12-day beijing tibet shanghai adventure
Trip Introduction
🗓️ duraTION: 12 days / 11 NIGHTS all year round
🌎 China: Beijing - xining - lhasa - gyantze - shigatse - shanghai
Explore China’s iconic treasures on this 12-day overland adventure - from Beijing’s Great Wall and the sacred monasteries of Tibet to Shanghai’s dazzling skyline. Ride the world’s highest railway across the Tibetan Plateau, experience Buddhist culture in Lhasa, and witness breathtaking Himalayan landscapes before descending into modern Shanghai.
A perfect blend of history, spirituality, and urban energy—all seamlessly connected.
A perfect blend of history, spirituality, and urban energy—all seamlessly connected.
Trip code: CBT251201
Itinerary
🥢 Meal Codes: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 1: beijing arrival (D)
Meet upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy a three-night stay in Beijing.Welcome dinner: Peking Duck
Accommodation: Beijing (3 nights)
Day 2: Beijing city tour (B)
Enjoy a full-day Beijing city tour, starting with a visit to the historic Temple of Heaven, once frequented by Ming and Qing emperors for annual prayers. Explore the Grand Forbidden City, built by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century, and marvel at its vastness and historical significance. Then, discover Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square, home to iconic landmarks such as Tiananmen Tower and the Great Hall of the People. Finally, stroll around Lake Houhai and its charming Hutong alleys.
Accommodation: Beijing
Day 3: Summer palace & the great wall (B)
Begin your morning with a visit to the Summer Palace, an imperial park steeped in history and set against the scenic Kunming Lake. Later, explore the majestic Mutianyu Great Wall, known for its unique, indestructible structure winding through lofty mountains. After your climb, enjoy a thrilling slide or cable car ride down the hill.
Accommodation: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing → Xining → Overnight Train to Lhasa (B)
Morning flight from Beijing to Xining. Transfer to Xining Station for the scenic Qinghai-Tibet Railway journey to Lhasa. Spend the night in a soft-sleeper cabin (4-berth, lockable, with oxygen and UV protection).Accommodation: Overnight train
Day 5: Arrive in Lhasa (3650m) (-)
Arrive at Lhasa Railway Station (18:26). Meet and transfer to your hotel.Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.Accommodation: Lhasa (3 nights)
Day 6: Lhasa Half-Day City Tour (B)
Morning rest for acclimatization.Afternoon visit to Norbulingka Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site, former summer residence of the Dalai Lama) and Sera Monastery (observe lively Monk Debates at 15:30–17:00, Mon–Sat).
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 7: Lhasa City Tour (B)
Breakfast at hotel.
Explore Lhasa's iconic sites including the majestic Potala Palace, sacred Jokhang Temple, and bustling Barkhor Street—a perfect blend of spiritual heritage and local culture.Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 8: Lhasa → Gyantze (4040m) (B)
Breakfast and check out.
Scenic drive to Gyantze with photo stops at stunning Yamdrok Lake and the Karola Glacier. Visit the historic Pelkor Monastery, known for its unique architectural style.Accommodation: Gyantze
Day 9: Gyantze → Shigatse (3900m) (B)
Breakfast and check out.
Continue to Shigatse. Visit the impressive Tashilunpo Monastery and explore the vibrant local market offering traditional crafts and daily goods.Accommodation: Shigatse
Day 10: Shigatse → Shanghai (B)
Breakfast and check out.
Transfer to Shigatse Airport or Lhasa Gongga Airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, meet and transfer to your hotel for check-in.Accommodation: Shanghai (2 nights)
Day 11: shanghai city tour (B)
Explore the vibrant city of Shanghai on a comprehensive city tour. Begin with a visit to the iconic Bund, renowned for its historic waterfront architecture and stunning skyline views. Stroll along Nanjing Road East, one of the world's busiest shopping streets, bustling with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.Next, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Wander through its serene pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, admiring the traditional architecture and exquisite landscaping.Finally, ascend the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, for unparalleled panoramic views of the city skyline. Experience the bustling metropolis from above, offering a unique perspective on Shanghai's dynamic urban landscape.Accommodation: Shanghai
Day 12: shanghai departure (B)
Hotel check out. Meet at hotel, drive to Shanghai Pudong International airport, departure flight to be informed.
Trip ends.
tour details
tour Duration
12 Days / 11 Nights
Size of group
Daily departure, min. 2 (guaranteed)
accommodation
- 11 nights including daily hotel breakfast except overnight train
- Choose your preferred class: Comfort, Deluxe, or Boutique
- Featured Meals: 1 Welcome Dinner featuring Peking Duck.
- Happy to arrange more culinary experiences upon request.
Internal transport
- Overnight Train (Soft-sleeper Class): Xining → Lhasa
- Domestic Flight (Economy Class): Shigatse or Lhasa → Shanghai
- Transfers: All airport and train station to hotel round-trip transfers by private vehicle.
sightseeing
- All mentioned tours, excursions, and river cruises.
- Includes: All first-entry admission tickets to sights.
- Tibet Entry Permit and application
- Guide Service: Professional local English-speaking guide service in each city.
- Spanish, Italian, and German-speaking guides available in Beijing and Shanghai upon request (may require an additional fee).
TRAVEL MOMENTS
.jpeg)
General Information
Altitude Preparation is Essential
Tibet’s high elevation (Lhasa: 3,650m | Gyantze: 4,040m) requires careful acclimatization. Allow time to adjust, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion upon arrival. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway includes onboard oxygen, but travelers with heart or respiratory issues should consult a doctor.
Permits and Logistics
Traveling to Tibet requires special permits arranged through registered tour operators. Independent travel is not permitted—everything must be pre-organized, including guides, transportation, and accommodations. Plan ahead and work with a licensed agency.
Major Cultural and Climatic Contrasts
This journey spans vastly different regions:
Beijing: Imperial history, bustling capital vibe
Tibet: Buddhist culture, high-altitude landscapes, monasteries
Shanghai: Ultra-modern skyline, cosmopolitan energy
Pack accordingly - layered clothing for variable climates, sun protection for Tibet, and comfortable walking shoes throughout.
ready to explore asia your way?
Tell us a bit about yourself — and we’ll help you craft the perfect journey.
By submitting your information, you are granting us permission to email you.
You may unsubscribe at any time.