Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!
Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
99.6% positive customer reviews among 1500+
For More Informations
+86 13522069857
(Wechat/Whatapp)103, Unit 9, Yabaoli, Beijing, China
Mon - Sat 8.00 - 18.00 Sunday CLOSED
chineseqing_2008@hotmail.com
Any questions, please email or call us!
Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
8 Days Tibet Train Tour from Beijing | Beijing Xining Lhasa
8 days
Beijing, China’s premier gateway city, stands as the top choice for most international travelers arriving in the country. Home to iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace—these timeless sites are absolute must-sees, embodying China’s rich historical legacy and architectural grandeur.
Tibet, a dream destination for adventurers and spiritual seekers alike, boasts Lhasa as its sacred heart. The sight of the Potala Palace towering over the city, paired with the preserved traditional Tibetan life in the old quarter, is sure to stir your soul. The Jokhang Temple and the sacred Barkhor Pilgrim Circuit offer an otherworldly experience: the warm glow of butter lamps, the scent of burning incense, and the devotion of pilgrims create an atmosphere that will captivate you, leaving you utterly enchanted by Tibet’s unique charm.
Our 8-day Beijing-Xining-Lhasa Train Tour invites you to immerse yourself in China’s profound history and culture in Beijing first, before venturing into the mysterious realm of Tibet. From Xining—Tibet’s most convenient and fastest gateway—you’ll board the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway, embarking on a scenic journey through the Tibetan Plateau. Most of the route from Xining to Lhasa showcases breathtaking natural landscapes—scenery so stunning that it will linger in your memory long after your trip ends.
Itinerary Quick Look
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing | Airport/Train Station Transfer & Hotel Check-In
Nihao! Welcome to Beijing—China’s vibrant capital! Upon your arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport, or any of the city’s major railway stations, your dedicated tour guide and driver will greet you warmly at the exit. They’ll then escort you to a carefully selected downtown hotel, where you can unwind and settle in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax—whether you need to recover from jet lag or explore the neighborhood at your own pace.
Arrival Guide:
Beijing boasts exceptional connectivity via air and high-speed rail, making it easily accessible from across China and the globe:
- By Air: Two international airports—Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport—operate numerous domestic and international flights. Direct routes link Beijing to major Chinese cities including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, and Lanzhou.
- By High-Speed Rail: Convenient rail connections whisk travelers to Beijing from Xi’an (4-5hrs), Shanghai (4.5-6hrs), Zhengzhou (2.5-3hrs), Wuhan (4-5hrs), Harbin (5-5.5hrs), and beyond.
Free Time Tips:
Feel free to consult your guide for personalized recommendations to make the most of your free time, tailored to your interests and schedule—whether it’s trying local snacks, visiting a nearby park, or exploring a hidden cultural gem.
Day 2: Beijing City Tour | Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City & Summer Palace
Spend a full day immersing yourself in Beijing’s imperial legacy, exploring iconic landmarks that showcase China’s ancient grandeur and royal elegance.
Tian’anmen Square
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and head to Tian’anmen Square— the world’s largest public square and an iconic symbol of China. Steeped in history, this vast plaza has witnessed countless pivotal events over the decades. It’s also the perfect spot to capture photos of Tian’anmen Gate— the iconic landmark featured in global news coverage.
Forbidden City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Cross Tian’anmen Square to enter the awe-inspiring Forbidden City— the world’s largest palace complex and former residence of 24 emperors from the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. With a 500-year history, this UNESCO-listed site served as China’s political and ritual heart for centuries. Boasting over 8,728 rooms, it’s not only China’s largest and best-preserved collection of ancient architecture but also a “city within a city”— comparable in scale and significance to the Vatican.
Enter through the imposing Meridian Gate and follow the central axis to explore the most significant palaces and halls. Admire the intricate architectural details, glittering imperial treasures, and ancient art collections while your guide shares fascinating stories of emperors, empresses, and court life. Afterward, take a 15-minute walk to Jingshan Park, where a climb to the top offers a panoramic view of modern Beijing and a bird’s-eye perspective of the Forbidden City’s iconic russet-tiled roofs.
Summer Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
In the afternoon, journey to the “Museum of Royal Gardens”— the Summer Palace. Once a summer retreat for imperial families seeking respite from the heat, this sprawling complex is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening. Wander through lush gardens, serene lakes, elegant pavilions, winding corridors, and historic temples. Take your time to appreciate the harmonious blend of natural scenery and imperial architecture— a scene straight out of traditional Chinese paintings— and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Beijing
Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest & Water Cube
Embark on a day of adventure to the Great Wall— one of the world’s most extraordinary ancient wonders— followed by a visit to Beijing’s modern Olympic landmarks.
Mutianyu Great Wall
In the morning, travel 73 kilometers northwest of Beijing (1.5-2 hours’ drive) to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. With a history spanning over 2,000 years and stretching more than 5,000 kilometers across northern China, the Great Wall is a testament to ancient engineering ingenuity. Mutianyu, connected to Jiankou Great Wall in the west and Gubeikou Great Wall in the east, is widely regarded as one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections— featuring 23 Ming-era watchtowers, fewer crowds, and breathtaking views.
Take a cable car up to the 14th watchtower, then set off on a memorable hike along the western route. Surrounded by lush green pines and cypresses, with the Great Wall winding majestically across the landscape, you’ll capture stunning photos at every turn. Challenge yourself to climb to the 20th watchtower— a milestone that lets you fulfill your “Great Wall dream” and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Bird’s Nest & Water Cube
After your unforgettable Great Wall experience, return to downtown Beijing and stop to admire the exteriors of the Bird’s Nest (Beijing National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing National Aquatics Center). Designed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and reused for the 2022 Winter Olympics, these architectural marvels symbolize China’s modern achievements. Snap photos of their unique designs before being transferred back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing → Xining by Flight | Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa
This morning, your guide will accompany you to the airport for your 2.5-hour flight from Beijing to Xining. Upon arrival in Xining— the gateway to Tibet— your local guide will be waiting at the airport exit and transfer you directly to Xining Railway Station. Here, you’ll board the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway— the highlight of your journey— bound for Lhasa.
Important Note: Please ensure you carry your Tibet Travel Permit, as it will be verified during train boarding.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway journey unfolds as a visual masterpiece, offering front-row seats to the Tibetan Plateau’s breathtaking landscapes. Settle into a window seat and watch as snow-capped Himalayan peaks, glistening alpine lakes, grassy plains dotted with yaks and nomadic tents, and vast barren deserts unfold before you. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife— antelopes, foxes, wild asses, and the occasional nomad traversing the plains— as the train gradually climbs to the high plateau.
Useful Qinghai-Tibet Railway Tips:
- Accommodation Options: The train offers four classes of seating/sleeping berths: soft sleeper, hard sleeper, soft seat, and hard seat.
- Dining: Onboard dining cars serve a variety of Chinese and Tibetan dishes. For those with specific tastes, feel free to bring instant meals or snacks.
- Toilets: Each soft sleeper carriage is equipped with both Western-style and squat toilets. Please bring your own towels, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Oxygen Supply: The train is fitted with oxygen systems to assist passengers in acclimating to the high altitude of the Tibetan Plateau.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Onboard Qinghai-Tibet Railway train
Day 5: Arrival in Lhasa
Altitude: 3,650m
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the sacred capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon arriving at Lhasa Railway Station, your tour guide and driver will greet you warmly at the exit and escort you to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest and altitude acclimatization (3,650m)—take it easy to adjust to the thin air, and prepare for your upcoming Lhasa exploration.
Important Altitude Acclimatization Tips:
- To prevent altitude sickness: Move at a slow pace, keep warm, drink plenty of water regularly, avoid showers for the first 1-2 days, take time to relax, and ensure adequate sleep.
- Consult your doctor beforehand for personalized advice on altitude adaptation based on your health condition.
- Immediately inform your guide or hotel staff if you feel unwell—they are experienced in handling altitude-related symptoms and are ready to assist.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 6: Lhasa City Tour | Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery & Barkhor Street
Altitude: 3,650m
Today, immerse yourself in Lhasa’s spiritual core with visits to three iconic sites: Jokhang Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sera Monastery (famous for monk debates), and Barkhor Street (Tibet’s sacred circumambulation route).
Jokhang Temple
Nestled in the heart of Lhasa for over 1,300 years, Jokhang Temple is a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide and the spiritual soul of Tibet. Legend has it that the temple was built by King Songtsen Gampo to honor his two brides: Princess Wencheng of China and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. The name “Jokhang” translates to “House of Buddha,” and it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni Buddha—one of the most sacred relics in the Buddhist world, drawing pilgrims from far and wide.
Admire the temple’s architectural brilliance: intricate carvings, vibrant murals, ornate decorations, and exquisite details that make it a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Witness the timeless devotion of pilgrims praying day and night in front of the temple, a scene that feels suspended in time.
Note: The visiting order may be adjusted based on Jokhang Temple ticket reservation availability.
Sera Monastery
In the afternoon, drive 30km (50 minutes) to Sera Monastery—one of Tibet’s three great Gelugpa university monasteries—offering an intimate glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism. The highlight of the visit is the daily monk debates, held from approximately 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). This dynamic form of religious exchange involves one monk standing as the questioner, while the responder(s) sit. The standing monk asks questions, slapping his palms and stomping his feet—gestures with symbolic meanings (such as awakening wisdom) rather than aggression. You’ll also have the chance to observe prayer ceremonies, explore meditation halls, and learn about monastic life—making it an essential stop to deepen your understanding of Tibetan Buddhist beliefs and practices.
Barkhor Street
Afterward, return to downtown Lhasa to wander Barkhor Street, a bustling thoroughfare adjacent to Jokhang Temple. Originally a sacred kora (pilgrim circuit), it has evolved into a vibrant local market where tradition and modernity converge. Sip a pot of creamy yak butter tea, dress in traditional Tibetan attire for photos, or browse stalls offering Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialties. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Tibetans as they circumambulate the street, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 7: Lhasa City Tour | Potala Palace & Drepung Monastery
Altitude: 3,650m
Today, delve into Lhasa’s royal and spiritual legacy with visits to two iconic sites: the Potala Palace—the world’s highest palace, a masterpiece of architecture, culture, and history—and Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet’s “Great Three” Gelugpa university monasteries.
Potala Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
In the morning, step into the Potala Palace, the traditional residence and winter palace of the Dalai Lamas (1649-1959). Ascend 365 steps from the palace gate to reach the Red Palace, perched at an altitude of 3,700 meters—making it the highest palace on Earth. Wander through its grand halls, chapels, and shrines dedicated to past Dalai Lamas, and be captivated by the exquisite paintings, glittering jeweled artworks, intricate carvings, and vibrant decorations. Each treasure tells a mysterious story, blending spiritual significance with artistic brilliance.
Amidst the palace’s sacred halls, you’ll encounter Tibetan pilgrims who have traveled far and wide to pay homage—this site is the culmination of their lifelong spiritual journey. Ask your guide to share tales of King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of Tibet, who first constructed the Potala Palace in the 7th century to welcome his bride, Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.
Important Notes:
- The visiting order may be adjusted based on your Potala Palace ticket’s scheduled time.
- All visitors must explore the Potala Palace as part of a guided group, with a maximum stay of 1 hour.
- Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace.
Drepung Monastery
Subsequently, drive 12 kilometers (approximately 35 minutes) to Drepung Monastery—once the largest Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa and the former residence of the Dalai Lama before his move to the Potala Palace in the 17th century. Today, it is famous for the annual Drepung Shoton Festival (held in August), where locals offer yogurt to monks who have completed 100 days of meditation, culminating in the grand Thangka Unfolding Ceremony—a spectacle not to be missed.
Beyond its unique architecture, Drepung Monastery offers the chance to witness lively Tibetan Buddhist monk debates. These dynamic exchanges involve expressive gestures, clapping, and stomping—each movement carrying symbolic meaning, such as invoking wisdom. After exploring the monastery, immerse yourself in a 2-hour Tibetan cultural experience, including an introduction to Tibetan traditions, hands-on Tibetan incense making, and block printing.
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Lhasa
Day 8: Lhasa Departure | Hotel Check-Out & Airport/Train Station Transfer
Altitude: 3,650m | Distance: 100km (1.5 hours’ drive)
Your unforgettable 8-day Beijing-Xining-Lhasa Train Tour comes to an end today. Enjoy some free time to explore Lhasa at your own pace—whether you want to revisit a favorite site, savor one last taste of local cuisine, or pick up a souvenir—before your guide escorts you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station for your onward flight or high-speed train.
Extension Opportunities:
If you wish to extend your Tibetan adventure, we offer tailor-made extensions to other iconic destinations, including Namtso Lake (one of Tibet’s three holy lakes), Mount Kailash (a sacred peak for multiple religions), and the Ancient Guge Kingdom (a ruined kingdom steeped in mystery). Share your preferences with us, and we’ll craft the perfect extended itinerary for you.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China journey. We are committed to creating memorable experiences, and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next exploration of China and Asia. Safe travels!
Dining: Breakfast included
Accommodation: N/A
Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!
-
IncludedProfessional licensed English-speaking local guidePrivate Vehicle: Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehiclesHotel accommodation with breakfasts (3-star standard)Meals: Breakfasts plus featured meals - Tibetan welcome banquet in Lhasa & The world’s highest altitude hot pot experience at EBC (if you take the tour to EBC).Admission tickets, activities listed in the itineraryTibet Permits: Tibet Entry Permit, Alien Travel Permit, Border Pass, etc.Pick up and Drop off Service: The pick up and drop off service are free from 7:00am to 22:00pm on the pick up and drop off date.Oxygen and Water: A container of Oxygen per person for emergency use; 2 bottles of drinking water per person per day (300ml); 4L Medical oxygen cylinder with carOur service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip
-
Not IncludedInternational airfaresEntry visa feesPersonal expensesSingle room supplementRecommended optional activitiesArrival/departure flights or train on the first and last dayTips or gratuities for guides and drivers
