From serene temples and hi-tech gadgets in ... - Intrepid Travel

china & tibet
From serene temples and hi-tech gadgets in Shanghai to the
striking karst scenery of rural China and all the way to sky-high
Tibet, experience cultures of amazing diversity…
When to go…
High Season (summer)
Watch the mercury rise and take it easy during the subtropical
summer months. Avoid the sticky cities and head to more
temperate areas like Kunming and Dali to find respite, cool
off with an iced tea in Chengdu, or savour cool river breezes
while cruising down the Yangzi. Warm and sunny, Tibet
shines in summer, with pilgrims thronging holy cities like
sky-high Lhasa.
Low Season (winter/wet season)
Rug up as temperatures plummet and the wet season starts.
Major sights will be quiet, so head to the Great Wall to explore
this ancient structure without the crowds. Spicy Sichuan
cuisine is sure to warm you up or plunge into a steamy hot
spring to soak winter chills away. Cultural events abound, so
take in a show of Shanghai Acrobats or a traditional opera in
Beijing. The Chinese New Year falls in this period, an entertaining
festival of colour and clamour - look out for dragons
winding through the streets.
Shoulder Season (spring/autumn)
Spring is a season of rebirth and travel in this period of
regeneration is especially beautiful and rewarding.
Wildflowers bloom and birdlife abounds in China’s grasslands.
The Longji Terraces are lush and green and
villages bustle with the activity of cultivating new crops.
Travel into the countryside to experience the best of
autumn or marvel at the golden leaves adorning the parks
of Beijing and Shanghai. Pleasant temperatures make for
great exploring, so grab a bike to cycle around Lijiang, trek in
Tiger Leaping Gorge or limber up for some kung fu lessons
in Shaolin. In the Tibetan grasslands autumn is a time for
horse racing festivals. Tent cities pop up and races, archery
demonstrations, singing and dancing performances as well
as impromptu markets abound. China’s Mid-Autumn Festival
is a time to gaze skywards and appreciate the beauty of the
night; be sure to try some traditional moon cakes as well.
High Season (summer)
Low Season (winter/wet season)
Shoulder Season (spring/autumn)
china (nth)
china (sth)
tibet
jan feb mar apr may jun jul aug sep oct nov dec

animal market
xi’an huiling
frontier living
become tibetan
the silk road
page : 35, CSR
nomadic china
page : 34, CSG
mountains & monasteries
page : 32, FSN
tiger leaping gorge
page : 35, CRM
Join in the chaos of the
Kashgar animal market, a
priceless chance to mingle
with locals, take amazing
photos and maybe even
buy your own sheep!
Meet the children of the
Xi’an Huiling, a project for
kids with disabilities. Enjoy
their musical show, a dumpling
lunch and a tour of the
goods they make.
Soak up the vibe of the
Tibetan grasslands, a vast
region that feels like a wild
west frontier. Spot felt tents,
yak herds and nomads riding
across the plains.
Get to know the locals.
Hire bikes and ride to the
countryside to see farming,
mingle with monks at a
gompa and join in Tibetan
dancing in the evening.
join pilgrims
spicy sichuan
hutong hijinx
camel sunrise
tibet unplugged
page : 33, FRE
nomadic china
page : 34, CSG
trans-tibetan express
page : 34, FAT
the silk road
page : 35, CSR
Walk the Jokhang, joining
pilgrims as they prostrate
themselves on this most
holy of circuits. The pilgrims
come from all over Tibet to
celebrate their faith.
Fill up on Sichuan’s world
famous, self-titled cuisine.
Try the hot pot, it’s spicy
and so delicious you’ll find
yourself coming back for
more, again and again.
Hire a bike and head out to
explore Beijing’s hutongs.
Courtyard houses back on
to narrow alleyways and as
you cycle through you’ll get
a glimpse of traditional life.
Rise in the pre-dawn darkness
and jump aboard your
trusty camel steed. Climb to
the crest of a massive sand
dune and watch the sun rise
over red desert.
Intrepid’s real life experiences in china & tibet…

china & tibet
mountains & monasteries
GB£1265*
EU€1790*
Original
*plus Local Payment US$600
Physical
culture shock
• See the landscapes
of the world’s most
mountainous region
• Soak up the spiritual
atmosphere of Lhasa
• Experience the cultures
of China, Nepal & Tibet
• See the sights of
ancient China
• Experience the warm
devotion of the
Tibetan people
• Mingle with pilgrims
in Xiahe
• Experience local life on
a Yellow River
homestay
• Shop in bustling
bazaars
• Spend a night at
Everest Base Camp
• Discover Nepali culture
in Kathmandu
28 days, Beijing to Kathmandu
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Beijing Explore the ancient side of the vibrant
and modern city of Beijing. Discover the Forbidden City, walk
through Tiananmen Square and wander along the ancient stairs of
the awe-inspiring Great Wall. Days 4-5 Xi'an China’s imperial centre
for 2,200 years, Xi’an is filled with fascinating sights. Take some
time out from the buzz of city life at the peaceful Great Mosque or
perhaps join the locals for a spot of tai chi in the city gardens. Don’t
miss the Terracotta Warriors - all 6,000 of them! Day 6 Xiahe Join
colourfully dressed Tibetan pilgrims as they complete a prayer circut
around the Labrang Monastery. Days 7-8 Langmusi See where
nomads and Tibetan monks come together. Explore a working
monastery and take the option of going horseriding or trekking in
the surrounding countryside. Days 9-10 Tibetan Grasslands
Experience a homestay with welcoming locals. For a further insight
into local life, visit a Tibetan school for the chance to teach a few
words of English, or just play. Day 11 Chengdu Pass through
stunning Sichuan scenery en route to Chengdu, home of the spicy
hot pot. If there is time, be sure to visit the Chengdu Panda Research
and Breeding Centre to get an up close look at these amazing creatures.
Days 12-16 Lhasa Fly to Lhasa, a place of beauty and mysticism.
Learn a few words of Tibetan and enjoy a cooking class. Spend
time exploring the Potala Palace, the Jokhang and take the Bakhor
pilgrim circuit. Day 17 Samye Spend the night in the atmospheric
shadow of Tibet’s oldest monastery. Day 18 Gyantse Make the
pilgrim circuit at Kumbum Gyantse through a series of tiny chapels
filled with colourful Buddhist images. Days 19-21 Shigatse/
Sakya Explore two of Tibet’s most spiritually important towns.
Days 22-23 Everest National Park/Rongphu Monastery
From Rongphu Monastery, the highest in the world, head to Tibet’s
own Everest Base Camp - the view from here is out of this world.
Day 24 Zhangmu As the Tibetan Plateau abruptly ends and we
move to lower altitudes, the harsh landscape transforms into lush
green valleys. Days 25-26 Dhulikhel Across the Nepalese border,
enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. Days 27-28 Kathmandu
The journey ends in the narrow streets of Kathmandu, with its great
food and memorable sights.
Above: Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Girls in a canola field, China - David Fok
Below: Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Monk, China - Carol Jones
ACCOMMODATION Hotels/guesthouses (23 nts), overnight trains (2 nts),
monasteries (2 nts) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, private bus, 4WD, local
bus, walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner BUDGET Allow
US$300 for meals not included DEPARTS Selected Mon (Mar-Nov) GUARANTEE
Subject to min 4 TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5
Start Finish
2008
07 Apr 04 May
14 Apr 11 May
21 Apr 18 May
28 Apr 25 May
05 May 01 Jun
12 May 08 Jun
19 May 15 Jun
26 May 22 Jun
02 Jun 29 Jun
09 Jun 06 Jul
16 Jun 13 Jul
23 Jun 20 Jul
30 Jun 27 Jul
07 Jul 03 Aug
14 Jul 10 Aug
21 Jul 17 Aug
28 Jul 24 Aug
01 Sep 28 Sep
08 Sep 05 Oct
15 Sep 12 Oct
22 Sep 19 Oct
29 Sep 26 Oct
06 Oct 02 Nov
13 Oct 09 Nov
20 Oct 16 Nov
27 Oct 23 Nov
2009
09 Mar 05 Apr
16 Mar 12 Apr
23 Mar 19 Apr
30 Mar 26 Apr
06 Apr 03 May
13 Apr 10 May
20 Apr 17 May
27 Apr 24 May
04 May 31 May
11 May 07 Jun
18 May 14 Jun
25 May 21 Jun
01 Jun 28 Jun
08 Jun 05 Jul
15 Jun 12 Jul
22 Jun 19 Jul
29 Jun 26 Jul
TRIP CODE
fsn
32

china & tibet
across the roof of the world
GB£1245*
EU€1770*
Original
*plus Local Payment US$450
Physical
culture shock
• Explore the winding
streets of Lijiang
• Experience the magic
of sky-high Lhasa
• Take part in a kora in
holy Shigatse
• Travel across soaring
mountain ranges
21 days, Kunming to Kathmandu
ITINERARY... Day 1 Kunming Filled with cafes, Kunming is an
ideal place to try some fiery locals foods. Days 2-3 Lijiang Wander
the walkways and canals of the Old Quarter, home of the Naxi
people. Days 4-5 Zhongdian Get a taste of life in Zhongdian,
considered to be Shangri-la by its residents. Day 6 Deqin Stop in
Deqin, site of the sacred snow-capped mountain of Kawa Karpo.
Day 7 Markham Enjoy a day’s drive through fertile valleys, following
the course of the Mekong River. Day 8 Dzogang Cross the
Joba, Dawu and Dongda passes. At over 5,000 m (16,400 ft), you
really are on the roof of the world. Day 9 Pasho Ascend the Gama
La Pass and descend to the Salween River, beside alpine forests.
Day 10 Pomi A sunrise over the Nagan-Tso Lake is worth waking
early for. Days 11-12 Bayi Glimpse the enormous peaks of Gyala
Pelri and Namcha Barwa mountains. Days 13-16 Lhasa Marvel at
colourful Lhasa, the spiritual home of Tibet. Watch the pilgrims go
about their prayers. Day 17 Gyantse Fascinating Gyantse Kumbum
is a unique temple designed as a mandala. Follow the pilgrim
route through tiny Buddha-packed chapels.
Days 18-19 Shigatse Join pilgrims on their
evening kora, a circular walk around the
monastery’s perimeter. Day 20 Namtso
Lake Visit the highest lake in the world,
Tibet’s second largest salt lake and a major
holy site. Days 20-21 Kathmandu Chillout
with a chai in Kathmandu.
Above: Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, First view of Mt Everest - Angela Stevenson
Below: Village life, Tibet
ACCOMMODATION Hotels (3 nts), guesthouses/monasteries (16 nts), overnight
train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, minibus, 4WD, local bus GROUP SIZE Max 12
MEALS 6 Breakfasts BUDGET Allow US$300 for meals not included DEPARTS
Selected Fri (May-Nov) GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 TRAVELLER RATING Not
applicable as this is a new itinerary
Start Finish
2008
13 Jun 03 Jul
27 Jun 17 Jul
15 Aug 04 Sep
22 Aug 11 Sep
29 Aug 18 Sep
05 Sep 25 Sep
12 Sep 02 Oct
19 Sep 09 Oct
26 Sep 16 Oct
10 Oct 30 Oct
17 Oct 06 Nov
24 Oct 13 Nov
2009
01 May 21 May
08 May 28 May
15 May 04 Jun
22 May 11 Jun
29 May 18 Jun
05 Jun 25 Jun
12 Jun 02 Jul
19 Jun 09 Jul
26 Jun 16 Jul
TRIP CODE
fsa
tibet unplugged
GB£855
EU€1210
Basix
*plus Local Payment US$300
Physical
culture shock
• Join pilgrims in Lhasa
• Visit the impressive
Kumbum Gyantse
• Take a trek up to
Everest Base Camp
• Experience Tibetan
culture and traditions
15 days, ex Kathmandu
Departs every Sun (Apr-Nov)
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Kathmandu In Nepal’s colourful capital,
the constant stream of traffic includes monks, goats and sacred
cows. Explore the markets of the Old City or sit back with a chai at a
rooftop restaurant. Days 3-7 Lhasa Visit the awe-inspiring Potala
Palace, join Tibetan pilgrims as they prostrate themselves along
the holy Barkhor circuit and shop for prayer wheels at the market
outside the Jokhang Temple. Day 8 Gyantse Located in the green
farmland of the Nyang-chu Valley, Gyantse’s imposing Dzong
fortress dominates the town. Visit the amazing Gyantse Kumbum,
which is decorated with 10,000 murals over four floors. Days 9-10
Shigatse/Sakya Home to Tibet’s best-preserved monastery,
Shigatse is the seat of the Panchen Lama, the reincarnation of
the Buddha of Infinite Light. Check out the town’s ancient bazaar,
buzzing with local life. Day 11 Everest National Park/Rongphu
Monastery Travel to Rongphu Monastery, the world’s highest,
on an exhilarating drive through the mountains. For the energetic,
there is a 2 hour hike to Everest Base Camp. Day 12 Lao Tingri Get
a feel for Tibetan life in the tiny settlement of Lao Tingri. Look beyond
the colourful prayer flags and vast landscapes to towering
Mt Everest. Day 13 Dhulikel Clinging precariously to the
cliff face, the border town of Zhangmu enjoys warm, humid
weather and a lush green landscape that is a startling change
from the barren Tibetan plateau. Days 14-15 Kathmandu
Chill-out in local restaurants and reminisce about an incredible
adventure across the high peaks of magical Tibet.
Above: Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Local faces, Tibet - Lavina Tien
Below: Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Local smile - Ginny Squissato
ACCOMMODATION Guesthouses/monasteries (14 nts) TRANSPORT Plane,
minibus, local bus, walking GROUP SIZE Max 16 MEALS No meals included
BUDGET Allow US$250 for meals not included DEPARTS Every Sun (Apr-Nov)
GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 TRAVELLER RATING 4.57 out of 5
TRIP CODE
fre
33

china & tibet
trans-tibetan express
GB£935 single
EU€1320 single
GB£675 twin
EU€955 twin
Independent
Physical
culture shock
• Explore the busy
streets of Beijing
• Experience the
traditions of Tibet
• Travel on the world’s
highest railway
• Discover Buddhism
in holy Lhasa
8 days, ex Beijing
Departs daily
ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Beijing Begin your Beijing explorations
on a tour of the newly-restored Temple of Heaven with a knowledgeable
local guide. The remainder of the day is yours to explore
this remarkable city. Perhaps head to the nearby Hong Qiao or Silk
Markets to track down a bargain or catch a rickshaw to explore the
architecture and back lanes of this amazing city. Tiananmen Square
is a must-see and walking on this huge meeting area is a remarkable
experience. Days 3-4 Beijing/Lhasa Today we set off on a two
night journey aboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest rail system
in the world, climbing from 2,829 m (9,488 ft) above sea level
at Golmud to 3,641 m (11,945 ft) at Lhasa. Its highest point is in the
Tanggula Pass, just over 5,000 m (16,404 ft) above sea level. Enjoy
the journey in the comfort of a train equipped with a special oxygen
system for those high ascents. Watch the spectacular scenery roll by,
chatting with locals in the dining car. Days 5-8 Lhasa The spiritual
and political heart of Tibet, Lhasa is a colourful and inspiring place.
Visit the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, an architectural marvel sitting
at the top of the world. See waves of pilgrims prostrating themselves
outside of Jokhang Temple before browsing its market for
Buddha images, yak skulls with ruby eyes, woodcarvings or carpets.
Walk the holy Barkhor circuit with devout Tibetan Buddhists to get a
sense of the history and traditions of these peaceful people. There is
plenty of free time to soak up the grandeur of Lhasa. Day 8 Beijing
Bid goodbye to mystical Tibet and head to your next destination.
Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Yak ride - Angela Stevenson
ACCOMMODATION Hotels (5 nts), overnight train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Plane,
overnight train, private car, taxi MEALS 1 Breakfast BUDGET Allow US$150 for
meals not included DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability NOTES 1. On day 8
you may fly to Kathmandu instead of Beijing (flights run Apr-Oct only). Trip must
start on a Tue, Thu or Sat if flying to Kathmandu. 2. We require a clear scanned
copy of the photo page from your passport and your occupation in order to
make the arrangements for this trip. 3. We require a clear copy of your Chinese
visa at least 45 days prior to departure. 4. Trip will not run during the Olympics
(from 15 Jul-15 Sep 2008). 5. Arrival airport transfer is included, please advise of
flight details at time of booking TRAVELLER RATING 4.20 out of 5
TRIP CODE
fat
nomadic china
GB£710*
EU€1010*
Original
*plus Local Payment US$450
Physical
culture shock
• Cross the vast Tibetan
grasslands
• Experience nomadic
life on a homestay
• Visit the giant pandas
of Wolong
• Cycle past scenic karsts
in Yangshuo
21 days, Beijing to Hong Kong
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Beijing Take a guided tour of the Forbidden
City and Tiananmen Square and travel out to the Great Wall to
marvel at this ancient structure. Days 4-5 Xi'an See why the Terracotta
Warriors are labelled one of the world’s greatest archaeological
discoveries or wander through the fascinating Muslim Quarter.
Days 6-7 Xiahe The remote town of Xiahe is home to the eminent
Labrang Monastery, a stunning place to watch Tibetan pilgrims
come and go. Accompany monks and turn the prayer wheels,
sending prayers to heaven. Days 8-10 Langmusi/Homestay
Experience traditional ways of life in Langmusi’s vast plains, visiting
remote villages and meeting friendly locals. There may be a chance
to visit a Tibetan school to play with the kids. Enjoy an insightful
homestay experience. Days 11-12 Songpan Travel through
rolling grasslands to the wild west town of Songpan. Sample local
Sichuan cuisine or take an optional trek. Day 13 Wolong Panda
Reserve Have a close encounter with the lovable residents of this
200,000 sq ha national nature reserve. Days 14-15 Chengdu Soak
up the atmosphere in Chengdu, home to traditional teahouses,
squares and gardens or for a bit of extra culture, head to the opera.
Days 16-19 Yangshuo Cycle against a backdrop of limestone
karsts that soar above rice paddies and spend time relaxing or
hiking along the stunning Li River. Days 20-21 Hong Kong
Ultra-modern Hong Kong is a dramatic change from rural life. Take
the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour and bargain up a storm at the
Temple Street night market.
Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, A different sort of family, China - Lisa Placks
ACCOMMODATION Hotels/guesthouses (16 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight
trains (3 nts) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, taxi, private bus, local bus,
bicycle, walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
BUDGET Allow US$250 for meals not included DEPARTS Selected Sat (Apr-Nov)
GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed NOTES Some accommodation may be
multishare TRAVELLER RATING 4.65 out of 5
Start Finish
2008
26 Apr 16 May
17 May 06 Jun
24 May 13 Jun
31 May 20 Jun
14 Jun 04 Jul
28 Jun 18 Jul
12 Jul 01 Aug
26 Jul 15 Aug
06 Sep 26 Sep
20 Sep 10 Oct
27 Sep 17 Oct
04 Oct 24 Oct
11 Oct 31 Oct
18 Oct 07 Nov
25 Oct 14 Nov
2009
18 Apr 08 May
25 Apr 15 May
09 May 29 May
16 May 05 Jun
23 May 12 Jun
30 May 19 Jun
06 Jun 26 Jun
13 Jun 03 Jul
20 Jun 10 Jul
27 Jun 17 Jul
TRIP CODE
csg
34

china & tibet
tiger leaping gorge
GB£320*
EU€455*
Basix
*plus Local Payment US$150
Physical
culture shock
• Roam the ancient
laneways of Lijiang
• Get to know the Naxi
and Bai people
• Hike in the stunning
Tiger Leaping Gorge
• Experience Tibetan
culture in Zhongdian
11 days, ex Kunming
ITINERARY... Day 1 Kunming Catch glimpses of Kunming’s
old-world charm while exploring its quaint back streets or roaming
the markets in search of a bargain. Days 2-3 Lijiang Peaceful and
pretty, Lijiang is home to the Naxi people, descendants of Tibetan
nomads, recognisable by their traditional blue clothing. Explore the
maze of stone streets in this World Heritage-listed old town. Days
4-5 Tiger Leaping Gorge Legend has it that a tiger jumped the
25 m (82 ft) across the Yangzi in order to escape a hunter, granting
the gorge its enchantingly lyrical name. Arduous but rewarding,
this hike along the river traverses the spectacular terrain of one of
the world’s deepest gorges. Stay in simple guesthouses and eat at
local cafes along the way. Be sure to bring a camera because the
views in Tiger Leaping Gorge are absolutely breathtaking. Days
6-7 Zhongdian Learn about the Tibetan way of life in Zhongdian,
joining local residents at night for singing and dancing. There is
free time to visit Ganden Sumtseling Gompa Monastery or to hire a
bike and cruise out into the surrounding farmlands. Days 8-9 Dali
Bounded by spectacular Lake Erhai on one side and snow-capped
mountains on the other, spending time in Dali is a real treat. Explore
the Old Town’s cobblestone lanes and wooden houses or maybe
take a boat trip. Along the lake are colourful markets, with Bai
people selling an incredible range of goods. Days 10-11 Kunming
Discover ancient temples and mosques as the journey comes
full circle in Kunming. Perhaps sit down and enjoy a final feast to
celebrate an exciting adventure.
Start Finish
2008
06 Apr 16 Apr
20 Apr 30 Apr
27 Apr 07 May
04 May 14 May
11 May 21 May
18 May 28 May
25 May 04 Jun
01 Jun 11 Jun
08 Jun 18 Jun
15 Jun 25 Jun
22 Jun 02 Jul
29 Jun 09 Jul
Intrepid Photography Competition 2007, Tiger Leaping Gorge, China - Ron Crowden
ACCOMMODATION Hotels/guesthouses (10 nts) TRANSPORT Taxi, local bus,
walking GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS No meals included BUDGET Allow US$150
for meals not included DEPARTS Selected Sun GUARANTEE Departure
guaranteed TRAVELLER RATING 4.55 out of 5
06 Jul 16 Jul
13 Jul 23 Jul
14 Jul 24 Jul
20 Jul 30 Jul
27 Jul 06 Aug
03 Aug 13 Aug
10 Aug 20 Aug
17 Aug 27 Aug
24 Aug 03 Sep
31 Aug 10 Sep
07 Sep 17 Sep
14 Sep 24 Sep
21 Sep 01 Oct
28 Sep 08 Oct
05 Oct 15 Oct
12 Oct 22 Oct
19 Oct 29 Oct
26 Oct 05 Nov
02 Nov 12 Nov
09 Nov 19 Nov
2009
25 Jan 04 Feb
15 Feb 25 Feb
08 Mar 18 Mar
22 Mar 01 Apr
19 Apr 29 Apr
26 Apr 06 May
03 May 13 May
10 May 20 May
17 May 27 May
24 May 03 Jun
31 May 10 Jun
07 Jun 17 Jun
14 Jun 24 Jun
21 Jun 01 Jul
28 Jun 08 Jul
TRIP CODE
crm
the silk road
GB£825*
EU€1170*
Original
*plus Local Payment US$450
Physical
culture shock
• Follow in the footsteps
of ancient traders
• Ride a camel across
stunning sand dunes
• Explore the legendary
Silk Road route
• Meet locals at Kashgar
Sunday Market
• Visit a desert oasis
22 days, Beijing to Kashgar
ITINERARY... Days 1-3 Beijing Discover Old China on a guided
tour of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Days 4-6 Xi'an
The launching point for the Silk Road, Xi’an bursts with ancient
sights including the Terracotta Warriors. Days 7-8 Jiayuguan
Travel across the desert fringe to the Ming Dynasty fortress of
Jiayuguan. Here the Great Wall completes its journey and marks
China’s historical boundary. Days 9-11 Dunhuang Marvel at the
cultivated fields surrounding the oasis town of Dunhuang. Ride
camels out into the desert to watch a sunrise from atop massive
sand dunes. Visit the 4th century Mogao Caves, containing extraordinary
Buddhist artwork. Days 12-13 Turpan Famous for its
vineyards, Turpan was an important staging post on the Silk Road.
Tour the town’s many attractions, which include Emin Minaret and
the ruined city of Jiaohe. Days 14-15 Heavenly Lake Savour fresh
air and alpine wilderness while relaxing at Heavenly Lake. Stay at a
local yurt and sample tasty Kazakh food. Days 16-17 Taklamakan
Desert Take the Silk Road route through the world’s second largest
sand desert, the Taklamakan. Visit the night market at Korla and
stroll the tiny oasis of Minfeng to meet friendly locals. Days
18-19 Hotan Explore some of the local cottage industries
of Hotan. Silk and carpet making workshops are hidden in
narrow lanes that snake through the countryside. Days 20-
22 Kashgar Dusty lanes crammed full of shops and stalls fill
Kashgar. Visit the Sunday bazaar to witness the bustle of one
of the world’s great trading spots.
Intrepid Photography Competition 2006, Heavenly Lake Kazak yurts, China - B Sirota
ACCOMMODATION Hotels (16 nts), overnight trains (3 nts), yurt (2 nts)
TRANSPORT Overnight train, private bus, taxi, boat, local bus, metro, walking
GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners BUDGET Allow
US$300 for meals not included DEPARTS Selected Mon (May-Oct) GUARANTEE
Subject to min 4 NOTES 1. Flights from Kashgar to Beijing (via Urumqi) on day 22
can be arranged (unaccompanied by an Intrepid leader). Total cost of the tickets
is approximately 4000 CNY to be paid to your leader on day 1. 2. Some
accommodation may be multishare TRAVELLER RATING 4.65 out of 5
Start Finish
2008
19 May 09 Jun
09 Jun 30 Jun
23 Jun 14 Jul
07 Jul 28 Jul
28 Jul 18 Aug
01 Sep 22 Sep
08 Sep 29 Sep
22 Sep 13 Oct
06 Oct 27 Oct
20 Oct 10 Nov
2009
27 Apr 18 May
11 May 01 Jun
18 May 08 Jun
25 May 15 Jun
01 Jun 22 Jun
08 Jun 29 Jun
15 Jun 06 Jul
22 Jun 13 Jul
29 Jun 20 Jul
TRIP CODE
csr
35