The Roof of the World & Beyond: Imperial Capitals, Sacred Tibet & Sichuan Wonders
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime, 13-night spiritual and cultural odyssey through China’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Journey from the grand imperial palaces of Beijing and the ancient tomb of the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, to the breathtaking high-altitude monasteries of Lhasa, Tibet. From there, descend into Sichuan to meet giant pandas in Chengdu, scale the sacred slopes of Mount Emei, and explore the futuristic, cliffside metropolis of Chongqing.
With round-trip flights from Los Angeles, all internal rail and flights, and full Tibet travel permit processing included, this escorted package offers a completely seamless way to check off your ultimate bucket-list destinations.
Not Included: Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Today you will fly internationally from the United States to Beijing, China. When you land, our local tour guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you straight to your hotel for check-in.
After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square — one of the world's largest public city plazas. Next, explore the Forbidden City, the royal imperial palace commissioned by the Ming Dynasty's Yongle Emperor. Construction took place between 1406 and 1420. Over hundreds of years, the palace complex endured fires, looting, reconstruction and major renovations. Most buildings standing today date back to the 1700s and later.
After breakfast, stop at a jade culture museum to learn about China's 4,000-year jade tradition (the stone is pronounced 'yu' in Mandarin). Watch skilled master craftsmen carve intricate jade art live on-site. We''ll then drive through rural mountain terrain to Juyongguan Pass, a well-preserved, less crowded section of the Great Wall far away from overcrowded mainstream tourist stretches. Stretching more than 5,600 km (3,480 miles) across northern mountain ranges, the wall runs from the Yellow Sea coastline all the way to the edge of the Gobi Desert. In the evening, you can sign up for a paid rickshaw hutong tour paired with a homemade local dinner.
After breakfast, visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) wellness center to learn about acupuncture, herbal remedies and other core ancient Chinese healing therapies. You will travel to Xi'an via high-speed rail; if train tickets sell out, a domestic flight will be arranged as a backup. Upon arrival, a local tour guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. High-speed train tickets are subject to real-time availability. If fully booked, domestic air travel will be provided as an alternative. Train or flight documents will be handed to you by your guide once you arrive in China; some domestic flight segments may be linked to your international air ticket. You must submit full passport information at least 60 days before departure, or you may be separated from your travel companions on the train. High-speed train cars alternate between 2-seat and 3-seat rows, so we cannot guarantee adjacent seating for your travel group. The order of all Beijing attractions (Days 2-4) can be rearranged based on daily operation schedules.
Today's unmissable highlight is the Museum of the Terracotta Army. Unearthed outside Xi'an, thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, chariots and horses rank among humanity's greatest archaeological wonders. Every warrior features unique facial features and custom weaponry, crafted to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang into the afterlife. This excavation site is one of the most pivotal archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, and the massive scale of the underground army will leave you amazed. We will also stop at a terracotta replica workshop on the way to the museum. After sightseeing, head back to your hotel for free leisure time, or join an optional evening excursion.
This morning, transfer to Xi'an Airport for your flight to Lhasa, the heart of Xizang. The rest of your day is free to rest and slowly acclimate to the high altitude. Many parts of this trip reach elevations above 3,500 m (11,483 ft). Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and shortness of breath. Oxygen tanks are available for rent at an extra cost if you need relief from altitude discomfort. All overseas visitors require a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) to enter Lhasa and surrounding areas. This permit is included in your booking package. You must submit a clear copy of your passport photo page to us no later than 90 days before your departure date so we can process your permit on your behalf. While traveling in Xizang, you must follow the arranged group itinerary and cannot travel independently off the planned route.
Lhasa blends modern urban development with ancient Tibetan culture. Its old town narrow lanes transport visitors far from contemporary city life. This morning, visit the Potala Palace, Xizang's most iconic landmark and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas (1649–1959). You will climb 365 stone steps up to the Red Palace section, standing at 3,700 m (12,139 ft) above sea level — the highest ancient palace on Earth — for sweeping panoramic views across Lhasa. The Potala Palace involves a steep multi-story climb with hundreds of steps at high altitude. Take frequent rest breaks as needed. If you do not wish to climb the stairs, you may wait at the palace entrance while the rest of the group explores the upper sections. Inside the palace, you will admire intricate murals, delicate stone carvings, jewel-encrusted shrines and sacred tombs of past Dalai Lamas, surrounded by a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Countless Tibetan pilgrims come here to bow and pray, making this a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience. Later, stroll the circular Barkhor Street circuit, lined with locals in traditional Tibetan dress, religious souvenir stalls and pilgrims performing full-body prostrations. We will also visit Jokhang Temple, where devout worshippers gather beside flickering yak butter candles.
This morning we travel out of Lhasa to visit Yamdrok Lake, one of Xizang's four sacred lakes. The drive lasts roughly 2 hours, covering 110 km (68 miles). We will stop at Kampala Pass (4,797 m / 15,738 ft), where you can capture postcard-perfect views of the turquoise lake winding beneath snow-capped mountain peaks. Local Tibetan belief holds that Yamdrok Lake holds sacred power and aids the search for reincarnated Dalai Lamas. You may also take photos with Tibetan mastiffs, yaks and goats decorated in traditional ethnic ornaments for a small local fee. Total round-trip driving distance: approximately 220 km (137 miles). We will return to Lhasa by evening.
Transfer to Lhasa Airport for your flight to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Tonight's included dinner features authentic Sichuan hot pot, a flavorful regional cuisine with over 1,000 years of history popular all across China.
After breakfast, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Giant pandas are China's national treasure and living fossil species, counted among the world's rarest endangered mammals. This facility is the planet's exclusive professional research, breeding and exhibition center dedicated to giant pandas — an essential stop for all wildlife lovers. Next, explore Kuanzhai Alley, one of Chengdu's three core historic cultural quarters built in 1718 during the Qing Dynasty. This pedestrian street blends traditional Sichuan courtyard architecture, old teahouses, local food stalls, calligraphy studios and trendy modern cafes & boutique shops, perfectly showcasing the fusion of ancient and contemporary Chengdu life.
We drive south to Leshan after breakfast for a river cruise view of the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved into red sandstone cliffs between AD 713 and 803, this 71 m (233 ft) tall Maitreya Buddha overlooks the confluence of the Min and Dadu Rivers. After the Buddha tour, continue driving to Emeishan City, nestled at the foot of Mount Emei — the highest of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains, standing at 3,099 m (10,167 ft) above sea level. Today's driving distance: roughly 350 km (217 miles).
Spend the morning exploring breathtaking natural scenery on Mount Emei and touring Baoguo Temple, the largest and central Buddhist temple complex on the mountain, serving as the main gateway for all mountain pilgrimages. After sightseeing, drive to Chongqing, nicknamed the Mountain City. This dynamic metropolis blends ancient heritage with cutting-edge modern development. Its uniquely hilly terrain creates a one-of-a-kind urban quirk: walking out of a building's ground-floor entrance can lead you to the 22nd level of another street built higher up the slope.
After breakfast, walk outside the Great Hall of the People — one of Asia's top 10 classical 20th-century architectural landmarks. Next, head to Liziba Monorail Station to witness the viral light rail that travels straight through a residential apartment building, a globally famous social media attraction. Later wander Hongya Cave, a stacked complex built in traditional stilt-house architecture full of boutique shops and local eateries. The afternoon is yours for independent exploration or optional paid excursions.
You will be transferred to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to board your return international flight back to the United States.
Discover the harmony of nature and imperial history at the spectacular Summer Palace, a world-famous UNESCO garden of stunning lakes and historic temples. Next, head to the Beijing Zoo for a close-up look at China’s beloved giant pandas. Wrap up your afternoon with a wonderful dinner featuring authentic Beijing flavors.
Explore the hidden heart of old Beijing! Ride a traditional pedicab through the ancient Hutong alleys, and visit a local courtyard home for a warm, home-cooked dinner and cultural exchange. Conclude your tour in Shichahai, a gorgeous district of three historic lakes surrounded by traditional residences and scenic views.
Experience the grandeur of China’s most glorious era! Indulge in an exquisite 6-course Imperial dinner set to traditional Chang’an music, followed by a legendary cultural show featuring breathtaking ancient court dances and brilliant state-of-the-art staging.
Experience the ultimate night out in Tibet! Savor a flavorful, authentic Nepalese dinner before heading to a massive outdoor theater for the Princess Wencheng Show—a world-class theatrical masterpiece featuring nearly 1,000 actors, live livestock, and stunning high-tech effects on a mountain-backed stage. Cap off the night with a panoramic photo stop at the brilliantly illuminated Potala Palace.
Discover the dual souls of Chongqing in one afternoon! Start at Ciqikou Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved Ming-era porcelain harbor filled with traditional teahouses and local snacks. Next, dive into the bustling energy of Jiefangbei CBD, the city’s neon-lit modern heart surrounding the People’s Liberation Monument. Conclude your tour at Kuixing Pavilion, a 200-year-old historic landmark offering a perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern city views.
Experience Chongqing’s signature night view from the water! This scenic cruise glides along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, offering front-row seats to the city’s glittering, mountain-carved skyline. Wind down your evening with a visit to a hidden local hotspot, boasting the most spectacular, panoramic night views of the entire city.
We carefully select each hotel based on overall quality, location, service, and cleanliness. Hotels are subject to availability and may vary by departure date.
All travel packages we provide are customised travel combinations including flights, accommodation, ground transfers, sightseeing and other arranged services. Each booking is tailor-made based on your selected travel date, destination, cabin & room preferences and add-on tour services. No independent use of single component from the whole package is allowed.
Our website does not support online payment. All booking deposits and full payments will be coordinated with you via our official email after our customer service confirms your travel quotation. Please contact our team to arrange payment once you confirm your travel plan.
A non-refundable deposit equal to 10% of the total tour cost is required upon booking to secure your reservation. The full outstanding balance must be fully settled 30 days prior to your scheduled departure date. If you make your booking less than 30 days before departure, full payment of the entire package price is due immediately at confirmation. Failure to complete payment by the stated deadline will result in automatic cancellation of your booking with deposit forfeited. Please contact our team via official email to arrange payment once you confirm your travel plan.
Please contact our customer service if you wish to request advance seat assignments. Some airlines do not support pre-seating, and seats will only be allocated upon airport check-in. Airlines reserve the right to adjust assigned seats. Pre-selected seats may be changed or cancelled due to schedule adjustments, equipment swaps or other operational reasons. Preferred paid seats must be purchased directly from the airline. If you modify your seat selection directly via the airline, such updates will not be reflected on our travel documents. The seats shown on your final travel documents are based on records in the airline’s reservation system at the time of document issuance.
Passengers are responsible to contact their airline directly regarding mileage eligibility and accrual. Airline frequent flier programs determine whether to award miles in part or total based on their own rules which are updated frequently. Some discounted or promotional airfares as well as some code-share flights are not eligible for mileage accrual. Not all published airfares are eligible for mileage.
We will record frequent flier numbers when provided by the passenger prior to travel documents being issued. However, the addition of frequent flier numbers to airline records does not guarantee mileage eligibility which is at the sole discretion of each airline. Airline schedule changes may result in flights which were originally eligible for mileage accrual no longer being eligible.
We highly recommend passengers to provide their frequent flier account information whenever checking in online and/or at the airport check-in desk. After travel has commenced, it is often not possible to apply for frequent mileage credit. Passengers are also responsible to determine whether previously earned mileage may be applied to flights to secure upgrades.
If you have a KTN number, you are normally able to join the TSA security line for expedited processing at the airport. Prior to check in, you should go online or call your airline and add your KTN number to your reservation record. In most cases, you will then see the letters “TSA PRE” printed on your boarding pass. If these letters are not printed, you will not be permitted on the TSA line. Please be aware that some airlines do not participate in the program and therefore even if there is a TSA line at the airport, you will not be given TSA PRE status. Sometimes you may not be selected by TSA (even if you entered a KTN number) and even a minor name discrepancy can result in TSA PRE being denied. It is your responsibility to register your KTN number with your airline and Portaltrip cannot be held responsible for denial of expedited security. Note: KTNs are issued by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) after completing a background check through TSA’s PreCheck® program. Global Entry members may also enjoy expedited customs processing.
Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately.
Missed connections and lost luggage are more common than ever. We strongly suggest you use your carry on bag for those necessities you would miss if your checked bags went astray. Items to consider, but not limited to, are prescription medicines, eyeglasses, a change of clothes, mobile phone and charger, valuables (including jewelry and cash), passport, keys, insurance cards, local contact information. Refer to the TSA website for a complete list of items and their sizes which may be carried on board. We also recommend you bring a change of clothes in your carry on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost.
All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg).
China – Intra-China flights have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person, and 11 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of carry-on luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, passengers may carry no more than two portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) onboard. Each charger must bear the “CCC” mark (China Compulsory Certificate); chargers without this mark are not permitted. Chargers with a capacity between 100 and 160 Wh require airline approval. All electronic devices, as well as lithium or alkaline batteries, must be packed in carry-on baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on baggage are subject to strict security screening requirements. Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 100 ml or less, and all containers must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Only one item per type of liquid, gel, or aerosol product is permitted in carry-on baggage. Containers larger than 100 ml are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be packed in checked luggage.
High Speed trains in China – Due to limited storage space on high-speed trains in China, only one piece of luggage (44 lbs / 20 kg) and one carry-on per passenger is permitted onboard for personal belongings. At some train stations, passengers are required to load and unload their own luggage. Passengers may carry no more than two portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) onboard. All electronic devices, as well as lithium or alkaline batteries, must be packed in carry-on baggage. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on baggage are subject to strict security screening requirements. Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 100 ml or less, and all containers must fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Only one item per type of liquid, gel, or aerosol product is permitted in carry-on baggage. Containers larger than 100 ml are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be packed in checked luggage.
Review the flight itinerary included in your documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” and e-ticket numbers. Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your name and 6-digit Record Locator or Flight Ticket Number at the airline’s website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. You may check-in online, even if you plan to check luggage at the airport. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter. Paper tickets will be provided in the rare instance when e-tickets cannot be issued.
Due to increased security measures, you should plan to check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time for international flights and two hours prior for domestic flights. Many airlines do not permit check-in less than one hour prior to the scheduled departure time. It is your responsibility to arrive on time for all scheduled flights. Enhanced security procedures, including passenger screening, canine inspection, and inspection of personal electronic devices, have been implemented for all flights into the United States, and therefore security procedures may take longer than normal.
If your flight itinerary displays a flight as “Operated By” another carrier, you should check-in at the desk of the “Operated By” airline. When you arrive at the airport, check the airport monitors for updated check-in desk listings. At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport required when traveling internationally) and your e-ticket itinerary/ticket numbers to the agent. Once you’ve checked in and received your boarding passes and luggage claim tickets, proceed directly to the security check. Security lines are often backed up and can take time to get through. Once you’ve completed security check, proceed directly to your gate and check the large electronic flight screens for your flight time and departure gate for schedule and gate changes. Airport desk clerks will assist with unexpected changes. Once you are in the gate area you can relax, shop or buy a snack before your flight.
Passengers connecting from another point within the USA should check their luggage through to their final destination. Although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. When you check your luggage, please verify where your luggage is being sent. When connecting between flights in major airports, you may need to pass through multiple security checkpoints. Therefore, we recommend that you proceed immediately to the gate area for your connecting flight to avoid any unexpected delays which may cause you to be late. Passengers returning to the USA may need to collect their luggage at the first airport of entry and recheck their luggage for their connecting flight.
In the event that you miss your flight which departs as scheduled, for any reason, your airline will consider you a “no-show” and may resell your seat(s) to other customers. This will also result in the cancellation of any later flights in your itinerary. Similarly, if you voluntarily decide not to use any of the flights on your itinerary, the airline will consider you a “no show” and cancel remaining flights on your itinerary. In this case, please contact your airline immediately for assistance in getting you to your destination. Missed flights are typically fully non-refundable and you may be required to purchase new flights from the airline at your own expense.
If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, it’s the airline’s responsibility to make alternate arrangements on your behalf. Portaltrip has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed.
If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form must be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. Any cost to retrieve luggage will be your responsibility and you should retain receipts to submit to your insurance provider. You may be required to return to an airport to retrieve your luggage personally.
There are many types of Chinese visas. Choose a visa type that applies to your situation. If you are planning to go on a vacation in China, apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa).
The following list of documents is required for any China visa application:
Along with the aforementioned generally required documents, several additional documents are required depending upon the type of China visa applied for. Check out the lists of required documents from the Chinese Embassy.
The applicant will submit the prepared materials to the embassy.
Starting in 2018, visa applicants from more and more countries (including the U.S., the UK, and Canada) have to make their visa application in person and have their fingerprints collected.
The fees vary enormously depending on your nationality and number of entries. Here we listed China visa prices for some countries for your reference. It may change based on the updated policies.
| Nationality | Number of Entries | Regular Application |
|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Single Entry, Double Entries, Multiple Entries for 6 Months, Multiple Entries for 1 Year & above | USD 140 |
| UK Citizens | — | GBP 64 |
| Canada Citizens | — | CAD 100 |
| Australian Citizens | — | AUD 95–185 |
Generally, it takes about four working days to process a visa application.
When to apply for a visa: It is usually recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel.
China’s port visas are similar to the “visas on arrival” of some other countries.
Foreigners applying for port visas can either submit their applications in advance directly to the port visa authorities, or apply on-site upon arrival at Chinese ports.
To make the process smoother and avoid potential issues, it’s recommended that applicants submit their applications in advance to the port visa authorities in their intended destinations. This way, they can get preliminary approval before arriving at the ports to apply for visas.
Portaltrip is authorized to help you apply for the port visa (2+ travelers needed). You’re allowed to visit China for up to 30 days with just a US$100 visa service fee per person.
If your itinerary includes Tibet and Xinjiang, port visas are not applicable.
All visa applications cannot be guaranteed approval upon submission, as they are subject to final approval by the National Immigration Office. However, we have not yet received any disapprovals.
Both the original visa and a copy are needed when boarding your flight. Upon arrival, the immigration officer will take the copy, and when leaving China, they will collect the original.
Tipping is standard and widely expected for guided tours throughout China. We recommend a gratuity of $8 USD per guest, per day (equivalent to around 60 Chinese RMB). Though tipping is not legally required, it is a long-standing local custom to thank your tour guides, drivers, and supporting staff who deliver daily service during your trip.
You may pay tips in either US dollars or Chinese RMB directly to your local guide at the end of each destination segment. For most tour staff in China, gratuities make up a meaningful portion of their earnings.
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