Prices in local currency are for your guidance only.
Call us on
(646) 770 2894
The Shangri-La Express - Beijing to Lhasa
Travel from Beijing to Lhasa, the spiritual and administrative heart of Tibet on this once in a lifetime journey with China’s most prestigious private train, the Shangri-La Express. Explore the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in Beijing, admire the spectacle of the Terracotta Army in Xian and climb up into the Tangula Mountains along the unique ‘Roof of the World’ line into Tibet and the world’s highest altitude city, Lhasa. The departure date for this holiday is the 18th October 2012.
From $9,166 per person
Choose your holiday: Price per person
- from $9,166 10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Heritage Class Cabin
- from $12,329 10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Suite
Prices are shown in United States Dollars $
Itinerary - 10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Heritage Class Cabin
Day 1
Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the The Regent Hotel, a centrally located 5* hotel where you will stay for 2 nights.
In the afternoon, take an excursion to the sumptuous Summer Palace during which you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers for the first time. The Summer Palace complex covers an area of 2.9 square kilometres and has the largest Imperial Gardens in the world. Get a first taste of authentic Chinese cuisine with a welcome banquet in a local restaurant.
Day 2
Beijing
Spend a second day discovering the history and culture of this fascinating and vibrant capital city. In the morning, enjoy a tour of the Forbidden City, home to dynasties of emperors and their extensive households of servants, concubines and eunuchs for almost 500 years. Your afternoon tour takes you to one of the reconstructed areas of the Great Wall of China at Badaling, where you can walk along a restored section of the wall and admire the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside.
Dinner this evening is in a restaurant on Tiananmen Square, the largest open city square in the world.
Day 3
Beijing
After breakfast this morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the grandest of four temples in the city centre. After this, enjoy some free time to explore before heading to the station in the late afternoon to board the Shangri-La Express. Settle in to your well-appointed, comfortable cabin and perhaps take the opportunity for an aperitif in the bar-car before enjoying a mouth-watering dinner onboard.
Day 4
Luoyang
Disembark this morning for a tour of Luoyang, one of the four great ancient capitals of China, located on the central plain of China, in the middle of the Yellow River Valley. Visit the local museum for an insight into the history of the city's days of glory. Later, travel on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Longmen Caves, an amazing underground network of 1,350 caves containing over 110,000 statues.
Day 5
Xi'an
Arrive this morning into Xian, one of the oldest cities in China and the Eastern terminus of the famous Silk Road trade route through Asia. Your first stop is a visit to the Terracotta Warriors. Dating back to the 3rd century BC and only discovered 30 years ago by some local farmers, this massive collection of terracotta sculptures is considered to be the most significant archaeological find of the 20th century. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the city’s highlights including the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Great Mosque. In the evening, attend a Tang Dynasty dinner show before heading back to the train for a late departure.
Day 6
Onboard the Shangri-La Express
Spend the day relaxing onboard the Shangri-La Express today as you head through the arid expanses of the Gobi desert. Spend some time socialising in the bar car, attend one of the fascinating onboard lectures about the area or simply sit back and watch the epic scenery unfold from the large picture windows of your private cabin.
Day 7
Golmud, the 'Roof of the World'
Arrive early this morning into Golmud and disembark from the Shangri-La Express for your exciting 14 hour daylight journey along the 'Roof of the World Line' to Lhasa. The train you will take along this 1,142 kilometre line is a special high altitude service, reaching three miles (five kilometres) above sea level as it makes its way through the spectacular Tangula Pass. Due to the high altitude, extra oxygen is pumped into the compartments and oxygen masks are available for personal use if they are required. On arrival in Lhasa, check in to the Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa for a 4 night stay.
Day 8
Lhasa
Lhasa is the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region and holds the title as the world's highest city at 11,975 ft (3,650 metres) above sea level. The city also has a breathtaking location in a small basin, surrounded by mountains. It's not surprising that the name Lhasa literally means 'place of the gods'. Spend your free day here exploring on foot, or relax in the hotel whilst you acclimatise to the altitude.
Day 9
Lhasa
This morning, start your exploration with a visit to the 13th century Jokhang Temple. Located on Barkhor Square, this is considered to be the most sacred shrine in Tibet. After the tour, you'll have a chance to look around the adjacent Barkhor Market, the oldest in the capital before enjoying a local lunch accompanied by traditional folk music.
In the afternoon, you will take a tour of the Potala Palace, built in the 17th century and once the seat of the Tibetan government. The huge palace with its thousands of rooms, dominates the city skyline from its position on Marpo Ri Hill and commands spectacular views of the Lhasa Valley.
Day 10
Lhasa
After breakfast, visit Norbu Lingka, the summer residence of successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s until the 14th Dalai Lama was exiled in 1959. Built as a retreat from the summer heat, the palace is still a haven from the city's hustle and bustle. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon to explore or relax as you like before a farewell dinner in the evening to say goodbye to your new friends.
Day 11
Depart Lhasa
Depart Lhasa early this morning for your transfer to the airport.
Beijing summer Palace
The Regent Hotel
Forbidden City, Beijing
Beijing at night
Longmen Caves, Luoyang
Terracotta Warriors
Gobi Dessert
The Shangri-La Express
Lhasa, Tibet
Potala Palace, Lhasa
Jokhang Temple, Lhasa
Beijing
Visit Beijing for a trip around the Forbidden City, to explore the vast Tiananmen Square or relax in the green surroundings of the elegant Summer Palace. Don't miss a cycle ride through the historic hutongs, or a shopping excursion to the Pearl Market.
Lhasa
Lhasa is the highest city in the world at an altitude of 11,975 ft above sea level. It's also the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region and the traditional home of the Dalai Lama. Explore the commanding Potala Palace, the old winter residence of the Dalai Lama and the former seat of government. Shop for local trinkets and delicacies at the Barkhor Market and take some time out in the tranquil Norbu Lingka Palace.
The Shangri-La Express transports you through China to Beijing, and offers modern comfort even in the remotest places.
The train's twin berth cabins are comfortably furnished and include "Pullman" table and armchair alongside a large picture window. A state of the art shower car complements the two washrooms/WCs in every sleeping carriage.
Meals are served in the spacious restaurant car, where dedicated chefs serve a Western breakfast, followed by a wide range of authentic Chinese specialities at lunch and dinner, using only the finest local ingredients.
Equally special is the unique ambience of the piano bar car, which stays open until the last person leaves. The bar is the perfect place to get to know your fellow passengers or take in the scenery.
Heritage Class
Heritage cabins are 38 sq ft and sleep 2 people in bunk style beds. Each cabin has a wash basin facility which is shared between 2 compartments. Toilet facilities are available at the end of each sleeping carriage and there is also a separate shower carriage. Each of these shower carriages has a shower, mirror, hairdryer and changing area. Tea, coffee and water are provided free of charge in each Heritage cabin.
Suite
Suites are 2 interconnecting Heritage cabins. The facilities remain the same as the Heritage cabins but you have the option of using one cabin during the day as a sitting area and using the second cabin as a bedroom. By booking 2 interconnecting Heritage cabins it also gives to the possibility to have 2 lower berth beds if you prefer.
The Regent Hotel 
The Regent Hotel in Beijing is a luxury hotel with 500 contemporary bedrooms and suites. Relax in the hotel's indoor pool and "Serenity Spa", or enjoy dinner and a drink at one the hotel's 5 restaurants. The hotel is in the centre of Beijing, walking distance from Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Hotel Facilities
- Lift
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Concierge
Room Facilities
- Safe
- Air Conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Room Service
- Bathrobe and Slippers
- Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.
Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa 
The Brahmaputra Grand Hotel is a luxury hotel with 185 bedrooms. The hotel has a variety of leisure facilities including a sauna and two swimming pools. The three restaurants offer worldwide cuisine and the hotel bar is the perfect place to relax after a busy day sightseeing. The Brahmaputra Grand Hotel is centrally located within Lhasa and is close to the Lhasa River and Gongba Ricai Holy Mountain.
Hotel Facilities
- 24 hour reception
- Lift
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Restaurant
- Sauna
- Garden
Room Facilities
- Air Conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Minibar
- TV
- Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
- Complimentary Newspaper
Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.
10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Heritage Class Cabin
This holiday includes 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Beijing, train travel from Beijing to Lhasa onboard the Shangri-La Express in a New Heritage Class cabin, tours, excursions and meals as detailed in the itinerary, and 4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Lhasa.
Please note: The departure date for this holiday is the 18th October 2012.
More dates and
prices available
Add extra nights to your holiday, stop off en route, or book train travel from a European train station.
Call us on (646) 770 2894, and let us help you plan your perfect holiday.
Prices are shown in United States Dollars $
Price per person for 10 night holiday:
2012
-
AprilOn Request
-
MayOn Request
-
JuneOn Request
-
JulyOn Request
-
AugustOn Request
-
SeptemberOn Request
-
Octoberfrom $9,166
-
NovemberOn Request
-
DecemberOn Request
2013
-
JanuaryOn Request
-
MarchOn Request
-
AprilOn Request
-
MayOn Request
-
JuneOn Request
-
JulyOn Request
-
AugustOn Request
-
SeptemberOn Request
-
OctoberOn Request
-
NovemberOn Request
-
DecemberOn Request
2014
-
JanuaryOn Request
-
FebruaryOn Request
-
MarchOn Request
-
AprilOn Request
Terms
Holidays can be tailor-made for you (including stopovers or additional nights) call us on (646) 770 2894.
Prices are subject to availability, based on 2 people sharing a twin / double room and based on best priced seats on trains.
Supplements may apply if best price travel not available. Supplements will apply for single occupancy.
Hotel and room facilities may be subject to an extra charge or are on request.
We accept all major credit and debit cards. If you pay by debit card there is no extra charge; if you choose to pay by credit card a 2% surcharge applies.
Holidays including flights are operated by our sister company Railbookers Signature Holidays, a trading name of Travel Definitions Limited which is ATOL protected, number 9040.
Itinerary - 10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Suite
Day 1
Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the The Regent Hotel, a centrally located 5* hotel where you will stay for 2 nights.
In the afternoon, take an excursion to the sumptuous Summer Palace during which you’ll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers for the first time. The Summer Palace complex covers an area of 2.9 square kilometres and has the largest Imperial Gardens in the world. Get a first taste of authentic Chinese cuisine with a welcome banquet in a local restaurant.
Day 2
Beijing
Spend a second day discovering the history and culture of this fascinating and vibrant capital city. In the morning, enjoy a tour of the Forbidden City, home to dynasties of emperors and their extensive households of servants, concubines and eunuchs for almost 500 years. Your afternoon tour takes you to one of the reconstructed areas of the Great Wall of China at Badaling, where you can walk along a restored section of the wall and admire the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside.
Dinner this evening is in a restaurant on Tiananmen Square, the largest open city square in the world.
Day 3
Beijing
After breakfast this morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the grandest of four temples in the city centre. After this, enjoy some free time to explore before heading to the station in the late afternoon to board the Shangri-La Express. Settle in to your well-appointed, comfortable cabin and perhaps take the opportunity for an aperitif in the bar-car before enjoying a mouth-watering dinner onboard.
Day 4
Luoyang
Disembark this morning for a tour of Luoyang, one of the four great ancient capitals of China, located on the central plain of China, in the middle of the Yellow River Valley. Visit the local museum for an insight into the history of the city's days of glory. Later, travel on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Longmen Caves, an amazing underground network of 1,350 caves containing over 110,000 statues.
Day 5
Xi'an
Arrive this morning into Xian, one of the oldest cities in China and the Eastern terminus of the famous Silk Road trade route through Asia. Your first stop is a visit to the Terracotta Warriors. Dating back to the 3rd century BC and only discovered 30 years ago by some local farmers, this massive collection of terracotta sculptures is considered to be the most significant archaeological find of the 20th century. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the city’s highlights including the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Great Mosque. In the evening, attend a Tang Dynasty dinner show before heading back to the train for a late departure.
Day 6
Onboard the Shangri-La Express
Spend the day relaxing onboard the Shangri-La Express today as you head through the arid expanses of the Gobi desert. Spend some time socialising in the bar car, attend one of the fascinating onboard lectures about the area or simply sit back and watch the epic scenery unfold from the large picture windows of your private cabin.
Day 7
Golmud, the 'Roof of the World'
Arrive early this morning into Golmud and disembark from the Shangri-La Express for your exciting 14 hour daylight journey along the 'Roof of the World Line' to Lhasa. The train you will take along this 1,142 kilometre line is a special high altitude service, reaching three miles (five kilometres) above sea level as it makes its way through the spectacular Tangula Pass. Due to the high altitude, extra oxygen is pumped into the compartments and oxygen masks are available for personal use if they are required. On arrival in Lhasa, check in to the Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa for a 4 night stay.
Day 8
Lhasa
Lhasa is the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region and holds the title as the world's highest city at 11,975 ft (3,650 metres) above sea level. The city also has a breathtaking location in a small basin, surrounded by mountains. It's not surprising that the name Lhasa literally means 'place of the gods'. Spend your free day here exploring on foot, or relax in the hotel whilst you acclimatise to the altitude.
Day 9
Lhasa
This morning, start your exploration with a visit to the 13th century Jokhang Temple. Located on Barkhor Square, this is considered to be the most sacred shrine in Tibet. After the tour, you'll have a chance to look around the adjacent Barkhor Market, the oldest in the capital before enjoying a local lunch accompanied by traditional folk music.
In the afternoon, you will take a tour of the Potala Palace, built in the 17th century and once the seat of the Tibetan government. The huge palace with its thousands of rooms, dominates the city skyline from its position on Marpo Ri Hill and commands spectacular views of the Lhasa Valley.
Day 10
Lhasa
After breakfast, visit Norbu Lingka, the summer residence of successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s until the 14th Dalai Lama was exiled in 1959. Built as a retreat from the summer heat, the palace is still a haven from the city's hustle and bustle. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon to explore or relax as you like before a farewell dinner in the evening to say goodbye to your new friends.
Day 11
Depart Lhasa
Depart Lhasa early this morning for your transfer to the airport.
The Regent Hotel
Forbidden City, Beijing
Beijing at night
Longmen Caves, Luoyang
Terracotta Warriors
Gobi Dessert
The Shangri-La Express
Lhasa, Tibet
Potala Palace, Lhasa
Jokhang Temple, Lhasa
Beijing
Visit Beijing for a trip around the Forbidden City, to explore the vast Tiananmen Square or relax in the green surroundings of the elegant Summer Palace. Don't miss a cycle ride through the historic hutongs, or a shopping excursion to the Pearl Market.
Lhasa
Lhasa is the highest city in the world at an altitude of 11,975 ft above sea level. It's also the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region and the traditional home of the Dalai Lama. Explore the commanding Potala Palace, the old winter residence of the Dalai Lama and the former seat of government. Shop for local trinkets and delicacies at the Barkhor Market and take some time out in the tranquil Norbu Lingka Palace.
The Shangri-La Express transports you through China to Beijing, and offers modern comfort even in the remotest places.
The train's twin berth cabins are comfortably furnished and include "Pullman" table and armchair alongside a large picture window. A state of the art shower car complements the two washrooms/WCs in every sleeping carriage.
Meals are served in the spacious restaurant car, where dedicated chefs serve a Western breakfast, followed by a wide range of authentic Chinese specialities at lunch and dinner, using only the finest local ingredients.
Equally special is the unique ambience of the piano bar car, which stays open until the last person leaves. The bar is the perfect place to get to know your fellow passengers or take in the scenery.
Heritage Class
Heritage cabins are 38 sq ft and sleep 2 people in bunk style beds. Each cabin has a wash basin facility which is shared between 2 compartments. Toilet facilities are available at the end of each sleeping carriage and there is also a separate shower carriage. Each of these shower carriages has a shower, mirror, hairdryer and changing area. Tea, coffee and water are provided free of charge in each Heritage cabin.
Suite
Suites are 2 interconnecting Heritage cabins. The facilities remain the same as the Heritage cabins but you have the option of using one cabin during the day as a sitting area and using the second cabin as a bedroom. By booking 2 interconnecting Heritage cabins it also gives to the possibility to have 2 lower berth beds if you prefer.
The Regent Hotel
The Regent Hotel in Beijing is a luxury hotel with 500 contemporary bedrooms and suites. Relax in the hotel's indoor pool and "Serenity Spa", or enjoy dinner and a drink at one the hotel's 5 restaurants. The hotel is in the centre of Beijing, walking distance from Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Hotel Facilities
- Lift
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Concierge
Room Facilities
- Safe
- Air Conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Room Service
- Bathrobe and Slippers
- Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.
Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa
The Brahmaputra Grand Hotel is a luxury hotel with 185 bedrooms. The hotel has a variety of leisure facilities including a sauna and two swimming pools. The three restaurants offer worldwide cuisine and the hotel bar is the perfect place to relax after a busy day sightseeing. The Brahmaputra Grand Hotel is centrally located within Lhasa and is close to the Lhasa River and Gongba Ricai Holy Mountain.
Hotel Facilities
- 24 hour reception
- Lift
- Swimming Pool
- Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Restaurant
- Sauna
- Garden
Room Facilities
- Air Conditioning
- Hairdryer
- Minibar
- TV
- Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
- Complimentary Newspaper
Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.
10 Night Luxury Holiday by Rail - Suite
This holiday includes 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Beijing, train travel from Beijing to Lhasa onboard the Shangri-La Express in a Suite, tours, excursions and meals as detailed in the itinerary, and 4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Lhasa.
Please note: The departure date for this holiday is the 18th October 2012.
More dates and
prices available
Add extra nights to your holiday, stop off en route, or book train travel from a European train station.
Call us on (646) 770 2894, and let us help you plan your perfect holiday.
Prices are shown in United States Dollars $
Price per person for 10 night holiday:
2012
-
AprilOn Request
-
MayOn Request
-
JuneOn Request
-
JulyOn Request
-
AugustOn Request
-
SeptemberOn Request
-
Octoberfrom $12,329
-
NovemberOn Request
-
DecemberOn Request
2013
-
JanuaryOn Request
-
MarchOn Request
-
AprilOn Request
-
MayOn Request
-
JuneOn Request
-
JulyOn Request
-
AugustOn Request
-
SeptemberOn Request
-
OctoberOn Request
-
NovemberOn Request
-
DecemberOn Request
2014
-
JanuaryOn Request
-
FebruaryOn Request
-
MarchOn Request
-
AprilOn Request
Terms
Holidays can be tailor-made for you (including stopovers or additional nights) call us on (646) 770 2894.
Prices are subject to availability, based on 2 people sharing a twin / double room and based on best priced seats on trains.
Supplements may apply if best price travel not available. Supplements will apply for single occupancy.
Hotel and room facilities may be subject to an extra charge or are on request.
We accept all major credit and debit cards. If you pay by debit card there is no extra charge; if you choose to pay by credit card a 2% surcharge applies.
Holidays including flights are operated by our sister company Railbookers Signature Holidays, a trading name of Travel Definitions Limited which is ATOL protected, number 9040.
Site Map
Share on Facebook
The Travel Trust Association provides financial protection to the consumer for short breaks, holidays by train, train tickets and Eurostar bookings through Railbookers (Member U1138).
© 2003 - 2012 Railbookers
We have offices in London and Sydney and our lines are currently open.
Call us on (646) 770 2894.
If we are closed please leave us a voicemail message, or alternatively send us an email or submit an enquiry.
We've detected your location as Los Angeles, America. Our opening hours in your timezone for the next 7 days are:
| Monday - Thursday | 12am - 11am | 4:30pm - 11:59pm |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | 12am - 11am | 5pm - 11:59pm |
| Saturday | 12am - 12:30am | 2am - 7:30am |
| Sunday | 2am - 7:30am | 4:30pm - 11:59pm |
All times shown in PDT.
