Tibetan Railroad
16 nights / 17 days
Fully Guided
All Available Dates - Call 01 2366852 To Book Now
21 Aug 2026
04 Sep 2026
09 Oct 2026
10 Apr 2027
08 May 2027
22 May 2027
21 Aug 2027
04 Sep 2027
09 Oct 2027
08 Apr 2028
06 May 2028
20 May 2028
19 Aug 2028
02 Sep 2028
07 Oct 2028
All aboard the world's highest railway as you travel from Xining in western China, up and over the 5,072-meter Tanggula Pass, across the stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau to the sacred city of Lhasa. An incredible feat of engineering that passes spectacular lakes and mountains, crossing huge plains and permafrost at the "roof of the world", the Qinghai-Tibet Railway puts you right in the heart of Tibet's gigantic landscapes.Immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime expedition through Tibet's rich past and vibrant present. Experience three incredible rail journeys, explore the palaces, temples, and monasteries of Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyantse, stay overnight at Mt Everest Base Camp, and savour tasty local cuisine.
B Breakfast Included
L Lunch Included
D Dinner Included
Day 1 - Fly overnight to Xian
Fly overnight to Xian, the ancient former capital. You will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 2 - Fly overnight to Xian
Fly overnight to Xian, the ancient former capital. You will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 3 - Terracotta Warriors
After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. Visit the workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts and stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town. In the evening, enjoy a dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show.
Day 4 - Bullet Train to Xining
Transfer to the train station to board the 5-hour bullet train to Xining, the capital city of Qinghai province in western China. Head to the Qinghai Tibetan Cultural Centre to see the impressive 618-metre-long hand-painted thangka (a traditional Tibetan Buddhist painting) and the largest display in the world.
Day 5 - Overnight Train to Lhasa
Spend the morning exploring the sacred Kumbum Monastery, also known as Ta'er Temple. Later transfer to the railway station to embark on one of the most adventurous rail journeys of all, the 21-hour overnight train to Lhasa onboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Please refer to the Detailed Tour Itinerary for further information on this rail journey, facilities onboard and managing Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Day 6 - Arrive Lhasa
Traverse the 5,072 metre Tanggula Pass and across the stark beauty of the Tibetan Plateau to the 'roof of the world', Lhasa. Watch from your window as you cross huge plains and permafrost and pass spectacular lakes, mountains and wildlife. Whether you prefer to unwind with a book, engage in a game of cards, or enjoy a meal in the dining carriage, there's ample opportunity to relax during this scenic rail journey. Arrive in Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet, in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude.
Day 7 - Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Circuit
Lhasa is a modern city growing fast, but among the old streets at its heart, you will feel a million miles from today's world. Wander around the Barkhor Circuit with traditionally dressed locals and prostrating pilgrims before entering the Jokhang Temple. Inside, the devotion is palpable as queues of people worship in the flickering light of yak butter candles. Continue to the great monastery of Sera, where you'll see a famous monk debate. This evening, enjoy a tasty Tibetan dinner and dance performance.
Day 8 - Potala Palace
Visit the magnificent Potala Palace, the world's largest monastery and the seat of the Dalai Lama. Then, visit Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, set in parkland just outside of the city.
Day 9 - Train to Shigatse
Travel across Tibet's stark plains to Shigatse. Dominated by a fort reminiscent of the Potala, this is Tibet's second city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Enjoy some free time to explore the local markets.
Day 10 - Shigatse
Visit Shalu and Tashilhunpo Monastery, which was founded in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama. Join the pilgrims on their ‘kora' – a circumambulation of the sacred building.
Day 11 - Mt Everest Base Camp
Rise early to drive through incredible Himalayan scenery to Rongbuk Township. Here, with Mount Everest (called Qomolangma in Tibetan) dominating the horizon, you can stop by the world's highest post office and the Everest Base Camp Boundary Monument. Situated under the gaze of the mountain's north face, the views of the world's highest peak are unsurpassed (weather permitting). Stay overnight in a simple Tibetan guesthouse at Mount Everest Base Camp.
Day 12 - Sunrise over Everest
Get up at dawn to see the most glorious sunrise over Everest (weather permitting). Return to Shigatse, via the Tso La Pass and Gyatso La Pass for awe-inspiring views.
Day 13 - Gyantse
Travel to the charming town of Gyantse, where you'll visit the Kumbum and the Tsang Traditional Folk House to see a traditional kitchen and taste some local snacks and homebrewed ‘chang'.
Day 14 - Tsedang
Travel along the Yarlung Zangbo River to Tsedang. Visit Gangpo Ri, where legend tells the Tibetan people were born.
Day 15 - Yumbulhakang Palace
Perched on a hill over the Yarlung River, the ancient Yumbulhakang Palace is said to have been the first building in Tibet and the palace of the first Tibetan king. Continue to Tradruk Monastery and the King's Tomb. Return to Lhasa.
Day 16 - Chengdu
Fly to Chengdu, transferring to your hotel on arrival. The rest of the day will be at leisure for you to relax or explore, with a farewell dinner this evening.
Day 17 - Depart Chengdu
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
Call 01 2366852 To Book Now
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