Days 1-7
China Private Journey

Days 1-7 follow the China Private Journey itinerary

Day 8
Lhasa, Tibet (11,830')

Transfer to Guiyang for your flight to Lhasa, Tibet, via Chengdu. On arrival at Gongkar, the airstrip that serves Lhasa, you are met by your guide for the transfer to Lhasa. The afternoon is free to rest at your hotel and adjust to the altitude.

Day 9
Pabongka Monastery / Sera Monastery / Norbulingka / Jokhang

In the morning, head to the ancient and little-visited Pabongka Monastery and walk up to the Tashi Choling hermitage for fantastic views of the Lhasa Valley. Afterwards, explore celebrated Sera Monastery, an important spiritual center. Five thousand monks once practiced at this grand complex; today there are a few hundred, and in Sera’s courtyard, you may see them practicing their oratory skills in spirited debates on the interpretation of scripture. Back in Lhasa, end the day with a guided visit to Norbulingka (“Jewel Park”), the official summer residence for the Dalai Lamas and their families since the mid-18th century. You can also visit the atmospheric Jokhang Temple, the most sacred in Tibet.

Day 10
Potala Palace / Drepung Monastery

Explore Tibet’s colossal Potala Palace, a striking thousand-room monument that dominates the Lhasa skyline. From the roofs of the Potala, the view over Lhasa is unforgettable. In the afternoon, head to Drepung Monastery, a former Buddhist university cradled among rock ridges. The kora (pilgrim trail circling a sacred place) around Drepung offers a panoramic one-hour walk with views of the Lhasa Valley and the monastery grounds.

Day 11
Beijing

After a morning of independent exploration, transfer to the airport and fly to Beijing and continue with the remainder of your journey.

Days 12-14
Continue China Private Journey

Days 12-14 follow Days 8-10 of the China Private Journey itinerary.

Extension Costs

Prices are for 2012
$1595 per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $395
Internal airfare: $1145 (subject to change)

All costs subject to change