In late afternoon take the high speed train to Jiayuguan.
Day 8
Jiayuguan/Dunhuang (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van, High speed train
Sightseeing: Jiayuguan Pass, Overhanging Great Wall
Have a leisure tour today. Firstly visit the Jiayuguan (Jiayu Pass), the western end of the Great Wall built in Ming Dynasty. It is known as 'the First and Greatest Pass under Heaven', the best preserved and most magnificent military fort in China. Then we drive 7 miles away for the Overhanging Great Wall. It got the name for riding on a mountain ridge that is 45 degrees from vertical and resembling a huge dragon.
In the afternoon, take the high speed train to Dunhuang.Upon your arrival, be met and transferred to the hotel.
Day 9
Dunhuang (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Crescent Lake & Singing Sand Mountains, Shazhou Night Market
In the morning, we will visit the beautiful Crescent Lake & Singing Sand Mountains. The Crescent Lake scenic spot is an oasis Gobi desert, surrounded by numerous sand dunes, reaching a relative height of 250 meters (820 feet). The Singing Sand Mountains is so named for the sound of the wind whipping off the dunes.
After dinner, we move to Dunhuang night market -bustling Shazhou Night Market. Never miss its tasty snacks, local specialties, and crafts etc.
Day 10
Dunhuang/Turpan (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van, Flight on our arrangement
Sightseeing: Mogao Grottoes
In the morning let's visit the world famous Mogao Grottoes, which was designated as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO for its 1,600 years accumulated cultural, architectural, and art treasures. There remains 492 cave temple and 45,000 square meters of frescos. According to Tang Dynasty records, a monk had witnessed onsite a vision of thousand Buddha under showers of golden rays. Thus inspired, he started the caves construction work that spanned ten dynasties. Mogao Caves are commonly known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddha. Late afternoon take flight to Turpan.
Day 11
Turpan/Urumqi (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van, High speed train
Sightseeing: Karez Well System, Flaming Mountain, Jiaohe Ancient City
It’s a day for Turpan sightseeing! Visit the Karez Well System in the morning, to witness the wisdom of Uygur people. The irrigation system is especially designed for desert. If connecting all these underground channels, the total length will reach more than 5,000 km, so it is regarded as one of the three engineering miracles of ancient China, along with the Great Wall and the Jinghang Grand Canal.
Go ahead to the Flaming Mountain, well known by Chinese people because of the legendary story 'Journey to the West'. It is regarded as the hottest place in China. Then we drive to Jiaohe Ancient City, an island-shaped plateau situated at Yar Town. It is the largest and oldest earth-structured city in the world, with a history of 2,000-2,300 years.
After the sightseeing tour board the high speed train to Urumqi.
Day 12
Urumqi (B,L,D)
Transfer via: Coach/Van
Sightseeing: Heavenly Lake, Xinjiang International Bazaar
Dinner: Xinjiang Roasted Whole Lamb
After breakfast, visit Heavenly Lake on Tianshan Mountain (boat tour). The mountain lake stands 1,980 meters above sea level and features picturesque scenery of snowcapped peaks. It is a great experience to boat travel Heavenly Lake, with a layer of magical color covering the lake, and hearing many beautiful myths and legends.
Lastly, visit Xinjiang International Bazaar.
Day 13
Depart Urumqi (B)
Transfer via: Flight on your own arrangement
Today is the day of farewell to your memorable Tibet & Silk Road trip. After a pleasant breakfast, free at your own leisure till the assemble time for the transferring to airport for the flight back to your hometown or next destination.
Dear Nora,Thank you again for such excellent arrangement under the rushed condition. I enjoyed the tour with excellent English guide. Whenever I visit historical cities, I usually join guided tour. In the guided tour especially in European countries, the guider usually prepares a presentation with picture files or using notepad for audience' better understanding. Sometime oral explanation is not sufficient. Anyway i have not seen such presentations from other tour groups around today. Again, my guider today was excellent to give me overall and essential points in the history. Driving was also gentle. All the best for your business. Ki Seob
- Booking Code:VOC-20230717
- Tour Starting Date:Monday, 17 July 2023
- Client's information:Ki Seob Sim, Canadian
Dear Nora Thank you so much for having arranged great tour for us! The visits were well arranged and we wish if we had more time then we can visit more attractions.All guides are super! Knowledgeable and have good commands of English, good sense of humor. We like them all!Transportations were ok but can not give them max points due to their ages! Drivers were all nice. Hotels in Beijing, Xi’an and Nanjing are great! Great location, well equipped, nice room and good breakfast. Hotel in Luoyang is an old style, simple breakfast, but we understand that they are in the same situation as the city. Near the Peony Hotel, I saw a new small hotel near by but I did not come in to check. I am thinking it may be better to use new small hotel than big old ones.In Shanghai, we are very disappointed about hotel. Room small, dirty, poor facilities. Breakfast is poor. Location is so so, not so convenience. I think you should find another option for your future bookings in Shanghai. Meals: the guide helped us to choose dishes and we really enjoyed. Except in Beijing, because of timing inconvenience due to traffic, we ask the guide to arrange the near by restaurants for quick food, all others were great. In General, we are all happy with your services. Hope will have the chance to come back with you for more tours in China and surely, I will recommend you and your company for my tour company friends! Nora, once again, thank you for your great work! My best regards Bich Ha
- Booking Code:VOC-20230702
- Tour Starting Date:Sunday, 2 July 2023
- Client's information:Bich Ha, Vietnam
Dear Nora, My apologies! All went very well today and I’m delighted. Can I please say how very impressed by the service I received from you, the guide, and the driver. It was absolutely superb in every respect. If it would be helpful, I would be very glad to write to your manager to say how I pleased I was, and that I will use and recommend Visit Our China in the future. Best wishes, Cameron
- Booking Code:VOC-20230520
- Tour Starting Date:Saturday, 20 May 2023
- Client's information:Dr Cameron Pyke, UK

I hope this letter finds you well. We finally arrived home from our trip last Thursday the 17th. As promised I am writing to you about our experience in China and we thank you very much for your organizing. On the whole we had a wonderful time and were very well looked after by both guides and drivers we would especially like to thank Linda and Cynthia which we would highly recommend. They both gave really excellent service in every way including punctuality, information and restaurants that were chosen for lunches, the food was delicious. The cruise on the Huangpu River was cancelled because of bad weather which couldn't be helped so the guide offered us an Acrobatic Show which we enjoyed very much. We had a lovely time on day 3 to Tongli water town. Our stay in China was wonderful. Best regards, Kathleen Pam
- Booking Code:VOC-20190905-S
- Tour Starting Date:Thursday, 5 September 2019
- Client's information:Kathleen & Pam, Australia
Dear Molly, Hope you have been well. We will be returning to Singapore in a couple of hours. Would like to commend on the tour guides, drivers and accommodation that VOC has arranged for us. The guides and drivers are very professional,very helpful, thoughtful, caring and experienced. They practised good ethics as well. We definitely have a wonderful touring experience and I will definitely recommend your company to my friends. Regards, Mrs Wee
- Booking Code:VOC-20190605-M
- Tour Starting Date:Wednesday, 5 June 2019
- Client's information:Chew Huay Huay, Singapore

Hi Sandy, Thank you for a great first tour together. I appreciate that it was a big commitment for you to be away from your office family for such a long time. I know you would have missed your young son a lot. I am also very grateful for your huge personal effort that you put into the detailed planning. The local guides were all great - Sally, Amanda Benny. Regarding the itinerary, I think we have an excellent itinerary for the beginning and the end, but the middle of the tour needs to be changed. Thank you again for all your excellent work. I look forward to visiting you in your home town for our first Tibet tour in August 2020. Jo I might travel up one day ahead of the group to meet you and have dinner with you. Best regards, Brod
- Booking Code:VOC-20190528-S
- Tour Starting Date:Tuesday, 28 May 2019
- Client's information:Brod, Australia
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