7 Days Xining and Lhasa Tour by Qinghai Tibet Railway

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Xining Arrival

   Welcome to Xining! Upon arrival, the local driver will escort you to the hotel. After check-in, you can have a rest or wander around the hotel.

   Meal: Dinner

   Accommodation: Sofitel Xining

2. Day 2: Xining to Qinghai Lake Tour
   Immerse Yourself in the Peaceful Lake View

   In the morning, the guide and driver will take you to Qinghai Lake, the largest inland saltwater lake in China. And on the way, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Tibetan Plateau.

   The views of Qinghai Lake are different in all seasons. Take a leisurely walk along the shores of the crystal lake and enjoy the tranquil scenery. Also take a boat ride to admire the stunning views of Qinghai Lake and the surrounding mountains. Qinghai Lake is also the habitat of many birds, so you can explore many rare wildlife.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: Sofitel Xining

   

3. Day 3: Xining to Lhasa Tour
   Discover Splendid Tibetan Culture and History

   After breakfast, continue your tour in Xining from the Great Tangka of Tibetan Art and Culture of China. This is an exquisite collection of Tibetan art and cultural relics. Here learn about the ethnic and religious culture of the Tibetan people and appreciate the colorful artworks.

   

   Later take a car tour of Xining’ s urban area to explore some of the city’s famous attractions.

   In the late afternoon, you will take the train from Xining to Lhasa. This train tour is the highlight of any Tibet tours as it allows you to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of the plateau. Along the way, you will marvel at the magnificent mountains, vast grasslands and sparkling lakes.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: On the Train

4. Day 4: Lhasa Arrival
   A Wonderful Qinghai Tibet Railway Journey

   Today you will spend most of your time on the train, but you will marvel at the scenery along the way. Pass through the stunning scenery of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers and sparkling lakes. Take the train over the Tanggula Mountain range, the highest railroad pass in the world. And cross the Qiangtang Grasslands where you can find endless grasslands and vibrant animals. As you approach Lhasa, you will see the majestic Potala Palace towering over the city’s skyline.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: Shangri-la Hotel Lhasa

   

5. Day 5: Lhasa Temple Tour
   Magnificent Religious Architecture and Monk Debating

   Today’s tour of Lhasa will begin at Norbulingka Summer Palace, a summer residence of the Dalai Lamas for centuries. Many species of rare plants can be observed. And the buildings are colored in red and gold, reflecting the Tibetan style. There are also various Buddhist stone carvings and religious artifacts, allowing you to experience the splendid religion and history.

   Next move to Sera Monastery, one of the three major temples in Lhasa. Admire the grand palace as well as a large number of scriptures, statues, Thangka, and other treasures. Also witness the monks’ daily debating, which is a fascinating aspect of Tibetan Buddhism.

   

   In the evening, you can climb up the observation deck of Yaowang Mountain to enjoy a stunning night view of the Potala Palace. The palace shines brightly under the lights and you can take great photos.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: Shangri-la Hotel Lhasa

6. Day 6: Lhasa City Tour
   Marvel at Historical Sites and Sacred Religious Culture

   After breakfast, continue your Lhasa tour from the iconic Potala Palace. The main building is organized into two parts, displaying the essence of Tibetan architectural art. Here marvel at the majestic halls, pagodas and scripture halls. Also admire the exquisite murals, magnificent Buddha statues, and precious artifacts. And you can climb to the top of the Potala Palace for a great view of Lhasa city.

   

   Afterwards move to the Jokhang Temple, a famous Tibetan Buddhist holy land and center. Visit the brilliant architecture that combines Han and Tibetan styles. Appreciate the precious cultural relics, such as the 1,000-meter-long Tibetan murals and two Ming Dynasty Thangka. You will also see local Tibetans chanting scriptures in front of the temple, immersing in the devout atmosphere.

   From the Jokhang Temple, you will come to Barkhor Street, the oldest business street in Lhasa. Stroll through the streets to experience the folklore of Tibet and learn about the local life. And buy some exquisite handicrafts including Thangka, jewelry and Tibetan costumes. Also taste some local drinks, such as qing ke beer and buttered tea.

   Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Accommodation: Shangri-la Hotel Lhasa

   

7. Day 7: Lhasa Departure

   The private 7-day China tour to Xining and Lhasa will end today. You will be escorted to Lhasa Kongga International Airport for your departure flight.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A