15 Days China Group Tour: Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu Panda & Tibet Mount Everest

After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Beijing’s most iconic historical landmarks. Start at Tian’anmen Square, the largest public square in the world and a powerful symbol of modern China. Visit key landmarks including Tian’anmen Gate, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Great Hall of the People.

Continue walking into the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Once home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, it features grand halls, ceremonial courtyards, and over 8,700 rooms arranged along a central north-south axis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site represents the pinnacle of Chinese imperial architecture and political history.

After the palace visit, climb Jingshan Park, located directly behind the Forbidden City. From the top of the hill, enjoy a panoramic view of the entire imperial complex and the contrasting modern skyline of Beijing.

In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design and a former royal retreat. Explore Kunming Lake, Long Corridor, bridges, pavilions, and landscaped gardens that reflect harmony between architecture and nature.

Important Note: The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. In such cases, it will be replaced by the Temple of Heaven or Prince Gong’s Mansion.

Transportation: Private vehicle for full-day sightseeing
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

After breakfast, travel approximately 1.5–2 hours to the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most scenic and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Surrounded by forested mountains, this section is less crowded and offers a more relaxed hiking experience.

Take a cable car up to the wall and begin exploring ancient watchtowers and stone pathways stretching across the mountain ridges. You can choose different hiking levels depending on your energy, from easy walking routes to more challenging climbs toward higher towers. The views of winding walls across green valleys create one of the most iconic landscapes in China.

After completing your Great Wall experience, return to Beijing and stop for photo opportunities at the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), both built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and later used for the Winter Olympics, representing modern Chinese architecture and innovation.

Return to your hotel after the tour for rest and relaxation.

Transportation: Private vehicle round-trip
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

After breakfast, transfer to the railway station and board a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an (approx. 4.5–5.5 hours). Enjoy a comfortable journey through northern China’s changing landscapes. Upon arrival in Xi’an, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi’an’s most important Buddhist landmarks and a symbol of the Tang Dynasty. Located within the Da Ci’en Temple, this seven-story pagoda was built to preserve Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by Monk Xuanzang. The site reflects the cultural exchange between China and ancient India and is closely linked to the classic novel Journey to the West.

Later, explore the lively Muslim Quarter, a vibrant cultural district filled with street food, local crafts, and bustling alleyways. Experience authentic Xi’an flavors such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Biangbiang noodles, and grilled skewers while enjoying the energetic atmosphere of the old city.

Transportation: High-speed train + private transfer
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Xi’an

After breakfast, drive approximately 1 hour to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors Museum, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history. Built for Emperor Qin Shihuang over 2,000 years ago, the site contains thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots designed to protect the emperor in the afterlife.

Explore different excavation pits showcasing infantry formations, archers, and chariot units, each figure uniquely sculpted with distinct facial expressions and armor details. This underground army reflects the military power and craftsmanship of ancient China at its peak.

Return to the city and visit the Ancient City Wall of Xi’an, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. You may choose to walk or cycle along the top of the wall, enjoying panoramic views of both historic gates and modern urban life.

Continue to the Bell Tower (or Drum Tower), a landmark from the Ming Dynasty located at the city’s center. The surrounding square becomes especially lively in the evening, offering a mix of modern energy and historic atmosphere.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Hotel in Xi’an

After breakfast, transfer to Xi’an railway station and board a high-speed train to Chengdu (approx. 3–4 hours). Enjoy a smooth journey across the fertile plains of western China. Upon arrival in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, you will be met at the station and transferred to your hotel in the city center for check-in.

Chengdu is widely known as the “Land of Abundance” and one of China’s most livable cities, famous for its relaxed lifestyle, rich culinary culture, and giant pandas. After check-in, the rest of the day is free at leisure, allowing you to recover from travel and begin experiencing the city at your own pace.

In the afternoon or evening, you may take a gentle walk around your hotel area or explore nearby local streets. Chengdu’s atmosphere is slow-paced and welcoming, with traditional teahouses, small eateries, and modern shopping streets blending together. It is also an excellent opportunity to try authentic Sichuan cuisine, especially hotpot, mapo tofu, or Sichuan noodles, known for their bold and spicy flavors.

For those who wish to explore more, optional short visits to nearby pedestrian areas or riverside parks can offer a first glimpse of local daily life, where residents relax, play mahjong, and enjoy tea in open-air teahouses.

Optional Experience: Evening Sichuan hotpot dinner or casual stroll in a local night market area (self-arranged).

Transportation: High-speed train + private transfer
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Chengdu

After breakfast, begin your Chengdu exploration with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, home to the world’s most beloved animals. Walk through carefully designed habitats to observe giant pandas of different ages eating bamboo, resting, and playing. You may also see red pandas in the forested areas and learn about panda conservation at the Panda Museum. Early morning visits are ideal, as pandas are most active during cooler hours.

Continue to the Sanxingdui Museum (approx. 1 hour drive), one of China’s most important archaeological discoveries. Explore ancient relics from the mysterious Shu civilization dating back 3,000–5,000 years, including bronze masks, sacred trees, gold artifacts, and jade objects that reveal a highly developed but still mysterious ancient culture.

In the evening, visit Jinli Old Street, a lively pedestrian area showcasing traditional Sichuan architecture, local snacks, handicrafts, and cultural performances. Enjoy street food, shop for souvenirs, and experience Chengdu’s vibrant night atmosphere.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Hotel in Chengdu

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Chengdu before transferring to the airport for your flight to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region. As the plane descends, enjoy breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau and snow-capped mountains.

Upon arrival in Lhasa (3,650m altitude), you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest and altitude acclimatization. It is important to take things slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity to help your body adjust to the high altitude.

Lhasa is the spiritual heart of Tibet, known for its deep Buddhist traditions, sacred temples, and peaceful atmosphere. This first day is designed to allow full rest before beginning your Tibetan exploration.

Important Altitude Tips:

• Move slowly and avoid overexertion
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid showers on the first day if feeling weak
• Inform your guide if you feel unwell

Transportation: Flight + private transfer
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

After acclimatizing, begin your Tibetan exploration with the world-famous Potala Palace, the iconic landmark of Tibet and former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Climb its steps to reach the Red Palace, where ancient chapels, murals, and sacred relics reflect centuries of Tibetan Buddhism and history. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa city and surrounding mountains.

Continue to the sacred Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas. Inside, admire the revered statue of Sakyamuni Buddha and observe devoted pilgrims performing rituals and prayers with deep faith and devotion.

In the afternoon, stroll through Barkhor Street, a traditional pilgrimage circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. This vibrant area blends spiritual life and local culture, filled with prayer wheels, pilgrims, monks, shops, and street vendors selling Tibetan crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring traditional Tibetan cuisine, offering a cultural introduction to local flavors and hospitality.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast, Dinner included
Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

After breakfast, begin a full-day overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse via one of Tibet’s most scenic routes (approx. 8–9 hours). The road passes dramatic Himalayan landscapes, high mountain passes, and vast grasslands, offering continuous panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau.

First stop is Kampala Pass (4,797m), where you can enjoy a breathtaking overlook of the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s sacred lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake’s vivid blue color creates one of the most iconic landscapes in Tibet. Along the roadside, you may also see local yaks, sheep, and Tibetan nomads.

Continue driving toward the Karola Glacier (5,012m), located near the highway. This massive glacier flows down from the mountains like a frozen waterfall, offering an impressive close-up view of Tibet’s high-altitude ice landscapes.

After sightseeing, continue to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, located along the historic Friendship Highway. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and rest after a long but scenic journey.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse

After breakfast, depart for one of the most unforgettable journeys of the entire trip—travel to Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC) (approx. 6–7 hours drive). The route crosses high mountain passes and remote Himalayan terrain, gradually revealing views of the world’s highest peaks.

Stop at Gyatso La Pass (5,200m) to enjoy your first distant view of Mount Everest (Qomolangma). The surrounding landscapes feature endless snow-capped mountains and winding roads that stretch across the horizon.

Continue toward Rongbuk Monastery (5,154m), the highest monastery in the world. From here, you will get your closest accessible view of Mount Everest on the northern side. The monastery area is surrounded by prayer flags, chortens, and a dramatic valley backdrop, creating a deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

After arrival at Everest Base Camp area, take time to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over Mount Everest, weather permitting. Overnight stay is in basic accommodation near the base camp area, offering a rare opportunity to sleep close to the world’s highest peak.

Important Notes:

• Accommodation and facilities are very basic due to extreme altitude
• Cold weather and altitude symptoms may occur
• Stay hydrated and move slowly

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast, Dinner included
Accommodation: Basic lodge near Everest Base Camp

Early in the morning, if weather conditions allow, witness the spectacular sunrise over Mount Everest, where the peak is illuminated in golden light—one of the most unforgettable moments of the journey.

After breakfast, begin the return drive to Shigatse, retracing part of the scenic Himalayan route. Stop again at Gyatso La Pass for photos and to enjoy final views of the Everest region and surrounding snow-covered peaks.

Continue driving through vast Tibetan landscapes, river valleys, and high-altitude plateaus before arriving in Shigatse. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a warm shower and well-deserved rest after the Everest expedition.

The remainder of the day is free to relax, recover from altitude travel, and prepare for the next stage of your journey.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse

After breakfast, begin your return journey from Shigatse to Lhasa by high-speed train or overland transfer (approx. 4–6 hours depending on schedule). Along the way, continue to enjoy the vast Tibetan plateau scenery, including open grasslands, river valleys, distant snow peaks, and small nomadic settlements that reflect the traditional highland lifestyle.

Upon arrival in Lhasa, transfer directly to the airport for your flight to Shanghai, marking a major transition from the high-altitude spiritual world of Tibet to China’s most modern and international city. After arrival in Shanghai, meet your local driver and transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for rest and recovery after the long travel journey.

Shanghai offers a dramatic contrast to Tibet—where ancient monasteries and mountains give way to futuristic skylines, luxury shopping districts, and vibrant urban energy.

Transportation: Train/vehicle + flight + private transfer
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai

After breakfast, begin a full-day discovery of Shanghai, a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Start in the Lujiazui Financial District, the heart of China’s economic power. Visit the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China, and take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck for a breathtaking 360° view of the city skyline, including Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center. From above, see the vast contrast between the historic city center and futuristic Pudong.

Continue to the Shanghai Museum (East), one of the most prestigious museums in China, showcasing thousands of years of Chinese civilization. Explore galleries of ancient bronzes, ceramics, jade carvings, calligraphy, and historical treasures such as the famous Sword of King Goujian of Yue, a symbol of ancient craftsmanship and military history.

In the afternoon, visit the beautifully preserved Yu Garden, a classical Ming Dynasty private garden designed with rockeries, ponds, bridges, and elegant pavilions that reflect traditional Chinese landscaping philosophy. Outside the garden, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, filled with local snacks, handicrafts, tea shops, and cultural souvenirs.

Later, walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Shanghai’s busiest commercial avenue, featuring international brands, historic buildings, modern shopping malls, and vibrant street life. End the day at The Bund, the city’s most iconic waterfront promenade, where colonial-era architecture faces the dazzling skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River. At night, the illuminated skyline creates one of the most famous city views in the world.

Transportation: Private vehicle
Dining: Breakfast, Lunch included
Accommodation: Hotel in Shanghai

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Shanghai depending on your flight or train schedule. You may take a short walk around your hotel area, enjoy a final coffee in the city, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and gifts.

At the scheduled time, your driver will transfer you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Hongqiao Railway Station for your onward journey. This officially concludes your 15 Days China Group Tour: Classic China, Panda & Holy Tibet Tour.

The journey ends with unforgettable memories of China’s imperial history, panda encounters, Tibetan spiritual landscapes, and the modern skyline of Shanghai. From the Great Wall to Everest Base Camp, this itinerary offers one of the most diverse travel experiences in the world.

Optional Extension Ideas:

• Hangzhou West Lake scenic tour
• Suzhou classical gardens and water towns
• Extension to Japan, Korea, or Southeast Asia

Transportation: Private transfer to airport/train station
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Not included (tour ends)