Overview
Our Lhasa to Dunhuang Overland Tour connects the Tibetan Plateau with the ancient Silk Road, offering an unmatched cultural and scenic adventure.
This 11-day Lhasa to Dunhuang overland tour unveils the spiritual, cultural, and geographic richness of western China. From ancient monasteries in Tibet to the Mogao Caves on the Silk Road, experience the region’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Important Notes
- This tour requires a minimum of 30 days advance booking for Tibet permit processing.
- Participants should be in good health due to high-altitude travel.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa
- Visit Samye Monastery and drive along the scenic Yarlung Valley
- Ride the world’s highest railway to Golmud
- Discover the Mogao Caves and Crescent Moon Lake in Dunhuang
- Travel below sea level to Turpan and explore ancient Uyghur culture
What’s Included
- ✓ Licensed English-speaking guide
- ✓ All accommodations (double occupancy, 4-star standard)
- ✓ Train fares: Lhasa → Golmud, Dunhuang → Turpan (soft sleeper)
- ✓ Tibet Travel Permits and other required local documents
- ✓ Arrival and departure transfers
- ✓ Private ground transportation
- ✓ Entrance fees to all listed attractions
- ✓ Meals as specified in the itinerary
What’s Not Included
- ✗ International flights
- ✗ Domestic flight to Lhasa
- ✗ Chinese visa fees
- ✗ Meals not listed in the itinerary
- ✗ Personal expenses
- ✗ Travel/medical insurance
- ✗ Single supplement (USD $399 if room not shared)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1 – Arrival in Tsetang
Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport and transfer to Tsetang. Visit Dranang and Mindroling Monasteries.
Day 2 – Samye Monastery & Transfer to Lhasa
Visit Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, then drive to Lhasa.
Day 3 – Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple
Tour the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, then walk the Barkhor pilgrim circuit.
Day 4 – Drepung & Sera Monasteries
Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest in the world, and Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates.
Day 5 – Train to Golmud
Ride the Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Golmud with spectacular plateau views.
Day 6 – Overland to Dunhuang
Drive through desert and plateau landscapes from Golmud to Dunhuang with scenic stops.
Day 7 – Explore Mogao Caves & Sand Dunes
Tour the Mogao Caves and enjoy activities at the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Moon Lake.
Day 8 – Train to Turpan
Take a soft-sleeper train to Turpan, a city below sea level with unique desert agriculture.
Day 9 – Turpan Cultural Exploration
Visit Flaming Mountains, Bezeklik Caves, and Astana Tombs. Enjoy Uyghur culture in the evening.
Day 10 – Jiaohe Ruins & Transfer to Urumqi
Explore ancient Jiaohe ruins and a traditional Uyghur home before transferring to Urumqi.
Day 11 – Departure from Urumqi
Transfer to Urumqi Airport for your outbound flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit?
Yes. We will handle the Tibet Travel Permit for you. Please book the tour at least 30 days in advance to allow time for processing.
What is the altitude on this tour?
The highest elevation is in Lhasa (~3,650m) and during the overland journey to Golmud (~3,100m). We recommend travelers to acclimatize and consult a physician before the trip if needed.
Are train tickets guaranteed?
Yes. Soft-sleeper train tickets from Lhasa to Golmud
What kind of accommodations are provided?
We provide comfortable 4-star standard hotels with double occupancy. A single supplement applies if you choose a private room.
Can this tour be customized?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized for private groups or individuals with adjusted dates and routing upon request.
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