This is a journey that will take you from the grand scale, historical riches and cultural treasures of the  Chinese capital to the mystical Buddhist kingdom of Tibet via a mammoth journey across “the roof the world” on the highest passenger railway line on the planet.  Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall of China before travelling for more than 40 hours across spectacular landscapes of snow-capped mountain peaks and rugged terrain and your arrival into Lhasa – the capital of Tibet and an intoxicating, captivating world of palaces, temples and timeless traditions, all immersed in the Buddhist way of life.

Trip Overview

Day 1 – Beijing/Lhasa

Car and guide will pick you up from your hotel at 17:00 and transfer you directly to  Beijing West Station where you'll board the Tibet bound train. This unique, 45-hour journey will carry you across the "roof of the world." Due to the high elevation (portions of your ride include travel at altitudes hovering around 16,000 feet) your railcar's air is enriched with additional oxygen - a unique amenity of this fascinating rail journey. Though cabin availabilities may vary, sleeping accommodations aboard the train generally include semi-private, quad-occupancy cabins. Restroom facilities are provided within each car.

Day 2 – Aboard the Train

From the windows of your train you'll see the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the Kunlun Mountains. Outside those windows lies some of the world's harshest environments: high, arid, salty plateaus with sparse vegetation. Yet the views are spectacular!  You'll travel across miles and miles of Northern Tibet Grass land, through the Kekexili Nature Preserve - home to just 16 mammal species and 30 bird species. All are acclimated to the dry, cold, high-altitude climate. Here roam snow leopards, yaks, Tibet antelope and wild donkeys. Golden eagles soar above.  Today's journey carries you over the Tanggula Pass - traveling along the world's highest passenger railway tracks (elevation - 16,649 ft. or 5072m). 

Day 3 – Lhasa

Evening arrival into Lhasa Railway Station. You will be met by your guide and transferred to the three-star House of Shambala for a three-night stay.  The rest of the evening is at leisure for acclimatisation or to explore and get your bearings.

Day 4  – Lhasa

Morning visit to Lhasa’s iconic landmark, the Potala Palace – dating back to the seventh century, it is magnificent from a distance, impressive close-up and a dominating sight of the city. After lunch you will visit Sera Monastery - the site is famous for the “monk debates” on the teachings of Buddha.

Day 5 – Lhasa

Morning exploring the most revered religious structure in Tibet – the Jokhang Temple (“Buddha’s House”) and the surrounding market of Barkhor. In the afternoon you will visit Norbulingkha, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama.

Day  6 – Lhasa/Departure

After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport or railway station where the service we have provided will come to an end.