Tibet Tour: Tibet by Train
Beijing - Qinghai Railway - Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Lhasa

Tiananmen, the Gate of Heavenly Peace shields the elaborate grandeur of the Forbidden City from the vast expanse of the great square. 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled from within its impressive walls.

The new high altitude rail line to Lhasa offers a unique view of the vast Tibetan Plateau - the scenery is simply awesome. The Golmud-Lhasa section of this epic rail journey opened in July 2005. The tracks wind 1142 km. across the Kunlun and Tanggula mountain ranges - reaching over 5000meters at its highest point.

The lure of Lhasa, capital on the roof of the world, cannot be under-estimated and it is truly a fascinating city, fully justifying its reputation. Dominated by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Potala Palace and bustling with pilgrims circling the sacred Jokhang Temple it is a feast for the senses.
On your last evening in Lhasa we invite you to enjoy a Tibetan buffet dinner & cultural show

11-Day Option
Cross the spectacular Khamba-La (pass) with the turquoise waters of the sacred lake, Yamdrok-tso, spread below. Prayer flags, glaciers, snow covered mountain ranges - the scenery is incredible!
Gyantse stands at the junction of trade routes from India and retains the feel of a Tibetan town. The forts and well-protected monasteries of Gyantse and Shigatse reveal a not always peaceful history - the riches within, testament to past glory.

Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama and one of the most important monasteries of the Gelukpa order, dominates the hillside behind the town - its golden roofs glittering in the afternoon sun. Follow the Brahmaputra east to Tsetang and explore the Yarlung Valley, site of one of Tibet's earliest buildings - Songtsen Gampo's palace of Yambulakhang and the geomantric temple of Tradruk before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.