14 Days China Orient Express Silk Road Adventure

Transcription

1 14 Days China Orient Express Silk Road Adventure 2019 Early Bird Offer China Orient Express Qinghai-Tibet Train Lhasa Tashi Lhunpo Monastery Potala Palace Ta er Monastery Barhor Street Yamzo Lake Zhongshan Bridge TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Watrwheel Garden Jiayuguan Greatwall DunHuang Mogao Grottoes Flaming Mountain Jiaohe Ancient City Heavenly Lake Tianshan $ Per Person TWIN SHARE *$ Air Taxes & Govt Fees *Subject to Alteration *$ Single Supplement Film Presentation 7th NOVEMBER AM until 11.30AM

2 14 DAY CHINA Orient Express Silk Road Adventure DEPARTING 25 May 2019 Day 1 Adelaide/ Guangzhou Today you will be picked up from your home by your courtesy limousine transfer (within zoned area) and transferred to Adelaide International Airport, for your am flight with China Southern Airlines to Lhasa via Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou. Accommodation: Guangzhou Airport (1 night stay) (in-flight meals) Day 2 Guangzhou / Lhasa Today you will catch a morning flight from Guangzhou to Lhasa via Chongqing airport. Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and presented with a HADA, a white scarf which is the Tibetan traditional way to wish you good luck. Then transferred to your hotel to take a rest to acclimatize of the higher altitude. Lhasa is the capital city of the Tiber Autonomous Region, in the Tibetan language it means Land of gods. In the eastern part of the city, near the Jokhang Temple and Barkhor neighborhood, Tibetan influence is still strong and evident and it is common to see traditionally dressed Tibetans engaged on a kora (a clockwise circumambulation or walk around the Jokhang Temple), open spinning prayer wheels. The western part of Lhasa is more ethnically Han Chinese in Character. It is busy and modern and looks similar to many other Chinese cities. Accommodation: Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa or similar (2 night stay) (in-flight meals, D) Day 3 Explore the holy city of Lhasa Following breakfast, you will begin your exploration of the famous Potala Palace, perched on the northern side of the Mountain. Throughout the ages, it had been the winter palace of Dalai Lamas. Its name means 'sacred Buddhist site' in the Tibetan language. This palace-like complex of buildings was first built in the 7th century AD by King Songtsen Gampo to mark his marriage with the Tang princess Wencheng as well as to house the Buddha images brought by Wencheng and the Nepalese princess Bhrikuti Devi. The palace also houses priceless artifacts and artworks. Continue to Jokhang Monastery, situated in the center of Lhasa. It was first built in 674A'D to celebrate the marriage of King Songtsen Gampo with Princess Wencheng and Bhrikuti Devi, both devout Buddhists. This monastery underwent expansion over the years and today, its four-level main hall sports a gilded roof and a blend of Han Chinese, Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian architectural styles. Proceed to Barkhor Street in the old city, which offers glimpses of traditional Tibetan life. The faithful chant and circumambulate around Jokhang Monastery. In this circular street there are also shops selling a wide variety of crafts such as Tibetan knives, bangles, shoes and more. Accommodation: Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa or similar (B, L, D) Day 4 Lhasa / Shigatse / Yamzho Yumco Lake Following breakfast, depart for Shigatse, officially known as Xigaze, is a prefecture-level city of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Along the way, we pass Yamzho Yumco (Sacred Swan) Lake, also known as Baidi Lake, it is wedged between two mountains, hence like a swan spanning its wings. The crystal-clear lake, located over 4,000m above sea level, has an area of 638m2. It is the largest freshwater lake in Tibet, with a depth of up to 59m. Thereafter, continue to Xigaze. Xigaze is the second biggest city in Tibet, located in the alluvial plain at the confluence of Brahmaputra and Nianchuhe rivers, 273 km west to Lhasa. With its ancient history and unique culture, Xigaze has became an important tourist attraction located on the Tibetan Golden Route which attracts many visitors wishing to explore its mysterious Tibtan Buddhism culture and challenge the limits of human endurance at nearby Mt. Everest, the pride of Shigatse. Accommodation: Shigatse Hotel or similar (1 night stay) (B, L, D)

3 Day 5 Shigatse / Lhasa / Gelug Sects in Rear Tibet In the morning, visit the famous Tashi Lhunpo monastery, where you can see the well preserved largest statue of Jampa (future Buddha) in the world. This monastery, whose beauty is on par with that of Potala Palace, is located 2km west of Shigatse. It was founded by the first Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gendun Drup in 1447AD. Its name means 'all fortune and happiness gather here. The Main Chanting Hall houses the Panchen Lama's throne and several chapels, including a Sakyamuni chapel, Bodhisattva chapel and Tara chapel. Don't miss the Tenth Panchen Lama's Stupa. The Tenth Panchen Lama was a highly respected Tibetan Buddhist leader. We proceed back to Lhasa. On the way, enjoy scenic views of the Yarlung Zangbo Gorge/ Bhamaputra River (the Longest and largest river in Tibet). Stay Overnight in Lhasa. Accommodation: Brahmaputra Grand Hotel Lhasa or similar (1 night stay) (B, L, D) Day 6 Lhasa / Tibet Plateau / Qingzang railway (world s highest railway) After breakfast, you are free to explore at own your leisure till time to board the train on the world's highest railway. Thereafter, begin the scenic train journey through the highest Point in the world. Along the way, pass magnificent sights: snow-capped mountains such as Yuzhu Peak and Mt Kunlunshan; Kekexili reserve; Tuotuo River, the source of Yangtze River; Fenghuo Mountain Tunnel, the world's highest mountain tunnel; Tanggula Station, the world's highest railway station located at 5,072m above sea level; Qiangtang Grassland and more. Accommodation: Over Night Train on Qingzang (soft sleeper for 4 guests*) (1 night stay) (B, L, D) * For the Over Night Train of Qingzang Railway, QingZang Railway soft sleeper is the highest demanding ticket to get in the world. There are 64 soft sleepers and 20 of them have been reserved for government officials. Visitors from all around the world are here to witness the large migrating season of Tibetan antelope in June. QingZang Railway tickets are like gold dust, especially from April to October are the best time to visit Tibet, as in these months, they have warm and beautiful sceneries. King William Travel cooperates China Ministry of Railways, we provide warm services to bring you the enjoyment of travelling and resting. Day 7 Tibet Plateau / Xining / Ta er Monastery You could enjoy the fabulous scenery along your train trip. Today you will arrive Xining station and visit the Ta'er Monastery, whose name means '10,000 Buddhas'. Its construction began in the Ming Dynasty during the Jiaqing period. In 1560AD it was one of the six principal temples of the Tibetan Buddhist Yellow Sect. Don't miss its three treasures, which are of high artistic value. Buttered figurines, sculpted from colored butter, are lively and realistic depictions of stories, nature and humans, while colorful murals adorn the monastery's walls. The third treasure is satin appliqués in the shapes of Buddha and nature subjects, which are filled with cotton or wool and sewn on large fabrics. Embark on your night train to Lhasa where you will be escorted to the hotel for check in. Accommodation: Sanwant Hotel Xining or Similar (1 night stay) (B, L, D)

4 Day 8 Xining / Lanzhou / Yellow River / China Orient Express After breakfast, you will visit Zhongshan Bridge, also called the first bridge over the Yellow River. In the year 1907, under the proposal of local officers in Lanzhou and Gansu and the help of a German businessman, the Qing Government began to build this first iron bridge over the upper reaches of the Yellow River. All materials, even the rivets, were transported from Germany to China using ships, trains, carts and any other means possible. The bridge was completed in two years, and named 'Lanzhou Iron Bridge over the Yellow River'. Continue on with a drive to Lanzhou after a visit to the Waterwheel Garden. Originated from the Ming Dynasty ( ), the waterwheel is the oldest irrigation tool in Yellow River area of Lanzhou. The Waterwheel Garden is a theme garden exhibiting the waterwheel culture. Here, you could appreciate the waterwheel driven by the flowing water all year round to collect water from the river or cofferdam. It s all aboard the China Orient Express train to Jiayuguan at 16:30pm. Have a nice night on the train with wonderful evening and morning views of the local countryside. Accommodation: China Orient Express (1 night stay) (B, L, D) Day 9 Jiayu Pass Great Wall (the western end of the Great Wall) After breakfast, have a visit to the Jiayuguan (Jiayu Pass), the western end of the Great Wall built in Ming Dynasty. It is known as 'the First and Greatest Pass under Heaven', and best preserved and most magnificent military fort in China. Then journey 11 kilometers to the Overhanging Great Wall. It got the named for riding on a mountain ridge that is 45 degrees from vertical and resembling a huge dragon. Accommodation: Holiday Plaza Hotel Jiayuguan or Similar (1 night stay) (B, L, D) Day 10 Desert Oasis / Crescent Lake / Singing Sand Mountain / Night Market After a pleasant breakfast, take the deluxe train to Dunhuang at 10:00am. Specially arranged Dunhuang experts and professors will introduce this exotic city in detail to you. After arriving in Dunhuang, visit beautiful Crescent Lake & Singing Sand Mountains. The Crescent Lake is an oasis in the Gobi Desert, surrounded by numerous sand dunes, reaching a relative height of 250 meters. The Mingsha Shan is so named for the sound of the wind whipping off the dunes. After dinner, venture in to the Dunhuang Night market - bustling Shazhou Night Market. Don t miss its tasty snacks, local specialties, and crafts etc. Accommodation: Dunhung Hotel or Similar (1 night stay) (B, L, D)

5 Day 11 Dunhuang / Mogao Grottoes / Turpan After breakfast, let's visit the world famous Mogao Grottoes also known as Mogao Caves, which was designated as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO for its 1600 years accumulated cultural, architectural, and art treasures. There remains 492 cave temple and square meters of frescos. According to Tang Dynasty records, a monk had witnessed onsite a vision of a thousand Buddha under showers of golden rays. Thus inspired, the caves construction work that spanned ten dynasties. Mogao Caves are commonly known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddhas. In Sui, Tang dynasties, Mogao caves have become a place of worship and pilgrimage for the public. During the Ming Dynasty, the Silk Road was finally officially abandoned, and Dunhuang slowly became depopulated and largely forgotten by the outside world, some of the caves had by then been blocked by sand. Currently, the Chinese government are trying to clear away the sand and made an attempt at repairing the site. This afternoon, embark the 'China Orient Express' Charter Luxury Train to Turpan. Accommodation: China Orient Express (1 night stay) (B, L, D) Day 12 Turpan / Urumqi It s a day for Turpan sightseeing! Visit Karez irrigation system at 07:00am, to witness the wisdom of Uygur people. The irrigation system is especially designed for the desert. If connecting all these underground channels, the total length will reach more than 5000 km, so it is regarded as one of the three engineering miracles of ancient China, along with the Great Wall and the Jinghang Grand Canal. Thereafter, journey to Flaming Mountain, well known by Chinese people because of the legendary story 'Journey to the West'. It is regarded as the hottest place in China. Then drive to Jiaohe Ancient City, an island shaped plateau situated at Yar Town. It is the largest, oldest and well preserved earth structured city in the world, with a history of years. Accommodation: Hoi Tak Hotel or similar (2 night stay) (B, L, D) Day 13 Urumqi / Tianshan / Heavenly lake After breakfast, visit Heavenly Lake on Tianshan (boat tour). The mountain Lake stands 1980 meters above sea level and features picturesque scenery of snowcapped peaks. Take a pleasurable cruise by boat on the Heavenly Lake, with a layer of magical colour covering the lake, and hearing many beautiful myths and legends. Then head for Urumqi, and visit Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum. It is of Uygur and Russian styles, and holds a collection of over a thousand pieces of precious relics from four to five thousand years ago until modern times. Lastly, visit Xinjiang International Bazaar. Accommodation: Hoi Tak Hotel or similar (B, L, D) Day 14 Urumqi / Adelaide Today is the day of farewell to your memorable silk road experience and the unique China Orient Express. After a pleasant breakfast you are free to explore at your own leisure until the assembly time for the transfer to airport for the flight back to Adelaide via Guangzhou. Bon voyage! (B, in-flight meal) Day 15 Welcome Adelaide Arrive into Adelaide International Airport at 08.55am. After clearing customers you will meet and be transferred home by courtesy limousine (within zone area). The end of a truly unique holiday!

6 PRICES Costing based on Twin Share $ pp Government Taxes and Charges $285.00pp Single Supplement $ pp INCLUDED MEALS 34 Breakfast, 33 Lunches and 33 Dinners MEAL KEY (B) = Breakfast (L) = Lunch (D) = Dinner Please Note: Includes in-flight meals TOUR INCLUSIONS Return economy class airfares with China Southern Airlines, Business class upgrade available at extra cost. 13 nights accommodation in Lhasa, Shigazte, Xining, Gansu, Dunhuang, Turpan, and Urumqi Overnight in Qingzang Express Railway Escorted Ex Adelaide by King William Travel Tour Manager (based on 15 fully paid adult) All tours, transfers & admission fees as per itinerary Reprehensive at Guangzhou handover the Tibet Entry Permit service Tibet Entry Permit A Bi - Lingual tour guide whilst in China Complimentary limousine transfer to/from your home Invitation to a pre departure afternoon tea & coffee to meet your fellow travellers & Tour Manager Accommodation: Day 01 Guangzhou Airport hotel or similar Day 02 Brahmaputra grand hotel Lhasa or similar (5 stars) Day 03 Brahmaputra grand hotel Lhasa or similar (5 stars) Day 04 Shigatse Hotel or similar (the best local hotel) Day 05 Brahmaputra grand hotel Lhasa or same class Day 06 Over Night Train of Qingzhang (soft sleeper for 4 guests*) Day 07 Sanwant Hotel Xining or same class(5 stars) Day 08 China Orient Express Day 09 Holiday Plaza Hotel Jiayuguan or same class (5 stars) Day 10 Dunhuang Hotel or same class (4 stars, the best local hotel) Day 11 China Orient Express Day 12 Hoi Tak Hotel or same class (5 stars) Day 13 Hoi Tak Hotel or same class (5 stars) Day 14 In Flight * For the Over Night Train of Qingzhang Railway, QingZhang Railway soft sleeper is the highest demanding ticket to get in the world. There are 64 soft sleepers and 20 of them have been reserved for government officials. Visitors from all around the world are here to witness the large migrating season of Tibetan antelope in June. QingZhang Railway tickets are like gold dust, especially from April to October are the best time to visit Tibet, as in these months, they have warm and beautiful sceneries. Holidayxp cooperates China Ministry of Railways, we provide warm services to bring you the enjoyment of travelling and resting. COURTESY TRANSFERS TO AND FROM YOUR HOME Transfers apply in the zoned area. Transfers may also be available from outside the zoned area at additional cost - check with your King William Travel Consultant. Passenger in the Zoned area will be collected by Hughes Chauffeured Transfers and taken to Adelaide Airport to board your flight. On arrival back at the Adelaide Airport we will once again transfer you to your home. *Passengers should telephone the transfer operator HUGHES CHAUFFEURED VEHICLES on two (2) days before the commencement of the tour to confirm the time they will be arriving at your home. Please note luggage sizes and limits apply. Ask your travel consultant for details *Please Note: a return transfer is not applicable to any passenger that extend the original tour

7 Tour not Inclusive Application fee and processing Service fee for China Visa, $ pp Local guide and driver tipping fee USD $170 pp or equivalent Australian dollar or Chinese Yuan (payable on tour) Any personal expenses Travel Insurance. Travel Insurance is highly recommended for your trip to against any unforeseen circumstances. IMPORTANT INFORMATION - TERMS AND CONDITIONS PAYMENTS A non refundable deposit of $ per person plus a booking fee of $80.00 per person is required when making your booking. The balance is due to King William Travel no later than 150 days prior to the departure of your tour. Payments by credit card will incur relevant merchant fees. AMENDMENTS A fee of $75.00 per person will be charged, in addition to any charges levied by the hotels, ground operators or airlines, for any amendment within 6 weeks prior to departure. An amendment constitutes a change to any existing booking and not a transfer to another holiday wherein cancellation fees apply. EXTENSIONS If you choose to alter your flight this will result in a $ per person deviation fee plus any other associated costs from relevant airlines. In doing this you will also forfeit your return home courtesy transfer. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE Airline regulations provide for a free baggage allowance of 20 kilos per person (excepting infants). Passengers are permitted carry - on luggage of 7 kilos. Any charge for excess baggage will be at the passengers expense. PACKAGE EXCLUSION Cost of passports & visas: meals other than those specified in the itinerary: excess baggage : taxes & fees payable by cash in country of destination: Personal items, such as phone calls, drinks etc. and tipping. CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES Prices quoted in this flyer are subject to change without notice in the event of any unforeseen circumstances, beyond our control, such as fluctuations in overseas exchange rates. CANCELLATIONS If a booking is cancelled after deposit is paid, the deposit will be forfeited. If a booking is cancelled once final payment has been made but days or more before your departure, a 60% cancellation fee per person will apply. If a booking is cancelled within 120 days prior to departure a 100% cancellation fee per person will apply. TRAVEL INSURANCE All travellers need health, cancellation & baggage insurance and it is essential that a policy, which may be purchased from our office, be written at the time of deposit. PLEASE DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE IMPORTANCE OF INSURANCE. Please ask your consultant for details. PRICING POLICY Prices are based on a minimum 15 adult paying passengers travelling together on the outbound journey. If this number is not reached, it will be necessary to re-cost which may result in an increase to costing. If the group number falls below 15 adults paying passengers, no tour leader will be provided. As this tour is sold as a package holiday, no itemization of costs can be given. Economy Class air travel is utilized. CHANGES TO ITINERARY Flight and itinerary details are subject to change either at the operator s discretion or if adverse weather conditions or if a civil disturbance deem it necessary to make such changes to ensure the safety and well being of the group. We will endeavour to advise in advance of any changes. AIR TAXES, GOVERNMENT FEES & CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES Legislation requires us to collect from you the taxes and levies controlled by the airline, government or authority. These costs are additional to prices and may change without notice at any time up until departure. Full payment for your holiday does not exempt you from implementation for additional charges outside of our control. We will offer advice in this regards, but we do not control, nor will we be held responsible for any government taxes, levies and airport charges. Taxes are subject to change and exchange rates are subject to fluctuations. Increased fuel charges also affect government taxes and surcharges. ALL PAYMENTS ARE SUBJECT FINAL AUDIT. FOR BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES CONTACT KING WILLIAM TRAVEL Telephone: (08) Facsimile: (08) travel@kingwilliamtravel.com.au Website: Ground Floor, Suite 1, 29 King William Street, Adelaide SA 5000 A Member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents. ABN TTA