Tibet to Kathmandu Overland Adventure
Experience China's Legendary Silk Road in Unparalleled Comfort
Journey Overview
An Exclusive Rail Adventure Through Time
Embark on an extraordinary 12-day luxury rail journey aboard the prestigious China Silk Road Express, exploring the most iconic destinations along the ancient Silk Road. This authorized Ministry of Railway tour combines five-star comfort with unparalleled access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Beijing's Great Wall to Xi'an's Terracotta Army and the Buddhist wonders of Dunhuang.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: September 21, 2026 - Arrival in Beijing
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Beijing or similar
Meals: Dinner
Arrive in China's capital where you'll be greeted and transferred to the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing. Settle into your five-star accommodation before joining fellow travelers for an exclusive welcome reception and dinner, setting the stage for your remarkable Silk Road adventure.
Day 2: September 22, 2026 - Beijing's Great Wall
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Beijing or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your exploration at the magnificent Badaling section of the Great Wall, walking along beautifully restored battlements with breathtaking views. Enjoy leisure time to discover Beijing's blend of ancient traditions and modern vitality before experiencing a sophisticated Peking Duck dinner at a celebrated restaurant.
Day 3: September 23, 2026 - Imperial Beijing & Boarding the Silk Road Express
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Beijing's imperial heart with visits to Tiananmen Square, the sprawling Forbidden City, and the serene Summer Palace. Alternatively, explore modern landmarks including the Olympic Village and Bird's Nest Stadium. In the evening, board your luxurious private train and settle into your elegant cabin before a welcome dinner as you begin your westward journey.
Day 4: September 24, 2026 - Xi'an's Ancient Wonders
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the ancient capital of Xi'an, visiting the city walls and the historic Great Mosque blending Islamic and Chinese architecture. The highlight is the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, UNESCO-listed and often called the Eighth Wonder of the World. The day culminates with an authentic Tang Dynasty show dinner featuring traditional music and dance.
Day 5: September 25, 2026 - Scenic Rail Journey
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely day aboard the luxury train as you traverse China's diverse landscapes. Relax in the Observation Car with floor-to-ceiling windows or unwind in the Bar Lounge Car with fine wines and spirits, taking in panoramic views of the passing scenery.
Day 6: September 26, 2026 - Dunhuang's Buddhist Treasures
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Buddhist art in the "Cave of a Thousand Buddhas." Experience local folk music performances before embarking on a camel trek to the enchanting Crescent Lake, an oasis nestled among towering desert dunes.
Day 7: September 27, 2026 - Golmud & Silk Road History
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Attend an enlightening lecture on Silk Road history at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud. Choose between exploring the surreal landscape of Chaerhan Salt Lake or taking a guided tour through Golmud's vibrant city streets before returning to the train.
Day 8: September 28, 2026 - Hotan's Silk & Ancient Cities
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Hotan's Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop to witness master artisans creating intricate fabrics using time-honored techniques. Explore Yotkan Ancient City, once the heart of the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, revealing Hotan's rich legacy as a Silk Road trading nexus.
Day 9: September 29, 2026 - Kashgar's Cultural Crossroads
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Kashgar's multicultural heritage at the stunning Apak Khoja Tomb, the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. Wander through the Old Town's narrow alleys and explore Gaotai folk houses before enjoying authentic Uyghur cuisine at a local restaurant.
Day 10: September 30, 2026 - Turpan's Ancient Engineering
Accommodation: China Silk Road Express Train
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Ancient City of Gaochang, a vital Silk Road trading hub, and marvel at the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that has sustained this arid region for centuries. Visit the unique rock-carved Jiaohe Ruins before a farewell dinner aboard the train.
Day 11: October 1, 2026 - Urumqi's Vibrant Culture
Accommodation: Conrad Urumqi or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disembark in Urumqi, Xinjiang's cosmopolitan capital, for an overnight stay. Visit the Xinjiang Museum to understand the region's diverse ethnic heritage and explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, experiencing the energetic fusion of Eastern and Western cultures.
Day 12: October 2, 2026 - Departure from Urumqi
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast before transferring to Urumqi International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of China's ancient Silk Road and its extraordinary treasures.