10 Days Qinghai - Tibet Plateau – Rail journey to the roof of the world Travel date 20 - 29 Dec 2019 TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
INTRODUCTION
If you have been planning where to go for Christmas and New Year, the Tibetan Plateau may be your next destination. Flying into Xining, start the first part of the tour in Tong Ren and Gui De. One of the oldest and best-preserved ancient towns sits in Tong Ren, with over six ethnic groups living together. Buildings are simple in style and they are all constructed on the rise and fall of the terrain. It is also the birth place of Regong Art, which put Tong Ren on the map, making it famous for its thangkas and painted status.
Then, we continue to Gui De, to see the stunning multicolored clay scenery of the Danxia Canyon. Set against the contrasting blue skies and teal waters of the Yellow River, this is a lovely spot to spend half a day wandering and taking photos of the unique geology of the Tibetan Plateau.
Heading back to Xining spend a night on the train to climb all the way up to Lhasa on Christmas eve. While Lhasa may be cold for most of us in winter, it is warm for the mountain nomads who migrate to gather in Lhasa. This colourful display is a winter exclusive not to be missed and avoids the tourist crowds during the summer.
In Lhasa, we will visit the famous Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, catch the monks debating in the Sera Monastery, follow the pilgrim circuit in Ganden and explore the bazaar of Barkhor. You will be based in the Shangri La Lhasa, one of the highest luxury hotels of the world at 3650m above sea level. With a striking backdrop of beautiful mountains, the urban resort of Shangri-La Lhasa is nestled high among Himalayas, overlooking the city.
If you are interested in extending your journey we will be leaving Lhasa and cross 5000m passes, see high latitude lake and drive across endless barren plateaus to experience the smaller Tibetan township of Gyantze and Shigatse.
SPECIALS DEPARTURE DETAILS • 3 main temples of Wutun Monastery will be specially open for Scott • Land Tour Price: Dunn guests only Twin Sharing: S$ 6,380/- • Private session at local training school to practice the making of clay Single Supplement: S$ 1,200/- sculptures and the making of Thangka paints • Airfare (subject to availability) • Exclusive monastery visits by a monk Economy from S$ 1,712/- Business from S$ 4,733/- • Private lecture with a professor on Regong Art • Deposit amount: • Enjoy local folk meal a Tibetan family at Gormar Village S$ 2,000/ per person • Soft bedding cabins for the overnight of train from Xining to Lhasa • Registration Closing Date: (solo traveler will be guaranteed a cabin of 4-berth) 23 Sep 2019 or when tour is fully • Special chapels in Potala Palace only open for Scott Dunn’s guests subscribed • Session of Monk debating at Sera Monastery
• Early Bird Promotion: • Visit a local Tibetan house and enjoy lunch with the family First 4 room bookings with deposit, • Accompany by professional doctor throughout the journey enjoy complimentary upgrade from Deluxe Room to Potala View at the • Oxygen Bag in Vehicle Shangri La Lhasa • Small group size of maximum 16 people • Optional extension: • Tipping to Guide, Driver & Porter included 29 Dec 2019 - 01 Jan 2020 • All meals included with 1 glass of juice/beer/wine • Accompanied by Scott Dunn Travel Concierge
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
ITINERARY DAY BY DAY
Day 1 20 Dec (Fri) Arrive Xining Day 2 21 Dec (Sat) Xining / Ledu / Xining Day 3 22 Dec (Sun) Xining / Tong Ren Day 4 23 Dec (Mon) Tong Ren Day 5 24 Dec (Tue) Tong Ren / Gui de Day 6 25 Dec (Wed) Gui de / Xining / Lhasa Day 7 26 Dec (Thu) Lhasa Day 8 27 Dec (Fri) Lhasa Day 9 28 Dec (Sat) Lhasa Day 10 29 Dec (Sun) Depart Lhasa Optional Extension Day 11 30 Dec (Mon) Lhasa / Gyantze / Shigatse Day 12 31 Dec (Tue) Shigatse / Lhasa Day 13 01 Jan (Wed) Depart Lhasa
DAY 01 - 20 DEC (FRI) - SINGAPORE BEIJING XINING
Flight:
Singapore / Beijing SQ 802 0845 / 1450 (6h 05m) Beijing / Xining CZ 6991 1745 / 2025 (2h 40m)
Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer approx. 45 mins to the hotel for rest.
Accommodation: Sofitel Xining Meals: N/A
DAY 02 - 21 DEC (THU) - XINING | LEDU | XINING
Today, we make our way to Ledu and back to Xining in the late afternoon. It is approx. an hour to transfer to Ledu. Before heading for the Gautama Monastery, you will have a traditional lunch of local pig trotters with noodles.
This Monastery is the Temple of Tibetan Buddhism architecture. From design to construction practices, it is a typical display of Ming Dynasty style, hence it was also known as the “little Imperial Palace”.
Accommodation: Sofitel Xining Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
DAY 03 - 22 DEC (SUN) - XINING | TONG REN
We will start the day by transferring to Tong Ren for approx. 2.5 hrs. Upon arriving at the hotel, it will be time to enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, we will visit the village named Wutun. For those that would like to stretch their legs they can join the guide for a little hike to enjoy panoramic views of the Wu Tun Monastery site. Amazingly the various monasteries and Buddha statues were built from donations by the local devotees. Drop in to visit one of the monks’ houses to have a close look the intricately painted Tangkas in the Monastery Compound.
Accommodation: Hong Feng De Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 04 - 23 DEC (MON) - TONG REN
Tong Ren or “Re Gong” as it is known in Tibetan means “a place where ones’ dream come true”. This morning, we follow the steps of the local devotees to turn the prayer wheels to feel this sacred belief and climb up Kalachakra Stupa to have a panoramic view of Guomar Monastery. We’ll venture to the top pavilion to visit the statue of Kalachakra and the collections of surrounding sutras. Enjoy a local handmade noodle dish for lunch.
In the afternoon, we will drive approx. 40 mins to visit Shuang Peng Xi Village which is also the birth place of Gendun Chopel. He is widely regarded as a philosopher, painter, scholar and activist, one of the most important Tibetan figures of the twentieth century, famous for his skills as a poet and infamous for his controversial views. This village also sits the Red Hat Sect Monastery where the monks wear normal cloths (instead of the red robes) with long braid hair twine around their forehead.
Another unique sight in this village is the oat airing site on big wooden frame in the middle of the village. If the timing is right, you will also get to see “clever” donkeys carrying things from the village to the fields without their owners.
Accommodation: Hong Feng De Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
DAY 05 - 24 DEC (TUE) - TONG REN | GUI DE
Start the day with a drive to Gui De enjoying the scenic views along the 250 km journey. Along the first 13km you see painted symbols of Regong Arts and giant Buddha rock craving, before making at stop at the National Geological Park.
Our journey continue along the riverside where you’ll have a brilliant view of the Yellow River flowing beside you.
Accommodation: Jing Yue Ge Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
DAY 06 - 25 DEC (TUE) - GUI DE | XINING LHASA
Going back to Xining should be approx. 2 hrs drive from Gui De, we will visit the Qinghai Tibetan Medicine Museum before the 23-hr train journey. This Museum houses the World’s longest Thangkha and is recorded in Guinness World Book as 618m in length and 2.5m in width. It took 4 years and 400 painters to finish it. The Thangkha depicts geographical, cultural, religious, historical and aesthetic aspects of Tibetan Civilization in the finest painting form.
Drive back to the city to have a nice lunch and transfer to Xining railway station, take the Tibet train for an overnight to Lhasa.
Train Xining / Lhasa Z6801 1401/1114 (21h 13m)
Accommodation: On the train (soft sleeper) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 07 - 26 DEC (THU) - LHASA
Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide and be welcomed by a khata. Transfer to Shangri La Lhasa for a 3 night stay. At 3500m, it is advisable to take the rest of the day easily for better acclimatization. Tonight, be treated to a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Shangri La Lhasa Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
DAY 08 - 27 DEC (FRI) - LHASA
We start off our exploration of Lhasa leisurely with a visit to theJokhang monastery. Known as the “central cathedral” it is perhaps the most important monastery in Tibet. Afterwards, we will visit a nunnery.
After lunch, we’ll stop at the Ganden Monastery about a 2-hours’ drive away. The Monastery is at 4,500m and commands stunning views. You will also enjoy a short hike around the surrounding villages to experience the Tibetan rural life.
Later in the afternoon you will have free time to explore the Barkhor – the bustling market in the heart of old Lhasa with its narrow streets.
Accommodation: Shangri La Lhasa Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
DAY 09 - 28 DEC (SAT) - LHASA
This morning, we join the swarm of locals and pilgrims, circle around the Potala Palace, twirling prayer wheels, swinging beads and chanting low. Participate in Tibetan Buddhism daily activity to learn and discover their culture. Visit the Potala Palace - listed as an UNESCO world heritage site. It dominates the city of Lhasa and is perhaps the most famous landmark of Tibet. Special doors will be opened to Scott Dunn clients.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Sera Monastery, which is one of the best-preserved monasteries in Tibet. Within its whitewashed walls and golden roofs, several hundred monks live and study. If you’re lucky we might catch the interesting sessions of monk debating.
End the day in a local Sweet Teahouse, where Tibetan usually spend their leisure time and meet with friends. Enjoy a cup of tea and some snacks, while you immerse yourself into local life and interact with locals.
Bidding farewell to Lhasa, we will enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel with the best Potala night view.
Accommodation: Shangri La Lhasa Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 10 - 29 DEC (SUN) - LHASA SINGAPORE
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for home!
Flight:
Lhasa / Chengdu 3U 8698 1205 / 1410 (2h 05m) Chengdu / Singapore MI 935 1815/2340 (5h 25m)
* Please refer to the “Optional extension” to Gyantze and Shigatse if interested.
Accommodation: N/A Meals: Breakfast
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com TOUR INFORMATION QINGHAI-TIBET PLATEAU
Land tour price per person Hotels Twin share Single Supplement Xining: Sofitel Xining (Luxury room city view) x 2 nights Tong Ren: Hong Feng De Hotel (Deluxe Standard) x 2 nights Gui De: Jing Yue Ge Hotel (Deluxe Standard) x 2 nights S$ 6,280/- S$ 1,200/- Train: Soft bed x 1 night Lhasa: Shangri La (Deluxe Room) x 3 nights
* These prices are based on minimum ten persons traveling together.
Airline Airfare price per person
Economy Class Singapore Airlines (SQ), China Southern Airline S$ 1,622 + tax S$ 90 = S$ 1,712 /- (CZ), Sichuan Airlines (3U) & Silkair (MI): Business Class: Singapore/Beijing/Xining// S$ 4,643 + tax S$ 90 = S$ 4,733/- Lhasa/Chengdu/Singapore (Domestic Economy, International Business)
*Airfare & Taxes are calculated as of 24 Apr 2019 and subject to change & availability. Should you wish to explore alternative flying routes, do consult our friendly consultants.
COST INCLUDES COST EXCLUDES
• Tibet Permit; • Airfare as quoted separately; • Accommodation as stated with daily breakfast; • China Visa (if applicable); • Overnight train from Xining to Lhasa; • Personal expenses e.g. laundry, telecommunication, bar • Meals as stated with 1 glass of juice/beer/wine per meal; bills • Tours and transfers in air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking guide; • Professional Doctor throughout the tour and Oxygen Bag in the vehicle; • Entrance fees; • Adequate supply of bottled water; • Guide and Driver tips • Service of Scott Dunn Travel Concierge; • Travel insurance;
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com OPTIONAL EXTENSION TIBET
DAY 01 - 29 DEC (SUN) - LHASA | GYANTZE
Today, we’ll take a full day to experience the outstanding Tibetan landscape. Leaving Lhasa, we drive over 2 spectacular high passes including Kampa La at 4750m & Karo La at 5050m. We also pass the beautiful turquoise lake of Yamdrok and cross endless rugged plateau with the snow- capped ranges of the Himalayas as a backdrop. It’s a 261 km drive taking about 7 to 8 hours.
Arrive in Gyantze and check into Gyantze Hotel for 1 night.
Accommodation: Gyantze Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 02 - 30 DEC (MON) - GYANTZE | SHIGATSE
This morning we visit Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Kumbum, an oversized chorten with 100 000 Buddha images. After lunch we drive to Xigatze in the afternoon and tour the impressive Tashihunpo Monastery, seat of Panchen Lama, second in order to Dalai Lama.
Check into Shigatse Hotel for 1 night.
Accommodation: Qomo Langzong Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
DAY 03 - 31 DEC (TUE) - SHIGATSE | LHASA
This morning we will drive 5 hours back to Lhasa via Bramaputra River. En route, visit a local Tibetan village, to see their traditional tranquil lifestyle and perhaps drop by a carpet or incense workshop. You will also visit a local family and enjoy lunch with them.
Arrive in Lhasa, where you’ll have more time to explore the city. Visit the Tibetan Museum or shop in the bazaar around Barkhor Circuit.
Enjoy a farewell dinner with a Potala Palace view to celebrate new year eve.
Accommodation: Shangri La Lhasa Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 04 - 01 JAN (WED) - LHASA SINGAPORE
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for home!
Flight:
Lhasa / Chengdu 3U 8698 1205 / 1410 (2h 05m) Chengdu / Singapore MI 935 1815/2340 (5h 25m)
Accommodation: N/A Meals: Breakfast
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com OPTIONAL EXTENSION TIBET
Land tour price per person Hotels Twin share Single Supplement Gyanze: Gyantze Hotel (Standard Room) x 1 night Shigatze: Qomo Langzong (Business Room) x 1 night Lhasa: Shangri la (Deluxe Room) x 1 night S$ 6,380/- S$ 1,200/-
* These prices are based on minimum eight persons traveling together.
COST INCLUDES COST EXCLUDES
• Accommodation as stated with daily breakfast; • Airfare as quoted separately; • Meals as stated with 1 glass of juice/beer/wine per meal; • China Visa (if applicable); • Tours and transfers in air-conditioned vehicle with • Personal expenses e.g. laundry, telecommunication, bar English speaking guide; bills • Professional Doctor throughout the tour and Oxygen Bag in the vehicle; • Entrance fees; • Adequate supply of bottled water; • Guide and Driver tips • Service of Scott Dunn Travel Concierge; • Travel insurance;
Raffles City Tower #10-03, 250 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179101 | Tel: +65 3165 4050 | Travel Licence No: 029233 [email protected] | www.scottdunn.com