From its areas of grand wilderness to the ancient wonders of the Orient or its bustling
modern cities, China is a land like no other. Ancient and modern collide here, captivating
visitors to this little understood but fascinating country. The signs of this ancient
civilisation are around for all to see: the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army and the Great
Wall each testament to a magnificent past.
Criss-crossing this vast landscape are China's great rivers - the Yangtse, Yellow River and
Mekong. However these days the waterways are less important than they were: the best
way to see this extraordinary country is by rail, and in particular on board our private
train, the Shangri-la Express. |
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In the shadow of the Himalayas, Tibet is still one of the
world's least-known places. Known as the 'roof of the world' due to its breathtaking
average height of 13,200ft (4,060m) above sea level, Tibet is home to more Himalayan
peaks than anywhere else: Mount Everest lies on its border with Nepal. As befits such a
remarkable land, Tibet's capital Lhasa is home to an amazing collection of spectacular
palaces and temples.
Yet Tibet has been virtually inaccessible - until now. That changed with the building of the
awesome Golmud to Lhasa railway. More than 600 miles (965 km) is at an altitude of
more than 13,000ft (4,000 m) and much of this magnificent line runs over permafrost, and
with the summit, the Tangula Pass, at 16,640ft, (5,072m) it is also the world's highest
railway. To travel on the line is a true pioneering adventure, an experience as unique as the
places it transports us to.
Highlights of Our Tours
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Guilin - Immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of Guilin, cruising amongst the outlandish
karst rock formations of the Li River and visit the amazing Reed Flute Cave.
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Yunnan Stone Forrest - Witness the dramatic and centuries old Yunnan Stone Forrest. Karst
stone peaks, pillars and stalagmites tower eerily as far as the eye can see.
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Chengdu - Enjoy the rare privilege of encountering giant pandas at the Giant Panda Breeding
Research Institute.
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Luxury River Cruise of the Three Gorges - Enjoy 3 idyllic days as our luxury river cruise
explores the outstanding natural beauty of the spectacular Three Gorges.
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Fengdu's unique 'Ghost City' - Wander through the haunting charm of Fengdu's 'Ghost
City' admiring its many beautiful temples and sculptures.
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Turpan - One of the hottest places on earth (upto 130°F in summer but as low as 4°F in
winter). Visit the Flaming Mountain and fascinating ancient irrigation system.
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Xian - Explore the famous and restored Terracotta Warriors - one of the greatest finds of the
20th Century.
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Highest Railway in the World - Experience an extraordinary and unforgettable journey over
the 701 mile 'Roof of the World' line - through the Tangula Pass (16,640 feet, 5,072m) - the
world's highest railway.
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Lhasa - The world's highest capital city. Visit the 17th Century Potala Palace, the former
winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Containing thousands of rooms, this breathtaking
structure perches high above Lhasa.
Click on the tour name below for itineraries and information.
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