15 Day Silk Road Adventure

For centuries, traders plied the so-called "Silk Road". Before the discovery of the sea route to India, the Silk Road was the most important connection between the Orient and the West. This tour retraces part of that epic journey, traveling along the fabled Hexi Corridor, then out across the deserts of Western China. The scenery is varied, but always impressively beautiful. Experience the richness and magnificence of China's unique culture, from the glacial heights of its majestic mountains to the stark beauty of the Gobi Desert; witness its ancient capitals, sacred lands and spiritual traditions. This tour represents a truly cultural odyssey.

Trip profile:
First class hotels in Beijing. Basic hotels in the other cities. English-speaking local tour leaders. Transportation vehicle includes airplane, mini bus, jeep, and sometimes camel. Most of the meals are included. An exciting explorative tour as this is, those not at excellent physical condition are not supposed to take part in. Please consult your doctor before the trip.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing; our guide will pick you up at Beijing airport and transfer to the hotel. Accommodation at the Prime Hotel.

Day 2: Visit the Tian'anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Beihai Park.

Day 3; Visit the Summer Palace, Beijing Hutong-a kind of traditional Chinese residence, and Wangfujing golden commercial street.

Day4: Fly to Xining, the Capital of Qinghai province. You are on the Tibet plateau! Accommodation at Qinghai Hotel.

Day5: Drive 100 KM. to Huzhu and back to Xining, Visiting the Tu minority Village,

Day6: Drive 360 KM. to Kokonor Lake (Qinghai Lake), a paradise for Bird Watching via Kumbum Monastery and back to Xining.

Day7: Drive 180 KM. to Zhangye, visit Big Buddha Temple, Accommodation at Zhangye Hotel.

Day8: Drive 270 KM. to Jiayuguan, Jiayuguan is a remote outpost in the desert, set against the dramatic backdrop of the snow-capped Qilian Mountains. Visit the Ancient Great Wall. Accommodation at Jiayuguan Hotel.

Day9: Drive 400 KM. to Dunhuang which is an area of dramatic contrasts with lush fields and moonscape hills. Visit Mogao Grotto, you can see some of the most extraordinary Buddhist art in China at the ancient Mogao Caves and sacrificial objects from the Han to Tang Dynasties Accommodation at Dunhuang Hotel.

Day10: Drive 140 KM. to Liuyuan, Try sand surfing or camel riding around the Mingsha Sand Dunes and mysterious Crescent Moon Lake. Accommodation at Yueyaquan Hotel.

Day 11: Drive 390 KM. to Tulufan, an amusing town with grapevine trellises, open-air restaurants and colorful markets. A marvelous irrigation system made Tulufan a rich oasis in the big desert. Visit Thousand-Buddha Cave. Accommodate at the Tulufan Hotel.

Day 12: Drive 260 KM. to Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Visit Grape Valley, Accommodation at Haide Hotel.

Day 13: Stay in and sightseeing around Urumqi, viewing the landscape in Nanshan Pasture, Accommodation at Haide Hotel.

Day 14: Fly to Beijing, Accommodation at the Prime Hotel. The rest of the day is free; you can take this chance to try the delicious Beijing Cuisine.

Day 15: See off

Tour Departures in 2005

* This price is based on two group members share one room.
* Single room is only available in Beijing.
* Extra night accommodation is available pre-tour or post-tour.
Please contact us for details.

Package price includes:
*Most of the meals
* Chinese domestic air and ground transportation while on tour
* All sightseeing and cultural events listed in the itinerary
* English-speaking tour guide
* Domestic tour insurance. (We recommend you buy your own insurances as well)

Package price does not include:
* China visa fee
* International air tickets
* International and domestic airport tax
* Gratuities to guides and drivers
* Items not listed and/or specified as included in the itinerary