Luang Prabang to Xi'an
Trip Details
Discover hidden China and Laos on a trip that gets you well away from the tourist trail whilst still taking in unmissable sights such as the Terracotta Warriors, Three Gorges, Giant Pandas in Chengdu and Tiger Leaping Gorge. We?ll head into the province of Yunnan, home to a complex mix of history, people, landscape, visiting stunning temples and accompanying the pilgrims on their trek up Emei Shan. Overlanding down through the lush, tropical landscape of southern china we then cross into Laos, exploring the remote Nam Ha protected area before the culmination of this amazing journey in historic Luang Prabang.
Itinerary
Days 1-6 Laos/Southern China
Start the adventure in Luang Prabang and travel through the southern region of China, home to lively local markets and colourful temples. There's free time along the way to try optional activities such as kayaking and trekking in Nam Ha National Park.
Days 7-10 Central Yunnan
Call by Shilin, known as the 'Stone Forest', and discover an intriguing maze of towering limestone pillars. Explore the markets of Kunming before heading to the lakeside town of Dali. Mingle with the Bai people and enjoy spectacular views of mountain ranges.
Days 11-14 North-West Yunnan
Wander through the cobbled streets of picturesque Lijiang and learn about the Naxi people who are descendents of Tibetan nomads. Take an overnight sleeper train to Chengdu.
Days 15-18 Sichuan
Home to spicy hot pot cuisines, Sichuan has plenty of food and culture on offer. Make the pilgrimage to Emei Shan, visit the giant panda's at their breeding centre in Chengdu and see the sleeping Buddha in the Dazu Caves. There's also time to take a ferry trip to see the huge Dafo Buddha in Leshan.
Days 19-23 The Yangzi River
Visit the controversial Three Gorges dam and get an insight into rural life along the Yangzi River on a cruise.
Days 24-29 Xi'an region
Explore the mountain reserve of Wudang Shan, the backdrop to Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, before heading to Xi'an. Be sure to visit the ancient Terracotta Warriors and soak up the city's garden culture and many temples.