Tibet & West China – from the megacity to the roof of the world

Nine million bicycles, a 3000-year old history and endless impressions await you in the city of Beijing. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel, the Aman Summer Palace where you have the flexibility to either soak in the countryside peace or to jump in and experience the hustle and bustle of this mega-city - the day is yours!

Overnight at the graceful Aman Summer Palace.

China's past is clearly reflected in one of the most imposing structures of all time - the Great Wall. This endless landmark of sheer human will was built to keep out plundering nomads and extends for thousands of miles on end across changing landscapes. In this historical setting you will enjoy a glass of chilled champagne and marvel at the view before you; you will in the course of the day explore the Forbidden City and walk across Tiananmen Square. The square is arguably the largest public square in the world and despite its historic past, it is a much-visited place among the locals. Try the famous Peking duck this evening!

Overnight at the graceful Aman Summer Palace.

Early this morning, you will board an airplane and head off to the Lijiang. Upon arrival, you will be chauffeured to your luxurious hotel, the Banyan Tree Lijiang. Make the best of the rest of the afternoon and indulge in soothing spa treatments, or take an easy hike in the beautiful surroundings or even a small bike tour through the village. Lijiang is a beautiful, traditional town at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains - a massive mountain range whose highest peak stands at 5,596 meters high. The landscape is mesmerizing.

Overnight at the exceedingly charming Banyan Tree Lijiang.

This morning you will be schooled in the art of Tai Chi by your very own private instructor on the grounds of the serene Heilongtan or the Black Dragon Pool Park. This peaceful space is adorned with fresh water springs, ponds and lovingly tended gardens.  

Later in the day visit The Dongba Museum, one that offers a fascinating insight into the religious traditions of the Naxi people, an ethnic minority whose cultural center is Lijiang. "Dongba" is a system of pictographic glyphs used by the Naxis. Learn how to draw these pictograms together with a shaman today.

On the programme next and worth visiting is Baisha, the former center of Naxi culture. Meet the famous Dr. Ho, who has a clinic here treating people from all over the world using plant based healing techniques. Dr. Ho has had quite an eventful life behind him. Explore Baisha's old town and its cultural highlights before returning to your luxury retreat after having had an impressive day.

Overnight at the exceedingly charming Banyan Tree Lijiang.

Venture into the hustle and bustle of Lijiang's old quarter this morning. The first impressions on the cobblestone lanes may be that of confusion. But be rest assured all lanes lead to the marketplace situated in the heart of the city. There you will find all the essence of a daily market with its food stalls, local handicrafts and fresh farm produce. You will have a moment of reflection while taking part in a traditional tea ceremony at a tea house.

This afternoon has been set aside for a truly spectacular performance called "Impressions of Lijiang". Close to 500 members from ten different ethnic groups from the region dance, sing and showcase their lives and their work in the backdrop of the gigantic snow-capped mountain peaks. Later, at Fuguo Monastery you will have an opportunity to interact young lamas or monks.

Overnight at the exceedingly charming Banyan Tree Lijiang.

You move on to the next leg of your journey by car to Shangri-La, previously known as Zhongdian. This drive is a spectacular one and includes the "Great Bend of the Yangtze" and the charismatic Shigu village as part of the panoramic scenery. Follow the Yangtze to the Tiger Spring Gorge and get your camera ready! The canyon is about 46 km long and the steep rock face rise up to 3,000 meters high - a dramatic and phenomenal sight. Explore the gorge for a while on foot. Shortly afterwards you will be driven to your hotel in Shangri-La.

Overnight at the picturesque Banyan Tree Ringha.

Established by the 5th Dalai Lama in the 17th century, the Ganden Songtsenling Monastery was an influential religious center. It was completely destroyed in the 1960s and later rebuilt in 1983. Since its reestablishment Buddhist monks have lived, studied and prayed here and today you will have an opportunity to meditate with them and to participate in a blessing.

In Ringha, visit a Tibetan family and learn how butter tea is made and of course you are welcome to try the national drink of the Tibetans. Stroll through the old town, visit galleries and see the largest prayer wheel in the world. Treat yourself this evening to a traditional hot pot meal.

Overnight at the picturesque Banyan Tree Ringha.

This morning board your flight to the capital of Tibet - Lhasa. The flight over the snow-capped mountain peaks is a breathtaking experience and one you will never forget. You will on arrival be taken to your luxurious hideaway where you must acclimatize, hydrate and rest for the remainder of the day. Remember you are now at an altitude of 4,200 meters.

Overnight at the elegant Shangri-La Lhasa.

The Ani Tsankhung Monastery is one of two monasteries in Tibet that are run by nuns. It is a true oasis of peace in this bustling city and you are permitted to listen to the nuns' chanting ceremony.

The Jokhang Temple in the middle of the old city is the most important temple in Tibet and the Sakyamuni Buddha Statue which is to be found inside draws Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. Around the Jokhang Temple is the 800m long Barkhor, the sacred path of transformation with Tibetan arts and crafts on both sides.

The afternoon you will visit the Sera Monastery which is one of the six Great Monasteries of Tibet. You will have the honor of seeing Buddhist monks debate which is a truly fascinating spectacle to behold.

Overnight at the elegant Shangri-La Lhasa.

The excursion this morning brings you south of Lhasa to the rock carvings of Sanggye Dhunghor, a masterwork comprising of a gigantic rock adorned with hundreds of Buddha carvings. Locals come here every morning for prayer and offerings. A visit to Lhasa is no visit at all without you seeing the Potala Palace. The magnificent Potala was the seat of government and the official residence of the Dalai Lamas until the exile of the current Dalai Lama in 1959. The impressive, temple-like building sits on a hill and has beautiful gardens, historic paintings and inscriptions adorning the palace walls. Spend the evening in the company of a Tibetan family and enjoy the local cuisine before leaving this multifaceted land.