Highlights
The Iron Pillar is actually a pillar made of iron in the Tiezhu Temple in Midu County. With a tallness of 3.3 meters, a circumference of 1 meter and weight of 2 tons, the iron pillar, has witnessed 1100 years of changes, is the oldest and famous historic relic in Midu County. The Iron Pillar is said to be cast by using the confiscated weapons at the order of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military consular in Three Kingdoms period (220-280).
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
Simply dipping into Tiger Leaping Gorge as part of a tour group rarely allows visitors to appreciate the breathtaking beauty along the road. As such, many people set out on their own treks through the gorge, in search of breathtaking views and inspirational sights.
Having witnessed centuries’ changes, the gorgeous Dujiangyan likes a record of the history attracting a growing number of tourists with the picturesque and splendid landscape. On November 29, 2000, Dujiangyan was listed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, Dujiangyan is not only the irrigation work, but also a popular scenic spot with many charming sceneries around--just like many stars twinkling around the moon.
Wangjiang Pavilion with a height of 39 meters is the most shinning architecture in the Wangjiang Park that covered by green bamboo woods. Wangjiang Pavilion, built in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), was designed as an octagonal shape with the overhanging eaves, sharp golden roof, and various exquisite figure carvings and clay sculptures of animals decorating each floor. Located on the bank of Jinjiang River, Wangjiang Pavilion provides an ideal angle for river viewing, from which it derived the present name “Wangjiang Lou”.
This tour takes you to the southwest China to take numerous marvelous photos. Fantastic Yunnan, picturesque south Sichuan, mysterious Tibet and modern Shanghai are all in this fascinating tour. Our tour starts in Kunming. The natural sceneries and local minority costumes will add luster to your photographing. How can we miss the heaven-like Jiuzhaigou, there you may be amazed at the splendid water color and wandering for a great time. The highlights of this tour lies on the way to Lhasa in Tibet. Spectacular and fascinating snow-capped Peaks, glaciers, high mountains, wide rivers, unique highland lakes, geothermal springs, vast pastoral areas, magnificent monasteries, and brilliant religious monasteries would run into your camera lens. The last destination is Shanghai, which will amaze you by its modern atmosphere and traditional culture and art. If your camera is ready, welcome to enjoy this amazing tour with us.
Itinerary
First, take a flight from Hong Kong to Kunming. When you arrive in Kunming, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
Stay overnight in Kunming.
Meals included:
Today let’s have a day tour to the [Stone Forest]. Stone Forest (Shilin), known since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.) as the “First Wonder of the World”, covers an area of 400 square kilometers (96,000 acres) and includes both large and small stone forests, as well as many other scenic spots. An old local saying says that “If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time.” Truly, the site is one of the most important attractions of Yunnan. Later this afternoon we will drive to Kunming Train Station to catch an overnight train to Dali after dinner.
Stay overnight on train.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
You are picked up by your guide at Dali Train Station in the morning, transferred to your hotel in the Old Town. The rest of the morning is for your own arrangement. Next we will head to [Three Pagoda Temple] that is made of three ancient independent pagodas forming a symmetrical triangle, forming a unique view in China. And they are one of the most significant and majestic wonders in Dali and look magnificent. [Dali ancient Town] is our next stop, whose city layout was uniform, with five main streets from south to north and eight main streets from east to west, while marketplaces were neatly arranged within the city, which has remained unchanged to this date. Meanwhile, you can see countless traditional Bai ethnic minority folk houses, which can give us a different feeling from any other Chinese city. Walking on the cobble-paved streets will be a very impressive choice. The grey-green roof tiles, peculiar workshops, temples, schools and churches with an antique flavor would be a valuable part of our memory. You can just enjoy a relaxed walk to take some photos.
Stay overnight in Dali Old Town.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
We will leave for Lijiang by private car, van or bus after lunch, and it costs about 3.5 hours’ drive. The breath-taking scenery on the way will surely make you feel amazingly surprised, and we can stop on the way for you to relax and take some photos at the same time. You will arrive in Lijiang before dinner time.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we explore the ethnic charm, historical milieu and architectural landscape of the Old Town of Lijiang, a sacred sanctuary which has protected the ethnic minorities and their unique cultures since ancient times. Regarded as the Venice of the Orient with its dizzying array of water canals, quaint bridges and cobble-stoned streets, Lijiang was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This morning we go to the [Jade Dragon Snow-capped Mountain]. Skyscraping snow-capped peaks and flowing rivers under the old town compose a fabulous picture. When viewing from afar, the snow-capped range looks like a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle, rich forest, herb and animal resources thriving on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China. [Take cables] to climb the mountain and enjoy the picturesque scenery must be an unforgettable memory.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
We will depart for Shangri-la by private car, van or bus after breakfast and it will be a long drive. Lunch is served in the halfway. The scenery all the way is fantastic, which will offer you a good chance to take photos. And will arrive in Shangri-la before dinner time.
Stay overnight in Shangri-la.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we visit [Songzanlin Monastery] -- a spiritual hub for people to discover the mystery and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, a famous Tibetan style Buddhist temple in China. This scenic spot is attractive to visitors because they can enjoy the view and be lucky to take photos of girls wearing exquisite Tibetan costumes holding perfectly white fluffy lambs against the impressionistic mountains and blue sky. And then we will visit the [old part of the town], a [Tibetan family visiting] is included as well. Here you can see distinctive religious house styles influenced by Buddhism and also can taste Tibetan specialties of yak butter tea, local yogurt and Tibetan barley. Later this afternoon is on your own to walk around. And we highly suggest you to get to know more about local people's daily life by visiting the local market..
Stay overnight in Shangri-la.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
[Bitahai Lake] is famous for its limpid water and its beautiful scenery which is set against the mountains and forests surrounded. Bitahai Lake is widely recognized as 'A Pearl on the Plateau' and the most attractive lake in Shangri-La. Today we will have the opportunity to drive 32 kilometers from Shangri-la County to visit Bitahai Lake and enjoy a feast of sceneries. Legend has it that a goddess dropped her mirror carelessly to the earth when she was making up. The mirror was broken into pieces and they became lakes on the plateau. Among these pieces, the most beautiful piece with green jade turned into today's Bitahai Lake. The most outstanding scene is "fish drunk by azalea". As it is known that in late spring and early summer, the flowers bloom, the petals go with the wind and fall into the lake. After the fish eating those azaleas petals, they were just drunk just like human being got drunk, and they become lethargic and slothfully, intoxicated by the flower's chemicals. You are kingly required to either walk or ride a horse around the lake to take photos to preserve the delicate, natural harmony of the area.
Stay overnight in Shangri-la.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
First you take a morning flight back to Kunming, and then another flight followed from Kunming to Chengdu. When you arrive, our tour guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is leisure at relax. If you want to know more about Chengdu culture, you can taste the famous Sichuan cuisine; also you can shop and have tea at a teahouse.
Stay overnight in Chengdu.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we drive to Chengdu Shuangliu airport to take a flight to Jiuhuang airport in [Jiuzhaigou area]. We [take a coach to Muni scenic area to see the Zaga Waterfall] upon arrival, marvelous pictures can be taken from there. It will take about two hours in hiking along that area. Subsequently, we will drive to Jiuzhaigou, checking into hotel and relax.
Stay overnight at Jiuzhaigou.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
After breakfast, we will go to [Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area] where we will visit the [Shuzheng Valley], [Rize Valley] and [Zechawa Valley]. The Tour Route of Shuzheng Valley is reputed as the epitome of Jiuzhaigou, with mystic and unpredictable independent lakes and lake clusters, as well as colorful beaches, century-old grinderies, wood bridges, and powerful waterfalls. Visitors are likely to reach a consensus that Jiuzhaigou is the best of Nature creation. Next we will head for Rize Valley, the most attractive part of Jiuzhaigou. 18 separated amazing lakes and the Nuorilang Waterfall are in this valley. Zechawa Valley has not only seasonal lakes, but also snow-capped peaks because it reputed as the highest altitude during your Jiuzhaigou tour. Lakes, waterfalls, beaches, water currents, snow peaks, and virgin forests will represent the breathtaking scenery to you to take those fantastic pictures.
Stay overnight at Jiuzhaigou.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning, we will drive to the airport for flight to Chengdu city. You can spend the rest of the day to explore this leisure city of China. Taking a walk to Tianfu Square to see Chairman Mao's marble statue, going to People's Park, or having a sip of Chinese green tea in the tea house there are all nice options. The local products that you could possibly imagine, ranging from snakes and snails to fortunes and foot scrubs, are abundant in the street markets and they are full of life. A［hotpot dinner］will let you know what typical Sichuan spicy food is. Besides, some famous souvenirs include Sichuan brocade, stitch works and lacquer.
Stay overnight in Chengdu.
Meals: (B, L)
Meals included:
Early this morning we will drive to the airport for a flight to Linzhi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to visit the huge [cypress forest], one cypress tree is more than 2600 years old. If it is in summer, we will go to [Nulang forest] to take photos. The boundless forest is so amazingly that you will be unwilling to leave. Later we will drive to Bomi.
Stay overnight in Bomi.
Meals included: Supper
Early this morning, we will go to the [Ranwu Lake] with an altitude of 3800m. You will find many thousand-year-old willow trees grown around the Rawu Lake. It is the place where the Palong river originates, beside the lake is a green grassland and rice field just like “ the scenery in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze river of china ” There are green grassland and colorful azalea flowers as well as boscage. On top of the mountain is rolling snow peaks that never melt all the year round. The picturesque scenery will remove your tiredness away. You will have abundant time to take the photos here. Later we will drive back.
Stay at one hotel in Ranwu.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Early this morning, we take photos of the sunrise at Ranwu Lake, and now we will drive to [Midui Glacier]. Here you will see the spectacular view that two waterfalls are divided by a primitive forest. The Midui village is beautiful and mysterious with its rural scenery. The most beautiful and wonderful scenes of Chuangzang highway lies in the way from Ranwu to Bomi. We will stop several times on the way for you to take photos.
Stay overnight at Bomi.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning, let’s drive to the [Namjag Barwa] to appreciate this magnificent snowy peak which is the highest peak in Lizhi District, and Namjag Barwa is considered as the Saint Girl Peak of Tibet. You cannot help yourself shocking by what you have seen here. Subsequently we will drive to Bayi Town.
Stay overnight at Baiyi Town.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we will drive to Lhasa, and on half way we will get off and pay a visit to [Basongcuo Lake] that has win the reputation of small Swiss in Tibet. The lake is about 12 kilometers long with an area of more than 6 thousand Mu (about 988 acre). Snowy mountains are reflected in the crystal water, and there are Buddhist sculptures on the island in the middle of the lake. Afterwards, we will drive to Lhasa. The rest of the day is on your own to explore the charming city.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
[Potala Palace] is our first stop in today’s list. Situated on Potala Mountain in Lhasa, capital of the Tibet autonomous region, the Potala Palace was first built in the 7th century, for the wedding of the Tibetan king Songtsan Gompo and Princess Wencheng of the Tang Empire. The Potala Palace's halls include worship and pagoda halls, the North Square, the South Square and the Dragon King Pond. The Potala Palace is known as the Pearl on the Roof of the World. Its construction and furnishing reflect the superb skills of ancient artisans and the great attainments of Tibetan architecture. After lunch, we will visit the [Sera Monastery]-one of three most famous monasteries in Lhasa. Also included is a visit to the [Norbulingka Park]-the Summer Place of Dalai Lamas, where they handle political affairs and hold festival celebrations.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
After breakfast, we will drive to heaven lake--[Namucuo] locating in Dangxiong town, and it consists of a natural painting with the sky. Those peculiar-looking rocks and caves consist of special and fantastic scenery. The stretching Tanggula Snowy Mountain and those colorful long narrow flags along with the charming Namucuo Lake display a breathtaking picture in front of you. When we pass the Yangbajin area, you can enjoy a hot spring bath (better to take your swimming suit along, because it's really expansive to buy at the site). Enjoy a bright sky with diamond like stars.
Stay overnight at Namucuo.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Early this morning we will go and [watch the sunrise] at Namucuo, and drive back to Lhasa city. [Jokhang Temple], the ultimate pilgrimage destination for devotional Pilgrims is also our destination. There are many mysterious legends about theses architectural styles of the Tang Dynasty. The flourishing [bazaar of Barkhor Street] Locating in the old area of Lhasa City is also a must-see place for the tourists. Barkhor Street is an ancient style street full of stalls of exquisite articles, here you may be amazed at delicate handicrafts and be happy to purchase some. We continue to move to the [Tibet Carpet Factory]--one of the remarkable enterprises in Tibet mainly producing traditional Tibetan Carpet that are hand-made with beautiful pictures and excellent quality. Those elegant and colorful carpets are nice decorations and every item is unique. So you can purchase them at competitive prices with various choices. You will have your dinner served in your hotel.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning you are on your own to walk around and take photos of local minority and the exotic buildings. After lunch, we will go to the airport for a flight to Shanghai.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Today we will go to visit [Yuyuan Garden] where you find more refined handicrafts and tasty Chinese snacks. Also the journey include a visit to the [Jade Buddha Temple], an elegant structure famous for its Buddha statue which is carved of solid white jade and decorated by jewels. Lunch is arranged at a characteristic Shanghai restaurant. The tour guide will lead you to the [Outer Bund] where a grand view of Shanghai is available to you. The Outer Bund will represent you how Shanghai can keep modern while still containing its old traditions. [Nanjing Road] is the most prosperous commercial street, and walking along the street is a good chance to shop and find out lots of world famous brands.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning we enjoy a walk on [Hengshan road]. There are flamboyants in both sides of the street, combing the distinctive European architecture; all these make the Hengshan road more beautiful. Besides, it is also one of the most famous entertainment streets in Shanghai, the bars and the local delicious foods are abundant for you to make a choice. Walking in the streets is a good way to experience this cultural city in a much deeper way. Our tour ends after a farewell lunch. You are free to arrange your time until you are ready to be transferred to the next destination or departure.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Pricing & Accommodation
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US Dollar -
Euro -
GB Pound -
CA Dollar -
AU Dollar -
HK Dollars -
Renminbi
| 1 person | 2-5 persons | 6-9 persons | ≥10 persons | Single Room Supplement | |
| First Class Tour | $7375 | $4619 | $3930 | $3123 | $1620 |
| Comfortable Tour | $5882 | $3997 | $3404 | $2725 | $930 |
| Standard Tour | $4846 | $3422 | $2846 | $2458 | $590 |
* Price in every box above is for each person.
* The default currency is in US dollar. Please use the Currency Converter to see the equivalent quote in your currency. Price is for references only, it may vary according to your actual travel itinerary, travel time, hotel price rise or fall, US dollar exchange rate fluctuation, car fuel price change and government tax adjustment, etc..
* The price is only for your reference and it is subject to seasons, high or low.Please send us your inquiry if you are interested.
* The differences between First Class Tour, Comfortable Tour and Standard Tour are mainly reflected in the hotels we use. For First Class Tour, we use mostly 5 star hotels (or hotels corresponded to 5 star ones), 4 star hotels for Comfortable Tour and 3 star hotels for Standard Tour. But there’re exceptions when there come home stay experience, remote destinations and other specified circumstances in the itinerary.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Attraction Entrance Fees
- Centrally Located Hotels
- Authentic Chinese Food
- Private Experienced Guides
- Private Cars/Van with Drivers
- Internal Flights/Train(s) in China
- Luggage Transfers
- Airport Taxes and Fuel Fees
- Service Charge & Government Taxes
- Travel Insurance
Exclusions:
- International Airfare to Enter/Leave China
- China Entry Visa Fees
- Excess Baggage Charges
- Personal Expenses
- Single Room Supplement
- Tips or Gifts to Guides/Drivers/Bellmen
Important Information
How to Pack up
We suggest that each person packs up one rollable suitcase with the weight under 20 kg/44lb. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like iPods and mobile phones. Do not forget to bring your camera and other essential accessories such as a solid tripod and a good camera bag.
Checklist
It's only for reference and you may not need all of them. Choose from below according to the tour you pick up:
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travelers checks
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
ChinaExpeditionTours vouchers and trip dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Alarm clock
Flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts for summer months (June – September)
Long pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for Nov-April. Fleece, Jacket, hat and gloves
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
Camera, film and memory chip
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti- histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re -hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Local Dress
Generally speaking, the dress standard is more conservative in China than it is in western countries. Things also changes quickly, nowadays the young Chinese share the same hobbies with their western counterparts. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist and Muslim regions we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Spending Money
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to internet for the recent exchange rates. There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard and other credit cards in most Chinese cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travelers checks in USD currency. Major credit cards are accepted in big shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee. For the small shops and the street venders, they take cash (either Chinese Yuan or US dollar) only.
Meals
Eating is a big part of your traveling in China. Travelling with ChinaExpeditionTours you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally breakfasts and lunches are included except dinners to give you the flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. Your group leader or local guide will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an "emergency" fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control, necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Tipping
It is customary to tip service providers in travel industry in Asia, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $6-$10 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for driver, it could be half. If necessary, ask your tour leader or call your ChinaExpeditionTours tour advisor for specific recommendations based on the circumstances. If you have a tour leader for the whole tour, at the end of the trip if you felt he/she did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference. However as a guideline $6-10 USD per person, per day can be used.
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are all e-tickets. They are issued locally and You will be given the information of them prior to the flight departure.
Laundry
Generally laundry facilities are offered by our hotels for a charge. You also can go to a laundry service center near your hotel to have your clothing washed at a lower cost. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Safety and Security
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' checks, cash and other valuable items. Many of the hotels cooperate with have safety deposit boxes which are the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. When travelling on a trip, please note that your group leader or local guides has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader or local guides will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader or local guides will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of China but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for ChinaExpeditionTours travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. Use of illegal drugs is completely contrary to this philosophy and local law. Our group leader or local guides has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or used.
Health
If you want to fully enjoy your trip abroad, a good health and confidence in physical strength are important. This trip may contain a fair amount of walking up and down steps in towns or climbing mountains. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders or local guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In China pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting a tour please carefully read the itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is highly suggested to bring forth. ChinaExpeditionTours reserves the right to exclude any traveler from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader or local guides they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Mountain Sickness
What the visitors to Tibet are concerned about is the mountain sickness. On highland, the air is thin and the air contains less oxygen. If the elevation increases quickly, you will find uncomfortable, such as taking airplanes or buses to Tibet. With mountain sickness, you will feel headache, dizzy, heavy breathing, tired and insomnia. Those with heart diseases or high blood pressure should be more careful.
Buying a Bottle of Oxygen in Case
Lack of oxygen is the main reason for mountain sickness. In many places in Tibet you can buy oxygen in bottles. You can buy one or two bottles in case. With an oxygen-taking mask, they cost 20 Yuan.
Medical Form
It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an "average level of fitness and mobility" is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own bags at a minimum. Travelers over the age of 70, or travelers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that senior travelers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders or local guides work hard to ensure that all our travelers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. You must have comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for medical costs associated with hospitalization, emergency travel and repatriation back to your home country. Please take your insurance policy with you when you travel. You may take other cover, of course, but we require you to be adequately insured before we can allow you to participate in our programs. Your ChinaExpeditionTours leader or local guides will need to see and record your policy details at the pre-tour briefing at the starting city, so please bring a copy along to the meeting. If you arrive without travel insurance your tour leader or local guide will require you to purchase a policy before you continue your journey with us.
If you are covered by a policy arranged through your credit card company you will be asked to provide evidence of this cover, as well as a 24-hour emergency contact number. Many credit card companies do not provide an insurance policy number. In this instance, the tour leader or local guides will need to record your credit card number, as this is required to activate any request for emergency assistance. You should also bring along the travel insurance information booklet provided by your credit card company. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the requirements set out by your credit card company in order to be effectively covered and that the cover offered is of a suitable standard.
Passport & Visas
Well before travelling, please ensure that you have a current passport, with an accurate photo, that is valid for at least six months after your scheduled return home. Also check that your airline tickets are in exactly the same name as your passport.
Please note that visas for China and Hong Kong are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. Americans, British, Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders do currently require a visa for China. For all other nationalities please reconfirm your visa requirements with your government. For the most up to date information please check your governments' foreign ministry website. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travelers there will probably have an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. Please note if you are travelling from China, into Hong Kong then back into China, you will need a double entry Chinese visa. Note that on some occasions people transiting through China on way to Hong Kong have been made to go through immigration and had their single entry visa stamped making this invalid. Do not allow your visa to be stamped if you are only going through transit.
Tibet Permit
Tibet permit is necessary and issued to every foreign traveler (except for the diplomats, journalists, government officials) who want to travel in Tibet. It includes three kinds, Tibet Entry Permit (TTB), Tibet Travel Permit (PSB) and Military Permit.
TTB permit, issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, is indispensable when each foreign visitor flies or takes a train from any city to Lhasa. Besides it is also needed when you buy a flight or train ticket. Moreover, when groups traveling by Land Cruiser, TTB permits are necessary and travel groups can only be arranged by travel agencies.
PSB permit, issued by People’s Security Bureau, is essential when you want to go further to the ‘unopened’ areas in Tibet. It only can be arranged after you arrive in Lhasa because it needs your original passport and China visa.
A short list of unopened areas up to now
(1) Shannan: Samye Monastery, Tomb of Tibetan King, Trandruk Monastery, Yumbulakhang
(2) Shigatse: Sakya Monastery, the Mt. Everest, Rongpu Monastery
(3) Gyangtse: Pelkor Chode Monastery & Kubum Stupa
(4) Ngari Region: Mt. Kailash, Manasarovar Lake, Tsaparang, Ali, etc.
(5) Linzhi Region: Basongcuo, Bomi, Rawotso, etc.
(6) Changdu Region: Changdu, Riwoche, Tengchen, etc.
Military Permit, issued by military affairs office, is indispensable when you travel to ‘unopened areas’, such as some villages and towns in Shigatse, Shannan, Linzhi, Ali, Zhada and Chayu, etc.
Please contact us to get the specific information about how to apply for these permits. It is recommended that please get ready for the related permits before your journey as early as possible.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the country, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact us so we can get into touch with your tour leader or local guide quickly by their cell phone and they can pass their cell phone to you! We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change.
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