22 Days Nepal-China (Tibet-Yunnan) -Laos Motorbike Tour from Gyirong to Mohan

The 22-Day Nepal-China-Laos Motorbike Tour offers an exhilarating and diverse journey through some of Asia’s most stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Beginning at the Gyirong Border in Nepal, this adventure takes riders across the Tibetan Plateau, through Yunnan Province in China, and concludes in Laos. Along the way, you’ll traverse high-altitude Tibetan terrain, explore the beautiful natural scenery of Yunnan, and experience the lush forests and unique culture of Laos.

This tour blends thrilling motorbike riding with cultural immersion, including visits to sacred sites, remote villages, and historical landmarks. From the majestic Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar to the ancient towns of Lijiang and Dali, this journey offers a unique chance to witness the diversity of Asia’s landscapes and people, while riding through tropical rainforests, Tibetan highlands, and vibrant cities.

Tour Highlights

1. Gyirong Border (吉隆口岸) – Gateway to Tibet

Begin your adventure at the Gyirong Border (吉隆口岸), where you’ll cross from Nepal into Tibet. The breathtaking Himalayas (喜马拉雅山) provide a stunning backdrop for your journey into one of the most mystical regions of the world.

2. Tibetan Plateau (西藏高原)

Explore the vast Tibetan Plateau (西藏高原), famous for its high-altitude deserts, rugged mountains, and serene landscapes. Experience the unique culture and spiritual significance of the region as you ride across the “Roof of the World.”

3. Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐山) and Lake Manasarovar (玛旁雍措)

Visit Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐山), a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpo practitioners. Nearby is Lake Manasarovar (玛旁雍措), one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes, revered by thousands of pilgrims.

4. Lhasa (拉萨)

Ride to Lhasa (拉萨), the cultural and spiritual heart of Tibet. Visit the iconic Potala Palace (布达拉宫), the Jokhang Temple (大昭寺), and stroll through Barkhor Street (八廓街), where you’ll experience daily Tibetan life.

5. Yunnan Tibet Highway (滇藏线)

Experience the famous Yunnan Tibet Highway (滇藏线), one of the most thrilling and scenic roads in China. This highway winds through remote and rugged landscapes, offering stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau and Yunnan’s diverse terrain, from high-altitude mountain passes to deep valleys and rivers. It’s one of the most challenging yet rewarding routes, often described as one of the most beautiful motorcycle routes in the world.

6. Shangri-La (香格里拉)

Discover the beauty of Shangri-La (香格里拉), a town heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Visit Sumzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺) and enjoy views of the majestic Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山).

7. Yunnan Province (云南省)

• Dali (大理): Known for its picturesque Erhai Lake (洱海), traditional Bai ethnic architecture, and the ancient town of Dali.

• Lijiang (丽江): Home to the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城) and the tranquil Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭).

• Kunming (昆明): Visit the Stone Forest (石林), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering limestone formations.

• Jianshui (建水): An ancient city famous for its historical sites such as the Confucius Temple (孔庙) and the Residence of the Zhang Family (张家大院).

8. Laos (老挝)

• Luang Prabang (琅勃拉邦): A UNESCO World Heritage city known for its well-preserved temples, colonial architecture, and tranquil atmosphere.

• Vientiane (万象): The capital city, featuring landmarks like Pha That Luang (塔銮塔) and Patuxai Arch (巴塔西塔).

• Southern Laos: Explore the 4,000 Islands in the Mekong River (湄公河) and the Bolaven Plateau (博劳温高原), known for its scenic beauty and waterfalls.

9. Mohan Border (磨憨口岸) – Exit into Laos

End your journey at the Mohan Border (磨憨口岸), where you will exit China and cross into Laos, marking the conclusion of your motorbike adventure across Tibet, Yunnan, and Laos.

Tour Destinations:
(Nepal) – Kyirong – Paiku Tso – Rongbuk Monastery / Everest – Shigatse – Gyantse – Yamdrok – Lhasa – Basum Tso – Linzhi – Baxoi – Markam – Dechen – Shangri-La – Lijiang – Dali – Kunming – Jianshui – Yuanyang – Puer – Mengla – Mohan – (Laos)

• Entrance Customs into China: Kyirong
• Exit Customs from China: Mohan
• Enter China from (Land Name): Nepal
• Leave China to (Land Name): Laos

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kyirong (吉隆)

Distance: 0 km (Rest Day)

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today. Rest day in Kyirong.

Introduction:

Your journey begins at the Kyirong Border (吉隆口岸) between Nepal and China. The transition from the lush, tropical environment of Nepal to the rugged and high-altitude landscapes of Tibet marks the start of your adventure.

Activities & Attractions:

Arrive at the Kyirong Border (吉隆口岸), where you’ll meet your Tibetan guide and complete the necessary customs formalities.

The rest of the day is for acclimatization to the high altitude of Tibet. Kyirong is situated at over 2,800 meters, so taking the time to rest will help you adjust to the thin air.

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the surroundings of Kyirong, a town that blends Tibetan culture with scenic beauty.

Accommodation:

Stay at a local guesthouse or hotel in Kyirong (吉隆).

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Day 2: Kyirong (吉隆) – Rest Day

Distance: 0 km (Rest Day)

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today. Rest day for altitude adaptation.

Introduction:

Today is a day for rest and to allow your body to adjust to the high-altitude conditions of Tibet. You are surrounded by the stunning mountain landscapes of the Kyirong Valley.

Activities & Attractions:

Take it easy, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and absorb the local Tibetan culture.

If you feel up for it, take a short walk around the town to see traditional Tibetan houses and interact with the locals.

You can also visit local monasteries to experience Tibetan spirituality and culture firsthand.

Accommodation:

Stay at the same guesthouse or hotel in Kyirong (吉隆).

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Day 3: Kyirong (吉隆) – Paiku Tso (派古措) – Rongbuk Monastery (绒布寺) / Everest (珠穆朗玛峰)

Distance: 100 km (sand road) + 290 km (asphalt road)

Riding Time: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Sand road (rough terrain) to Paiku Tso, then smooth asphalt roads to Rongbuk Monastery. The road from Kyirong to Paiku Tso can be challenging with gravel and sand, while the stretch to Rongbuk is much smoother with paved roads.

Introduction:

Prepare for an exhilarating ride as you journey from Kyirong to the foothills of Mount Everest. The high-altitude route takes you through scenic, rugged landscapes, offering some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas.

Activities & Attractions:

Start with a ride through Paiku Tso (派古措), a tranquil alpine lake nestled amidst towering mountains.

Continue your ride to Rongbuk Monastery (绒布寺), the highest monastery in the world, located at an altitude of 5,000 meters. From here, you’ll have your first clear view of Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰), the highest mountain on Earth.

The Rongbuk Monastery offers a unique Tibetan Buddhist experience and is an important stop for Everest expeditions.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight at Rongbuk Monastery (绒布寺), a simple guesthouse offering basic amenities. Enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the mighty Everest.

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Day 4: Rongbuk Monastery (绒布寺) – Shegar (New Tingri) (谢卡) – Lhatse (拉孜) – Shigatse (日喀则)

Distance: Approx. 390 km

Riding Time: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Sand road between Rongbuk and Shegar, followed by asphalt roads to Shigatse. Expect some rough stretches near Shegar.

Introduction:

This leg of your journey brings you through the heart of Tibet, passing through small towns and Tibetan villages, and offering magnificent mountain views.

Activities & Attractions:

Ride through Shegar (New Tingri), which serves as a gateway to the Everest region and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Continue towards Lhatse (拉孜), a small town where you can experience the peaceful atmosphere of Tibetan settlements.

Arrive in Shigatse (日喀则), the second-largest city in Tibet, and visit the Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), a key pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists.

Accommodation:

Stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Shigatse (日喀则).

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Day 5: Shigatse (日喀则) – Explore Tashilunpo Monastery

Distance: 0 km (Rest Day)

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today.

Introduction:

Today is a rest day in Shigatse. The altitude can still take a toll, so it’s important to stay well-rested and hydrated.

Activities & Attractions:

Visit the Tashilunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. This is one of the most significant Tibetan monasteries, and it offers a chance to learn about Tibetan Buddhism.

Explore the Shigatse Free Market, where you can shop for traditional Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Complete any required paperwork for your temporary motorcycle license plate.

Accommodation:

Stay another night in Shigatse (日喀则).

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Day 6: Shigatse (日喀则) – Gyantse (江孜) – Yamdrok Tso (羊卓雍措) – Lhasa (拉萨)

Distance: Approx. 360 km

Riding Time: Approx. 6 hours

Road Condition: The road is primarily asphalt, offering a smooth ride with some curvy stretches as you approach Lhasa.

Introduction:

Today, you will ride toward Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. The journey will take you through breathtaking landscapes, including the Yamdrok Tso (羊卓雍措) lake, and one of Tibet’s most sacred and beautiful sights.

Activities & Attractions:

Stop at Gyantse (江孜) and visit the Palkhor Monastery (帕尔戈寺), famous for the Kumbum Pagoda (千佛塔).

Continue your ride to Yamdrok Tso (羊卓雍措), one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.

Complete your journey to Lhasa (拉萨), the administrative and religious capital of Tibet. Lhasa offers unparalleled access to Tibetan culture, history, and spirituality.

Accommodation:

Stay 3 nights in Lhasa (拉萨), at a guesthouse or hotel.

Day 7: Lhasa (拉萨)

Distance: 0 km (Rest Day)

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today. Rest day in Lhasa.

Introduction:

Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is the next stop on your adventure. This city, known for its majestic temples, monasteries, and vibrant Tibetan culture, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Tibet.

Activities & Attractions:

Potala Palace (布达拉宫): Visit the iconic Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its grand architecture and historical significance make it one of Tibet’s most famous landmarks.

Jokhang Temple (大昭寺): This sacred site is the most revered temple in Tibetan Buddhism, located in the heart of Lhasa. It houses the famous Jokhang Buddha statue and is a pilgrimage destination for Tibetans.

Barkhor Street (八廓街): This bustling market street encircles the Jokhang Temple and offers a lively atmosphere, with street vendors selling traditional Tibetan goods, prayer wheels, and souvenirs.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Lhasa (拉萨).

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Day 8: Lhasa (拉萨)

Distance: 0 km (Rest Day)

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today.

Introduction:

Enjoy a second day in Lhasa, giving you more time to explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the city.

Activities & Attractions:

Drepung Monastery (大昭寺): One of the largest monasteries in Tibet, this spiritual site is a former home to many of Tibet’s greatest scholars. Located on the slopes of Mount Gambo Utse, the monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Norbulingka (诺布林卡): The summer palace of the Dalai Lama, Norbulingka is known for its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to explore Tibetan architecture and culture.

Sera Monastery (色拉寺): This monastery is famous for its large collection of Tibetan scriptures and its debates among monks. You can witness daily debates that take place outside the monastery, adding a unique cultural element to your visit.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Lhasa (拉萨).

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Day 9: Lhasa (拉萨) – Basum Tso Lake (巴松措) – Linzhi (林芝)

Distance: Approx. 455 km

Riding Time: Approx. 8-9 hours

Road Condition: The route consists mainly of asphalt roads, though some parts of the road might be narrow and winding, especially near Basum Tso Lake.

Introduction:

After two days in Lhasa, embark on a long ride toward Linzhi (林芝), known as “Tibet’s Switzerland” for its lush green landscapes. The route takes you past Basum Tso Lake, one of Tibet’s most picturesque lakes.

Activities & Attractions:

Basum Tso Lake (巴松措): A stunning, turquoise lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and forests. This sacred lake is an excellent spot to take photos and immerse yourself in the serenity of Tibet.

Ride through the Nyingchi region, characterized by its rich vegetation, especially in contrast to the arid landscapes further north. The region is home to Tibet’s most fertile areas, and its rivers and valleys add to its charm.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Linzhi (林芝).

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Day 10: Linzhi (林芝) – Buchu and Lamaling Monastery – Lulang Forest – Bomi – Ramwu Lake (然乌湖)

Distance: Approx. 357 km

Riding Time: Approx. 7-8 hours

Road Condition: Asphalt roads with some sections in winding mountainous terrain, particularly around Lulang Forest.

Introduction:

The journey continues with a scenic ride through Linzhi’s lush forests and Tibetan monasteries. This ride is marked by beautiful landscapes and high-altitude Tibetan settlements.

Activities & Attractions:

Visit Buchu and Lamaling Monastery, which offer glimpses of Tibetan Buddhist culture and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Lulang Forest: Ride through the dense Lulang Forest area, known for its rich flora, pine forests, and striking mountain backdrops.

Pass by Bomi, a town surrounded by striking, jagged peaks and valleys, before arriving at Ramwu Lake (然乌湖).

From the Serkhyem La Pass (4,515 m), you can view the stunning Mt. Gyala Pelri (7,150 m) and Mt. Namchak Barwa (7,782 m), both among Tibet’s highest mountains.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight near Ramwu Lake (然乌湖).

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Day 11: Ramwu Lake (然乌湖) – Baxoi (巴松) – Zuogong (左贡)

Distance: Approx. 289 km

Riding Time: Approx. 7 hours

Road Condition: Paved roads with challenging ascents and descents.

Introduction:

Continue your journey to Zuogong, a small town nestled among the rugged terrains of eastern Tibet.

Activities & Attractions:

Visit Baxoi, a remote town known for its picturesque setting and Tibetan monasteries.

Arrive in Zuogong, a small Tibetan town that serves as a rest stop for travelers journeying through the region.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Zuogong (左贡).

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Day 12: Zuogong (左贡) – Markam (芒康) – Dechen (德钦)

Distance: Approx. 380 km

Riding Time: Approx. 8 hours

Road Condition: Asphalt roads with some gravel sections and mountainous terrain.

Introduction:

The road from Zuogong to Dechen offers spectacular views of the Tibetan landscape, with plenty of mountain passes and scenic vistas.

Activities & Attractions:

Stop at Markam (芒康), a small town located at a crossroads in Tibet.

Continue through the rugged Dechen region, famous for its breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and Tibetan villages.

From Dechen, you will have a panoramic view of the Meili Holy Snow Mountain (梅里圣雪山), one of Tibet’s most revered mountains.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Dechen (德钦).

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Day 13: Dechen (德钦) – Shangri-La (香格里拉)

Distance: Approx. 220 km

Riding Time: Approx. 5 hours

Road Condition: Asphalt roads, with some winding and high-altitude stretches.

Introduction:

The ride from Dechen to Shangri-La is one of the most scenic sections of the tour, with majestic views of Meili Holy Snow Mountain and the surrounding Tibetan landscapes.

Activities & Attractions:

Visit the First Bend of the Jinshajiang River (金沙江第一湾), a natural wonder where the river makes a dramatic U-turn.

Explore Sumzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), Tibet’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, located just outside Shangri-La.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Shangri-La (香格里拉).

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Day 14: Shangri-La (香格里拉) – Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) – Lijiang (丽江)

Distance: Approx. 180 km

Riding Time: Approx. 4-5 hours

Road Condition: Paved roads with a winding route as you pass through Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Introduction:

Your ride today will take you through the stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge before arriving at Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage town.

Activities & Attractions:

Visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), one of the deepest and most spectacular river gorges in the world. This is a great spot for a photo opportunity and to admire the force of the Yangtze River.

After passing through the gorge, continue your journey to Lijiang, known for its well-preserved ancient town and rich Naxi culture.

Accommodation:

Stay 2 nights in Lijiang (丽江).

Day 15: Lijiang (丽江)

Distance: 0 km

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: None (rest day)

Description:

Today, you’ll have a free day to relax and explore Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient town and charming traditional Naxi architecture.

Activities & Attractions:

Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭): Visit this peaceful park, offering stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) and picturesque surrounding landscapes.

Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城): Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, explore the old market, and discover quaint shops selling local handicrafts.

Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆): Learn about the Naxi people’s history, their unique pictographic script, and their rich traditions.

Mu Family Mansion (木府): Explore the historical residence of the Mu family, who were rulers of Lijiang for centuries.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Lijiang (丽江).

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Day 16: Lijiang (丽江) – Dali (大理)

Distance: Approx. 160 km

Riding Time: Approx. 2 hours

Road Condition: Well-paved road, smooth freeway with some curves near Dali.

Description:

Take a scenic ride to Dali, a town located between the Cangshan Mountains (苍山) and Erhai Lake (洱海), famous for its beautiful landscapes and traditional Bai architecture.

Activities & Attractions:

Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔): Visit this famous landmark of Dali, with its ancient pagodas dating back over 1,000 years.

Erhai Lake (洱海): Take a boat ride or cycle along the lake’s scenic shores, surrounded by mountains and charming villages.

Dali Old Town (大理古城): Wander through this relaxed and vibrant town with cobblestone streets, cafes, and local shops.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Dali (大理).

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Day 17: Dali (大理) – Kunming (昆明)

Distance: Approx. 350 km

Riding Time: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Well-paved roads, smooth highways with some mountain sections before Kunming.

Description:

Ride to Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan, known for its year-round mild climate and rich cultural heritage.

Activities & Attractions:

Lufeng Dinosaur Museum (禄丰恐龙博物馆): Explore one of China’s largest dinosaur fossil collections, located in the town of Lufeng.

Kunming Green Lake (滇池): Take a leisurely stroll around this picturesque park in the heart of the city, known for its serene atmosphere and vibrant flowers.

Yunnan Nationalities Village (云南民族村): Visit this cultural park to learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Yunnan.

Accommodation:

Stay 2 nights in Kunming (昆明).

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Day 18: Kunming (昆明) – Stone Forest (石林) – Jianshui (建水)

Distance: Approx. 290 km

Riding Time: Approx. 6 hours

Road Condition: Well-paved roads with some rural sections leading to Jianshui (建水).

Description:

Today, visit the Stone Forest (石林), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spectacular limestone formations, before continuing your ride to Jianshui.

Activities & Attractions:

Stone Forest (石林): Marvel at the massive stone pillars that create a “forest” of rock formations, a unique geological wonder.

Jianshui Old Town (建水古城): Explore the charming ancient town, home to the famous Zhu Family Garden (朱家花园), an impressive classical garden.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Jianshui (建水).

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Day 19: Jianshui (建水) – Yuanyang (元阳)

Distance: Approx. 83 km

Riding Time: Approx. 1.5 hours

Road Condition: Smooth, paved roads with some narrow sections in the rural areas.

Description:

Ride to Yuanyang, famous for its stunning rice terraces that have been meticulously built into the mountainsides by the Hani people for centuries.

Activities & Attractions:

Zhang Family Residence (张家大院) in Tuanshan (团山): Visit this traditional Hani house with its well-preserved architectural features.

Laohuzui Terrace (老虎嘴梯田): Admire one of the most iconic views of the Yuanyang Rice Terraces during the sunrise or sunset.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Yuanyang (元阳).

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Day 20: Yuanyang (元阳) – Honghe (红河) – Puer (普洱)

Distance: Approx. 323 km

Riding Time: Approx. 6-7 hours

Road Condition: Well-paved highways with occasional rural sections.

Description:

Ride to Puer, a city famous for its tea culture, passing through Honghe, a picturesque region known for its ethnic diversity.

Activities & Attractions:

Jingkou Village (箐口): Visit a traditional Hani village to experience their unique customs and lifestyle.

Tea plantations in Puer (普洱茶园): Explore the lush tea plantations and learn about Puer tea, one of China’s most famous teas.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Puer (普洱).

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Day 21: Puer (普洱) – Mengla (勐腊) – Mohan (磨憨)

Distance: Approx. 272 km

Riding Time: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Condition: Smooth roads with some minor traffic near Mohan.

Description:

Continue to Mohan, the border town between China and Laos, marking the final stop on your China journey.

Activities & Attractions:

Ride through Mengla, a tropical town surrounded by lush forests and close to Xishuangbanna.

Mohan Border: Complete your China border formalities before crossing into Laos.

Accommodation:

Stay overnight in Mohan (磨憨).

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Day 22: Mohan (磨憨) – Laos

Distance: 0 km

Riding Time: None

Road Condition: No riding today.

Description:

Exit China and enter Laos at the Mohan Border.

Activities & Attractions:

Complete the border formalities and say goodbye to China as you head into Laos.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

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