Railways to the Roof of the World

Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an

Welcome to the Ancient Imperial Capital

Arrival in Xi'an
Transfer to the hotel
Welcome dinner
Evening stroll through the Muslim Quarter
Admire the illuminated Ancient City Wall at night

Arrive in Xi'an, one of China's most fascinating ancient capitals and the starting point of the legendary Silk Road. After checking into your hotel, enjoy your first impressions of this vibrant city, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern life. In the evening, take a stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter and sample some of the region's famous local specialties.

Day 2: Xi'an

Terracotta Warriors and the Tang Dynasty

Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army
Explore the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Walk along the Ancient City Wall
Discover the vibrant Muslim Quarter
Free evening at leisure

Overnight in Xi'an

Today, discover the highlights of Xi'an, beginning with the world-famous Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological finds of all time. Continue to the elegant Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and explore the impressive Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved fortifications in China. The day offers a fascinating journey into the glory of China's imperial past.

Day 3: High-Speed Train to Xining

On the Rails to Qinghai

Travel by high-speed train from Xi'an to Xining
Journey time: approximately 3.5–4 hours

In the afternoon:

Visit the Dongguan Mosque
Stroll through the historic old town
Explore the lively night market

Overnight in Xining

Board one of China's modern high-speed trains and travel westward to Xining, the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as bustling cities gradually give way to wide open spaces and distant mountain ranges. Upon arrival, explore the city's unique blend of Chinese, Tibetan and Muslim cultures, reflected in its markets, architecture and cuisine.

Day 4: Xining

Gateway to the Tibetan Plateau

In the morning:

Visit the renowned Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Monastery)
Gain fascinating insights into Tibetan Buddhism and local traditions

In the afternoon:

Free time to explore Xining at your own pace
Preparation for the upcoming rail journey

In the evening:

Board the Soft Sleeper compartment of the legendary Qinghai–Tibet Railway
Departure for Lhasa in the evening

Overnight on board the train

Spend the day exploring Xining and its rich cultural heritage. Visit the renowned Kumbum Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside Tibet, and gain fascinating insights into local traditions and beliefs. In the evening, board the legendary Tibet Railway and settle into your comfortable soft-sleeper compartment for one of the world's most remarkable train journeys.

Day 5: The Great Tibet Railway

Across the Roof of the World

Spend the entire day on board one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys as the train crosses the vast Tibetan Plateau.

Highlights along the route include:

The majestic Kunlun Mountains
Crossing the Tanggula Pass, one of the highest railway passes on Earth
Crystal-clear alpine lakes
Grazing yak herds
Endless grasslands stretching to the horizon

This unforgettable rail journey is the true highlight of the tour, offering breathtaking scenery and a unique glimpse into the remote landscapes of Tibet.

Arrival in Lhasa in the evening. Overnight in Lhasa.

Wake up to breathtaking views as the train traverses the vast Tibetan Plateau. Snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, endless grasslands and grazing yak herds create an unforgettable panorama outside your window. This extraordinary rail journey reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters and offers a unique perspective on some of the most remote landscapes on Earth. Arrival in Lhasa is scheduled for the evening.

Day 6: Lhasa

In the Heart of Tibet

Visit the magnificent Potala Palace
Explore the sacred Jokhang Temple
Walk along the famous Barkhor Pilgrimage Circuit
Free time for independent exploration

Overnight in Lhasa.

Discover the spiritual heart of Tibet as you explore the enchanting city of Lhasa. Visit the magnificent Potala Palace, dramatically perched above the city, and experience the vibrant atmosphere around the sacred Jokhang Temple and Barkhor pilgrimage circuit. Surrounded by prayer flags, incense and centuries-old traditions, you will gain a deeper understanding of Tibet's unique cultural heritage.

Day 7: Departure

Farewell to the Roof of the World

Transfer to the airport
Departure flight

After breakfast, enjoy some final moments in Lhasa before transferring to the airport. Take with you unforgettable memories of ancient cities, spectacular rail journeys and the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. Your journey may end today, but the impressions of Tibet will stay with you long after your return home.

Included services;

Transfers as specified in the itinerary, in air-conditioned vehicles typical of the country or by public transport, as per the itinerary
Sightseeing tours, including admission fees
Hotel accommodation in the specified hotels in a twin room with bath/shower and WC, including breakfast
Meals as per the program: B = Breakfast, D = Dinner
Local English-speaking tour guides as per the itinerary
High-speed train journeys in 2nd class

Recommended travel period:

July to December

Excluded services:

International flights
There is no guide included on the train
Tips for tour guides, drivers, porters, etc.
Any services not mentioned in the program
Personal expenses
China visa (under current regulations, the trip is visa-free for German, Austrian and Swiss nationals, as well as nationals of many other countries)

Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS
Image source: LCC Shanghai CITS