The Himalayan Express

China and Tibet

• See the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors in Xian
• Attend a spectacular Tang Dynasty show
• View Xian from the ramparts of the great city walls
• Visit the superb Shanxi Museum and the famous Wild Goose Pagoda
• Journey through breathtaking landscapes on the world’s highest railway to Lhasa
• Explore the astonishing Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Lama
• Soak up the atmosphere of Lhasa’s vibrant Barkhor markets
• Watch the incredible spectacle of the monks debating at Sera Monastery
• Visit the former summer home of the Dalai Lama, Norbulinka
• Enjoy a traditional Tibetan folk show
• Picnic in the mountains overlooking the magnificent turquoise waters of Yamdruk Lake
• Explore the old town of Gyangtse, including the impressive Kunbon Stupa
• Visit the local bazaar in Shigatse and enjoy a rickshaw ride
• See magnificent Mt Everest at close quarters – from Everest Base Camp – and visit the world’s highest monastery

Nepal

• Enjoy a spectacular flight over Everest and the Himalaya
• Exclusive dinner in Kathmandu’s Garden of Dreams
• Visit Kumar Bahal – the house of the Living Goddess
• See the monkeys at Swayambhunath – the religious complex known as the Monkey Temple

Bhutan

• Soak up the serenity of Bhutan – known as ‘the last Shangri-La’
• Explore the beautiful Punakha Valley
• See the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery – the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ – perched on the mountain’s edge
• Walk across the rice fields to the Temple of the Divine Madman
• Visit a local school
• Enjoy a picnic at the edge of a beautiful river

Inclusions

• All flights between Australia & China/Bhutan & Australia
• All ticketable air taxes (may be subject to change)
• All accommodation (twin-share)
• All ground transportation and transfers
• All meals as specified
• Travel Directors tour escort throughout
• Expert local guides
• All entrance fees in specified sightseeing
• All visas and courier fees
• All tips and gratuities

Please note that whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the above pricing, currency fluctuations beyond our control can affect final tour costs. A booking form is to be completed by all passengers, and a non-refundable deposit of AUD $3,000 paid at the time of booking. All escorted tours are based on a minimum group size of 10 people travelling.

13/10/2024 Australia – Singapore

Depart Australia from your chosen airport to Singapore.

14/10/2024 Singapore – Xian (L)

On arrival in Singapore we connect with our flight to Xian via Guangzhou.

Depart Singapore SQ 850, 08.20

Arrive Guangzhou 12.20

Depart Guangzhou China Southern CZ 3203, 17.05

Arrive Xian 20.00

After completing customs and immigration formalities we transfer to our hotel.

Grand Mercure Hotel

Xian

15/10/2024 Xian (BLD)

Xian is the eastern gateway to the Silk Road and a fascinating city with more than 3,000 years of history. Today we begin our exploration of this former capital with a visit to the superb Shanxi Provincial Museum and the famous Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening we have the chance to experience a cultural show dating back to the Tang Dynasty of more than 1,000 years ago.

16/10/2024 Xian (BLD)

Today we visit the extraordinary site of Qin Shihuang’s Terracotta Warriors, known as the eighth Wonder of the World. This incredible ‘army’ consists of 6,000 life-size terracotta figures, which were discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974. The visit is an unforgettable experience.

17/10/2024 Xian – Xining – Tibet (BD)

This morning we transfer to the train station to catch a bullet train to Xining before boarding the Himalayan Express for our thrilling journey to Lhasa. The oxygenated train is the first to link China and Tibet and the 1,200-km journey is a truly memorable experience. The track is built largely on permafrost, with four-fifths laid at an altitude of more than 4,000m. The highest point, between Qinghai and Lhasa, reaches 5,072m.

Depart Xian Train Station 09.30

Arrive Xining 14.34

Depart Xining Train Station, 21.10

18/10/2024 Onboard train – Lhasa (D)

Early morning we arrive in Golmud where two enormous locomotives are attached to the front of the train to haul us up to the Himalayan Plateau and on to Lhasa. Treeless plains give way to snow-capped mountains and we pass by the world’s highest lake and through the world’s highest tunnel as our incredible journey continues. Finally, late afternoon, the train pulls into the Tibetan capital at the conclusion of its epic trip.

Arrive Lhasa 17.04

On arrival in Lhasa we transfer to our hotel.

Lhasa Hotel

Lhasa

19/10/2024 Lhasa (BLD)

Above the banks of the Lhasa River at an altitude of 3,760m and surrounded by beautiful landscapes, lies the mysterious city of Lhasa which is dominated by the extraordinary architectural wonder, the Potala Palace. Today we embark on a city tour beginning at the fascinating marketplace – often referred to as ‘the window of Tibet’, as it showcases Tibetan customs and culture. We also visit Norbulinka Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. From the mid-18^th century each successive Dalai Lama used the park and palace as a summer residence, and all religious and political affairs were carried out here.

20/10/2024 Lhasa (BLD)

Often referred to as ‘the bright pearl in the roof of the world’, the Potala Palace is the traditional winter home of the Dalai Lama. It stands 117m tall, with walls more than three metres thick, and has more than 1,000 rooms. This morning we explore the palace and its dozens of magnificent chapels, golden stupas and prayer halls. After lunch we drive the short distance to the extraordinary Sera Monastery. As a part of their study, lamas here must participate in debates to further their comprehension and proceed to more advanced levels of study. The debating traditions in the Sera Monastery are unique and provide an amazing spectacle. In a battle of words, the lamas supplement their efforts by using a variety of gestures including clapping their hands, pushing their partners for an answer, or plucking their prayer beads to win the virtue of the Buddha.

21/10/2024 Lhasa – Gyangtse (BLD)

Today we begin our amazing journey across the Himalayan Plateau, driving 280 km through magnificent countryside to the ancient city of Gyangtse. En-route we picnic by the beautiful turquoise waters of Yamdruk Lake and, in the afternoon, pass the 5000m Kanola Glacier before reaching Gyangtse early evening.

Gyangtse Manor Hotel

Gyangtse

22/10/2024 Gyangtse – Shigatse (BLD)

The ancient walled town of Gyangtse is set in a pretty and fertile valley. This morning we visit the Kunbon Stupa and Pecho Monastery, which embraces all sects of Buddhism in Tibet. We then drive 90 km to Tibet’s second-largest city, Shigatse. Meaning ‘fertile land’, Shigatse is more than 600 years old and sits at the confluence of the Yarlong Tsangpo and Nyangchu rivers. It is the traditional seat of the Punchen Lama and is an important stop for pilgrims travelling between Lhasa and western Tibet.

Shigatse UrCove Hotel

Shigatse

23/10/2024 Shigatse – Tingri (BLD)

This morning we walk to Tashilunpo Monastery – the largest functioning religious institution in Tibet and one of the most important monastic sites. The huge golden statue of the Future Buddha is the largest gilded statue in the world and is a truly impressive sight. After lunch we drive along the Friendship Highway to the remote town of Tingri. This is another day of awe-inspiring scenery, and we make many scenic stops before getting our first glimpse of magnificent Mount Everest. We arrive at Tingri as the sun begins to set behind her northern face.

Everest Hotel

Tingri

24/10/2024 Tingri – Everest Base Camp – Tingri (BLD)

Today is a particularly exciting one as we drive 100 km to Everest Rongbuk Base Camp. The mountain stands before us, soaring 8,848m into the heavens. There are few sights on earth that challenge the imagination in quite the same way. In the afternoon we visit Rongbuk, which was once the largest monastic centre in the region. It is a settlement that all mountaineers must pass through when attempting the treacherous north face of Everest.

25/10/2024 Tingri – Gyirong (BLD)

After breakfast we begin our journey to the border town of Gyirong (sometimes spelt Kyirong or Kerung). We enjoy lunch en route, surrounded by the amazing hills and mountains. Late afternoon we arrive at Gyirong and transfer to our hotel.

Gyirong Business Hotel

Gyirong

26/10/2024 Gyirong – Trishuli (BLD)

Early this morning we set out for the border crossing point – a drive of around one hour. On arrival we complete customs and immigration formalities then walk 150 metres across the bridge into Nepal. After completing immigration procedures on the Nepalese side, we board 4WDs for the journey to Trushuli. This is an area of magnificent natural beauty at the edge of the Langtang Valley, with many prominent mountain peaks including Langtang Lirung (7246m) and Gangchenpo (6388m). This area is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal.

Water Tower Hotel

Trishuli

27/10/2024 Trishuli – Kathmandu (BLD)

After breakfast we begin the drive to Kathmandu stopping en route for photo stops, on this remarkable remote and scenic journey. On arrival in Kathmandu we check into our hotel. The afternoon is at leisure.

Hotel Radisson

Kathmandu

28/10/2024 Kathmandu (BLD)

The fertile Kathmandu Valley lies at an altitude of 1,200 – 1,500m. Although small in size, no fewer than seven UNESCO World Heritage sites are to be found within the valley. These architectural wonders are monuments to Nepal’s past prosperity and artistry, which essentially make the whole area a living museum. Today we take a leisurely tour of Kathmandu and the remarkable Boudhanath Stupa that dominates the city. In the afternoon we take a walking tour of the vibrant Thamel district.

29/10/2024 Kathmandu (BLD)

Today we continue exploring Kathmandu, visiting the Monkey Temple and the famous Durbar Square.

30/10/2024 Kathmandu – Thimphu (Bhutan) (BD)

This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Bhutan.

Depart Kathmandu Druk Air KB 401, 09.10

Arrive Paro 10.30

Our flight across the Himalaya to Bhutan is dramatic, to say the least. The views are simply astonishing as we soar above the highest mountains on earth. Often referred to as ‘the last Shangri-La’, Bhutan’s isolation has protected it from western influences, leaving the country blissfully untouched. The sparsely populated kingdom has a rich cultural heritage that is unique in the Himalaya and a visit here is a step into a timeless and magical world. On arrival in Paro we begin our two-hour drive to the capital Thimpu.

Hotel Druk

Thimphu

31/10/2024 Thimphu (BLD)

Today we explore Thimphu, starting with the memorial stupa. Bhutan is world-famous for its textiles and we also visit the Textile Museum. Another very important part of Bhutanese culture and tradition is handmade paper making. Historically paper has been made to provide Buddhist monasteries with paper for woodblock and manuscript books, and for writing prayers and mantras. Today handmade paper making continues to preserve and promote this age-old tradition, and this afternoon we visit a factory to observe this fascinating process.

01/11/2024 Thimphu – Punakha (BLD)

This morning we drive across the Dochula Pass, which offers spectacular views over the eastern Himalaya as we head to Punakha, the former capital city of Bhutan. En-route we pass through villages and rice fields, where farmers still practise traditional methods. We visit the Temple of the Divine Madman: the 20-minute walk takes us through an untouched Bhutanese village and picturesque countryside before reaching the hill where the temple is located. The views from here are breathtaking. Later we continue to Punakha and check into our hotel.

Spirit Lodge

Punakha

02/11/2024 Punakha (BLD)

A leisurely start today as we explore the Punakha Valley. We explore the Punakha Dzong – a stunning fortress located on the confluence of the Mo Chuu and Pho Chuu rivers. Originally this fortress housed 600 monks; today it is the winter home of the central monk body.

03/11/2024 Punakha – Paro (BLD)

We leave beautiful Punakha this morning and drive north, returning to the magnificent Paro Valley.

Tiger Nest Resort

Paro

04/11/2024 Paro (BLD)

Our final day in Bhutan is an extra special one: we visit the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery, more commonly known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. Clinging to a mountain ledge, this world-famous monastery is steeped in myths and legends. It is said that in the 7^th century, Guru Rinpoche flew from Tibet on the back of a flying tigress and established Buddhism in Bhutan here. It is a 90-minute trek up to the monastery with spectacular views all the way. If you wish you can hire a horse to make the ascent, or you can simply stay put and admire this extraordinary construction from the valley below.

05/11/2024 Paro – Bangkok (BL)

After a leisurely morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Bangkok.

Depart Paro Druk Air KB 152, 16.20

Arrive Bangkok 20.30

On arrival in Bangkok we transfer to to our hotel for an overnight stay.

Novotel

Bangkok

06/11/2024 Bangkok – Singapore – Australia (B)

This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Depart Bangkok Singapore Airlines SQ 707, 12.05

Arrive Singapore 15.35

In Singapore we connect with the flight to our chosen destination in Australia.

 If I travel alone, do I have to pay the single supplement?

If you wish to have sole use of a hotel room on the tour, you will need to pay the single supplement. If you are travelling alone but willing to share a room, we will endeavour to match you up with another solo traveller of the same gender. We cannot guarantee that a share-match can be provided, and in the event that this cannot be arranged at the time of final payment, you will need to pay the single supplement.

Why are meals not included on the trains and how much do they cost?

We don’t include the meals on the train because we feel it is too regimented and, as you are not exercising, you don’t need so much food. Meals on the train are wholesome and cheap (around US $5-8) and very good. It should also be noted that the total travelling time from Xining to Lhasa is just 22 hours.

What are the compartments and facilities like on the train?

There are two types of compartments that we use on the train. The first is 4-berth, which we endeavour to provide. Typically these are 2 lower bunks and 2 upper bunks. If 4-berth compartments are not available for the entire group we would provide 6-berth compartments. In this case there would be only 4 people occupying the cabin. In the 4-berth carriages there are 2 toilets, one Chinese-style and the other Western. In the 6-berth carriages both toilets are Chinese-style.

How much spending money do I need for the entire trip?

Because almost everything is included, we would suggest an amount of AUD $500 and USD $300 per person as being ample for the whole month-long journey. In China and Nepal, Australian dollars can be changed into local currency in most areas. However in some remote areas of Tibet it is better to have US dollars.

Do I need vaccinations for this journey?

Tetanus should certainly be up to date, and we recommend you seek advice from your doctor.

This tour spends several days at altitude. Is this a problem?

Our leaders have been to altitude many times and are very competent in dealing with high elevation. Generally we don’t have too many problems with altitude sickness, but we believe that preparation is very important. Perhaps the key factor in helping the body to adjust is water. Travel Directors supply unlimited water for the whole period while in Tibet. In addition, all our leaders carry pulse oximeters, which enable us to monitor everyone’s progress and adjustment to altitude.

What is the climate like at the various times of the year?

The climate varies greatly along the route, depending on the time of year. Our pre-departure booklets will provide expected weather tables for the whole year.

Do I need to buy a lot of expensive clothing for this tour?

The weather in China, Lhasa, Nepal and Bhutan will mainly be warm so light cotton clothing is recommended.  In Gyangtse, Shigatse and Everest Base Camp the layer system of clothing, together with a good windproof  jacket, will suffice. A hat, sun screen and good comfortable walking shoes will be necessary.

If I wanted to stop in Singapore and Bangkok either on the way or on the return would it be possible?

Stops can be made both on the outbound in Singapore and the return in Bangkok.

Is the visa for Bhutan difficult to obtain?

A Bhutanese visa is very difficult to obtain but because we arrange all this paperwork there is no need to worry. We also organise the Chinese and Nepalese visas. However, we require your passport three months before departure in order to process the visas.

A lot of companies have many expensive optional extras on their tours. Do you?

We don’t believe in a lot of expensive ‘optional tours’. Our itineraries are designed to make the best possible use of time and to include all the must-see sights, plus additional surprises. Therefore, practically everything is included in the tour cost.

Is the water safe to drink en route and what is the general standard of hygiene?

We err on the side of caution on all of our tours and advise travellers to drink only bottled water. This is easy to obtain everywhere and indeed Travel Directors supply all water in Tibet. The standard of hygiene is surprisingly high along the entire route.

Is it possible to have a shower on the train?

No. There are no showers on the train, however the washrooms are spacious and there are two per carriage. Hot water is always available so keeping clean is not a problem.

What is the standard of the hotels?

We choose our hotels for their central locations, which we believe is very important. The Himalayan Express tour goes to some remote locations, such as Everest Base Camp and we always endeavour to use the best hotels available in such areas. Therefore the standard of hotels on this journey will vary from 3-star to 5-star. All hotels have en-suite facilities.

Are credit cards acceptable?

Credit cards and ATMs are available in China and Nepal and some parts of Tibet. Bhutan does not have any ATMs and credit cards are seldom accepted. Therefore you will need US dollars if you wish to buy any souvenirs in Bhutan.

Are there Internet facilities en route?

Most of the hotels we use have internet facilities. There are also many internet cafes in the near vicinity of the hotels offering cheaper access.

Do mobile telephones work?

Optus mobiles work in all places except for Bhutan, while Telstra mobiles work in all places except for Nepal. You will need to ensure you have global roaming. Contact your service provider for further details.

How much should we tip the guides?

There is no need to tip guides or porters as all tips and gratuities are included in the tour cost.

Listed below is a selection of books which you may wish to read prior to, or during, your journey.

Bhutan

Francoise Pommaret

Bradt Guide to Tibet

Michael Bickley

Tenzing and the Sherpas of Everest

Judi & Tashi Tenzing

Coronation Everest

Nan Morris

Seven Years in Tibet

Heinrich Harrer

Into Thin Air

Jon Krakauer

A Baby in a Backpack to Bhutan

Bunty Avieson

Beyond the Sky and the Earth

Jamie Zeppa

In the Himalayas

Jeremy Bernstein

China’s Great Train

Abrahm Lustgarten

Child of Tibet

Soname Yangchen