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C HINA, RUSSIA 

& CENTRAL A SIA 

CHINA 

HONG KONG 

TIBET 

TAIWAN 

SILK ROUTE 

IRAN 

UKRAINE 

RUSSIA 

MONGOLIA 

TAILOR- MADE J OURNEYS FOR THE D ISCERNING T RAVELLER

Dear Traveller 

In a region as culturally diverse and 

geographically vast as China, Russia and 

Central Asia, where experiences range from 

strolling around the booming city of 

Shanghai right the way through to camping 

beneath the stars on the Mongolian steppe, 

it can be difficult to know where to start. 

Distances are huge and infrastructure can 

be poor, making careful planning absolutely 

crucial – these are for the most part not places 

where you can just turn up. Thankfully, 

our knowledgeable specialists, with their 

first-hand experience, are able to guide you 

through the highlights and potential pitfalls, 

and help you plan your perfect trip. Many 

of the team have studied, lived and worked 

in the region. Their deep cultural 

appreciation combined with a genuine 

enthusiasm to share their knowledge is 

what makes us different. 

Whether you are travelling here for the first 

time, or returning to explore in more depth, 

I hope our passion for this region shines 

through on the pages of this brochure, 

inspiring you to visit this fascinating and 

beautiful part of the world. 

Craig Burkinshaw 

Managing Director

Introducing Audley 

After developing a real passion for travel in the early 1990s Craig Burkinshaw founded 

Audley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. Craig wanted to make it possible for 

others to share the same experiences and, from these small beginnings, the company was born. 

Audley offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’s 

interests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality, authenticity 

and a passion for travel. Today Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialist tour 

operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin 

America, Australasia, Antarctica and the Arctic, Canada and Alaska. 

Tailor-made journeys 

The beauty of tailor-made travel is that every trip 

is unique. Whether you want to stay in simple or 

luxurious accommodation, have great guides on 

hand or explore under your own steam, travel for 

one week or five, we can create a trip to match 

your tastes and budget. We can also design trips 

for a special occasion, where added touches can 

change an adventurous journey into a spectacular 

honeymoon, anniversary or birthday celebration. 

Your trip can be tailored to suit your particular 

interests, such as wildlife, photography or diving, 

and we have the specialist knowledge to match. 

Throughout the brochure you will find suggested 

itineraries and some of our favourite places to 

stay. These are included purely to offer inspiration 

and give you a flavour of what is possible, as each 

journey is created individually to give you the 

opportunity to experience a destination in 

exactly the way you choose. 

Specialist knowledge 

Our China, Russia and Central Asia specialists 

have all travelled extensively throughout the 

region and in many cases lived there, so you can 

rely on their extensive first-hand knowledge. They 

regularly return to see the accommodation, meet 

our guides – many of whom are firm friends – 

experience all the excursions and activities, and 

keep up-to-date with local developments. They 

pride themselves on having an honest ‘tell it how 

it is’ approach to planning your trip and, as well as 

their own extensive knowledge, are able to draw 

on the considerable collective experience of their 

colleagues. We believe this approach is unique to 

Audley and the only way we can genuinely offer 

you a tailor-made service. 

Financial security 

All travel arrangements in this brochure that 

include a flight are ATOL protected by the Civil 

Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. 

Please see our booking conditions for more 

information. If your arrangements do not include 

any flights they are protected by a separate 

financial scheme, for further details please visit 

www.audleytravel.com/protect 

Planning your trip 

Once you have some ideas for your trip, or if 

you just want some general guidance, call one 

of our China, Russia, and Central Asia specialists 

on 01993 838 200. They can offer advice and 

discuss your plans with you, before creating a 

detailed itinerary, which will be forwarded to you 

together with maps, accommodation information, 

colour photographs and a price. Your specialist 

can then continue to refine the plans until you are 

completely satisfied. They will be on hand from 

the start of the planning process to your return 

and are always available to answer questions 

and offer sound advice. 

Ceramics on sale, Uzbekistan 

Contents 

Introduction 2-7 

China 8-41 

Classic China 10-27 

Yunnan 28-37 

Hong Kong 38-41 

Tibet 42-49 

Taiwan 50-51 

Silk Route 52-61 

Iran 62-67 

Ukraine 68-69 

Russia 70-81 

The Trans-Siberian Railway 80-81 

Mongolia 82-86 

Useful Information 87

Audley in China, 

Russia and Central Asia 

The countries in our China, Russia and Central Asia brochure are a diverse range of 

destinations, encompassing many different peoples and cultures. Perhaps what they 

all have in common though is just how ancient they all are. These are cultural giants and 

places that, at various points in their history, have ruled over vast swathes of the known 

world. Exploring the monuments, temples, monasteries, mosques and palaces that they’ve 

left behind as their power waxed and waned is what makes a visit to these parts of the 

world so interesting. 

A history of empires 

Kremlin domes, Moscow 

Chairman Mao badge 

Persepolis, Iran 

‘With Heaven’s aid I have conquered for you a 

huge empire. But my life was too short to achieve 

the conquest of the world. That task is left for 

you’. Genghis Khan to his successor. 

The history of these countries is one of empires 

rising and falling, jostling for supremacy with one 

another. The world’s oldest continuous one, the 

Chinese empire, has been about in one form or 

another since 221 BC, when the emperor Qin 

united various warring tribes and imposed a 

unified system of measurements as well as a 

standardised language. 

Lasting from 550 to 330 BC, the ancient Persian 

empire was the largest of its time, spanning 

present day Iran, large parts of Central Asia, as 

well as northern India, and most of the Middle 

East. Known for their tolerance of other cultures 

and enlightened statesmanship, the Persians 

eventually succumbed to Alexander the Great, 

leaving behind the mighty city of Persepolis, as 

well as an enormous sense of pride and a 

distinctive national identity in modern day Iran. 

Roaring out of Mongolia in the 13th century, 

Genghis Khan and his warriors ruled over most 

of present-day Asia and Eastern Europe, for a 

short time, before the vast empire disintegrated 

because of infighting. Today there is little evidence 

of the Mongols in the countries they conquered – 

but large numbers of Genghis Khan’s successors 

live a similar nomadic lifestyle to the one he 

would have lived. 

Picking up some of the pieces from the collapse 

of the Mongol empire, the Timurid dynasty 

reached its peak in the 15th century. Centred on 

Samarkand in present-day Uzbekistan, it was 

established by Tamerlane, a controversial ruler 

whose legacy is bittersweet. As well as wreaking 

great destruction – some estimate that he was 

responsible for the deaths of 17 million people – 

he also bequeathed some of the world’s most 

beautiful monuments and buildings, many of them 

in Samarkand. 

Several hundred years later, it was the turn of the 

Russians who, having subdued the vastness of 

Siberia in the 16th century, turned their attention 

to Central Asia in the late 18th and 19th 

centuries, pushing right up to the Iranian and 

Chinese borders. With the coming of communism 

the Russian empire was substituted for the Soviet 

empire, orthodox churches for Soviet tower 

blocks. These days Russian remains the lingua 

franca of the Central Asian region, and significant 

proportions of the population are ethnically 

Russian. 

In the 21st century it is once again the turn of the 

Chinese to be dominant as the Middle Kingdom 

rises, with huge changes in people’s way of life 

within the space of a generation. Witnessing a 

society in flux, with the tensions between ancient 

and modern ways of life is one of the reasons for 

visiting. Inevitably there are controversies too – 

between the expansionist demands of an empire 

and the right to self-determination of indigenous 

peoples, and between traditional ideas and 

modern technology. 

Seeing the historical and cultural remnants of 

all these empires dotted throughout the region 

is what makes a trip to this part of the world 

truly fascinating – with mosques in China and 

orthodox churches in Central Asia marking the 

high points of each wave of empire across the 

region. It remains to be seen where the high 

point of the current Chinese ascension will be, 

there being no signs of Chinese dominance in 

the region receding. 

4

Contrasting landscapes 

Spanning a quarter of the earth’s surface China, 

Russia and Central Asia contain many differing 

landscapes. From vast deserts in Mongolia and 

the north of China to lush forests in the south of 

China; from never-ending grass steppe in Siberia 

to awe inspiring mountain peaks in Tibet; from 

mighty rivers spanning the whole of China to 

ancient rice terraces built countless generations 

ago, there really is a landscape for every taste 

in these lands. 

Diverse cultures and peoples 

With a quarter of the world’s population, 

there is a huge variety of peoples and cultures. 

Hip urbanites in Beijing’s 798 art district, 

nomadic herders in Mongolia, devout Ayatollahs 

in Iran, wealthy Oligarchs in Russia – there is an 

endless variety of peoples, personalities, cultures 

and traditions to experience. Seeing the changes 

in the faces as you travel from east to west 

(or vice versa) is one of the most interesting 

facets of the many great journeys you can make 

in the region. 

Trans-Siberian train, Mongolia 

Great Journeys 

With such contrasting landscapes and 

cultures, there are a number of 

inspirational journeys that can be 

undertaken. Take the Trans-Siberian 

railway for a journey from European 

Moscow to Asian Beijing. Retrace the 

steps of the ancient Silk Road, crossing 

deserts and mountain passes. Take the 

highest railway in the world from 

Beijing to Lhasa. Travel overland from 

Lhasa to Kathmandu to experience the 

roof of the world. Follow in the 

footsteps of ancient tea traders in 

Yunnan. There are endless permutations 

and possibilities – the only limit is your 

imagination (and the number of pages 

left in your passport!). 

Mongolian nomads 

01993 838 200 ● Introduction 5

Audley in China, 

Russia and Central Asia 

Babushka selling cakes, Trans-Siberian Railway 

Accommodation 

With most of China, Russia and Central Asia 

having been staunch communist countries until 

relatively recently, there is sadly not much of a 

tradition of small, locally owned hotels and 

guesthouses. This is changing slowly though, and 

there are some genuine gems that we’ve 

discovered on our research trips. Some of the 

more popular destinations such as Beijing, 

Shanghai and St Petersburg have some smaller, 

more characterful options. For a truly unique 

experience, we can even arrange a stay in a ger 

tent in Central Asia or Mongolia. Elsewhere 

business orientated hotels tend to dominate. 

While these may be a little uninspiring, they are 

generally of a good standard. 

Responsible travel 

We're passionate about travel but also deeply 

aware of the responsibility we have to the people 

and places we visit. We believe that a visit from 

an Audley traveller should have a positive impact 

on the destination and, wherever possible, bring 

real benefits. We always endeavour to use locally 

owned hotels, work with local guides and 

operators, and promote community and wildlife 

projects. Our Traveller's Code offers tips and 

advice you can use to ensure your trip does not 

threaten the sustainability of the places you visit. 

We carbon offset all our staff flights and you can 

choose to do the same, please speak to your 

specialist about this or follow the link on our 

website www.audleytravel.com/offset. Our 

commitment to responsible travel has been 

audited by AITO (Association of Independent 

Tour Operators) and we have been awarded five 

stars, the maximum achievable. We also support 

a variety of social and environmental charities and 

projects around the world. 

In the past the team have raised money to 

purchase ger tents and support projects that help 

orphans and street children in Ulaan Baatar, 

Mongolia. We continue to organise fund-raising 

events to support similar projects. 

Travelling around 

Within China, Russia and Central Asia we will 

always recommend the most convenient and 

appropriate means of transport for the region in 

which you are travelling. Given the vast distances 

in these parts of the world, this often means 

flying. For those with a little more time, rail 

journeys can be a great way of enjoying the 

scenery of the region, though standards can vary 

from country to country and from route to route. 

When a road journey is necessary or worthwhile 

we use well maintained, air-conditioned vehicles, 

you are accompanied by a local driver, and in 

most case an English-speaking guide to illuminate 

your journey. 

St Isaac's Cathedral, Russia 

6 

Rice terraces, China

Yi minority women, China 

Cuisine 

The food in China, Russia and Central Asia is as 

diverse as the culture. Chinese food is famous 

throughout the world, of course. What is not so 

well known is how much it varies from region to 

region. With most Chinese food in the UK 

originating from Hong Kong and the south of 

China, it can be very different to what you may 

have had at home. Russian and Central Asian 

cuisine has a poor reputation but has improved 

markedly since the fall of communism, especially 

in Moscow and St Petersburg in Russia where 

there are many excellent restaurants (both 

Russian and European). 

Off the beaten track 

For those that are looking for something a little 

different, the region offers a plethora of 

opportunities to really get out there and 

experience something truly different. Each country 

has its ‘must-see’ sites but beyond these there are 

often many interesting places which receive very 

few visitors. Whether you’re looking to have 

fantastic scenery all to yourself, take an epic 

overland journey or experience rural life in the 

country you’re visiting, our specialists will be able 

to put together a unique trip tailored to your 

interests and requirements. 

Mosque decoration, Iran 

Catching up at the market, Yunnan 

Ulughbek Medressa, Uzbekistan 

01993 838 200 ● Introduction 7

China 

China, the Middle Kingdom; for 

centuries the world’s richest and most 

advanced civilisation and, at the beginning 

of the 21st century, well on its way to 

reclaiming that title. This is a land of 

myriad landscapes, of ancient wonders and 

a billion people of diverse cultures, spread 

across an area larger than Europe. Journey 

through lands where the ancient past has 

been rediscovered, through mountainous 

realms and rural landscapes whose sublime 

beauty has captivated artists and travellers 

for centuries, and visit cities where the 

architectural marvels of the past vie for 

attention with the 21st century’s grandest 

extravagances. Here the frenetic modern 

world, despite encroaching further and 

further into Chinese life, still manages to 

coexist with the timeless rural rhythms of 

the emerald rice paddies and ancient sacred 

mountains. There are Taoist and Buddhist 

temples, classic teahouses, labyrinthine 

canals and majestic palaces to explore, 

providing harbours of calm in the midst 

of a bustling, sometimes crowded country. 

China is truly a country of thrilling 

contrasts, bursting with energy and magic. 

8

Classic China 

As you might expect, there are some definite 

‘must-sees’ for anyone who hasn’t been to China 

before contained in this region. The exciting city 

of Beijing, once home to emperors and their 

many wives (and concubines) acts as a culturesteeped 

introduction to the country and an ideal 

base to see the mighty Great Wall. Once the 

capital, Xian is now a major visitor destination 

thanks to the extraordinary Terracotta Army, 

which was first unearthed by a farmer in the 

1970s. Shanghai combines glittering modern 

architecture with colonial-era buildings, and gives 

an idea of just how fast China is changing. 

To the south, the Guilin region provides some of 

China’s most spectacular scenery – craggy 

limestone karst pinnacles looming above the 

meandering Li River. In this part of China life runs 

at a slightly slower pace, so a few days in this area 

makes a nice contrast to the bustling cities of 

Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. Splitting the country in 

two, the Yangtze River is arguably the source of 

China’s greatness. Its wide and fertile floodplain 

allowed the development of settled, productive 

agriculture which in turn led to the flowering of 

Chinese civilisation. A four day cruise can be a 

great way to break a China trip, allowing time to 

relax and absorb what you’ve seen so far. 

Yunnan Province 

Tucked away in the southwest corner of the 

country and bordering Tibet, Burma, Vietnam 

and Laos, Yunnan province has an extraordinary 

diversity of both culture and landscapes. Being at 

the crossroads of so many different countries has 

led to it becoming a real melting pot of different 

tribes and minorities. With Beijing and the Han 

heartland so far away, many people have proudly 

held onto their own language, traditions and 

customs. Timeless villages that haven’t changed 

for centuries and stunning mountain scenery 

such as the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge are just 

some of the reasons to come to this fascinating 

and still undeveloped part of China. 

Hong Kong 

Hong Kong enthrals with its breathtaking skyline 

and intriguing cultural fusion of east and west. 

As one of Asia’s busiest hubs, it is extremely 

well connected to and influenced by, not only 

China, but the rest of the world as well. 

Western China and the 

Silk Route 

To the west of Beijing, the Gobi desert gives 

way to the mountains and passes of Central Asia. 

This part of China is predominantly Muslim, and 

the faces look a little different from those in the 

rest of the country. From here, merchants and 

traders journeyed along the fabled 3000-year old 

Silk Route, crossing continents. Many people visit 

western China in conjunction with Central Asia, 

so we have included this part of China in the Silk 

Route section of our brochure on page 52. 

Tibet and Taiwan 

Most people don’t see Tibet and Taiwan as being 

part of China, though the Chinese government 

would argue otherwise. We have separate 

sections on these very different places, but it’s 

worth noting that the thawing of relations 

between China and Taiwan means that there are 

now regular scheduled flights between the capital 

Taipei and many mainland Chinese cities. This 

offers the possibility of combining Taiwan as part 

of a longer trip to China. Tibet can also be 

combined with other places in China and arriving 

on the Beijing to Lhasa railway makes for a 

spectacular entrance to Tibet. For more 

information see the Taiwan and Tibet pages. 

China 9

Classic China 

Over the course of its 5,000 year history 

China has developed one of the 

world’s richest and most sophisticated 

cultures, creating fabulous monuments to 

great Emperors, breathtaking manifestations 

of religious devotion and arts and crafts of 

all description that remain to this day the 

pinnacle of man’s creative achievements. 

As empires have waxed and waned China’s 

borders have expanded and contracted, but 

constant throughout have been the traditional 

Chinese heartlands of Beijing and Xian; the 

scenic splendour of the Yangtze gorges and 

Guilin; and the modern marvels of Shanghai 

and Hong Kong. These are the lands where 

the great philosophers – Confucius, Laozi 

and Zhuangzi – expounded their theories 

on life and governance, shaping society 

not only in China but across the entire 

Southeast Asian region. Many of our 

Classic China trips take in these celebrated 

destinations, featuring the world-renowned 

sights of the Great Wall, the Terracotta 

Army and the Forbidden City, with options 

to see the giant pandas, take a cruise on the 

mighty Yangtze river or relax amongst the 

limestone karst scenery of the Guilin region. 

10

I 

I 

I 

Audley in Classic China 

LAOS 

MONGOLIA 

CHINA 

Yangtze 

VIETNAM 

1 Beijing 

Visiting the Forbidden City 

gives an idea of the unbridled 

power and wealth of 

generations of emperors. 

2 The Great Wall 

For many, the symbol of China 

and one of the world’s greatest 

feats of construction. 

3 The Terracotta Army 

Discovered by a farmer in the 

1970s, this lifesize army of 

warriors, horses, cooks and 

more besides was intended to 

help the emperor continue his 

rule in the afterlife. 

8 

Terracotta warrior, Xian 

5 

3 

6 

I I 

I 

7 

I I 

2 

I 

I 

I 

Hainan 

Island 

I 

I I 

I 

I 

I I 

Yellow River 

I IBEIJING 

Huang 

Shan 

4 Shanghai 

One of the world’s most 

exciting cities, the scale of 

Shanghai and the pace of 

change make it a must. 

5 Yangtze River 

A cruise down the Yangtze 

makes for a relaxing and 

scenically rewarding trip. 

Skyline, Shanghai 

6 Guilin’s limestone 

karst scenery 

These craggy pinnacles dot the 

landscape in the Guilin area. 

There are options to go 

boating, cycling or walking in 

this scenic and laid back area. 

7 Yangshuo’s cormorant 

fishermen 

Canny fishermen in China’s 

south have trained cormorants 

birds to catch fish. 

9 

1 

NORTH 

KOREA 

TAIPEI 

TAIWAN 

0 500 miles 

0 805 kilometres 

4 

SOUTH 

KOREA 

Zhong woman, Longji 

8 Chengdu’s panda 

sanctuary 

Seeing pandas in the wild is nigh 

on impossible, but at Chengdu’s 

panda sanctuary they can be 

seen in as close to their natural 

habitat as possible. 

9 Hong Kong 

Cosmopolitan Hong Kong 

makes for a great start or 

finish to a trip. 

China’s culinary delights 

China’s food is as varied as 

life itself, with countless 

regional dishes. 

Panda, Chengdu 

As China has developed, the Chinese have 

become increasingly interested in discovering 

the sights of their own country. This means 

that in peak season, crowds are unavoidable 

at some of the key sites, such as at the 

Terracotta Army. We can help you to 

escape these though. For instance, at the 

Great Wall, we will arrange to take you to a 

lesser visited section; in Xian there are some 

far less busy burial pits we know of that will 

compliment a visit to the Terracotta Army. 

Using the services of a private guide and 

driver will also give you the flexibility to avoid 

large groups of visitors, enabling you to get 

the most out of your time in China. The 

quality of guides can be patchy in China, so 

we use a trusted network of local guides and 

private transport arrangements. 

Accommodation 

We offer a range of places to stay within 

this part of China, ranging from simple 

guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Almost all 

destinations have a good standard of 

accommodation and new hotels are opening 

all the time. In some places the hotels 

available may be functional Western branded 

ones, geared more towards the business 

market – not especially inspiring but 

comfortable and generally well run. 

In other places a wider range of 

accommodation is available. Beijing in 

particular has some attractive traditional style 

properties, built around historic courtyards 

that have changed little in decades. Shanghai 

in contrast has a number of boutique hotels, 

as befits China’s city of the future. A number 

of luxury properties have also recently 

become available, located away from city 

centres – these are ideal for those who 

want to relax and unwind in comfort at the 

end of a trip. 

Find out more 

For suggested itineraries and practical 

information about travel in China, please 

see page 26. 

☎ 

www.audleytravel.com 

Interactive maps and features, 

further suggested itineraries, 

accommodation, climate information 

and articles written by our specialists. 

Discuss your plans with our China 

specialists 01993 838 220 

China 11

Forbidden City, Beijing 

Beijing 

China’s modern capital, Beijing, is a true 

microcosm of a fascinating country with all its 

intriguing contradictions and is an excellent place 

to begin your exploration of China’s rich history, 

scenery and sights. The lofty modernist spread 

of Tiananmen Square, with its monolithic 

monuments to Communist glory, faces that most 

imposing of sights, the Forbidden City, while the 

crowds and bustle of the city fade away in the 

serene spaces of the Temple of Heaven and the 

Summer Palace. The traditional ‘hutongs’ – 

narrow busy backstreets which are fast 

disappearing – evoke a more traditional side to 

Chinese life, while the Olympic Park and the 

urbane restaurants and hotels speak of a different 

China. Both offer the chance to immerse yourself 

in this rich and complex society – and we 

suggest spending at least three whole days here 

to do so. 

Card players, Temple of Heaven 

12 

In front of the Forbidden City, Beijing 

Forbidden City 

Home to several dynasties of Chinese Emperors, 

the palace known as the Forbidden City is so 

named as it was off limits to anyone but the 

Emperor, his family and their courtesans. Anyone 

who transgressed this rule and entered without 

the Emperor’s permission was condemned to 

instant execution. These days the Forbidden City 

is one of the key sites in the capital, giving visitors 

an insight into the power and wealth of the rulers 

of the Middle Kingdom. The series of nearly 

1,000 buildings is the largest and best preserved 

ensemble in China, and a visit here and to the 

adjacent Tiananmen Square is a must. 

THE HAOYUAN GUESTHOUSE, 

BEIJING 

Set around two peaceful and pretty courtyards, 

The Haoyuan Guesthouse, in the former 

residence of a wealthy Beijing banker, offers very 

good value. While the hotel is located well apart 

from the crowds, Tiananmen Square is just a 

15-20 minutes walk away. The 16 rooms are 

decorated in the traditional Chinese style, and the 

rear courtyard in particular is peaceful and tranquil 

– you will certainly feel like you are in China 

when staying here. 

Haoyuan Guesthouse, Beijing

Summer Palace, Beijing 

Temple of Heaven and the 

Summer Palace 

Built along strict Confucian lines, the Temple of 

Heaven, fully restored for the 2008 Beijing 

Olympics, served as a vast stage for the 

performance of solemn rites to ensure a bountiful 

harvest. The exquisitely realised halls and altars 

are all loaded with symbolism. The Summer 

Palace, a pretty oasis of palaces, temples, lakes 

and decorative bridges is where the Emperor and 

his family retreated to during the dry and dusty 

summer months. Its huge recreational park and 

classic gardens, popular with both visitors and 

residents, was described by UNESCO as ‘a 

masterpiece of Chinese landscape design’. 

Constructed over a number of years, at one point 

over 100,000 labourers toiled to dig out a huge 

artificial lake, which today can be crossed by boat. 

AMAN AT SUMMER PALACE, 

BEIJING 

Located right next to the east gate of the 

Emperor’s Summer Palace, Aman at Summer 

Palace offers some of Beijing’s most luxurious and 

charismatic accommodation. Most of the rooms 

and suites are housed in a series of dwellings 

which date back over one hundred years. There is 

a private entrance to the grounds of the Summer 

Palace so guests can enter first thing in the 

morning and see local residents practising Tai-Chi. 

The Great Wall 

Snaking infinitely across China’s landscape, 

the Great Wall remains China’s most potent 

symbol and one of the world’s most 

awe-inspiring sights. Construction began in 

the 5th century BC, and continued, along with 

constant renovations, until the 16th century. 

Built to keep out the warlike tribes to the 

north of China, it is estimated that over two 

million people died in its construction. Our 

favourite place to see the wall is Jinshanling – 

one of the quieter and more dramatic 

sections. Although further from Beijing, the 

location means that it is mercifully free from 

the large groups that can crowd other areas. 

Here you can walk peacefully along the wall 

Aman at Summer Palace, Beijing 

Great Wall, Jinshanling 

and breathe in the fabulous vistas that unfold 

before you. For those who enjoy walking, we 

can also organise an excellent day walk along 

a portion of the wall. There are even 

possibilities for an extended five day trek. 

The Long Corridor, Summer Palace 

www.audleytravel.com/china ● 01993 838 220 ● China 13

Xian and the Terracotta Army 

Terracotta Army, Xian 

Xian 

For centuries the city of Xian (or Chang’An) 

was the heart of the Chinese Empire and the 

seat of its most glorious dynasties. The city and 

surrounding countryside is honeycombed with 

fascinating archaeological remnants of those 

halcyon days, but the biggest draw by far 

remains the Terracotta Army of the First 

Emperor Qin Shi Huang. There are, however, 

many other reasons for spending time here. 

As well as numerous ancient pagodas, there is 

the Shaanxi History Museum, arguably the best 

Muslim Hui family, Xian 

in the country, which houses a remarkable 

array of artefacts spanning China’s entire 

history. Xian also has a significant Islamic 

population – a result of its heritage as the 

starting point of the ancient Silk Route. For a 

taste of this, you can visit the lively Muslim 

quarter, home to the country’s oldest mosque 

and rich with the aromas of street cooking. 

The Terracotta Army 

Famous the world over, the Terracotta Army 

was discovered in the 1970s by a local farmer 

digging for a well. Since then, well over 8,000 

figures, as well as countless other artefacts 

have been unearthed. Dating back to 200 BC, 

the ranked life-size statues, each unique 

and many mounted on horseback, make an 

awe-inspiring sight in their three excavated 

pits. The figures are complemented by 

a display of equally stunning bronze 

craftsmanship discovered nearby. The man 

behind the army was Qin Shi Huang – the 

first Emperor to unite China in 221 BC. He 

expected to rule in the afterlife as he had on 

earth, and so constructed a huge army to assist 

him. To understand the historical context of 

the warriors, there is a short film shown in a 

purpose built theatre, which explains how the 

warriors were made, and a little about the 

emperor Qin. 

Hanyanling Tombs 

The Terracotta Army understandably can get 

a little crowded. The more recently discovered 

Hanyanling tombs don’t yet receive anything 

like the same number of visitors. These tombs 

are from a later Emperor, the Emperor Jingdi 

who ruled from 188 to 141 BC. He was 

notable for being a relatively progressive 

ruler – lowering taxes, cutting punishments 

for criminals and using diplomacy rather than 

force in foreign relations. His tombs are 

interesting as they contain more day to day 

artefacts than the Terracotta Army. There are 

still many thousands of figurines, some 

exquisitely carved – though none life size, 

perhaps reflecting the decline in power and 

wealth of this more modest emperor. 

Terracotta animals, Hanyanling tombs 

14

Chengdu 

Red panda, Chengdu 

Chengdu 

The laid-back city of Chengdu is the capital of 

fiery Sichuan Province, isolated from the rest of 

the country by an encircling ring of wild peaks. 

The food is super-spicy, the locals friendly, and 

the temples and teahouses provide some of the 

best opportunities for people-watching in the 

whole of China. To the west, misty mountains 

Giant panda, Chengdu 

range for hundreds of miles to the Tibetan 

Plateau, and the north, clad in swaying bamboo 

forests, is the final stronghold of China’s national 

symbol, the reclusive giant panda. Sightings in 

the wild are extremely rare, but a visit to the 

panda reserve or research centre close to 

Chengdu guarantees a close-up encounter with 

these magnificent animals – see page 16 for 

more information. 

Teahouse, Chengdu 

Hainan island 

Beach, Hainan Island 

Seen by the Chinese as their very own Hawaii, 

Hainan is on the same latitude as the north of 

Vietnam. It therefore benefits from pleasantly 

warm temperatures for most of the year, as well 

as clear, sunny days. There are clean, sandy 

shorelines and a number of good quality hotels 

and resorts, many with their own private beaches. 

Away from the coast, it's possible to arrange day 

treks through tropical woodlands, or to visit a 

monkey sanctuary, though most people come to 

just relax by the sea. Hainan is easily accessible 

from most mainland Chinese cities. It has been 

developed at breakneck speed, and lost a little of 

its charm in the process, but nevertheless is 

perfect for those looking for a few days of 

relaxation at the end of a trip to China. 


Family China 

There’s something of interest in China for 

families of all ages – younger children will love 

seeing giant pandas lolling around munching on 

bamboo, while older children will enjoy learning 

about Chinese cuisine during a cookery lesson. 

With an excellent standard of hotels in most of 

the major cities, a family holiday to China is 

highly recommended and is sure to be 

memorable. Here we present a few of our 

favourite family activities – but our specialists 

have many more ideas up their sleeves. 

Young Chinese children, Guilin 

Cycling in Yangshuo 

The laid back town of Yangshuo has a 

spectacular setting amongst the craggy limestone 

peaks of the Guilin area. While the town has 

grown more popular with visitors over the 

years, it is still a small friendly place, and with 

the aid of bikes makes the perfect base for 

exploring the surrounding countryside. With 

its unspoilt villages and quiet roads this will 

give a small but fascinating taste of rural life in 

China. We can either arrange for you to be 

accompanied by a guide, or, alternatively, it is 

easy to arrange bike hire locally and just hit the 

trails on your own. 

Mother panda with her cub, Chengdu 

Cormorant fisherman, Yangshuo 

Giant pandas 

Symbol of China the world over, the giant 

panda is a fascinating, beguiling animal. There are 

several well funded and well maintained panda 

research institutes near the southern city of 

Chengdu (see page 15). Here children and 

adults can learn about the panda and its habitat, 

have their picture taken with panda cubs, or 

even volunteer for a day at the institute. For 

those with less time who aren’t able to make it 

to Chengdu, Beijing Zoo also has a number of 

well cared for pandas. 

Cyclists, Yangshuo 

16

Beijing 

Beijing is the first port of call for most visitors 

to China. The Forbidden City, Temple of 

Heaven and other ‘must-see’ sites are fabulous, 

but there are also a number of other places 

ideal for those with younger children. We 

recommend the Sony ExploraScience centre, a 

modern and extremely well designed museum 

that offers interactive exploration of science and 

technology. Beijing’s aquarium is also one of the 

world’s largest, with colourful aquatic life from 

China and the whole world. Alternatively simply 

take a rickshaw ride in Beijing’s hutong district 

(the narrow, ancient streets of the city) for an 

authentic local experience. 

Kung Fu students, Shaolin 

Family China Itinerary 

This itinerary combines some of the classic sites of 

China in a family friendly way. As with all our 

itineraries, we can tailor this to make the ideal trip 

for your family. 

Beijing 

Day 1 

Fly overnight to Beijing. 

Xian 

Day 2 

Recover from your flight and in the 

afternoon begin exploring the city. 

Shanghai 

Shark tank, Beijing aquarium 

Beach fun and relaxation 

China is not somewhere that most people 

associate with beaches. China’s island of Hainan, 

not far off the coast of Vietnam, has clean, sandy 

beaches, and a number of good quality hotels 

and resorts. Our hotels of choice all have 

private, supervised beaches and are well set-up 

for families of all ages. See page 15 for a little 

more information about Hainan island. 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Take in Tiananmen Square and the 

Forbidden City. In the afternoon, take a 

bike ride around the hutongs district. 

Leave the city to take a walk along the 

Great Wall. 

Visit the Sony ExploraScience centre 

in the morning, and in the afternoon 

see the magnificent Temple of Heaven. 

Take in a Kung Fu show in the evening. 

Fly on to Xian. In the afternoon take a 

cycle ride around Xian’s city walls. 

Guilin 

Hong Kong 

Day 15 Spend the day exploring Hong Kong – 

there’s a Disneyland for those so 

inclined – before returning to the UK 

in the evening. 

Day 16 

Longi 

Yangshuo 

Early arrival into the UK. 

Cookery lessons 

Most children will have tasted Chinese food and 

for older children and teenagers, a Chinese 

cookery lesson can be a great way to bring 

something back from your time in China. 

Chinese cooking is extraordinarily varied, with a 

range of flavours, ingredients and cooking styles 

to suit all tastes and skill levels. Lessons are in 

English, and can also involve a hands-on trip to 

the local market to choose some ingredients. 

Kung Fu 

Kung Fu is an ancient skill that has long held a 

fascination for teenagers (and adults) the world 

over. We can arrange a trip to an electrifying 

and incredibly impressive display in either Beijing 

or Shanghai. For those who want to delve a 

little deeper into this elegant martial art, we can 

also arrange Kung Fu lessons with an English 

speaking teacher. For the ultimate fan, it’s also 

possible to visit Shaolin, home to one of the 

most famous Kung Fu temples, where monks 

still teach the art of Kung Fu to this day. 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Head out to Xian’s star attraction – the 

Terracotta Army. In the afternoon fly 

on to Shanghai. 

Spend the day exploring Shanghai under 

your own steam, perhaps taking a stroll 

around the French Concession. 

Visit Shanghai’s aquarium in the 

morning. In the evening see Shanghai’s 

amazing acrobats. 

After a last morning in Shanghai fly on 

to Guilin. 

Take a cruise up the Li River to the 

town of Yangshuo. In the afternoon 

explore some of the countryside 

around Yangshuo by bike. 

Learn about Chinese cookery in the 

morning, or if you prefer, take a Kung 

Fu lesson. Spend the afternoon bamboo 

rafting on a tributary of the River Li. 

Transfer to the village of Longji. 

Spend the morning walking among the 

pretty rice terraces. In the afternoon 

transfer back to Guilin to fly on to 

Hong Kong. 

Stay longer 

You could easily extend this itinerary to spend more 

time in Hong Kong. Alternatively, if you wanted to 

see the pandas, add on a few days to visit Chengdu. 

For Kung Fu fans, add on two nights to see the 

famous Shaolin temple. You could also finish the trip 

with a few days on the beach – China’s tropical 

Hainan Island is easily accessible, as are the beaches 

of Thailand. 

Playing at the seaside, Hainan island 


The Bund, Shanghai 

Shanghai 

Contrasting images fuse to form Shanghai, the 

epitome of a self-confident, 21st century China. 

The cosmopolitan atmosphere here seems far 

removed from many of the country’s other cities. 

Surrounded by classic 1930’s colonial architecture, 

take a stroll along the waterfront Bund, the 

dazzling jewel in East Asia’s pre-war crown, with 

views across the river to the towering skyscrapers 

of Pudong. This is the new Shanghai, with shards 

of glass and steel seemingly growing like grass. 

Further back from the river is the French 

Concession – with tree lined streets and an 

excellent choice of bars and restaurants, this part 

of town is more laid back than others. We can 

provide suggestions to help you to explore on 

your own or organise a guided tour. 

Anting Villa, Shanghai 

18 

ANTING VILLA, SHANGHAI 

Situated in the heart of Shanghai’s French 

Concession, the Anting Villa offers excellent value 

accommodation for your stay in Shanghai. 

Housed in a building that blends in well with the 

surrounding colonial era architecture, rooms are 

well appointed. There is both a Chinese and 

Western restaurant – but the best feature of 

the hotel is the lush green grounds, which 

provide a welcome respite from the hustle and 

bustle of Shanghai. 

Peninsula, Shanghai 

THE PENINSULA, SHANGHAI 

With a prime location on the Bund, The Peninsula 

is one of Shanghai’s grandest and most luxurious 

hotels and a welcome addition to a city with a 

surfeit of hotels aimed at the business market. 

Housed in an art-deco style building, the rooms 

and suites here are amongst the biggest in the 

city, some with views over the river to the 

glittering buildings of Pudong. 

Mansion, French Concession 

The French Concession 

Shanghai was little more than a fishing 

village until Western trade with China 

really started to take off in the 19th 

century. Following the infamous Opium 

Wars, a weakened China allowed a 

number of foreign powers, including the 

French, to open free-trade concessions. 

During the early 20th century, the 

concession developed into the premier 

residential district of the city, with grand 

villas and leafy boulevards. These days 

the French are long gone, but the area 

retains a laid back feel to it and it is a 

charming place to stroll in the evenings.

Temple, near Suzhou 

Master of the Nets Garden, Suzhou 

Autumn colours, Hangzhou 

Tea picker, near Hangzhou 

Suzhou 

The water town of Tongli, near Suzhou 

Hangzhou 

Criss-crossed by canals and blooming with 

exquisite landscaped gardens, Suzhou is a 

delightful destination only an hour by train from 

Shanghai. The waterways and tree-lined avenues 

lattice an area famed for silk weaving, with 

techniques brought to vivid life at its renowned 

Silk Museum. In the region there are picturesque 

water towns such as Tongli, Zhouzhuang and Zhu 

Jia Jiao, where ancient stone bridges cross winding 

canals and old merchants’ houses line narrow 

cobbled streets. At their best these small towns 

offer a rare and fascinating insight into a bygone 

China, but can be busy in the high season; we 

plan early starts to avoid the crowds. 

Amanfayun, Hangzhou 

Chinese tourists consider the former capital of 

Hangzhou one of the country’s finest destinations, 

thanks largely to the picturesque expanse of West 

Lake, a scene immortalised over the centuries by 

countless Chinese artists. While the gentle rolling 

scenery around Hangzhou is less dramatic than 

elsewhere, the relaxed atmosphere and greenery 

of the city makes a welcome change from many 

better known destinations. After the frantic bustle 

of Shanghai or Beijing, this is the perfect place 

to hire a bike and ride around the lake and into 

the nearby hills. You can also visit the local tea 

plantations, where the produce is of such high 

quality that it is routinely presented to visiting 

heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth. This, 

combined with the recent addition of some 

characterful and very comfortable accommodation 

options, make Hangzhou an ideal stop for a few 

days towards the end of a trip. 

AMANFAYUN, HANGZHOU 

Surrounded by tea fields, woodland and small 

unspoilt villages, Amanfayun is an ideal place to 

relax, unwind and pamper yourself. Designed in 

the spirit of a traditional village, each of the 47 

rooms is housed in a typical dwelling of the area, 

some of which are over a hundred years old. 

There is a teahouse, a number of restaurants as 

well as a spa on site. The temples, lakes and vistas 

of Hangzhou are only a 20 minute drive away. 

Huang Shan mountains 

Huang Shan 

With jagged peaks entwined in cloud, Huang 

Shan is China’s foremost sacred mountain. It is 

increasingly popular with Chinese visitors, but 

if you stay overnight in one of the hotels at the 

summit, you may find that you have the peaks 

to yourself. Sunrises up here can be truly 

magnificent, as the sun slowly comes up to reveal 

a series of jagged peaks poking through a sea of 

clouds. Huang Shan is a three hour drive from 

Hangzhou, and so combines well with this often 

overlooked part of China. 


Cruising on the Yangtze 

Traditional Sampan under sail in the Three Gorges 

Most people’s first trip to China lasts just two or 

three weeks – a relatively short amount of time 

to try and take in over 4,000 years of history, 

56 different minority groups and the third 

largest country in the world. A cruise on the 

mighty Yangtze River is a great way to have a 

break from the temples and museums, and 

digest what you’ve seen so far. For those so 

inclined, it’s an opportunity to perhaps tackle 

one of the many readable histories of China, to 

give some context to what you’ve seen. For 

others it’s a good chance to relax on the sun 

deck and soak up the scenery. Either way, a 

Yangtze cruise is a highly recommended option 

as part of a first trip to China. 

Carving detail, Fengdu 

Fisherman, Yangtze river 

The route 

The majority of boats ply the Yangtze between 

the cities of Chongqing and Yichang. The scenery 

on the downstream route, from Chongqing to 

Yichang, gets better and better, culminating in 

the spectacular Three Gorges. The upstream 

route takes a little longer, four nights as opposed 

to three downstream, and so is better suited to 

those with more time. A small number of boats 

continue all the way to Shanghai – not 

recommended unless you are a diehard cruise 

enthusiast, as you’ll have witnessed the best of 

the area’s scenery before Yichang. 

Chongqing 

Gateway to the Yangtze, Chongqing has grown 

hugely over the last decade or so. It’s not an 

especially attractive city, but for those arriving 

from elsewhere with time to spare before 

boarding a Yangtze boat in the evening, there 

are some beautifully preserved Buddhist 

grottoes in the vicinity. You should also leave 

time to try the local speciality – Chongqing 

hotpot, a spicy dish adored by the locals! 

Qutang gorge, Yangtze River 

20

Local people, Yangtze river 

Fengdu 

The ‘ghost city’ of Fengdu takes its name from 

two Chinese officials who became bored of 

court life, and moved to the area to practice 

Taoist teachings. They reputably became so 

good at it that they both became immortal – 

hence the name ghost city. There are a number 

of temples here, and it’s a good place to learn 

some of the tenets of Taoism. 

The Three Gorges 

The scenic highlight of the cruise, the Three 

Gorges of Qutang, Wu and Xiling are each 

markedly different. Qutang is the first one that 

you come to if travelling downstream. At eight 

kilometres long it is the shortest, but arguably 

the most spectacular. At its narrowest point it is 

just 100 metres across, and the huge vertical 

sheets of rock are majestically imposing. Wu 

(‘witches’) gorge, around 20 kilometres further 

downstream, is more verdant, with the jagged 

peaks sometimes hidden in a swirling, 

atmospheric mist. Xiling, the longest gorge, is 

the least spectacular, but used to be the most 

dangerous before the river was tamed. You can 

still see beacons glowing on the banks at night, 

to warn captains away from the shallows. 

Yangtze tributaries 

All of the Yangtze cruises spend some time 

visiting one of the smaller tributaries of the 

Yangtze. These have their own gorges, some 

of which are as impressive as the Three Gorges 

themselves. Smaller boats are used for these 

side trips, and most land on shore to explore 

some of the local villages on the river banks. 

The Three Gorges Dam 

The controversial Three Gorges Dam project is 

known the world over. Whatever your views on 

it, it’s difficult not to be awed by the sheer scale 

of the achievement. It’s the world’s longest dam, 

at 2,335 metres, as well as the world’s largest 

hydroelectric power station by output. The 

project is a great source of pride to most 

Chinese people. You’ll see the huge dam from 

a viewing platform, and continue around the 

surprisingly interesting visitors centre. 

Yichang 

Yichang is where most boats turn around and 

head back up the river to Chongqing. There is 

little to detain you here, and most people 

transfer from their boat to the airport, for an 

onward flight. 

Guide to the boats 

Three Gorges Dam, Yangtze River 

We offer a range of boats, from the luxurious 

Yangtze Explorer to the great value Victoria 

Cruise boats. All boats are of a good 

standard, with reasonably sized, en suite 

cabins. On shore excursions are in groups, 

led by generally excellent local guides. Here 

we present a selection of our favourites. 

M/S YANGTZE EXPLORER 

The smallest and most luxurious Yangtze 

boat, the Yangtze Explorer offers the most 

intimate experience on the river, with just 

124 guests on board. Each of the 62 cabins 

are spacious (for a river boat), and all have a 

MS Yangtze Explorer, Yangtze River 

Victoria Cruises, Yangtze River 

balcony. On board facilities include a spa with 

six treatment rooms, espresso bar, sauna, bar 

and observation deck. Lunch and dinner are 

both à la carte. 

VICTORIA CRUISES 

The American-managed Victoria Cruises have 

the largest fleet of boats on the Yangtze, 

offering sailings most days of the week. Boats 

range in size, carrying from 206 to 378 

passengers. All seven boats are very well 

managed, with a range of (optional) on board 

activities. Facilities include an à la carte 

restaurant, a small gym, as well as a bar and 

observation deck. Cabins all have balconies, 

and all meals are served buffet style. 

M/S CENTURY DIAMOND 

Newly launched in 2008 and the flagship of 

the Century Fleet, the M/S Century Diamond 

offers fantastic value for money for sailings 

along the Yangtze. The ship boasts some of 

the largest standard cabins available amongst 

cruise ships of the same class and each of 

these has their own private balcony. The boat 

carries 264 passengers and offers a range of 

facilities including à la carte (available at an 

extra daily charge) and buffet restaurants, a 

spacious bar area and observation deck. 

Yangtze tributary 


Cormorant fisherman with his birds 

Children with buffalo, near Yangshuo 

Guilin 

Guilin, in the south of China, has a more laid back 

feel than the more developed cities of the north. 

The sheer limestone peaks rearing from the flat 

plain around the city form a strikingly beautiful 

landscape that has, since classical times, formed 

a key motif of Chinese art and literature. Guilin 

itself is a pleasant enough city, but acts more as 

a gateway to the surrounding region. Yangshuo 

and Longji are easily accessible places to take in 

the scenery. Further afield, the region also has 

some beautifully unspoilt villages and interesting 

minority festivals. 

22 

SHANGRI-LA, GUILIN 

Guilin’s best hotel, the Shangri-La’s rooms are 

large and well-apportioned, some with views 

over the pituresque Li River. There’s a wide 

selection of restaurants and indoor and outdoor 

pools to relax in at the end of the day, as well 

as spa and jacuzzi facilities. 

Yangshuo 

A cruise downriver from Guilin to the small 

market town of Yangshuo is a popular and 

relaxing way to see the jagged limestone peaks. 

As you float downstream you’re likely to see 

water buffalo, farmers tending their fields, and 

fishermen trying to land the day’s catch. The town 

itself has become more popular with visitors in 

recent years, but remains a relaxed, friendly place 

in a stunning location. It’s also a fabulous base 

from which to explore the local countryside. This 

can be done by bike, car, or in a more limited 

way, on foot. The many tributaries of the river 

also offer opportunities to take a gentle rafting 

ride – a relaxing way to see some of the scenery. 

Evenings can be spent watching cormorant 

fishermen at work, or dining at one of the many 

local restaurants in the town. There is also a 

spectacular sound and light show, Yangshuo 

Impressions, choreographed by Zhang Yimao, 

who went on to direct the opening ceremony of 

the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. 

Karst scenery, Guilin 

Yangshuo Riverside Resort 

YANGSHUO RIVERSIDE RESORT 

Set amongst Yangshuo’s beautiful limestone karst 

scenery, the Yangshuo Riverside Resort offers 

some of the best quality accommodation in the 

area, with a peaceful riverside setting. Many 

rooms have views of the river, and all are 

spacious and furnished to a high standard.

Farmer ploughing field, near Yangshuo 

Longji 

Only two hours north of Guilin, the ancient rice 

terraces of Longji, the ‘Dragon’s Backbone’, offer 

an awe-inspiring location to experience Zhuang 

minority culture first-hand. A night amongst the 

terraces offers a great opportunity to escape 

the bustle of modern China and experience a 

traditional rural way of life. Guided walks of all 

lengths can also be organised between the many 

villages that dot the hillsides. Although the local 

villagers are increasingly used to seeing Western 

faces, this is still a great way to experience a 

different side of China. 

Miao men, Lusheng festival 

Beyond Longji 

Heading beyond Longji, the terrain becomes 

more mountainous, and the roads bumpier. This 

part of China is amongst the least developed in 

the country. Those who are happy with quite 

basic accommodation and rough roads are 

rewarded with fantastic scenery, a huge variety of 

different minority cultures, and unspoilt villages 

such as Chengyang. This is a great place to come 

to track down local festivals, which occur 

throughout the year. An interesting one is the 

Lusheng festival, held in early October. The 

Lusheng is a reed instrument, which varies from 

one to seven metres in length, and the festival 

involves performances, dancing, bullfighting 

and horseracing. 

Lian Lodge, Longji 

Zhuang minority, Longji 

LIAN LODGE, LONGJI 

Perched amongst the rice terraces of Longji, the 

Lian Lodge has fantastic views over the famous 

Dragon’s Backbone terraces, constructed by the 

forefathers of the current villagers. The 16 

individually designed rooms offer comfortable 

accommodation in an unspoilt setting. 

Wind and rain bridge, Chengyang 


21st Century China 

Skyline, Shanghai 

Many visitors to China are attracted by the 

ancient temples and timeless villages, or visions 

of the Great Wall snaking across the vast 

landscape. However, as China has developed it 

has embraced modernity in a big way. Some of 

the world’s most cutting edge art, architecture, 

design and engineering can be found in the 

Middle Kingdom. 

The Maglev 

The fastest running commercial train in the 

world, Shanghai’s Maglev train speeds between 

the city’s Pudong airport and the city centre, 

reaching a top speed of 431 kilometres per 

hour. The train operates using magnetic 

levitation – a series of ultra powerful magnets 

which propel it. If you are leaving or arriving in 

the city via Pudong airport, we can arrange for 

you to take a ride on the Maglev. Each carriage 

has a speedometer so you can see when top 

speed is achieved! 

Maglev high speed train, Shanghai 

Young people, Shanghai 

88 Xintiandi, Shanghai 

88 XINTIANDI, SHANGHAI 

On the edge of the French Concession, the 

Xintiandi district of Shanghai is the place to be, 

where Shanghainese come to see and be seen. 

88 Xintiandi is a small contemporary boutique 

hotel with just 53 rooms, each with a modern 

take on traditional Chinese design. Some rooms 

have pleasant views over an adjacent lake and 

park. While there is no in-house bar or 

restaurant, there is plenty of choice within a 

few minute’s walk of the hotel. 

THE PULI, SHANGHAI 

Billing itself as ‘the world’s first urban resort’ 

The Puli impresses with its ambition. The hotel 

aims to combine the convenience of a city 

centre location with the peace and tranquillity of 

a luxury out of town resort – the best of both 

worlds. There are extensive spa facilities as well 

as discreet, impeccable service. Rooms are some 

of Shanghai’s largest, extremely well equipped 

and thoughtfully designed. These and the public 

spaces are all finished with the highest quality of 

materials and, in a nod to China’s past, the 

reception area’s floor tiles are made by the 

same company that made the tiles of the 

Forbidden City in Beijing. 

The Puli, Shanghai 

24

Bird’s Nest Stadium 

Artist’s studio, 798 Art District, Beijing 

798 Art Zone, Beijing 

Not something that most visitors necessarily 

associate with China, Beijing has a thriving 

modern art movement that is becoming 

increasingly significant on the world stage. The 

scene’s epicentre is a vast industrial complex 

built in the 1950s as a joint venture between 

East Germany, Russia and China (798 refers to 

factory 798, part of the complex). Following the 

removal of state subsidies, most of the factories 

in the complex were shut, and in the mid 1990s, 

Beijing’s artistic community moved in. Since then, 

the area’s popularity has exploded, and the 

former industrial zone is now home to hundreds 

of galleries, lofts, studios, and designers, as well 

as the associated upmarket boutiques and cafes. 

In addition to seeing some fantastic art, a visit 

to 798 Art Zone will really underline the 

complexities and contradictions of modern China. 

The Olympic Park 

For many in China, the hosting of the Olympic 

Games in 2008 signalled the nation's arrival back 

on the world stage. The cutting edge designs of 

the Olympic Park buildings in Beijing are unlike 

any in the world, let alone in China. Chinese 

visitors to the capital flock to the Olympic 

Village to marvel at these masterpieces of 

modern architecture. Whilst decidedly 21st 

century in design, some of the buildings 

nevertheless still offer a nod to Chinese 

traditions and heritage – the stadium’s shape has 

been likened to a Bird’s Nest, in homage to that 

special delicacy of Chinese cuisine. We can 

arrange a trip out to the Olympic Park, 

alternatively it’s possible to combine a visit to 

the park with the Summer Palace. 

National Grand Theatre Opera House, Beijing 

Opposite House, Beijing 

THE OPPOSITE HOUSE, BEIJING 

One of Beijing’s most cutting edge hotels, The 

Opposite House is a stylish place for your stay 

in the city. With just 98 rooms, the hotel has a 

boutique, intimate feel to it, but with three 

restaurants, a beautiful cocktail bar, as well as a 

pool and spa facilities, guests are spoilt for 

choice. The strikingly designed emerald green 

building (by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma) 

resembles a vast wooden lattice. The glass 

construction makes for light, airy rooms, which 

are all of a generous size. Located in the 

embassy district of the city, there is a great 

selection of restaurants, bars and cafes within 

a short stroll of the hotel. 


Beijing 

Xian 

Shanghai 

Guilin 

Longi 

Yangshuo 

Old men playing cards, Beijing 

Tailoring your trip 

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a 

flavour of what is possible, and are routes that 

work particularly well. We can use these as a 

basis to plan your trip or can design a completely 

different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. 

Please call one of our China specialists to start 

planning your itinerary. 

Telephone: 01993 838 220 

Getting around 

Most visitors to China arrive in one city and fly 

home from another, with Beijing, Shanghai and 

Hong Kong being the major entry and exit points. 

We generally structure an itinerary starting in 

the north and working south, or vice versa. 

Once in China, its vast size generally necessitates 

flying between the different regions. China’s 

domestic airlines have been transformed in 

recent years, and though schedules remain a little 

unreliable, the quality of the aircraft, service and 

overall experience has improved immeasurably. 

Train travel is an option between some 

destinations, but given the distances this is 

almost always overnight. 

Great Wall, Beijing 

26 

When to go 

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

~ ~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 

✓✓ The best time to travel. 

✓ A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of. 

~ Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year. 

✕ Travel is not recommended. 

China is a huge country with a wide range of 

climates. Spring and autumn are the best times 

of year to visit, when you are most likely to have 

clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures, 

though you might see a little rain in the south in 

spring. In summer, sites are less busy and prices 

are better value – but it can be a little humid, 

especially in the south. Air conditioning is 

offered in most hotels and vehicles though. 

Winter is cold, especially in the more northerly 

cities of Beijing and Xian, though Shanghai is 

more temperate. 

Time difference: GMT+7 hours 

Flight time from UK: 10 hours 

Beach extensions 

If you’re looking to finish your trip to China with 

some time to relax on a beach, there are a 

number of options. China’s tropical island of 

Hainan is easily accessible from many Chinese 

cities, and can be visited more or less year round. 

Alternatively, the beaches of Thailand are easily 

reached from Hong Kong. 

Prices 

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of 

budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline 

prices for your trip to China on our website, 

alternatively please call our specialists to discuss 

your plans. 

Classic China 

This two week itinerary takes in some of the 

classic sites of China, ideal for the first time visitor. 

As well as seeing some of China’s icons such as 

the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, you’ll 

also take in the beautiful scenery of the Guilin area, 

and get a taste of life in rural China in the village of 

Longji. You’ll also spend time in Shanghai, very 

much the city of China’s future. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Fly from London to Beijing overnight. 

Relax and recover from your flight, in 

the afternoon take in the Forbidden 

City and Tiananmen Square. 

See the Temple of Heaven and the 

Summer Palace. 

Leave the city to see one of China’s 

iconic sites – the Great Wall. 

In the morning take a rickshaw ride 

around Beijing’s Hutong districts, 

before flying onto Xian. 

Day 6 Head out to Xian’s star attraction – 

the Terracotta Army. 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Stay longer 

Fly to Guilin. 

Take a cruise up the River Li to the 

pretty town of Yangshuo. 

Head to the village of Longji. 

After a walk amongst the rice 

terraces return to the airport and fly 

to Shanghai. 

A day in Shanghai. 

Continue to explore Shanghai. 

Fly back to the UK, arriving later the 

same day. 

If you have more time, you could spend a few 

nights in Hong Kong. Alternatively add on time in 

Chengdu to see the Pandas.

Suggested itineraries 

Beijing 

Beijing 

Beijing 

Xian 

Xian 

Chongqing 

Yichang 

Shanghai 

Chengdu 

Zhongdian 

Lijiang 

Kunming 

Guilin 

Longji 

Yangshuo 

Xian 

Shanghai 

Hong Kong 

Yangtze Classic 

This itinerary combines China’s classic sites of 

Beijing, Xian and Shanghai with a journey along the 

great Yangtze River. A cruise on the Yangtze is a 

great way to break up the journey and 

contemplate some of the world class sites that you 

will have seen at the start of your trip. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Days 8-9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Stay longer 

Fly from London to Beijing. 

Relax and recover from your flight, 

in the afternoon take in Tiananmen 

Square and the Forbidden City. 

See the Temple of Heaven. In the 

afternoon, visit the Summer Palace. 


iconic sites – the Great Wall. 

Take a rickshaw ride around Beijing’s 

Hutong districts, then fly to Xian. 

Explore the incredible Terracotta 

Army, and visit the Shaanxi Museum 

in the afternoon. 

Fly to Chongqing for your 

Yangtze cruise 

Float down the Yangtze and take in 

the beautiful scenery. 

Arrive into Yichang, from where you 

fly on to Shanghai. 

Explore the metropolis of Shanghai 

at your own pace. 

A final day at leisure in Shanghai. 

Fly back to the UK, arriving later the 

same day. 

With three more nights, you could also see some 

of the beautiful scenery of the Guilin region; for 

those that prefer cities you could also finish with 

time in Hong Kong. 

Magnificent China 

This comprehensive, 19 day itinerary takes in many 

different and contrasting parts of the Middle 

Kingdom, including time in Yunnan province. It is 

ideally suited to those with a little more time to 

really get under the skin of this vast country. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 





See the Temple of Heaven and in the 

afternoon the Summer Palace. 

Visit the Great Wall. 

Take a rickshaw ride around 

Beijing’s Hutong districts before 

flying on to Chengdu. 

Visit Chengdu’s panda research 

station before flying to Xian. 

Day 7 Head out to Xian’s star attraction – 

the Terracotta Warriors. 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Day 18 

Fly on to Guilin. 



Take a tour of the surrounding 

countryside by foot, car or bike. 


After a walk amongst rice terraces, 

fly on to Lijiang. 

Explore the old town of Lijiang, and 

the picturesque Black Dragon Pond. 

Visit Jade Dragon Mountain. 

Drive to Zhongdian with your guide, 

stopping at Tiger Leaping Gorge on 

the way. 

Visit Songzanlin Monastery. 

Fly to Hong Kong, via Kunming. 

After a day to explore Hong Kong, 

take an evening flight back to the UK. 

China City Sling 

This itinerary mixes the ancient and the modern in 

three of China’s best known cities. Start in Beijing 

and take in some of the contrasts here – such as 

the ancient Forbidden City and the decidedly 21st 

century Bird’s Nest stadium. Move on to Xian to 

see the Terracotta Warriors, before finishing up 

in Shanghai. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 





In the morning see the Summer 

Palace and the Olympic Park. In the 

afternoon, visit Beijing’s up and 

coming 798 district of modern art. 

Leave the city to see one of 

China’s iconic sites – the Great Wall. 

Take a walk along a section to truly 

appreciate it’s magnitude. 

Fly to Xian. Visit the Shaanxi Museum 

for an overview of China’s history 

and in the evening take a walk in 

Xian’s vibrant Muslim quarter. 

Visit the incredible Terracotta Army, 

before flying to Shanghai. 

Spend the day exploring China’s 

fastest growing city. 

Contrast the modern metropolis 

of Shanghai with a day trip to the 

town of Suzhou, with its pretty 

formal gardens. 

Take the fastest train in the world, 

the Maglev, to the airport for your 

return flight, touching down in the 

UK later the same day. 

Stay longer 

There are many ways to extend this taste of China 

if you have more time. Spend a few days in Hong 

Kong to finish the trip off, or alternatively take in 

some of the scenic highlights of the Guilin region. 

Day 19 



Yunnan 

Tucked away in the southwest corner 

of the country, Yunnan province is a 

long way from Beijing, and it shows. 

There’s a different atmosphere here, and the 

onward march of progress has not quite 

permeated this region to the same extent as 

elsewhere in China. Neighbouring Tibet, 

Laos and Vietnam have exerted more of an 

influence than the capital, making for a 

rich mix of different minority cultures 

whose traditions are still very much alive. 

Here it’s not unusual to see people wearing 

traditional costume, not for the benefit of 

visitors, but just because that’s the way 

they’ve always dressed. This variety of 

cultures is matched by an extraordinary 

climatic and scenic diversity. The south of 

the province, near the Vietnamese border 

has semi-tropical forest, and year round 

warm temperatures. In the north the 

altitude rapidly increases towards the 

Tibetan plateau, which lies partly in 

Yunnan at 3,000 metres. You are 

surrounded by enormous craggy mountain 

peaks of over 6,000 metres as you near the 

border with Tibet – these giants are the 

foothills of the Himalayas. 

28

Audley in Yunnan 

4 

5 

2 

3 

1 

6 

7 

We have long been fans of Yunnan and 

while other operators may cover the 

destination, none know it as we do. Some 

of the key places to visit in Yunnan have 

become more popular over the years, 

especially with Chinese visitors. However, 

we have travelled to places a little more off 

the beaten track, discovering the best routes 

to take, and the most comfortable places to 

stay. Our pioneering knowledge will ensure 

you truly get under the skin of this beguiling 

part of China. We also have experience of 

combining Yunnan with the neighbouring 

countries of Vietnam, Laos and Burma. 

Furthermore, with so many different 

minorities in the region, having a local guide 

to explain the heritage and traditions of 

each can really bring a trip to life. Where 

possible we offer guides who are members 

of the minority group of the area in which 

you are staying. 

Accommodation 

Erhai lake, Dali 

1 Dali 

Marvel at the pretty white 

headdresses of the Bai minority 

and take in ancient pagodas. 

2 Lijiang 

A remarkably well preserved 

Naxi minority town, with a 

lively old town. 

3 Tiger Leaping Gorge 

One of the world’s deepest 

gorges, can be tackled as a day 

trip or as an overnight trek. 

Town square, Shaxi 

4 Tibetan culture in 

Zhongdian 

5 Shaxi 

Tibetan people form the 

majority in this part of Yunnan. 

Visit ancient monasteries and 

stop for a cup of yak butter tea 

6 

at a Tibetan family’s house. 

Tibetan chorten, Zhongdian 

Rice terraces, Yuanyang 

Once a stop on tea trading 

routes, this village is best visited 

on market day. 

Lake Lugu 

The centre of the Mosu 

minority, the last practising 

matriarchal society in the world, 

this beautiful lake glistens on the 

Yunnan – Sichuan border. 

7 Yuanyang rice terraces 

These centuries old rice 

terraces unfold as far as the 

eye can see, hewn from the 

rolling topography by the local 

Hani minority. 

This part of China has a number of small, 

characterful guesthouses – all clean and 

comfortable with en suite facilities, but not 

offering the full range of services of a hotel. 

At the other end of the scale, there are 

some extremely luxurious hotels for those 

looking to indulge themselves. In between 

these two options there is not so much 

choice – but new establishments are opening 

all the time, so ask your specialist for the 

most up to date information. 

Naxi women, Lijiang 

Find out more 


information about travel in Yunnan, please 

see pages 36-37. 

☎ 








China 29

Three Pagodas, Dali 

Bai lady, Dali 

Kunming 

Renowned for its delicious noodles and delightful 

teahouses, Kunming, the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ is 

likely to be your entry and exit point into Yunnan 

Province. It’s a pleasant enough city, but if you’re 

pushed for time, you might consider just passing 

through here. For those who do have the time, 

there are some bustling regional markets. Near 

Kunming is the stone forest, Shilin, a bizarre 

landscape of strange karst geology. This is very 

popular with Chinese visitors though and can 

be busy at times. 

30 

Dali 

Nestling beside picturesque Erhai lake is the 

town of Dali. As capital of the great Bai kingdom, 

this was the city that ruled over much of the 

surrounding region. Although its significance has 

waned, the area has retained a wealth of 

traditional Bai architecture set amongst pretty 

scenery. The lake is alive with small wooden 

fishing boats, and has picturesque shores dotted 

with villages and local markets. Nearby, the small 

town of Xizhou, on Dali’s fertile plain, is a perfect 

example of Bai architecture and culture, its superb 

market bright with Bai women beautifully attired 

in colourful traditional costume, old men drawing 

on long wooden pipes and elderly women selling 

traditional medicines. Behind Dali and overlooking 

the lake, the beautiful Three Pagodas have been 

watching over the town for well over a thousand 

years – surviving earthquakes, landslides, 

revolutions and modernisation. 

Fisherman on Erhai Lake, Dali 

Linden Centre rooftop, near Dali 

Linden Centre, near Dali 

LINDEN CENTRE, NEAR DALI 

Located in the small Bai village of Xizhou, The 

Linden Centre is a unique place to stay. Away 

from the centre of Dali, you can really get a feel 

for a different side of China in this small, unspoilt 

village. Set in a traditional Bai house around a 

number of courtyards, the 14 rooms are 

comfortable, with designs inspired by Bai culture. 

There is a pleasant rooftop terrace with views 

over the surrounding fields – perfect for relaxing 

on with a drink at the end of the day.

Old town, Lijiang 

Tiger Leaping Gorge 

Card players, Lijiang old town 

Shaxi 

The area around Dali and Lijiang is rich with 

villages unchanged for centuries, sleepy market 

towns and pretty, rural country scenes. The jewel 

in the crown is the village of Shaxi – an important 

stopping point on the fabled ‘tea-horse road’. This 

was a trade route from the south of Yunnan to 

present day Tibet, through central China, Burma, 

India and beyond, along which ‘black gold’ (tea) 

was transported. The village grew rich during the 

14th century Ming dynasty, which is when many 

of the village buildings date from. These days 

Shaxi is mercifully free of visitors, and Friday's 

market sees a plethora of different minorities trek 

into town to sell their wares and stock up on 

provisions. You can stay in one of a handful of 

small, traditional guesthouses, or alternatively visit 

as a day trip from Dali or Lijiang. 

Lijiang 

Nestled beneath the snowy peaks of the Jade 

Dragon Mountain, the narrow cobbled streets of 

Old Lijiang run with the clear waters of mountain 

streams. This region is the stronghold 

of the Naxi people, whose culture combines 

shamanism with a unique pictographic alphabet. 

The remarkably well preserved old town is 

popular with Chinese visitors – but by sticking 

more to the backstreets and by waking early in 

the morning the crowds can be easily avoided. 

Buddhist temple, Shaxi 


Tiger Leaping 

Gorge trek 

One of the natural wonders of the 

world, Tiger Leaping Gorge was formed 

by the Jinsha River forcing its way 

between the towering Jade Dragon and 

Haba Mountains. According to tradition a 

tiger once leapt across the gorge, which 

is only 30 metres wide at its narrowest 

point. The gorge can be visited as a great 

day trip, though those with the time and 

energy for a two-day hike can explore 

the region in much greater depth. 

Staying overnight in a local guesthouse 

in the centre of the gorge itself is an 

unforgettable experience. 

BANYAN TREE, LIJIANG 

With the snow-capped Jade Dragon Mountain as 

its backdrop, the Banyan Tree Lijiang offers a 

restful, tranquil base for exploring the delights of 

Lijiang. We especially recommend the beautiful 

private villas inspired by local Naxi architecture, 

many with their own plunge pools and private 

gardens with views towards the mountains. There 

is a well equipped oriental themed spa, as well as 

numerous Chinese and Western restaurants. 

The centre of Lijiang is easily reached by taxi – 

a number are always waiting outside the hotel. 

View from Banyan Tree, Lijiang 


The minority peoples of Yunnan 

Dai people haggling at Xizhou market, near Dali 

Yunnan’s location as the crossroads of Asia 

means that it is a melting pot of different 

cultures, containing well over half of China’s 

minority population. Its sheer size and relative 

geographic isolation means that each minority 

group has its own distinct language, custom and 

culture. The colourful headdresses, local markets 

and distinct dishes of each different minority are 

a joy to discover and one of the main reasons 

for visiting Yunnan. 

Bai 

The Bai people are long established in the 

region and ruled over parts of present day 

southwestern China, before eventually 

succumbing to the invading Mongol hordes in 

the 14th century. Bai means white in the Bai 

people’s language, a name they give themselves 

because of their reverence of the colour white. 

The Bai number around 1.5 million in total, 

with most living in or around Dali. 

Naxi 

The Naxi are descended from Tibetan tribes 

who came to settle in the area around 1,400 

years ago. They are centred around the town 

of Lijiang, but are spread throughout the north 

of Yunnan and up towards Tibet. Naxi culture 

is dominated by Dongba, shamans who preach 

harmony between nature and mankind, and 

who act as mediators between the Naxi and the 

spirit world. Until relatively recently, the Naxi 

lived along matriarchal lines, and the dominance 

of women is evident in their language. Nouns 

with the word female added implies something 

bigger or more important, while nouns with the 

word male added implies something smaller or 

less important. Thus the Naxi word for ‘stone’ 

plus female means boulder; ‘stone’ plus male 

means pebble. 

Tibetan 

The Tibetan people are spread far outside 

Tibet’s present day borders, into the provinces 

of Sichuan, Qinghai and Yunnan. In the north 

of Yunnan, around the city of Zhongdian 

(or Gyalthang in Tibetan, also known as 

Shangri-La) and beyond, Tibetans form the 

majority. You will see signs in Tibetan, Chinese, 

and English up here, but the language most 

widely spoken is Tibetan. There is a devoutness 

of belief to be found among the Tibetans that 

is rarely found elsewhere in Yunnan, let alone 

China. Monasteries and stupas abound, 

especially in the countryside, and monks are 

to be seen everywhere. 

Mosu 

One of the last matriarchal societies in the 

world, the Mosu are centred around Lugu Lake, 

on the border between Sichuan and Yunnan 

provinces. Seen by some as a subset of the 

Naxi, they nevertheless have their own distinct 

culture and customs. Property passes through 

the female line, the woman is the head of the 

household, and business decisions are generally 

made by the woman of the house. Political 

power, however, remains with men, so strictly 

speaking the Mosu are best described as 

matrilineal rather than matriarchal. 

Mosu woman, Lake Lugu 

32

Tibetan ladies building a house, Zhongdian 

Hani girl, Yuangyang 

Yi lady, en route to Lake Lugu 

Naxi lady, Lijiang 

Pumi ladies visiting the market, Shaxi 

Yi 

The Yi people are one of the largest minority 

groups in China, numbering around eight million. 

Unlike other minorities they have no distinct 

centre, and so are less visible. You are likely to 

encounter them on journeys between towns 

as they mostly live in rural, mountainous areas, 

carving out a living away from population 

centres. 

Until the 1950s, the Yi were a slave society, 

made up of Black Li, who owned most of the 

land, White Li who didn’t have freedom of 

movement, and around 40% Ajia and Gaxi Li, 

who were slaves. Until the region was subdued, 

the Yi went on frequent raids into Han territory 

to capture slaves. With the coming of 

communism, the Yi were forced to give up 

their slave society, and these days most Yi are 

farmers or nomadic hunters. Only around a 

third are literate, and most are extremely 

poor. As a result they tend to face prejudice 

and discrimination. 

Dai, Pumi and Hani 

There are 25 different recognised minorities in 

Yunnan. Some other notable ones include: the 

Dai who are closely related to Thai people, 

centred around Xishuangbanna in the south of 

Yunnan, and known for their extremely spicy 

food; the Pumi who are heavily influenced by 

Tibetan culture and centred around Lijiang; and 

the Hani. Centred around the far south of 

Yunnan, the Hani built the famous rice terraces 

of Yuanyang and have a striking blue costume. 

Dai grandmother, Xishuangbanna 

Naxi men, Lijiang 


Songzanlin Monastery, Zhongdian 

Walking near Zhongdian 

Walking and trekking 

around Zhongdian 

High on the Tibetan plateau, studded 

with a plethora of peaks over 6,000 

metres, the area around Zhongdian has 

some great trekking opportunities. 

There are a variety of options, from an 

easy half day’s stroll through gently 

rolling hills dotted with Tibetan villages, 

to more rigorous full day treks. For 

those of a hardy nature, two or three 

day treks staying in local houses or 

simple guesthouses take you right up 

near the Tibetan border. Whichever you 

choose, you are likely to pass through 

Tibetan villages at some point, and may 

even be invited in to a villager’s house 

for a cup of yak butter tea, something 

of an acquired taste! 

Zhongdian 

Nestling at 3,200 metres on the edge of the 

Tibetan plateau is one of the most important 

Lamaist monasteries outside Tibet. The 300 year 

old Songzanlin Monastery, home to around 600 

monks, dominates the outskirts of the town of 

Zhongdian. Renamed ‘Shangri-la’ after James 

Hilton’s mythical mountain paradise, the city is 

also known by its Tibetan name of Gyalthang. 

The surrounding countryside is dotted with 

Tibetan villages and, with the majority of the 

population being Tibetan, this really feels like a 

different country. It’s certainly as close as you can 

get to Tibet (both culturally and geographically) 

without the rigours of travelling there. 

BANYAN TREE, RINGHA 

To the north, in a secluded valley on the 

edge of the Tibetan plateau, the Banyan Tree 

Ringha has reconstructed original Tibetan 

farmhouses to create sumptuous lodges and 

suites in one of the most glorious regions of 

the country. Around a 20 minute drive from the 

city of Zhongdian, the resort is a unique place 

from which to explore local Tibetan culture. 

For the active, hiking and horse-riding can be 

arranged into the spectacular surrounding 

mountains; for the not so active there are 

luxurious spa facilities. 

Dhondrupling Monastery 

and the road to Deqin 

There are numerous sites of interest which can 

be combined into a day trip from Zhongdian. 

Dhondrupling Monastery houses around 300 

monks and receives few visitors, making it more 

peaceful and tranquil than the main Songzanlin 

Monastery in Zhongdian. The monks are happy 

to receive visitors and show them around. On the 

way to the monastery is the village of Nixi, famed 

for its production of pottery and well worth a 

stop. You’ll be following a tributary of the Yangtze 

for much of the journey, with superb scenery and 

many opportunities for photo stops. Continuing 

on this road brings you to Deqin, the last town 

before Tibet. The town itself has little of interest 

but is a starting point for those looking to do 

some trekking in the area, and has stunning views 

of Mt Kawa Karpo – at 6,740 metres one of the 

highest mountains in the area. 

34 

Banyan Tree, Ringha, Zhongdian

Lake Lugu 

Yuanyang and the south 

of Yunnan 

Lige village, Lake Lugu 

Lake Lugu 

Lake Lugu sparkles like a jewel on the border 

between Yunnan province and neighbouring 

Sichuan. At 2,685 metres the air is clear and 

the views pristine. The lake is home to the 

Mosu people, one of the world’s last practising 

matriarchal societies. There are numerous villages 

dotted around the lake, one or two of which are 

starting to attract Chinese visitors. We suggest 

staying in one of the quieter villages, where there 

are simple guesthouses with en suite facilities. 

Once at the lake we can arrange gentle walks 

to other Mosu villages in the area, trips to local 

markets, boat trips on the lake in a traditional 

dugout canoe, or you can just relax and take in 

the beautiful views. This area is remote and 

unspoilt by development, for now. The journey 

winding through the mountains from Lijiang is a 

spectacular one, with a good paved road. 

In the southeast of Yunnan you pass through 

one of China’s most dramatic landscapes. Sculpted 

rice terraces cling to the undulating hillsides, their 

glittering waters dancing with the brilliant reflected 

sunlight. This is the remote area of Yuanyang, 

home to the Hani people whose distinctive 

triangular thatched homes are clustered in villages 

which are fascinating to visit. To the southwest 

is the region of Xishuangbanna, with its capital 

Jinghong. The name Xishuangbanna derives from 

the Thai ‘Sip Sawng Panna’, meaning the ‘12 Rice- 

Growing Districts’, demonstrating the cultural and 

geographical links between this part of China and 

its neighbours. There are countless colourful 

temples to visit on the roads between Menghai, 

Mengla and Menghun, with plenty of opportunities 

to drop in at local markets and minority villages to 

gain an insight into the people and the cultures of 

this remote and unique part of China. 

Local market, Menghun 

Rice terraces, Yuanyang 

Overland journeys 

from Yunnan 

For the adventurous, there are numerous 

possibilities for overland journeys from or to 

Yunnan province. Travel to Lake Lugu from 

Xichang in Sichuan province, passing remote, 

untouched villages. Alternatively, the journey from 

Zhongdian to Tibet is for the more hardened 

traveller, but you will be rewarded with 

spectacular scenery. A more popular overland 

journey is to travel south through Yunnan and 

cross the border into Vietnam. There are also 

options to travel along the historic World War II 

supply route, the Burma Road, into Burma, or to 

cross into Laos at the border in the 

Xishuangbanna region. 


Zhongdian 

CHINA 

BURMA 


Shaxi 

Lijiang 

Dali 

Kunming 

Yunnan Discovered 

This 14 day trip takes you to some of the main 

highlights of pretty Yunnan province, including Dali, 

Lijiang, and the Tibetan town of Zhongdian, as 

well as exploring some of the minority villages 

in the region. 

Two generations of Naxi women, Lijiang 


When to go 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Fly to Hong Kong overnight. 

Arrive into Hong Kong in the 

morning and connect with a flight 

to Kunming. 






Please call one of our China specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 220 


Flights to the region all go through Kunming, the 

provincal capital, connecting on to the rest of 

China, including Hong Kong. Within Yunnan, we 

generally make use of a private car to enjoy the 

fantastic scenery. Roads within and between the 

main cities are of good quality, well maintained 

and smooth. The more remote you get the more 

the roads deteriorate, but new roads are being 

built all the time, and for most destinations 

mentioned here, roads are of a reasonable quality. 

Children playing, Kunming 


~ ~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ~ 





Yunnan has a diverse climate to match its diverse 

geography. Dali, and especially Lijiang, tend to 

receive a lot of rain from June to mid-September, 

so spring and autumn are the best times of year 

to visit. Zhongdian, in the north can be chilly in 

the months of April and September, and is 

snowbound over the winter months. Visits to the 

south are possible at any time of year, though in 

the summer months it will be hot and sticky with 

rain. The rice terraces of Yuanyang are at their 

most spectacular between December and 

February, when there is no rice growing. 



Beach extensions 

If you’re looking to finish your trip to China with 

some time to relax on a beach, there are a 

number of options. China’s tropical island of 

Hainan is easily accessible, with direct flights from 

Kunming. Alternatively, the beaches of Thailand 

can be reached via Hong Kong. 

Prices 



prices for your trip to China on our website, 

alternatively please call our specialists to 

discuss your plans. 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Drive or fly to Dali, with the rest of 

the day to relax. 

Explore Dali’s old town, as well as 

the Three Pagodas, which overlook 

the town. 

Take a cruise on Lake Erhai. 

Drive out to the village of Shaxi, 

passing through pretty rural 

countryside on the way. 

Spend time in the village, before 

driving further north to Lijiang, 

stopping off at the holy Buddhist 

mountain of Shibaoshan on the way. 

Spend the morning exploring Lijiang’s 

old town. In the afternoon stroll 

around the picturesque Black 

Dragon Pond. 

Take in the views from the Jade 

Dragon Mountain. In the afternoon 

stop off in the small village of Baisha 

to see some ancient frescos. 

Drive on to Zhongdian, stopping at 

the spectacular Tiger Leaping Gorge 

on the way. 

Visit the Songzanlin Monastery 

before taking a walk in the hills 

outside Zhongdian. 

See the pretty monastery of 

Dhondrupling; on the way back stop 

off in a Tibetan village for a cup of 

yak butter tea. 

Fly back to Hong Kong via Kunming, 

where you connect with your 

UK flight. 

Early morning arrival in London. 

36


Beijing 

CHINA 

Zhongdian 

Lake Lugu 

Xian 

BURMA 


Zhongdian 

Lijiang 

Kunming 

Guilin 

Longji 

Yangshuo 

Hong Kong 

Shaxi 

Dali 

Lijiang 

Lijiang 

Dali 

Kunming 

Guilin 

Guiyang 

Kaili 

Longji 

Hong Kong 

Kunming 

Classic China and Yunnan 

This 19 day trip combines some of the classic sites 

of China – Beijing, Xian, and the karst scenery 

around Guilin, with a taste of Yunnan, for a trip 

that will be varied both culturally and scenically. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Day 18 



and take in Tiananmen Square and 

the Forbidden City. 

Take a day trip to the Great Wall. 

See the Temple of Heaven and in the 

afternoon, visit the Summer Palace. 

Fly on to Xian. Visit the Shaanxi 

Museum and in the evening take a 

walk in Xian’s vibrant Muslim quarter. 

Visit the Terracotta warriors. In the 

afternoon fly to Lijiang via Kunming. 

Explore Lijiang’s old town and the 

picturesque Black Dragon Pond. 

Take in the views from the top of 

Jade Dragon Mountain. In the 

afternoon stop off in the small village 

of Baisha. 

Drive on to Zhongdian, via the Tiger 

Leaping Gorge on the way. 

Visit the Songzanlin Monastery before 

taking a walk in the hills. 

See the pretty monastery of 

Dhondrupling. 

Fly to Guilin via Kunming. 



Take a tour of the surrounding 

countryside by foot, car or bike. 


After a walk amongst rice terraces, fly 

to Hong Kong. 

Spend the day exploring Hong Kong 

before taking an overnight flight back 

to the UK. 


Yunnan Explorer 

This comprehensive trip around China’s Yunnan 

province is ideal for those who want to really get 

under the skin of this diverse province. Taking in 

Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Lake Lugu, and the Tibetan 

town of Zhongdian, you’ll see many different 

minorities and a variety of beautiful scenery. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Day 18 

Fly to Hong Kong overnight. 

Arrive in Hong Kong in the morning 

and fly on to Kunming. 

Drive or fly to Dali. 

Spend today exploring Dali’s old town, 

as well as the Three Pagodas, which 

overlook the town. 

Take a cruise on Erhai lake. 

Drive out to the village of Shaxi. 

This drive will take you into the 

countryside, through villages and 

rice paddies. 

Spend time in the village, before 

driving further north to Lijiang. 

Spend the morning exploring Lijiang. 

In the afternoon stroll around the 

picturesque Black Dragon Pond. 

Take in the views from the Jade 

Dragon Mountain, and see the well 

preserved frescos in the small village 

of Baisha. 

Drive on to Lake Lugu – a stunningly 

picturesque journey. 

Have time around Lake Lugu – visit 

some minority villages, go walking or 

even horseriding. 

Return to Lijiang, retracing your steps. 

Drive to the village of Daju to start 

your Tiger Leaping Gorge trek. 

Finish the trek and drive on to 

Zhongdian. 

Visit the Songzanlin Monastery. In the 

afternoon take a short walk in the hills 

outside Zhongdian. 

Drive out into the mountains to see 

the pretty monastery of Dhondrupling. 

Fly back to Hong Kong via Kunming, 

where you connect back to the UK. 

Early morning arrival into London. 

Villages of the Southwest 

This fascinating trip takes you to the lesser visited 

villages of Guangxi and Guizhou, before flying on 

to Yunnan province. You’ll see a whole host of 

different minorities, and get a real taste of life in 

rural China. While accommodation is basic in some 

places, you’ll be rewarded by experiencing a side 

of China that few visitors get to see. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Stay longer 

Fly from London to Hong Kong 

overnight. 

Fly on to Guilin. 

Drive to the pretty village of Longji. 

After time to explore the pretty rice 

terraces, drive on to Chengyang to 

see the famous Wind and Rain 

Bridge. Continue on to Zhaoxing. 

Spend the morning walking in the 

area, with the afternoon at leisure. 

Continue to Rongjiang, via a Miao 

minority village. 

Drive to Kaili, stopping at various 

minority villages on the way. 

Transfer to Guiyang airport, and fly 

to Lijiang. 

Spend the day exploring Lijiang 

old town. 

Leave the town to see the village of 

Shigu and the first bend of the 

Yangtze River, as well as the Tiger 

Leaping Gorge. 

Drive from Lijiang to the pretty 

village of Shaxi. 

See market day in Shaxi, before 

driving on to Dali. 

Spend the day exploring Dali’s 

old town. 

Fly to the UK via Kunming and 

Hong Kong. 


You could easily spend a further night in both Dali 

and Lijiang. The town of Yangshuo near Guilin is a 

relaxing place to spend a few days. You could also 

start or end the trip with time in Beijing, Shanghai 

or Hong Kong. 


Hong Kong 

Since the colonial era Hong Kong 

has been Asia’s commercial and 

cultural hub, making it one of the 

world’s most cosmopolitan, spectacular 

and thrilling cities. The wonder of 

Hong Kong lies in its contrasts, – 

it’s a place where true multicultural 

modernity mixes seamlessly with 

ancient Chinese traditions. Beneath 

the towering skyscrapers of the Central 

District you’ll find traditional wet 

markets where locals come for fresh 

vegetables and live, flapping seafood. 

Follow a feast of traditional Cantonese 

dim-sum with a wander round the 

chic shopping districts of Wanchai and 

Causeway Bay, packed full of 

international brands and designer 

labels. Or follow the locals instead 

and head to the bustling night markets 

of Nathan Road. If you have time, 

we’d recommend a trip to the former 

Portuguese colony of Macau nearby, 

with its relaxed European atmosphere, 

for a very different experience. 

Skyline at night, Hong Kong 

1 Victoria Peak 

Take a ride on the Peak Tram 

and get a bird’s eye view of the 

Hong Kong skyline. 

1 

3 

2 

2 Hong Kong harbour 

Ride one of Hong Kong’s 

famous Star Ferries for views 

of one of the world’s most 

impressive cityscapes. 

3 Symphony of lights 

laser show 

Every night, the city puts on a 

stunning laser show, using the 

skyline as a canvas. 

Shopping 

Whether your tastes are for 

chic designer boutiques, valuable 

antiques or local markets, Hong 

Kong is a shopper’s paradise. 

Feast yourself 

From top gourmet restaurants 

serving food from all around the 

world to weird and wonderful 

street food, there’s something 

for everyone in Hong Kong. 

38

Trams, Hong Kong Island 

Star Ferry, Hong Kong 

48 hours in Hong Kong 

We’d suggest a stay of at least 48 hours to 

experience Hong Kong, although there is 

plenty to see and do over the course of 

several days (see the following page for 

further suggestions if you have longer). A 

great place to start your explorations is to 

take in some of the classic views of the 

harbour on one of the old Star Ferry cruises, 

which date back to the 1800s. Then, do a 

spot of shopping at one of the Chinese 

markets along Nathan Road, stopping for a 

dim sum lunch in one of the many street side 

stalls. Later, take the tram up to Victoria Peak 

and watch as the sun sets over the skyline 

and the glittering lights of the skyscrapers 

begin to illuminate the night sky. 

Market stallholders, Hong Kong 

St John’s Cathedral, Hong Kong Island 

Chinese medicine, Hong Kong markets 

On your second day try an early morning 

Tai Chi class, provided free of charge by the 

Hong Kong tourist board. After breakfast 

venture a little further afield to Stanley, a 

port town on the beach front, with a relaxed 

and friendly atmosphere. Return to Kowloon 

for afternoon tea in the lobby of the iconic 

Peninsula hotel and then end your time in 

Hong Kong by watching the daily light show 

at the harbour front. 

Audley in Hong Kong 

Hong Kong makes a great start or end to a 

trip to China or elsewhere in the region. 

Having been a British territory for well over 

a hundred years, street signs are all in English, 

and most taxi drivers and shop assistants 

speak at least some English. This, combined 

with the outstanding public transport system 

means that we rarely arrange scheduled 

excursions. Instead we will make suggestions 

as to what to do with your time in Hong 

Kong, and give you guidance on how to use 

Hong Kong’s transportation. We have spent 

time finding some of the best markets and 

shopping districts, away from the main tourist 

drag, which will allow you a glimpse into the 

everyday life of Hong Kong’s inhabitants. 

To describe Hong Kong as the crossroads of 

Asia is something of a cliché, but it’s an apt 

description. There are regular, direct flights to 

most major (and plenty of minor) cities in 

mainland China, Southeast Asia and Japan. 

Hong Kong is also a major hub for flights to 

Australia and New Zealand. It’s therefore 

possible to spend a few days in Hong Kong 

as a part of itineraries to any of these places. 

For China, Hong Kong makes a great start or 

end to a Classic China trip, and is also the 

gateway to Yunnan province. 

Accommodation 

Hong Kong’s accommodation options are 

exhaustive, with a range of hotels to suit 

every taste and budget. There is very little in 

the way of characterful or boutique 

accommodation in Hong Kong, however, 

there are several iconic and well established 

hotels on both Kowloon and Hong Kong 

Island, which boast rooms with views over 

the harbour. Whether you choose to stay on 

the island or Kowloon depends very much 

on personal preference, but if you do want a 

spectacular harbour view from your room 

then we recommend staying in Kowloon. 

Find out more 

For suggested itineraries including Hong 

Kong, please see any of our China itineraries, 

on pages 17, 27 and 37. 

☎ 








Hong Kong 39

Peak tram, Hong Kong 

40 

Another day in 

Hong Kong 

The outlying islands surrounding Hong 

Kong offer a tranquil escape from the 

frenetic pace of the city and make for a 

good day trip. Lantau Island is home to 

the giant Bronze Buddha, reputedly the 

largest seated Buddha in the world and 

is a good place for walks. Younger 

visitors will be pleased to know it’s 

also home to Hong Kong Disneyland! 

Lamma Island has a small population 

of fishermen and expats and is a great 

spot for fresh seafood, fine beaches 

and countryside walks. 

Macau is just an hour from Hong Kong 

by jetfoil yet feels a whole world away. 

A relaxed blend of Portuguese colonial 

architecture and cobbled streets, Macau 

is famed for its cathedral ruins, superb 

food and extensive casinos. Covering 

just 18 kilometres in total, the territory 

has always had a distinctively different 

atmosphere from Hong Kong, with 

public squares, outdoor cafes offering al 

fresco dining and swaying palm trees 

giving a cosmopolitan, southern 

European ambience. 

Fruit market, Hong Kong 

METROPARK, HONG KONG ISLAND 

A good value hotel in an expensive city, this 

brightly decorated hotel is well-located, about five 

minutes walk from Victoria Park in the Causeway 

Bay area. Tin Hau MTR stop is a two minute walk 

away, giving excellent access to the rest of Hong 

Kong. As is usual with hotels in Hong Kong the 

rooms are small, but they are well decorated and 

comfortable. The rooftop pool provides an 

excellent area to relax with nice views of the city 

and the bay. 

THE LANGHAM, KOWLOON 

Considering the level of service, range of facilities 

and location, the Langham offers surprisingly good 

value for money. The flagship property of this 

internationally renowned chain, it exudes elegant 

European style and provides a refreshing 

sanctuary with superb facilities and a distinctly 

contemporary flair. The charming Mediterraneanthemed 

rooftop pool area has a fully equipped 

health club and range of massage treatments 

providing the perfect opportunity to unwind. It is 

situated in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui - one of 

the liveliest and most popular areas of the city, 

with a vast array of shopping, entertainment and 

dining opportunities right on your doorstep. The 

Star Ferry terminal and an MTR station are less 

than five minutes walk away for easy access to 

Hong Kong Island. 

The Langham

Dim sum snacks 

The Intercontinental Grand Stanford 

Street scene, Hong Kong 

The Park Lane, Hong Kong Island 

The Peninsula 

THE PENINSULA, KOWLOON 

The Peninsula is the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of Hong 

Kong - and the most historical hotel, having 

opened her doors in 1928. All these years later, 

the hotel retains its elegance and opulence and 

remains ‘the’ place to stay when in town. There 

are 300 nostalgically decorated rooms and suites, 

many with superb harbour views. The hotel has 

extensive spa and fitness facilities, including a full 

harbour view Roman-style swimming pool. The 

fleet of Rolls-Royce limousines parked in front of 

the elegant lobby, with immaculately dressed bellboys 

in close attendance, is one of the classic 

images of Hong Kong. Some of the city’s best 

restaurants are within the hotel, for a special 

occasion we would recommend the Philippe 

Starck designed Felix restaurant at the top of the 

building, which has stunning harbour views. 

THE INTERCONTINENTAL, 

KOWLOON 

The Intercontinental is excellently located on the 

harbour front, only a few minutes walk from the 

Star Ferry and Nathan Road, and is one of Hong 

Kong’s most prestigious landmarks. Famous for its 

fantastic views over to Hong Kong Island, the 

hotel offers an excellent standard of service and 

facilities including landscaped gardens overlooking 

the harbour. The hotel’s spa is renowned as one 

of Hong Kong’s best and we can reserve 

treatments for you if you require. The hotel also 

has two of Hong Kong’s most fashionable 

restaurants – Nobu and Spoon. Both have 

outstanding service, and the view from the 

lobby is truly breathtaking. 

The Intercontinental, harbour view room 

THE PARK LANE, 

HONG KONG ISLAND 

Located in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong’s 

liveliest shopping and entertainment districts, 

the Park Lane Hotel overlooks the city’s largest 

park, offering spectacular views of both the 

famous harbour and Victoria Park. Comfortable, 

elegantly decorated guest rooms together with 

a comprehensive range of food and beverage 

outlets and impeccable service make the 

Park Lane an excellent option for the 

discerning traveller. 

THE INTERCONTINENTAL 

GRAND STANFORD, KOWLOON 

Situated on the harbour front, ten minute’s 

walk from Kowloon’s major shopping and 

entertainment district, the Grand Stanford is a 

good base for your stay in Hong Kong. Tsim Sha 

Tsui MTR station is around ten minute’s walk 

away, meaning that Hong Kong Island is easily 

accessible. Some rooms have full or partial views 

of the famed harbour, which although not as 

good as some of its rivals still manage to impress, 

especially given the hotel’s great value rates. 

The hotel has excellent facilities with a recently 

refurbished rooftop pool area. High levels of 

efficient and discreet service are the trademarks 

of this reliable hotel. 

www.audleytravel.com/hongkong ● 01993 838 220 ● Hong Kong 41

Tibet 

Lying majestically in the shadows of the 

towering Himalayas, the great 

expanse of Tibet is a land of mystical 

monasteries, soaring mountains and ancient 

traditions. Despite the pressures exerted by 

Chinese rule, the Tibetan people cling 

proudly to their traditions and cultural 

identity and offer a warm welcome to all 

who come to marvel at this special place. 

Although long exiled in northern India, the 

Dalai Lama’s influence remains undimmed 

and is evident in Tibet’s countless 

monasteries and places of worship. Pilgrims 

still flock to Barkhor Square and the 

Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, and to reaffirm 

their devotion beneath the sheer walls of 

the Potala Palace. Beyond the capital 

breathtaking scenery awaits – the road to 

Kathmandu leads past ice blue lakes beneath 

the gaze of Mt Everest to the winding road 

that descends into Nepal. The Beijing to 

Lhasa Express offers another way to witness 

the superb scenery of Tibet, whilst also 

taking one of the world’s great rail journeys. 

Whatever experience you seek there are 

wonders beyond measure to discover here on 

the ‘Roof of the World’. 

42

Audley in Tibet 

4 

5 

3 

2 

1 

Since the ‘liberation’ of Tibet in 1951 the 

country has been officially designated an 

autonomous region of China. This 

controversial status and the subsequent 

relocation of large numbers of Han Chinese 

has led to the gradual dilution of Tibetan 

culture. We use only Tibetan guides and 

focus your itinerary on Tibetan culture and 

traditions, giving you an insight into the 

country and everyday life. Some of the 

more remote areas involve adventurous 

journeys, but we will tailor your itinerary to 

suit your preferences. Whereas most 

operators will only take you to Tibet as part 

of a fixed-itinerary group, our tours are fully 

tailor-made to your own specifications. 

Accommodation 

1 Lhasa 

Place of pilgrimage for Tibetans 

and the cultural and religious 

centre of Tibet. 

2 Tsetang 

Remote and isolated home to 

Samye, Tibet’s oldest monastery. 

The scenery here is spectacular. 

3 Lake Namtso 

Outstanding natural scenery 

and the opportunity for a night 

under canvas, a wonderfully 

rewarding experience. 

Prayer wheels, Tsetang Monastery 

Monk praying, Potala Palace, Lhasa 

4 Everest Base Camp 5 The Friendship Highway 

The awesome sight of the 

world’s highest mountain is 

simply stunning, and a highlight 

of any overland journey. 

With pristine lake views and a 

breathtaking mountain backdrop, 

this is a truly memorable journey 

into South Asia. 

Luxury hotels have yet to make it onto the 

Tibetan Plateau, and some would say this 

adds to Tibet’s charm. There is a mixture of 

characterful guesthouses and more functional 

Chinese hotels. Lhasa has some of our 

favourite choices, with several central hotels 

decorated beautifully in the Tibetan style. 

Two examples are the Dhood Ghu, which 

offers excellent Potala views, and Yabshi 

Phunkhang, a fabulous Tibetan experience 

which has a history of its own. Outside of 

Lhasa the hotels are clean and comfortable, 

though without frills. The finest view of 

perhaps any accommodation in the world is 

found at the basic Rongbuk Monastery 

Guesthouse, in the very shadow of Everest, 

which is ample compensation for an outside 

tap and toilet. Catch up on travel stories in 

the cosy restaurant here with other travellers 

by the stove over tea. For the adventurous, 

a night under canvas on the shore of 

breathtaking Lake Namtso is also a possibility. 

Find out more 


information about travel in Tibet, please 

see page 48-49. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Tibet 


Lake Namtso, north of Lhasa 

Tibet 43

Young monks, Lhasa 

Lhasa 

Dominating the skyline with its immense walls of 

white and ochre, the famous Potala Palace greets 

you as you reach the capital of Tibet. In its maze 

of corridors, chapels and galleries, you will 

discover the former living quarters of the Dalai 

Lama and many sacred tombs. In the old Tibetan 

quarter you can walk through the narrow streets 

and explore nearby Barkhor Square and the 

spectacular golden-roofed Jokhang, the country’s 

holiest temple. 

Just outside Lhasa there are two monasteries of 

particular interest: Sera is set around a busy 

courtyard where monks spend heated afternoons 

debating philosophical questions, whilst Drepung 

was once the world’s largest monastery, housing 

up to 10,000 monks in its heyday. A day trip into 

the countryside also reveals the monastic ruins 

and restorations of Ganden, passing monks on 

the way to isolated shrines and enjoying fantastic 

panoramas across the valley. 

Yabshi Phunkhang Hotel, Lhasa 

The Lhasa Express 

In July 2006, to much official fanfare, the 

inaugural Beijing to Lhasa train service plied 

the new Qinghai-Tibet rail line linking Tibet 

with the Chinese rail network. This staggering 

feat of engineering is officially the world’s 

highest railway line, carrying passengers to a 

dizzying 5,072 metres. The journey across 

the northern Tibetan Plateau passes through 

some of Tibet’s most isolated and desolate 

regions, which would be almost impossible by 

any other means. Mountain views are superb 

here, and snow lies on the ground as late as 

July. This is one of the world’s great railway 

journeys, and is very much a working train 

with local Tibetans and Chinese people on 

board. As well as enjoying some fabulously 

remote scenery from your window, you’ll also 

YABSHI PHUNKANG HOTEL, LHASA 

Yabshi Phunkang, a home of the Dali Lama’s 

family in years past, is built in the traditional 

Tibetan style and is full of history. Now one of 

Lhasa’s most characterful hotels, Yabshi enjoys a 

prime location, just a short walk from 

the bustling markets of Barkhor Square. Rooms 

are tastefully decorated and very comfortable, 

with attentive staff and a relaxed atmosphere. 

View from Lhasa Express 

spot wandering nomads. The train itself is 

similar to the standard Chinese trains, with 

four berth sleeper compartments, though 

oxygen masks are available for those who feel 

the effects of the altitude. On arrival in Lhasa 

most travellers are well adjusted to altitude 

and ready to start their travels in Tibet, making 

the train an excellent way to arrive. 

Sculpture, Jokhang temple, Lhasa 

44

Future Buddha, Maitreya Chapel, Shigatse Group of nuns, Lhasa Wall painting, Samye Monastery 

Gyantse fort at dawn 

Kumbum, Pelkor Chode Monastery, Gyantse 

Gyantse 

Gyantse is full of Tibetan character, a great place 

to explore historic streets and markets. Discover 

the shadowy chambers of Pelkor Chode 

Monastery and the splendid four-tier Gyantse 

Kumbum, with its impressive murals and statues 

filling many chapels and topped by a golden 

dome. En route to Gyantse you pass through 

stunning Himalayan scenery, the Kamba-La Pass 

providing sweeping panoramas and leading down 

to the turquoise waters of Yamdrok-tso. 

Local woman, Gyantse 

Tsetang 

A half-day drive from Lhasa along the 

Brahmaputra River valley brings you to the fabled 

birthplace of the Tibetan people. The modern 

town of Tsetang has a fascinating old Tibetan 

quarter and is a good base for exploring the area. 

To the south, lose yourself in the eerie 

Yumbulagang Fort, its 11 metre tower dark 

against the sky. Set on a jagged ridge fluttering 

with prayer flags, it is a great viewpoint 

overlooking the verdant Yarlung Valley. Northeast 

of Tsetang, the road crosses the mighty 

Brahmaputra River en route to the remarkable 

Samye Monastery, oldest of all Tibet’s 

monasteries. Under the protective gaze of the 

spectacular Utse building, countless stupas and 

temples still attract many devout Buddhists. 

Yumbulagang fort, near Tsetang 

Tashilunpo Monastery, Shigatse 

Shigatse 

A two-hour drive from Gyantse, Shigatse is home 

to the Tashilhunpo Monastery. This former seat 

of the Panchen Lama (the highest ranking after 

the Dalai Lama) is famed for its striking buildings, 

including the Maitreya Chapel, dominated by a 

26 metre statue of the Future Buddha, and the 

Tomb of the fourth Panchen Lama. The town is 

renowned for its skilled carpet weavers and we 

also suggest a walk around the colourful fruit and 

vegetable markets. 

www.audleytravel.com/tibet ● 01993 838 215 ● Tibet 45

Overland to Kathmandu 

Pausing to take in the views, Friendship Highway 

The overland journey on the Friendship 

Highway from Lhasa to Kathmandu in Nepal is 

one of the finest travel experiences in Asia and 

one rich in culture and scenery. The road takes 

you past Tibet’s key towns and monasteries, 

over 5,000 metre passes that offer jaw-dropping 

views over lakes and green valleys below, 

and the chance to spend the night at the foot 

of Everest. 

The journey 

From Lhasa the journey through Tibet begins in 

earnest as you leave the city behind and head 

south over the Plateau. The first day’s drive 

takes you up to 5,000 metres over the high 

passes, allowing for excellent views of the crystal 

clear Lake Yamdrok-tso. 

A day in Gyantse is enough to spend time at 

Pelkor Chode Monastery and to have a free 

afternoon to wander through the traditional 

Tibetan streets and buildings. The next day’s 

drive on to Shigatse, Tibet’s second largest 

town, is not a long one and is well rewarded in 

the afternoon with time browsing in the markets 

and perhaps seeking out Sakya Monastery. 

As you leave Shigatse the views of the Himalaya 

become better and better and, leaving the tarmac 

of the Friendship Highway behind, the journey 

passes through desert-like terrain until the 

unmistakeable sight of Everest appears in front of 

you. Accommodation here is at 5,100 metres so 

it’s wise to take things easy as you acclimatise. 

It’s a good idea to wake early on a morning at 

Rongbuk Monastery, not only for a chance to 

see the robed monks going about their routine 

but, more importantly, for the most 

unforgettable views of Everest in the early light. 

Once the sun is up it is possible to walk up to 

the closest vantage point to Base Camp on a 

nearby hill. In the distance can be seen the 

orange dots of climbers’ tents as they make 

camp at the foot of Everest. The afternoon 

journey back to the Friendship Highway ends at 

the small town of Tingre, which has just a few 

buildings and has a ‘Wild West’ feel to it. 

The final day’s drive is a stunning one, as you 

descend from the Tibetan Plateau and its lifeless 

landscape through gradually emerging woodland 

and greenery at the border with Nepal, before 

the road levels out and you pass through subtropical 

greenery, finally arriving in Kathmandu 


Yamdrok Tso lake, Friendship Highway 

46

Holy man, Kathmandu 

Patan museum, Kathmandu 

Yaks, Friendship Highway 

View of Everest, Rongbuk monastery 

Everest Base Camp 

While Base Camp on the Nepal side of Everest 

sees more visitors, Base Camp in Tibet is in 

comparison a lot more isolated, and the views of 

Everest arguably finer. There is a tangible sense 

of adventure on arrival, after a bumpy five hour 

journey south from the Friendship Highway. 

As China has opened up to the world it has 

become easier for climbers to attempt to climb 

Everest from within Tibet. The region, however, 

is still as remote as ever and accommodation 

(aside from tents) is found at Rongbuk 

Monastery, the world’s highest at 5,100 metres. 

This remains a functioning monastery and the 

small funds that they receive from travellers 

enables the monks to maintain the buildings. 

For those who stay at Rongbuk Monastery, the 

basic facilities, which include outdoor taps and 

toilets, is more than compensated for by the 

dramatic vews of Everest itself from the bedroom 

windows. It’s a breathtaking sight in the morning 

or evening as the sunlight shifts over the snows. 

Nuns and monks, Rongbuk Monastery 

Durbar square, Kathmandu 

Kathmandu 

Arriving in Kathmandu from Tibet is an 

assault on the senses. The climate is hot and 

humid, the streets noisy, chaotic and typically 

South Asian, and the religious architecture 

distinctly Hindu in appearance. 

Durbar Square is a delight to wander 

through, with its temples and palaces, while 

Thamel is excellent for shopping or browsing. 

This a great area for eating out as well, and 

a curry can be extremely welcome after a 

week or two in Tibet. Swayambhunath is one 

of the most revered temples in Nepalese 

Buddhism, and home to the country’s oldest 

stupa. The temple has great views over the 

city and the valley beyond and is a pleasant 

escape from the traffic and bustle outside. 

This is a city with long and rich history and is 

a fascinating place to spend a couple of days. 

For longer journeys through Nepal, please 

see our Indian Subcontinent brochure or 

www.audleytravel.com/nepal 


Prayer wheels, Lhasa 







Please call one of our Tibet specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 215 

Getting there 

Tibet can be approached either from its 

Himalayan cousin, Nepal, with several flights a 

week linking Kathmandu with Lhasa, or from 

China, with daily flights from Beijing, or the Lhasa 

Express train. At certain times of year it is also 

possible to take the superb overland journey 

between Tibet and Nepal, skirting Mt Everest and 

passing through awe-inspiring Himalayan scenery. 

Allow for 15 days to make the overland journey 

in comfort, including a four night stay in Lhasa. 

48 


In Tibet, we suggest using private vehicles to get 

around, to ensure maximum comfort and 

flexibility. Roads around Lhasa and the main 

towns of Tibet are generally of a reasonable 

standard. However, if travelling overland between 

Tibet and Nepal, we recommend the use of a 

4X4 vehicle – the roads out here start to get 

pretty bumpy. 

When to go 


✕ ✕ ✕ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ~ ~ ✓ ✓✓ ~ ✕ 





Travel to Tibet is only practical between the 

months of April and November, as inclement 

weather prevents the majority of flights entering 

the region at other times. Despite the altitude it 

is surprisingly warm during this climatic window, 

although some rain is likely in July and August. For 

their largely clear, azure skies May and October 

are generally considered the finest months for 

travel, while September is also excellent for 

making the overland journey to Nepal. 



Altitude 

With the entire Tibetan plateau lying above 

3,500 metres, the effect of altitude is a factor 

we consider when planning your itinerary. 

Most travellers only suffer mild and temporary 

symptoms such as headaches and breathlessness, 

but with this in mind, we always try to build 

in time to acclimatise at the beginning of 

your journey. 

Prices 


budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices 

for your trip to Tibet on our website, alternatively 

please call our specialists to discuss your plans. 

Tibetan lady


TIBET 

TIBET 

CHINA 

Beijing 

NEPAL 

Kathmandu 

Shigatse 

Gyantse 

Mount 

Everest 

BHUTAN 

Lhasa 

Tsetang 

NEPAL 

Kathmandu 

Tingri 

Shigatse 

Gyantse 

Mount 

Everest 

BHUTAN 

Lhasa 

Tsetang 

Lhasa 

Gyantse 

Tsetang 

INDIA 

INDIA 

Classic Tibet 

This relaxed touring itinerary takes you to the 

main highlights of Tibet, travelling via Kathmandu. 

You will experience the culture and religion of the 

Tibetan people as you visit the most sacred 

monasteries and temples, and enjoy breathtaking 

scenery and mountain views as you travel on the 

Friendship Highway. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Extensions 

Fly from the UK to Kathmandu, 

via Qatar. 

Transit in Doha and fly on to 

Kathmandu. The rest of the day is 

at leisure to acclimatise. 

A day tour of Kathmandu’s key 

sights, including a visit to 

Swayambhunath Temple. 

Fly into Tibet and drive to Tsetang. 

Full day at Samye Monastery and 

Yambulagang Monastery. 

Drive to Gyantse via the Kamba 

La Pass. 

A full day in Gyantse. 

Drive to Shigatse to explore 

Tashilunpo Monastery and the 

local markets. 

Drive back to Lhasa. 

A full day exploring the Jokhang 

Temple, Sera Monastery and the 

Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace. 

Visit the Potala Palace and 

Drepung Monastery. 

Fly back to Kathmandu for an 

overnight stay. 

Return to the UK via the Gulf, 

arriving the same day. 

Tibet combines well with Nepal for those 

interested in exploring the region further. Please 

see our Indian Subcontinent brochure for more 

information about Nepal. Alternatively, time in 

Tibet can be combined with some of the sights 

of Classic China, or of China’s Yunnan province. 

Overland from Lhasa to 

Kathmandu 

This itinerary makes for a rewarding overland 

journey from Lhasa to Nepal, experiencing ancient 

culture and awesome mountain scenery. This is 

one of the world’s great travel experiences. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Fly from London to Kathmandu 

via Qatar. 

Transfer in Doha for your flight to 

Kathmandu. Spend the rest of the 

day at leisure in Kathmandu. 

See the highlights of Kathmandu, 

including Swayambunath temple. 

Fly to Lhasa's Gongkar Airport, from 

where you drive to Tsetang. 

Visit Samye Monastery. Continue 

on to Yambulagang Palace, home 

of the first 32 kings of Tibet. 

Drive to Lhasa. 

Visit the Potala Palace and in the 

afternoon explore Sera Monastery. 

Enjoy a tour of Lhasa’s most 

important temple, the Jokhang, 

and afterwards travel to the seat 

of the State Oracle, at Drepung. 

Drive to Gyantse on the Southern 

Friendship Highway. 

Visit the Pelkor Chode Monastery 

and the Kumbum. 

Drive to Shigatse via Shalu Monastery 

and Tashilunpo monastery. 

Enjoy the passing scenery on the 

full day drive towards the Himalayas, 

spending the night at Rongbuk 

Monastery. 

Walk to Base Camp for staggering 

views of Everest, before making the 

journey back to Tingri. 

Continue on towards Kathmandu. 

Fly back to London, via the Gulf. 

The Lhasa Express 

The Lhasa Express is the highest railway line in the 

world and one of the world’s great rail journeys. 

You’ll have time in Beijing before spending two 

days crossing China and ascending to Lhasa, taking 

in some fantastic scenery on the way. Once in 

Tibet you’ll see some of the main highlights, before 

returning to the UK via Beijing. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Days 6-7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 



perhaps beginning to explore Beijing 

in the afternoon. 

Take in Tiananmen Square and the 

Forbidden City. In the afternoon, 

visit the Summer Palace. 


iconic sites – The Great Wall. 

See the Temple of Heaven, and in 

the afternoon take a rickshaw ride 

around Beijing’s Hutong districts 

before boarding the Lhasa Express 


Drink in the stunning scenery, 

arriving into Lhasa in the evening 

of day seven. 

Visit the superb Potala Palace 

and in the afternoon explore 

Sera Monastery and see the 

monks debating. 

Enjoy a tour of Lhasa’s most 

important temple, the Jokhang, 

and afterwards travel to the seat 

of the State Oracle, at Drepung. 

Drive to Gyantse via the Kamba 

La Pass. 

A full day in Gyantse. 

Drive to Tsetang. 

Full day at Samye Monastery and 

Yambulagang Monastery. 

Fly back to Beijing for a night’s stay. 

Return to the UK, arriving later the 

same day. 


Taiwan 

From the bustling, high-tech 

capital in the north to the 

breathtaking gorges and mountain 

scenery of the central highlands, 

Taiwan is North Asia’s surprise 

jewel, often regrettably overlooked 

in favour of its larger neighbours. 

Early Portuguese sailors gave 

Taiwan the name ‘Ihla Formosa’ 

which means ‘Beautiful Island’, and 

it’s easy to see why. Sheer cliffs drop 

vertically into the ocean, deep canyons 

cut through her middle and thick 

forest stretches across a mountainous 

region, covering two thirds of the 

island in green. Taiwan is also home 

to some of the most welcoming people 

in all of Asia, the world’s finest 

collection of Chinese artefacts, and a 

colourful and dynamic culture 

distinctly different from its neighbour 

across the Taiwan Strait. 

Sun Moon Lake 

3 

5 6 

1 Taroko Gorge 

Translated as ‘Magnificent and 

Beautiful’, the name says it all. 

2 Sun Moon Lake 

Taiwan’s largest lake, home 

to one of Taiwan’s 

indigenous tribes. 

Wufei temple, Tainan 

1 

5 Taipei’s night markets 

Grab yourself a bargain and 

some great local food at one 

of the capital’s lively markets. 

4 

7 

2 

Ladies, Sun Moon Lake 

3 Yangmingshan’s 

hot springs 

Purify yourself the traditional 

Taiwanese way. 

4 Temples of Tainan 

The highest concentration of 

temples in Taiwan can be 

found here. 

6 National Palace Museum 

Taiwan’s best museum, detailing 

not just the history of Taiwan, 

but of mainland China as well. 

7 Alishan Mountain 

Alishan is Taiwan’s highest 

mountain, perfect for walking 

and other outdoor pursuits. 

Tea pickers, Alishan Mountains 

50

Central Taiwan 

Central Taiwan offers such a diverse range of 

landscapes – from jagged peaks, to banana palm 

plantations and golden sand beaches, that it is 

hard to know where to start. Located almost 

exactly in the centre of the country, Sun Moon 

Lake is the most beautiful lake in Taiwan, 

resplendent with sparkling blue water and an 

impressive mountain backdrop. It’s also home to 

the sumptuous Lalu Hotel, which is a real treat 

and Taiwan’s finest accommodation. Travel south 

along the breathtaking New Island Highway and 

you arrive at Alishan Mountain. This is Taiwan’s 

most famous mountain resort, perfect for those 

in search of fresh mountain air and impressive 

vistas over the surrounding countryside. 

Southern Taiwan 

To the south of the country – an hour’s drive 

from the swarming metropolis of Kaohsiung – is 

the little-known village of Maolin, a peaceful oasis 

of rivers, waterfalls, babbling brooks, mountains, 

and some of Taiwan’s less explored hiking trails. 

Night market, Taipei 

Skyline, Taipei 

Taipei, northern Taiwan 

and Taroko Gorge 

From one of the tallest buildings in the world to 

the thick plumes of incense swirling up from 

Buddhist and Taoist temples, Taipei is a city of old 

and new. It is the thriving heart of Taiwan, the 

bustling centre of commerce, government and 

culture, and for most people the first stop on a 

tour of the island. Most visitors make a beeline 

for the National Palace Museum, the world’s 

largest museum of Chinese artefacts, filled with 

the country’s finest artistic and cultural objects 

from a period spanning three millennia. Take time 

to explore Taipei’s parks and gardens, bustling 

night markets and traditional teahouses. Take a 

day trip to the cobblestone alleys of Keelung, or 

venture into the Yangmingshan National Park, 

only thirty minutes from Taipei yet boiling with 

hot springs, fumaroles and volcanic craters. A 

short journey along the scenic eastern coast 

brings you to the island’s premier attraction – 

the majestic, marble-walled Taroko Gorge. 

Audley in Taiwan 

Few people treat themselves to more than 

a fleeting glimpse of Taiwan, and even fewer 

venture out of the capital. Although only 

around half the size of Ireland, Taiwan boasts 

a public transport network to rival her 

Japanese neighbour, with an excellent train 

and bus network between major towns 

and domestic air links for those in a hurry. 

We recommend taking advantage of this, 

and also delving further into the country 

by road to explore Taiwan’s mountainous 

interior and numerous national parks. If you 

have the time, we’d strongly suggest spending 

some time in the south – this is the more 

Taiwanese part of Taiwan, the north being 

more dominated by Han Chinese that 

came over with Chiang Kai Shek after the 

communist revolution. For the train 

enthusiast, there are a couple of fine journeys 

that stand out: the old steam train which 

chugs out of the Alishan National Park and 

the new high speed train that speeds 

between Taipei and Kaohsiung in the far 

south. For those who want to combine a 

taste of Taiwan with China, there are now 

direct flights from many Chinese cities. 

Practicalities 

Taiwan has a good standard of 

accommodation throughout, though hotels 

tend to be slanted towards the business 

market and there are few character options. 

Taiwan’s weather is as varied as its landscape, 

but can be generally termed as sub-tropical. 

Its two distinct seasons, hot and cool, run 

predictably from May to October and 

November to March respectively, and the 

typhoon season runs from mid-August to 

early October. Aside from those who are 

looking to conquer one of its mountainous 

peaks, it is best to aim for the spring and 

the autumn when the air is fresh, the 

flowers are in bloom and travel is at its 

most comfortable. 

Alishan Mountain 

Find out more 


information about travel in Taiwan, please 

see our website. 

☎ 



suggested itineraries, accommodation, 

climate information and articles written 

by our specialists. 

Discuss your plans with our Taiwan 


Taiwan 51

Silk Route 

The Silk Route, a complex network of 

ancient trading routes that snake from 

Xian in China through the high passes of 

Central Asia into Persia, Arabia and Europe 

has inspired travellers and scholars for 

centuries. Before it was surpassed by seaborne 

trade it was the main artery for the exchange 

of goods and information between east and 

west. Though silk was one of the most 

important commodities transported along 

it, many other goods were traded in both 

directions – perfumes, jewels, glassware, and 

spices to mention just a few. The flow of ideas 

was just as important – with Islam spreading 

as far east as China. Xian, traditionally 

seen as the start of the Silk Route still has 

a significant Muslim population. In the 

opposite direction, Europe received the 

inventions of irrigation wheels and paper 

from China. Today, the fascinating mix of 

diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes and 

intricate history makes for some of the most 

rewarding travelling in the world. Vast 

deserts, ancient ruins, towering mountains, 

imposing architecture and bustling markets 

all await the adventurous traveller along the 

ancient Silk Route. 

52

Audley along the 

Silk Route 

7 

1 Kashgar Sunday Market 

One of the world’s great 

markets and the very essence of 

the Silk Route at the crossroads 

between the Far East, the Indian 

Subcontinent and Central Asia. 

2 The Karakoram Highway 

Some of the most breathtaking 

mountain scenery in the world 

with many peaks well over 

7,000 metres bordering 

Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan 

and Kyrgyzstan. 

3 

8 

2 

1 

4 

Tile detail, Registan, Samarkand 

3 The Torugart Pass 

At 3,752 metres high this pass 

between China and Kyrgyzstan 

is legendary. 

4 The Tian Shan 

mountains 

Separating China and Central 

Asia, the jagged Tian Shan 

mountain range boasts some 

spectacular peaks that tower 

over the grasslands and deserts 

at their feet. 

5 Xian 

An ancient capital of China and 

the eastern-most point of the 

ancient Silk Route. 

6 Dunhuang 

Home to the Mogao Thousand 

Buddha caves and some of the 

highest sand dunes in the world. 

6 

5 

We have been operating trips in this 

challenging part of the world for many years 

now. Our specialists have been to many 

corners of these little visited parts, so we 

really can talk from personal experience 

when organising trips here. Whether you 

have days or weeks to spend following in 

the footsteps of some of the world’s most 

resilient traders, there is plenty to explore 

along the Silk Route. A shorter, one week 

trip may focus on the incredible architecture 

of Uzbekistan or the beautiful scenery of 

neighbouring Kyrgyzstan while a longer trip 

might encompass a number of countries such 

as Western China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan 

and many of the key points of interest along 

the way. For the ultimate Silk Route 

experience, it’s even possible to travel all the 

way from China to Istanbul, via Kyrgyzstan, 

Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Iran on a 

truely unforgettable journey. 

Accommodation 

Accommodation along the Silk Route is 

invariably simple and each country offers a 

distinctly different style; Western China tends 

to offer international hotels, Kyrgyzstan 

offers guesthouses and Uzbekistan offers 

caravanserai-style courtyard properties. 

Unless you are staying in yurts in Kyrgyzstan, 

the majority of accommodation along the 

Silk Route is en suite and quite comfortable. 

There are few luxury hotels in the region – 

the best available are in the capitals of 

Tashkent and Bishkek, though these tend 

to be focused on business travellers. 

7 

Registan Square, 

Samarkand 

Samarkand’s centre piece, here 

three medressas form a truly 

humbling sight. 

8 

Traditional yurt stay, 

Lake Song Kol 

A night on the edge of the lake 

gives a real taste for the 

nomadic way of life. 

Walking in Kyrgyzstan 

Kyrgyzstan is a walker’s paradise 

and some of the alpine trails 

between Lake Karakol and the 

Tian Shan mountains are the 

best in the country. 

Find out more 


information about travelling along the Silk 

Route, please see pages 60-61. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Central Asia 


Torugart pass, between China and Kyrgyzstan 

Silk Route 53

Karakoram highway, Kashgar 

Xinjiang province and the 

west of China 

The far western provinces of China, at the fringes 

of the country, feel a world away from the 

modern metropolises of Beijing and Shanghai. 

The people here are distinctive – many of them 

are Muslims Uighurs, and the faces you see on 

the streets will look markedly different to those 

in the towns and cities in the rest of China. 

Scenically the region is distinct too, with the vast 

Taklamakan desert giving way to the craggy 

Tian Shan mountains near the borders with 

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. 

Local muslim man, Xian 

54 

Labrang Monastery, Xiahe 

Xian 

Xian, capital of ancient China under several of 

the country’s most important dynasties was the 

eastern-most point on the ancient Silk Route. 

It was from Xian that Chinese silk began its epic 

journey overland through the sands of the Gobi 

and Taklamakan deserts to the high passes of 

Central Asia and beyond. Xian soon rose to 

become one of the great cities in the vast but 

fragmented China. Its old name – Chang’an meant 

‘long or perpetual peace’ and this is testament to 

the city’s undisputed greatness. To this day, Xian 

maintains a vibrant Muslim Quarter at the heart 

of which lies the Grand Mosque – a reflection of 

the city’s cosmopolitan history. For more about 

Xian see page 14. 

Xiahe 

Set in a picturesque mountain valley and home 

to one of the leading Tibetan monasteries outside 

Lhasa, Xiahe offers those unable to visit Tibet the 

chance to experience the unique Lamaist 

Buddhism and Tibetan culture. The thriving 

Labrang monastery, built in 1709, is the heart of 

the town and attracts thousands of Tibetan 

pilgrims each year, dressed in their finest and 

most colourful clothing. Join the pilgrims on their 

devotional prayer-wheel circuit around the 

monastery or visit the high grassland steppe close 

to town where Tibetan nomads graze their yaks 

and skylark’s song fills the air. 

Lamas, Xiahe

Buddhist cave painting, Mogao caves, near Turpan Uigur girl, Kashgar old town Traditional house, Kashgar 

Mingsha singing sand dunes, Dunhuang 

Dunhuang 

The city of Dunhuang has been a centre for 

Buddhist art and sculpture for over 1,500 years. 

There is nowhere along the Silk Route quite like 

it, with cave frescoes that have withstood the 

test of time nestled between massive sand dunes 

and barren mountains. The splendid paintings 

date back to the Tang dynasty and have stood 

sentinel to the changing times ever since. A visit 

here is richly rewarding, showing not only the 

extraordinary mix of cultures but also the 

brilliance of the artists themselves. 

SILK ROAD HOTEL, DUNHUANG 

The Silk Road Hotel is one of the most attractive 

places to stay along the Chinese section of the 

Silk Route. The hotel sits in the shadow of the 

Mingsha singing sand dunes which are said to be 

the highest in the world. Watching the sun set 

behind this magnificent backdrop from your 

vantage point on the hotel’s rooftop terraces with 

the heat of the Gobi warming the air is a fine way 

to end a day of exploration. Rooms here are 

tastefully, if simply, decorated and are en suite 

making this the perfect stopping off point in the 

Gobi desert. 

Haggling at the market, Kashgar 

Kashgar 

The great city of Kashgar, a base for commerce 

and cultural exchange for countless centuries, is 

perhaps the most interesting and exciting in 

western China. Its celebrated Sunday market, a 

chaotic mix of people and animals, is a captivating 

event. Farmers and traders from all over southern 

Xinjiang and beyond converge here once a week, 

with cries of ‘bosh bosh!’ (‘coming through!’), to 

buy or sell anything from horses to hats, and a 

great deal besides. The bizarre and wonderful 

sight of young men test-driving donkeys and 

horses, checking teeth and hooves, is one that will 

stay with you forever. Getting here is also part of 

the fun. There are daily flights from Urumqi that 

pass directly over the stunning Tian Shan 

mountains, or a train that winds its way into the 

peaks and on through the desert. Whichever way 

you come, Kashgar will not disappoint. 

Silk Road Hotel, Dunhuang 

Ruined city of Jiahe, near Turpan 

Turpan 

This town, nestling in the world’s second lowest 

valley, is an improbable success story. For over 

2,000 years it has been inhabited by various 

peoples despite receiving almost no rain at all. 

It owes its curious longevity to an ingenious 

irrigation system once prevalent throughout 

Central Asia. Here 5,000 kilometres of 

underground tunnels channel glacier water from 

the high mountains down to the valley, sustaining 

a population of over 250,000 people and the 

grapes for which the area is famed. Surrounding 

the town are numerous fascinating sites, including 

the ruined desert city of Jiahe and the ancient 

Mogao Thousand Buddha caves. 

www.audleytravel.com/silkroute ● 01993 838 205 ● Silk Route 55

Travelling along the great Silk Route 

Detail, wooden pavillion, Samarkand 

What to expect 

Travelling along the Silk Route should be seen 

as a journey and not a holiday, and you should 

have a reasonable level of fitness. There is 

very little in the way of luxury en route and 

travelling conditions can be demanding. In 

addition, hotel and guesthouse owners in this 

part of the world can have a somewhat 

cavalier attitude to reservations, and we may 

sometimes need to make changes to where 

you stay at relatively short notice, though this 

would always be to a hotel of the same 

standard. There are some long drives and 

rough roads, and toilet facilities en route are 

not always of the highest standards. However, 

these are all small compromises when coupled 

with some truly outstanding scenery and the 

fascinating cultures you encounter en route. 

Travel options 

Traders originally moved their goods along the 

Silk Route by camel and pack horse. Although 

in theory it’s possible to complete the journey 

entirely overland, you would need a lot of 

time and thick skin. Instead we suggest a 

mixture of domestic flights and road journeys, 

with perhaps an overnight train journey or two 

for those who enjoy rail travel. 

Crossing the border 

The Torugart Pass is perhaps the most 

famous of the Central Asian border crossings 

and links Kyrgyzstan with Western China. 

At 3,752 metres, the Torugart is considerably 

lower than the nearby Khunjerab which 

connects China to Pakistan, but its rugged 

inhospitable beauty is not to be 

underestimated. Starting just outside Kashgar, 

the unpaved road to the border winds amongst 

the Tian Shan mountains through stunning 

scenery, but it is the Kyrgyz side that hosts the 

most breathtaking views of all. Wherever your 

destination, this is a long day, but once the dust 

has settled, also one of the most rewarding. 

Group tours 

For those who prefer to tackle this journey in 

the company of others, we also run a group 

tour, Along the Silk Route, taking in the main 

highlights of this epic trip. Starting in Beijing, 

China, we follow the ancient trade routes out 

to Kashgar, before crossing the Torugart Pass 

into Kyrgyzstan, finishing up in Uzbekistan. You’ll 

be accompanied by an experienced guide the 

whole way. For more details please contact 

one of our Central Asia specialists. 

56

Herders, Lake Song Kol 

Horses, Tian Shan mountains 

Kyrgyzstan 

Perched between two of the greatest deserts on 

Earth, remote and mountainous Kyrgyzstan glows 

in lush contrast to its dusty neighbours. Within 

only a hundred miles of the scorched plains you 

can be high on the grasslands, listening to larksong 

and contemplating the majesty of the mountain 

scenery as you watch nomads herd their yaks. 

The Kyrgyz themselves, especially the nomadic 

families of the high steppe, are disarmingly 

friendly and welcoming to visitors. Bishkek, the 

leafy capital, makes for a pleasant night or two’s 

stay, but the beautiful scenery is the real reason 

to come here. 

Yurt stay, Karakol 

Elders, Karokol 

Issyk Kul and Song Kol 

To the east of the capital Bishkek is the deep and 

imposing Lake Issyk-Kul. On all sides, mountains 

rise almost sheer from the water, jagged peaks 

capped with snow for most of the year. On the 

southeastern shore is Karakol, a pretty old Russian 

settlement with gingerbread houses and a 

photogenic bazaar. The town is an excellent base 

for Kyrgyzstan’s best and most accessible hiking, 

with Altyn Arashan – possibly the most beautiful 

place in a very beautiful country – only a short 

drive away. To the north and east of Issyk Kul 

are the highest peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, 

either side of the massive Inylchek Glacier. Further 

west, set in a high alpine valley is Lake Song Kol. 

During the summer months nomadic herdsmen 

set up yurt camps in the fertile pastures 

surrounding the lake, and visitors diverting from 

the road from the Chinese border can soak up 

the splendour of the region before making the 

final push for the capital, Bishkek. 

Offering bread, Lake Song Kol 

YURT STAYS, KYRGYZSTAN 

Central Asians have been using the yurt for 

literally thousands of years. Portable, light, cool in 

summer, warm in winter, they personify the 

unfussy and seasonal life of the nomad. The basic 

structure, layers of felt stretched over a wooden 

frame, could not be simpler, yet it manages to 

support entire families through the summer 

months. The best area to see them is the 

meadows in Kyrgyzstan, where, in July, it can seem 

as though half the population has disappeared 

into the hills. You can of course stay in them as 

well, something we heartily recommend. The 

welcome is always warm and, though the facilities 

are akin to camping, the locations of many yurts 

mean marvellous views at sunrise and sunset and 

what feels like the freshest air in the world. Our 

favourite locations are at Lake Song Kol and in 

the stunning valleys along the southern shore 

of Issyk-Kul. 

Lake Issyk Kul 


Kalta Minor and the west gate, Khiva 

Old ladies, Khiva 

Uzbekistan 

This barren, landlocked country, for so long 

invisible to Western eyes, contains within its 

borders three of Central Asia’s most brilliant 

cities: Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. The wealth 

and strategic importance of the region has 

attracted covetous invaders across the ages: 

Macedonians, Russians, Arabs and Turks have all 

left their indelible marks throughout the country, 

with countless dazzling monuments to power, 

strength, wealth and piety. The capital, Tashkent 

is the hub of Central Asia – not the most 

attractive city, but one where it may be necessary 

to spend at least a night. 

58 

Khiva 

Eight hundred kilometres across the desert from 

Tashkent lies Khiva, a well-preserved and 

fascinating city, its azure-glazed tiles glinting in 

the midday sun. The city was well known to the 

Victorians, who were shocked at tales of the 

barbarity of the local rulers, the Khans of 

Khorezm. Within the redoubtable city walls, 

however, a parallel history of scholarship and 

study, typified by the wondrous medressas and 

mosques, with their intricate majolica patterns, 

is waiting to be discovered. Northwest of Khiva, 

at Nukus, visitors can witness the tragic remnants 

of the Aral Sea, where rusting trawlers are 

marooned far from the receding waters. A visit 

to this desolate region contrasts sharply with the 

pomp and majesty elsewhere in the country. 

City walls, Khiva 

The Great Game 

‘The Great Game’ refers to the strategic 

enmity between the British and Russian 

empires for control of Central Asia and 

India. The phrase was coined by the 

British Army officer Arthur Connolly 

(1807–1842), who was eventually 

captured and beheaded at The Ark in 

Bukhara by the emir of Uzbekistan on 

charges of spying for the British Empire. 

With both sides eyeing the bounty that 

was India, competition for power in this 

desolate part of the world was often 

intense and bloody and ironically, 

without a discernable winner. The tactics 

used by both sides were often dirty, 

and frequently underhand in this vast 

power play between two huge empires 

that were officially at peace with one 

another. The intrigue reached a peak in 

the period between 1813 and the 1907 

Anglo-Russian Convention. The Great 

Game helped to shape the recent 

history of Central Asia and lead to some 

of the region’s most famous characters.

Dome of Tilla Kari mosque, Samarkand 

Schoolboys, Samarkand 

The Ark, Bukhara Detail, Divan Begi Madrassa, Bukhara Goods at market, Samarkand 

Bukhara 

One of the holiest places of Islam, the venerable 

and captivating city of Bukhara was also one of 

the key stops along the Silk Route. In the Middle 

Ages, when the region was at its zenith, scholars 

travelled from all over the Islamic world to 

study here, including two giants of Persian 

culture, Ibn Sina and Firdausi. The monuments 

on show are truly impressive, from the astonishing 

Kalon minaret, spared by an awestruck Genghis 

Khan and bombed by the Red Army, to the 

diminutive but exquisite Ismail Samani 

Mausoleum, with its Zoroastrian motifs and 

intricate brickwork. The main sights can be seen 

in a day but this is a place where little seems to 

have changed from the medieval era, and taking 

things a little slower lets you absorb the thrillingly 

authentic atmosphere. 

Registan at dusk, Samarkand 

Samarkand, Jewel of the Silk Route 

“Sweet to ride forth at evening from the wells 

When shadows pass gigantic on the sand 

And softly through the silence beat the bells 

Along the Golden Road to Samarkand.” 

James Elroy Flecker 

Few names invoke such romance as that of 

Samarkand, for countless centuries a glorious 

magnet for travellers, scholars, tyrants and 

poets. Evidence of the city’s extraordinary 

2,500 year history is everywhere, from the 

crumbling remains of Marakanda – the old 

Greek city – to the grand imposing 

monuments of the Islamic Renaissance. Take 

an afternoon stroll through Registan Square, 

and absorb the same atmosphere of opulence 

and grandeur that has drawn visitors to the 

city for so long. 

South of Samarkand, across the Zerafshan 

Mountains is the small town of Shakhrisabz. 

As the birthplace of Tamerlane it became a 

symbol of the tyrant’s enormous, though 

transient, power. The remains of some 

gargantuan buildings can still be seen, including 

the 45 metre high portal of the Ak Saray 

Palace with a Kufic inscription proclaiming 

The Sultan is the Shadow of God. 

Melon seller, Samarkand 


Spice trader, Xiahe 







Please call one of our Central Asia specialists to 

start planning your itinerary. 

Telephone: 01993 838 205 


To cover the vast distances along this ancient 

trade route, we suggest taking some internal 

flights, especially in the west of China. These are 

on modern planes, run by reputable Chinese 

airlines. There is also a railway line that runs all 

the way from Beijing to Kashgar for those who 

are fans of rail journeys. Elsewhere, we suggest 

private vehicles which offer the greatest flexibility 

when travelling between places. 

60 

When to go 


✕ ✕ ✕ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ~ ~ 





Central Asia and Western China’s continental 

climate is characterised by very hot and dry 

summers and bitterly cold winters. In general 

spring and autumn are the ideal times to visit the 

region, when the flowers blossom and local 

bazaars throng with life. In summer travel is 

possible, but expect it to be uncomfortably 

hot at times. 

Time difference: 

GMT+5 hours (Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan) 

GMT+8 hours (Western China) 

Flight time from UK: 

7.5 hours (Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan) 

10 hours (China) 

Prices 



for your trip along the Silk Route on our website, 


your plans. 

Trucks on the Torugart pass


KAZAKHSTAN 

MONGOLIA 

KAZAKHSTAN 

UZBEKISTAN KYRGYZSTAN 

Urumqi 

Khiva 

Bishkek 

Turpan 

Karakol 

Tashkent 

Bukhara 

Samarkand Kashgar 

CHINA 

Torugart pass 

Dunhuang 

Railway line 

Beijing 

I 

I 

I 

I I 

I 

Xian 

I I 

I I 

I 

I 

UZBEKISTAN 

Khiva 

Bukhara 

TURKMENISTAN 

KYRGYZSTAN 

Tashkent 

Samarkand 

I 

AFGHANISTAN 

TIBET 

AFGHANISTAN 

Classic Silk Route 

A classic journey and one of the most beautiful 

in the world, taking you along the Silk Route of 

Western China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly overnight to Beijing. 

Arriving into Beijing, transfer to a 

flight on to Xian, with the rest of the 

day to relax. 

Fly to the oasis town of Dunhuang in 

the Gobi desert. 

Visit Mogao, site of the Thousand 

Buddha Caves. In the afternoon, visit 

the towering Mingsha sand dunes. 

Take an overnight train to Turpan. 

Arrive in Turpan in the morning. 

Visit the ransacked caves at Bezeklik 

before visiting a traditional Uighur 

village, the ruins of Gaochang and the 

tombs of Astana. 

Visit the ruined city of Jiaohe. Return 

to Turpan via the karez irrigation 

system museum. 

Drive to Urumqi to take a flight to 

Kashgar, China’s westernmost city. 

Take a daytrip along the breathtaking 

Karakoram Highway to Lake Karakul. 

Visit the world famous Kashgar 

Sunday market. In the afternoon, 

explore the main bazaar in the 

city centre. 

Cross the 3,752m Torugart Pass 

into Kyrgyzstan. 

Uighur children, Kashgar 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Day 18 

Day 19 

Day 20 

Day 21 

Continue your journey deeper into 

Kyrgyzstan, to the town of Karakol. 

En route, skirt the southern edge of 

picturesque Lake Issyk Kul. 

Do some walking in the gorgeous 

alpine valley of Jeti Oghuz. 

Drive around the northern edge of 

Lake Issyk Kul to the Kyrgyz capital 

of Bishkek. 

Fly to Tashkent in neighbouring 

Uzbekistan. 

Fly to the walled city of Khiva. 

Explore the city in the afternoon. 

Drive from Khiva on to Bukhara. 

Explore the highlights of Bukhara, 

including the ominous Ark where 

Connolly and Stoddart famously met 

their fate in June 1842. 

A day at leisure to people-watch or 

continue your exploration of Bukhara. 

Drive to the legendary city of 

Samarkand, stopping at Tamerlane’s 

former hometown of Shakhrisabz 

en route. 

Visit the mighty Registan, Avenue of 

Tombs, Bibi Khanym mosque and 

Tamerlane’s mausoleum. 

Return to Tashkent in time for your 

flight back to the UK in the 

afternoon, arriving later in the day. 

Stay longer 

For those looking for a truly epic trip, this itinerary 

could be extended through Turkmenistan to Iran, 

and even on to Istanbul from there. 

Uzbekistan Discovered 

This shorter itinerary will see you standing in the 

shadows of some of the best architecture along 

the Silk Route including the legendary cities of 

Samarkand and Bukhara. Starting and ending in 

Tashkent, you’ll visit the walled city of Khiva, the 

‘Holy City’ of Bukhara and the incredible 

architecture of Samarkand. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Fly overnight to Tashkent. 

Arrive into Tashkent, after time to 

rest take a half-day tour of the 

Uzbek capital city. 

Fly to Khiva and explore the 

old town. 

A further day in Khiva. 

Drive to the ‘Holy City’ of Bukhara. 

Explore the highlights of Bukhara 

with your guide. 

At leisure in Bukhara. 

Drive to Samarkand breaking the 

journey at Tamerlane’s former home 

town of Shakhrisabz on the way. 

Visit the main sights of Samarkand. 

At leisure to explore Samarkand as 

you wish. 

Return to Tashkent for your 

afternoon flight back to the UK. 

Stay longer 

Neighbouring Kyrgyzstan can easily be combined 

with this itinerary to make for a great two 

week trip. 

Traditional embroidery, Uzbekistan 

Necropolis, Samarkand 


Iran 

Prepare to be surprised. This huge 

country, three times the size of France, 

contains a bewildering array of world-class 

sites, lasting testament to a tumultuous 

5,000 year history that has left an indelible 

mark on both East and West. The country’s 

bounty of historic places is without equal in 

the Islamic world. The jewel in the crown is 

Esfahan, a beautiful city and shining 

example of glorious Islamic architecture and 

Persian culture, it has one of the biggest and 

most spectacular city squares in the world. 

Together with Shiraz and nearby Persepolis, 

this triumvirate forms the core of any 

journey to the country. Away from these 

highlights, there is much else to drink in. In 

the northwest the city of Tabriz has been 

famous for the manufacture of carpets for a 

thousand years. In the far south are the 

ancient remains of the Elamite civilisation 

at Choqa Zanbil. In the centre are the 

picturesque villages of the Zagros 

Mountains, giving way to the deserts of 

Eastern Iran and the cities of Kerman. 

To the east is the city of Mashhad, home to 

the mausoleum of Imam Reza, a direct 

descendant of the Prophet Mohammed. 

62

Audley in Iran 

7 

5 

2 

6 

1 

4 

3 

We feel that Iran is a greatly underrated 

destination and much misunderstood. We 

have taken the time to go and visit ourselves, 

to see what the situation is truly like. Every 

one of us who has been has come back 

enamoured with the friendliness of the 

people, the diversity of the culture and the 

sheer unexpectedness of it all. For those 

who want to really discover every nook and 

cranny, we suggest having a national guide, 

who would accompany you throughout your 

time in the country. For those who prefer a 

little more independence, we can arrange a 

driver to accompany you – he or she would 

speak enough English to communicate, but 

would leave you to discover the sights. 

Whichever style of travel you choose – 

you can be sure of a memorable visit to 

this fascinating country. 

Political situation 

Wind towers, Yazd 

1 Esfahan 

Iran’s masterpiece, an exquisite 

city and one of the most 

beautiful in the Islamic world. 

4 Yazd 

This desert city has winding 

lanes and wind towers. 

5 Abyaneh 

Experience rural Iran in this 

picturesque, verdant village. 

6 Tehran 

Iran’s capital is difficult to love – 

but it has some great museums 

and impressive palaces. 

7 Kashan 

A majestic bazaar and some 

beautiful Qajar era mansions. 

Teahouse, Esfahan 

Iran’s image in the West is a predominently 

political one and fails to paint the full picture 

of this remarkable country. Where we ought 

to see a complex and diverse nation born of 

Empire and conquest, we more usually see a 

one-dimensional, sclerotic theocracy in a 

perpetual state of defiance. This should not 

deter anyone from visiting. On the contrary, 

ordinary people that you encounter on your 

trip will treat you in the manner of an 

honoured guest. As with all countries in 

which Audley operates, the UK Foreign & 

Commonwealth Office acts as an arbiter of 

whether countries are safe to visit, and we 

will always follow their advice. 

2 

Shiraz 

A relaxed city and the final 

resting place of many of Iran’s 

great poets, Shiraz is an ideal 

base from which to explore the 

region’s antiquities. 

3 

Persepolis 

Find out more 

Marvel at this ancient city, once 

the heart of one of the world’s 

mightiest empires, hidden under 

the sands for thousands of years. 


information about travel in Iran, please see 

page 67. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Iran 


Tomb of Hafez, Shiraz 

Statue, Persepolis 

Iran 63

Bazaar, Shiraz 

Tehran 

There is nowhere better in Iran than Tehran to 

get an overview of Persian history and culture. 

The museums here are amongst the best in the 

Middle East and are an essential part of any visit. 

The pick of them is probably the Golestan Palace, 

though the National Museum of Iran and the 

National Jewels Museum are fantastic to stroll 

through. Like any other capital Tehran has its 

fair share of problems. On some days the traffic 

can seem like a glacial flow, but try not to let 

this negative image blot out the many positives 

of a visit here. 

Shiraz 

There’s no wine here. If there were this would 

be the most convivial city in the Middle East. The 

locals are friendly, liberal and literate; the climate 

is pleasant for most of the year; and the nearby 

attractions of Persepolis and Naqsh-e-Rostam are 

the equal of anything in Athens or Rome. If you 

like bazaars then welcome to the best one in Iran, 

selling everything from carpets to cake under a 

vaulted ceiling dating back 250 years. Shiraz also 

excels in architecture – indeed many of its finest 

buildings were built to rival Esfahan. 

Detail, Golestan Palace, Tehran 

Persepolis and the 

Persian Empire 

Beneath the searing heat of the Persian sun, 

backed by Mt Rahmat, lie the ruins of the 

once-great Achaemenid Empire. Smothered 

in sand and rock until the 1930s, this amazing 

site was once a religious and cultural 

powerhouse, dominating peoples as disparate 

as the Scythians of Siberia and the Copts of 

Ethiopia. It is this ancient empire that 

has given today’s Iranians a distinctly 

un-Arabic culture and character. Whilst most 

Iranians see themselves as Islamic, they do 

not consider themselves as Arabic, but as 

distinctly Iranian or Persian. This is a direct 

consequence of the vast empire once 

controlled from Persepolis, which continues 

to loom large in the national psyche. 

Columns of the Great Hall, Persepolis 

Carving detail, Persepolis 

Persepolis succumbed finally to Alexander 

the Great, whose thirst for conquest was so 

thoroughly slaked here that he left only 

rubble – though this alone is supremely 

impressive, reminding the casual visitor 

of the sheer depth and longevity of Persian 

history and culture. Anyone with even a 

passing interest in antiquity should make a 

visit here their first priority. 

64

Bridge of 33 arches, Esfahan Iman Mosque, Esfahan Ceiling of Iman Mosque, Esfahan 

Shah Abbas, who made Esfahan his capital 

Esfahan 

Imagine an architectural portfolio so astonishing 

in its craftsmanship that it epitomises the best of 

five hundred years of Islamic culture, and you 

have imagined Esfahan. There are at least a dozen 

sights of dazzling quality here, including three of 

the finest religious buildings anywhere – the Jame, 

Imam and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosques. These would 

rank alongside the glories of Damascus, 

Samarkand and Istanbul in any list of the mustsees 

of the Islamic world. Nothing can prepare 

you for the heart-stopping moment when you 

first see the scale and grandeur of Imam Square, 

the world’s second largest public space, containing 

within it the zenith of Persian art and architecture. 

Walking along the banks of the Zayandeh River, 

exploring the Armenian quarter or simply 

relaxing in a teahouse, Esfahan is an unmitigated 

delight and one of the best places in Iran to 

meet local people, for whom this city is their 

proudest achievement. 

Schoolgirls playing, Esfahan 

THE ABBASI, ESFAHAN 

Built around the remains of a caravanserai 

originally established by Shah Abbas, The Abbasi 

is Esfahan’s, if not Iran’s, best and most 

characterful hotel – though as with the rest of 

Iran, do not expect outstanding service. In many 

respects, The Abbasi is like a museum. Everything 

is on a grand scale, and walking into the huge 

courtyard cannot fail to impress. There is a 

swimming pool and sauna (single sex only, 

available on a rotational basis) and a choice of 

attractive restaurants, with outdoor dining in the 

central courtyard a real treat in spring and 

summer. The location, within walking distance of 

Imam Square, cannot be faulted. The ornate 

breakfast room is remarkable and may just be 

the grandest room you’ll ever have breakfast in! 

Courtyard at The Abbasi, Esfahan 

Carpet shop, Esfahan 

Iman Square, Esfahan 

www.audleytravel.com/iran ● 01993 838 265 ● Iran 65

Badgirs, Yazd 

Mosaic at Friday mosque, Yazd 

Woman with her donkey, Abyaneh 

Old town, Yazd 

Yazd 

The centre of Iran is dominated by the Zagros 

mountains and the Dasht-e Kavir desert. 

Squeezed between the two is Yazd, the centre 

of Zoroastrianism and an excellent place to 

walk through and explore. The architecture 

here is unique in Iran, particularly the traditional 

badgir towers – providing an ancient form of 

air-conditioning to the adobe houses below. 

Yazd is also home to some excellent, characterful 

accommodation options tucked away in the 

corners of the bazaar. 

Courtyard hotel, Yazd 

COURTYARD HOTELS, YAZD 

Yazd has always been a wealthy town owing to 

its location on key trade routes. In the 18th and 

19th centuries, merchants in the town built grand 

homes, set around several courtyards. Some of 

these have now been converted into hotels, and 

offer some of the country’s most characterful 

accommodation. Many are in the heart of the 

old town, amongst winding lanes, adding to the 

atmosphere. Two of our favourites are the Hotel 

Dad and the Fahadan, but there are many others. 

Village of Abyaneh 

Further afield 

Most visitors to Iran take in the key cities of 

Esfahan, Shiraz and Yazd, but this is a large, 

diverse country, with much else to offer. An 

easy place to add on to an itinerary is the village 

of Abyaneh, close to Esfahan. This pretty village 

is unspoilt, accessible, and gives a taste of rural 

life in Iran. To the north of the capital are the 

Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea. Heading 

west, Kurds and Azaris start to dominate, and 

the landscape is surprisingly verdant. The city 

of Tabriz, home to some of the world’s greatest 

carpet makers is a great base to explore the 

surrounding region – including the village of 

Kandovan, where the entire population lives 

in caves. 

Between Tehran and the Iraqi border are the 

Kurdish provinces, full of precipitous mountain 

villages, stark and haunting scenery and a culture 

that has weathered the vicissitudes of history for 

thousands of years. East of Tehran, the landscape 

becomes much drier and desert like. The city of 

Mashhad, near the Turkmenistan border is home 

to Iran’s holiest shrine, the tomb of Shia Islam’s 

eighth Imam, Imam Reza. A visit here is to truly 

enter the heart of the Shia, and therefore the 

heart of the Iranian experience. 

Building for performing of rituals, Yazd 

66 

Zoroastrian Fire Temple, Yazd








Please call one of our Iran specialists to start 


Esfahan 

Tehran 

Abyaneh 

Yazd 

Tehran 

Telephone: 01993 838 265 

Shiraz 

Persepolis 

Esfahan 


Yazd 

Once in Iran, we suggest using private vehicles to 

give you the maximum flexibility. These are of a 

western standard, air conditioned and will be 

driven by experienced, safe drivers used to 

dealing with the sometimes hectic traffic 

conditions in Iranian cities. 

When to go 


~ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ~ 





Considering its location, Iran has unusually 

diverse weather. The north is very hot in summer 

and cold in winter. In the south you’re in the 

Persian Gulf, so expect pretty warm days even in 

December and January. Broadly speaking the best 

times of year to visit are in spring and autumn, 

when there are no extremes of temperature in 

most places. 

Time difference: GMT+3.5 hours 


Prices 



for your trip to Iran on our website, alternatively 

please call our specialists to discuss your plans. 

Classic Iran 

This 13 day trip is a comprehensive visit to this 

most fascinating of countries. Starting in Tehran, 

you’ll visit the desert town of Yazd, Persepolis, as 

well as the incredible city of Esfahan. Giving you a 

taste of rural life in Iran, you’ll also spend a night 

in the pretty village of Abyaneh. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Extensions 

Fly from London to Tehran overnight. 

After time to relax, start exploring 

the Iranian capital. 

Visit the Qajar era Golestan Palace, 

the Carpet Museum and take in the 

impressive National Jewels Museum. 

Drive to the village of Abyaneh. 

Spend the afternoon walking in 

the village. 

Drive to Yazd, stopping en-route at 

Nain, centre of carpet production. 

Spend the day exploring Yazd, in the 

afternoon visit ancient Zoroastrian 

sights including the Towers of Silence. 

Continue to Shiraz, via Pasargadae, 

location of the tomb of Cyrus 

the Great. 

Leave the city to see Persepolis, in 

the evening explore Shiraz’s bazaars. 

Travel to Esfahan. Take a sunset stroll 

along the Zayandeh River. 

Take in Imam Square and the 

spectacular Imam and Sheikh Lotfallah 

Mosques, and Ali Qapu and Chehel 

Sotun Palaces. 

A day at leisure to continue 

exploring Esfahan. 

Return to Tehran via the Fin Gardens 

in Kashan and Qom, the heartland of 

the Islamic Revolution in Iran. 

An early start for your return flight 

back to the UK. 

Iran can potentially be combined with the 

countries of Central Asia and the Silk Route, 

to make a unique and memorable trip. 

Iran Uncovered 

This trip is designed to give you an overview of 

the major sites and is perfect for those with less 

time. Starting in Tehran, you drive to the intriguing 

desert city of Yazd. From here you continue to 

Esfahan to savour the stunning architecture and 

beauty of Iman Square, before returning to Tehran 

for a final night. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Stay longer 

Fly from London to Tehran arriving 

the following morning. 

Transfer to your hotel for a few 

hours to relax and unwind, then 

explore the Iranian capital. 

Drive to Yazd via Qom and Nain. 

Spend the day exploring the desert 

city of Yazd. 

Drive onto Esfahan, arriving at 

lunchtime. 

A full day tour of Esfahan. 

After a morning in Esfahan, return 

to Tehran. 

Return to the UK, with a late 

afternoon arrival. 

If you have a few extra days you can include 

Shiraz and Persepolis as in our Classic Iran trip. 

Carving detail, Persepolis 

Mosque, Shiraz 

www.audleytravel.com/iran ● 01993 838 265 ● Iran 67

Ukraine 

Often overlooked as a destination, 

wherever you choose to travel to 

in this huge country you'll be richly 

rewarded by experiencing a part of the 

world that few people choose to go to. 

It has been the stage for many 

historical events: The Yalta Conference 

in World War II, when Churchill, 

Stalin and Roosevelt met to decide 

the fate of post-war Europe, was 

hosted here, and it was the site of the 

fateful Charge of the Light Brigade 

in the Crimean War, seared into 

British folklore by Tennyson's poem. 

Culturally, Ukraine has a verve and 

vibrancy unique to a newly 

independent country, while historical 

influences remain. Scenically, the Black 

Sea coast offers the beautiful rolling 

coastline of the Crimean peninsula 

and the unique and precious wetlands 

of the Danube river delta. Elsewhere, 

the countryside is dotted with castles 

and pretty villages that have remained 

unchanged for centuries. 

Market square, Lviv 

1 

Kiev 

Capital of a newly independent 

Ukraine, spiritual home of the 

Russian people. 

2 

Livadia palace, Yalta 

Rich in atmosphere, this is 

where Stalin, Churchill and 

Roosevelt met to carve up 

Europe between them in the 

dying days of World War II. 

3 

The Crimea 

5 

1 

Pretty coastal scenery, warm 

pleasant weather and many 

sites of cultural interest make 

this one of Ukraine’s most 

attractive regions. 

St Andrew’s Church, Kiev 

4 Sevastopol 

Site of the Crimean war and 

home to the Russian fleet, this 

city has a long naval history. 

5 

Lviv 

6 

3 

Cultural capital of Ukraine, 

this undiscovered gem is 

reminiscent of Prague before 

the stag parties and tourist 

hordes arrived. 

4 

2 

Coastline, Crimea 

6 Odessa 

A grand, crumbling city by 

the sea. 

68

Kiev 

Ukraine’s bustling capital, Kiev, has a wealth of 

history far greater than its current importance 

today would suggest. It is from here that the 

neighbouring countries of Russia and Belarus 

descended, and the significance of Kiev in the 

history of art, architecture and religion of these 

areas is clear in the beautiful old town and 

stunning churches. The 11th century St Sophia’s 

Cathedral is an exquisite jewel, while the 

Andrievsky Ascent has a pretty collection of 

17th and 18th century dwellings, some of which 

are now small art galleries. A visit to the famous 

Caves Monastery is also a must – founded in 

1051 by Greek monks after Ukraine adopted 

Christianity as its religion, this is the home of 

the Ukrainian and Russian orthodox churches. 

Lviv 

At various times part of Poland, the Austro- 

Hungarian Empire and the Soviet Union, Lviv 

(or Lvov in Russian) is a charming, much 

underrated destination. Despite (or perhaps 

because of) this multicultural history, it is the 

centre of Ukrainian culture. Unlike in Kiev, little 

Russian is heard on the streets, and the city is 

home to the more fervent Ukrainian nationalists. 

The old town is a delight to wander round, 

with grand old buildings reminiscent of 

Budapest or Prague. 

Ukrainian lady with needlework, Lviv 

Swallow’s Nest Castle, near Yalta 

Odessa and Yalta 

The southern city of Odessa on the Black Sea is 

well worth a visit, offering museums, architecture 

and the grand spectacle of the Potemkin Steps, 

made famous in Eisenstein’s classic film ‘Battleship 

Potemkin’. Further down the Black Sea coast on 

the Crimean peninsula, the long-established resort 

of Yalta, sits between the brooding Crimean 

Mountains and the Black Sea. The nearby Livadia 

Palace is rich in atmosphere, having hosted the 

famous Yalta Conference of 1945 where Stalin, 

Roosevelt and Churchill decided the direction of 

the post-World War II world. Also within reach 

of Yalta is the town of Sevastopol – site of the 

key battles of the Crimean War, as well as the 

ill-fated Charge of the Light Brigade. 

Audley in Ukraine 

Ukraine is easily accessible, with direct flights 

linking London and Kiev. At the time of going 

to print, no visa is required for EU citizens, 

making arrival simple and hassle free. Once 

there, we make use of the reliable train 

network and domestic flights to cover the 

longer distances. Ukraine can easily be 

combined with Russia, and a trip to ‘The 

Three Capitals’ of Kiev, Moscow and St 

Petersburg is highly recommended. 

Practicalities 

A week in Ukraine is long enough to see 

Kiev and one or two other places. To see 

Kiev, Lviv, Odessa and Yalta, you would need 

at least ten days, ideally two weeks. If you 

want to combine Kiev with Moscow and 

St Petersburg, allow at least 10 days. Kiev is 

a popular city with business travellers and 

has a reasonable range of good quality hotels, 

with one or two smaller boutique style 

places. Outside of Kiev, the choice is a little 

more limited but there are more and more 

places opening. 

The best time to travel in the Ukraine is 

springtime, when the weather is clement and 

blossom is on the trees, and autumn when 

the weather is also most pleasant. Summer is 

enjoyable in the north, but the south can be 

extremely hot and the beaches crowded. 

Livadia Palace, near Yalta 

Caves Monastery, Kiev 

Find out more 


information about travel in Ukraine, please 

see our website. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Ukraine 


Ukraine 69

Russia 

Stretching from the Black Sea across the 

vast central expanses of Siberia to fiery 

Kamchatka and the Bering Straits, Russia is 

a country of epic proportions. Long hidden 

behind the Soviet curtain, and still much 

misunderstood, a visit here will confound 

your stereotypes. It is its history that captures 

the imagination – the taming of this vast 

land, the rise and fall of one of the world’s 

greatest imperial empires, and the 

replacement of this with a vast communist 

one. In the west, Moscow and St Petersburg 

offer tremendous monuments to the grandeur 

of the Tsars and the imposing ambition 

of the communist days. Beyond the cities, 

amongst the canals and waterways, 

exquisite onion-domed wooden churches and 

traditional kremlin remain in a land where 

the rise and fall of communism changed 

little. Crossing the Urals to Asia, the great 

lakes and taiga forest of Siberia await. The 

trains chug endlessly across this vast expanse, 

connecting remote villages and towns to the 

outside world. To travel along this great 

Trans-Siberian railway is to experience one 

of the world’s greatest journeys, crossing 

continents and connecting east and west. 

70

Audley in Russia 

1 

2 

4 

Lake Baikal 

5 

Russia can be experienced in countless ways. 

St Petersburg makes for an ideal city break 

for those with limited time. Moscow and 

St Petersburg can be combined into a one 

week trip. Kiev in the Ukraine can easily be 

added to make for a fascinating trip tracing 

the entire history of the region. The epic 

Trans-Siberian rail journey linking Russia with 

China and Mongolia is one of the world’s 

greatest journeys. For those who prefer to 

take things at a more leisurely pace, a cruise 

between Moscow and St Petersburg is a 

relaxing way to see some of the smaller 

towns and villages of Russia. We have 

travelled extensively in the region, seeking 

out the best located hotels, the most 

comfortable and convenient trains, and the 

best order in which to see things. 

3 

Kremlin Cathedrals, Moscow 

1 The Hermitage 

3 The Kremlin 

One of the world’s most 

impressive collections, all 

housed in the splendour of the 

former residence of the Tsar. 

2 St Petersburg’s 

summer palaces 

Built by the tsars to escape the 

heat of the city in summer, a 

visit here gives you an idea of 

the unlimited wealth and power 

of Russia’s imperial rulers. 

Tsar's Gold Train, Lake Baikal 

The powerhouse of world 

communism, and where 

Russia’s rulers still hold sway 

over the largest country in 

the world. 

4 Lake Baikal 

‘The pearl of Siberia’, 

containing around 20% of 

the world’s fresh water. 

Changing of the guards, Kremlin 

5 Suzdal 

A pretty little town unspoilt 

by Soviet era architecture, 

seemingly with a church on 

every corner. 

Train journeys 

Russia has one of the largest 

networks of railways in the 

world, including the famous 

Trans-Siberian route. A train 

journey is a great way to meet 

some of the locals. 

Take in a ballet 

Both Moscow and St Petersburg 

have world-famous ballet 

companies. 

Accommodation 

In the Soviet era, hotels in Russia had a 

reputation for having pokey rooms, poor 

service, and even worse food. These days 

things have moved on, and in all the major 

cities there are now well managed hotels 

offering good service and a wide range of 

facilities. St Petersburg has the best range of 

accommodation, with some beautiful historic 

five star hotels, as well as better value smaller 

boutique style establishments. Moscow is a 

popular business destination, so hotels tend 

to be less characterful. 

Find out more 


information about travel in Russia, please 

see pages 78-79. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Russia 


Russia 71

Canal scene, St Petersburg 

St Petersburg 

St Petersburg rivals Venice and Paris as one of the 

world’s most romantic cities. Built to order by 

Peter the Great in 1703, the city boasts a 

magnificent profusion of grand palaces, galleries 

and theatres including the magnificent Hermitage, 

once a winter palace to the Tsars and now home 

to one of the world’s finest art collections. This 

was the heart of the Russian Empire at its most 

glorious and extravagant, a period of wealth and 

sophistication that bequeathed the city such a fine 

cultural legacy. Great writers and composers 

including Dostoevsky, Tchaikovsky and Rimsky 

Korsakov produced their finest works here, and 

today the Kirov Ballet, based at the Mariinsky 

theatre, continues to rival Moscow’s more 

celebrated Bolshoi. Thanks to its northerly 

latitudes the city throngs with life during the 

famous White Nights of midsummer. For those 

who prefer a quieter experience, spring and 

autumn offer magnificent colours, and in the 

depths of winter the snow-covered landscapes 

transform St Petersburg into its Dr Zhivago 

best. Whether admiring the glorious palaces 

from a canal boat cruise, exploring the fabulous 

treasures of the Hermitage or Russian Museum, 

or simply taking a stroll down Nevsky Prospekt, 

St Petersburg offers an unforgettable introduction 

to Russia with a distinctly European twist. 

Navel cadets, St Petersburg 

St Petersburg’s 

Summer Palaces 

Many of Russia’s rulers built sumptuous 

summer palaces around the city. During the 

summer months the entire court would 

decamp here to escape the heat, the dust, 

and the smell. There are around half a dozen 

palaces in differing states of repair, most of 

which can be visited. The oldest is that of 

Peter the Great. Built overlooking the Gulf of 

Finland, Peterhof is known for its Grand 

Cascade – a series of over 140 different 

fountains, engineered by Peter himself. 

Perhaps the most impressive palace is that 

associated with Catherine the Great, another 

of Russia’s most revered rulers. Designed by 

Rastrelli (architect of the Hermitage as well), 

it glitters like a jewel in the landscaped 

HELVETIA HOTEL, ST PETERSBURG 

Located a short stroll from St Petersburg’s main 

thoroughfare, Nevsky Prospect, the Helvetia offers 

good value accommodation in the heart of the city. 

Rooms, which are clean, comfortable and of a 

reasonable size, are all set around a pleasant 

courtyard. The hotel is in a charming 19th century 

building and has several restaurants available for 

guests, or there are many options available nearby. 

Catherine Palace, St Petersburg 

grounds. The amber room contains more 

than six tonnes of amber, and is the palace’s 

centrepiece. The nearby Pavlovsk Palace was 

built by Catherine the Great’s son. Although 

not nearly as richly decorated as others, the 

grounds are a delight to wander round, with 

countless slightly crumbling statues, chapels 

and follies to be discovered. 

72

The Hermitage 

The Hermitage (also known as the Winter 

Palace) appeals on many levels. From here a 

succession of Romanov Tsars ruled over 

Russia for over two hundred years. It was the 

storming of this building that ushered in the 

Bolshevik revolution of 1917. Many rooms 

are richly decorated, filled with gifts to one 

Tsar or another, along with beautiful 

antique furniture. 

The Hermitage is also, famously, one of the 

world’s premier art galleries. The collection 

was started by Catherine the Great, and 

grew substantially following the 1917 

revolution, when the state seized the 

collections of many of Russia’s noble families 

and leading industrialists. The collection 

contains impressive pieces from most 

periods, with especially notable paintings by 

Rubens, Rembrandt, Matisse and Picasso, to 

mention but a few. To see all of the pieces 

would take weeks – we suggest a half-day 

visit to see the highlights. It is also possible 

to take a fascinating behind the scenes trip 

around the Hermitage storage facilities, 

where the bulk of the museum’s three 

million exhibits are stored. 

Novgorod 

Peter and Paul Fortress, St Petersburg 

Mushroom seller, Novgorod 

Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg 

GRAND HOTEL EUROPE, 

ST PETERSBURG 

Russia’s oldest hotel, the Grand Hotel Europe is 

something of a legend. A bastion of European 

culture throughout the years of communism, the 

Grand Hotel Europe stands proudly on Nevsky 

Prospect, opposite the Gostini Dvor luxury 

market. Visited by Tchaikovsky and his wife for 

their honeymoon, a string quartet plays every 

Friday evening in the restaurant. Now under the 

renowned management of Orient Express Hotels, 

the Grand Hotel Europe boasts a level of 

excellence that has made it one of the ‘Leading 

Hotels of the World’. Stroll out along Nevsky and 

find yourself alongside the Kazan Cathedral, 

Fontanka Embankment, or the Church on Spilt 

Blood. We especially like the Terrace rooms, each 

of which has an individual terrace with excellent 

views over the city – perfect for relaxing on after 

a day spent taking in the sights! 

Just three hours’ drive south of St Petersburg, 

Novgorod is one of the most significant historical 

centres in the whole of Russia, still famed for its 

diverse and beautiful architecture. Though its 

name means ‘new town’ Novgorod’s origins date 

back to the 9th century, when it developed into 

one of Russia’s principle trading and ecclesiastical 

hubs. The reconstructed kremlin, the centrepiece 

of the town, contains the beautiful St Sophia’s 

cathedral, perhaps the oldest building in Russia 

with frescoes dating back to the 12th century. 

The city overflows with cultural relics, including 

the Palace of Facets, a 15th century clock tower, 

and numerous impressive churches, museums 

and galleries. Novgorod can be visited as a day 

trip from St Petersburg, or you can spend a 

night or two there en route between Moscow 

and St Petersburg. 

Fortress, Novgorod 

www.audleytravel.com/russia ● 01993 838 230 ● Russia 73

Russian river cruises 

Church of the Transfiguration, Kizhi Island 

A river cruise between Moscow and St 

Petersburg is a relaxing way to see a little more 

of Russia than just these two primary cities. With 

Russia being an expensive destination, it can also 

be a more cost effective way to see some of the 

villages, churches and monasteries of the pretty 

Russian countryside. The boats that ply the route 

are not super-luxurious, but all the ones we use 

are clean and comfortable with en suite cabins. 

The route 

The two cities are connected by a series of 

canals, as well as the mighty River Volga. The 

boats also cross the two largest lakes in Europe 

– Lake Onega and Lake Ladoga. You can travel 

in either direction. Boats generally stop at some 

of the so called Golden Ring towns – ancient 

towns and cities surrounding the capital, some of 

which predate Moscow. The longer cruises tend 

to spend more time here; the shorter ones just 

give you a taster. 

Kizhi Island and Goritsy Convent 

Kizhi Island in the middle of Lake Onega is 

home to one of Russia’s most iconic sites – 

the Church of the Transfiguration. With thirty 

domes, the church looks like something from a 

fairytale, all the more remarkable for being built 

entirely of wood in 1714 – no nails were used 

in its construction at all. There are a number 

of other notable wooden buildings on Kizhi 

that have been brought from the surrounding 

area to make for an interesting display. 

Roughly half way between Moscow and St 

Petersburg is Goritsy convent, famed as the 

place where Ivan the Terrible exiled not one, 

but two of his wives. Nearby is the Kirillov 

Belozersky Monastery, once one of the 

country’s most powerful. 

Yaroslavl and Uglich 

Legend has it that Yaroslavl was founded on the 

spot where Yaroslavl the Wise killed a bear set 

upon him by suspicious locals. The fine frescoes 

of the Church of Elijah the Prophet are amongst 

the best in the country and the heavily fortified 

Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour 

holds some of Russia’s oldest and finest religious 

icons. Uglich is a quaint if slightly shabby town, 

noted as the place where one of Ivan the 

Terrible’s sons was murdered by his successor. 

Interior of Church of Elijah the Prophet, Yaroslavl 

The M/S Tolstoy 

Religious procession, Yaroslavl 

74

Church of Dmitry, Uglich 

Classic Russia River Cruise 

This short itinerary is a great way to see some of 

the highlights of Russia, with the option to extend 

at either end for those that want to see more of 

Moscow and/or St Petersburg. As well as time in 

the two main cities, you’ll also visit the island of Kizhi, 

with its fairy tale wooden church and the historic 

convent of Goritsy. The cruise can also be taken 

from St Petersburg to Moscow. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly to Moscow. 

A full day tour of Moscow, including 

the Kremlin. 

Depart Moscow, arriving into Uglich in 

the afternoon. 

Cruise on to Goritsy. 

Continue on to the island of Kizhi. 

You’ll arrive in the village of Mandrogui 

in time for lunch on shore, before 

continuing to St Petersburg. 

Arrive in St Petersburg, where you will 

have a full day tour of the city. 

Return flight to the UK. 

Stay longer 

Both Moscow and St Petersburg have much to offer, 

and we can easily extend your time in either city. 

There are longer cruises available which visit 

Yaroslavl as well. For those that want to trace the 

history of Russia back to its beginnings, Kiev can 

potentially be added to the itinerary. 


Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow 

Moscow 

Medieval capital, heart of Soviet domination and 

powerhouse of the capitalist revolution, Moscow 

has for centuries acted as the fulcrum of Russian 

political, cultural and economic life. Though 

influence has shifted at times to St Petersburg, 

only Moscow can boast the legacy of these three 

distinct eras of Russian history. Amongst the 

medieval onion-domes of St Basil’s and the stark 

Soviet-era high-rise blocks, gleaming skyscrapers 

bear testimony to the excitement and opportunity 

of a 21st century, modern city. The list of worldrenowned 

historic sites, great buildings and galleries 

here is immense: Red Square, the Kremlin, the 

Pushkin Museum and Tretyakov Galleries, Arbat 

Street and the Bolshoi Theatre to name but a few. 

The Kremlin and Red Square 

Icons of Russia, the first glimpse of the Kremlin 

and Red Square cannot fail to inspire awe. The 

Kremlin was the heart of world communism for 

decades, and continues to be the President’s 

official residence. Perhaps surprisingly, it is notable 

for its collection of churches and cathedrals, many 

of which date back to the 15th century. As well as 

being the burial place of many of Russia’s rulers, 

the Kremlin also has a stunning collection of riches 

– from the Imperial Crown Jewels to the biggest 

single collection of Fabergé eggs in the world. 

Interestingly, the red in Red Square derives not 

76 

from the connection of red to communism, but 

as a corruption of the Russian word for ‘beautiful’, 

which is close to the word for red. Seeing it in 

the flesh, it’s easy to see why it was originally 

described as beautiful. With the Kremlin on one 

side and the chocolate box St Basil’s cathedral at 

the far end, this is one of the most impressive 

vistas in the world. 

MARRIOTT TVERSKAYA, MOSCOW 

Good value accommodation in Moscow is 

hard to come by, as the city is so popular with 

business travellers. The Marriott Tverskaya, whilst 

not especially characterful offers some great value 

over the weekend period. Conveniently located 

on Moscow’s famous Tverskaya Boulevard, Red 

Square and the Kremlin are around twenty 

minutes walk away. The 118 rooms are well 

appointed, and service is efficient and attentive. 

There’s a good quality restaurant on site, 

alternatively there are a range of restaurants in 

the immediate vicinity. 

Metro station, Moscow 

The Golden Ring 

Scattered amidst the plains, lakes and marshes 

northeast of Moscow are a collection of ancient 

Russian towns known collectively as the Golden 

Ring. This region played a significant role in the 

early days of the Russian state, and the splendid 

churches, monasteries and kremlins (city forts) 

that remain provide a wonderful architectural 

chronicle of this period. One of our favourite 

Golden Ring towns is the picturesque riverside 

town of Suzdal. Blessedly escaping much of the 

development that has blighted other Russian 

regions, the tranquil collection of wooden 

cottages, churches and monasteries makes this a 

delightful place to experience the atmosphere of 

pre-Soviet Russia. Suzdal can be visited as a (long) 

day trip from Moscow, or as part of a few days 

exploring more of the Golden Ring. 

Kamchatka 

Kamchatka – the Land of Fire and Ice – an apt 

title for one of the world’s most remote, 

forbidding yet spectacular destinations. This 

volcano-spined peninsula, jutting into the icy 

Bering Sea in Russia’s Far East, is home to hardy 

reindeer-herding peoples, huge grizzly bears and 

Steller’s Sea Eagle, all set to a seething backdrop 

of boiling hot springs and spouting geysers. 

With infrastructure limited, many destinations 

are accessible only by helicopter, making this a

Wooden house detail, Suzdal 

Monastery, Solovetsky Islands 

Babushka, Suzdal 

more expensive but infinitely fascinating region 

for the adventurous traveller. Flights from 

Moscow cross Siberia to distant Petropavlosk, 

from where the adventure begins by helicopter, 

boat or six-wheel drive truck. Kamchatka’s harsh 

climate makes June to September the best time 

to travel to this region. 

Solovetsky Islands 

In the far north of Russia, just shy of the Arctic 

Circle are the remote and beautiful Solovetski 

Islands. Home to a monastery since the 

15th century, the islands are a testament to 

human endurance, as well as human suffering. 

The monks who originally populated the islands 

overcame the harsh environment to establish one 

of the most important and richest monasteries 

in Russia. After the revolution, it became a 

notorious prison camp, with forced labourers 

being incarcerated in tortuous conditions. 

Recently re-established as a working monastery, 

the islands exude peace, and despite their grim 

history, feel like a special, spiritual place. Visitors 

can also relax, explore the islands by bike, go 

whale-watching, and enjoy being in a unique, 

unspoilt setting that few westerners experience. 

A trip here can easily be combined with a visit 

to Moscow and St Petersburg. 

Reindeer herd, Kamchatka 

The Three Capitals 

A trip to Kiev in Ukraine, Moscow and 

St Petersburg is to venture right through the 

history of the Russian peoples, visiting three 

contrasting capitals. Kiev, the modern-day 

Ukrainian capital was established sometime 

in the 6th century. Back then it was the 

ancient capital of the so called Rus (early 

Russians), who were most likely descended 

from Viking traders. 

In the 15th century, it was Moscow that 

emerged as the strongest regional power, 

defeating the descendents of Ghengis Khan, 

who had overrun the whole region. Rulers 

such as Ivan the Terrible expanded Russian 

territory and built iconic buildings like the 

Kremlin and St Basil’s cathedral. In 1703, 

Peter the Great founded the city of St 

Petersburg as his modern ‘window on the 

west’, making it his capital. From here a 

succession of Romanovs further expanded 

Russia into a huge empire, turning it into a 

major world power and financing the building 

of countless grand palaces, churches and 

monuments. In 1918 Lenin moved the capital 

back to Moscow, fearing a German assault 

on St Petersburg. Moscow has been the 

capital of Russia ever since. 

Kremlin, Moscow 

Caves Monastery, Kiev 


St Petersburg 

RUSSIA 

Moscow 

BELARUS 

Kremlin and Moscow skyline 







Please call one of our Russia specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 230 


With regular scheduled flights linking the UK 

with Moscow and St Petersburg in less than four 

hours, getting to Russia is simplicity itself. Once on 

the ground we can provide guidance to help you 

explore under your own steam, or alternatively 

we can arrange walking tours within the cities or 

private cars for journeys into the countryside. The 

efficient rail network is best for longer journeys – 

and certainly between St Petersburg and Moscow, 

this is a better option than flying. For those 

heading out east the great Trans-Siberian railway 

can be undertaken in its entirety, or alternatively 

experienced in sections, with domestic flights used 

to cover the great distances quickly and efficiently. 

Boarding a train, Siberia 

78 

Wooden House, Irkutsk 

When to go 


✓ ✓ ~ ~ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 





Summer, with its long, light evenings and balmy 

temperatures, is the classic time to visit these 

northerly climes. However, we would suggest the 

autumn months of September and early October 

as being a great time to visit – the weather is not 

yet cold, and sites less busy. Winter is also a 

much underrated time. If you can bear the 

freezing temperatures, you will be rewarded with 

wonderful snowy vistas, reduced prices, and far 

fewer visitors. 



Prices 



prices for your trip to Russia on our website, 


your plans. 

Classic Russia 

Moscow and St Petersburg are must-sees for any 

first time visitor to Russia. Moscow has a real buzz 

and swagger about it, while St Petersburg is a little 

more refined and aristocratic. Taking the train 

between the two cities is a good option, with 

overnight or day trains available. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly from the UK to Moscow. 

See Red Square and the Kremlin, 

travelling by Moscow’s ornate 

metro system. 

Continue to explore Moscow, 

taking in Novodevichy convent. 

Have more time in Moscow, 

exploring some of the many world 

class museums, before taking a train 

to St Petersburg – day trains or 

overnight trains are available. 

Start exploring St Petersburg, with 

a guided tour of the Hermitage in 

the afternoon. 

A day at leisure to continue exploring 

the city, perhaps visiting the Russian 

museum, or take a stroll along the 

city’s beautiful canals. 

A further day to either see the palace 

of Peterhof, or drink in more of the 

beautiful city centre. 

Visit the Summer Palace of 

Catherine the Great, before flying 

back to London. 

Stay longer 

You can easily spend a day or two more in 

St Petersburg. Alternatively, the Baltic capitals 

of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius can be visited as part 

of a trip to the region. 

Fountains, Peterhof Summer Palace


St Petersburg 

St Petersburg 

ESTONIA 

St Petersburg 

LATVIA 

RUSSIA 

RUSSIA 

Kostroma 

Yaroslavl 

LITHUANIA 

Moscow 

Moscow 

Sergiev 

Posad 

Suzdal 

Sergiev Posad 

Moscow 

Suzdal 

BELARUS 

RUSSIA 

BELARUS 

BELARUS 

Kiev 

UKRAINE 

Moscow, St Petersburg and 

the Golden Ring 

As well as taking in the main highlights of Moscow 

and St Petersburg, this itinerary also includes time 

spent in the historic Golden Ring towns of Vladimir 

and Suzdal. These towns offer a glimpse of a 

slower pace of life and affords the opportunity to 

view some of the world’s most sumptuous and 

ornate Orthodox churches and cathedrals, many 

of which have been awarded UNESCO status. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly to Moscow. 

Take a walking tour of the Kremlin 

complex. 

Explore Moscow under your own 

steam, perhaps visiting the Tretyakov 

gallery, the country’s most important 

gallery for Russian art. 

Travel out of the city to the pretty 

town of Suzdal via Vladimir. 

Half day guided tour of Suzdal and its 

pretty wooden buildings. 

Return to Moscow in time for an 

overnight sleeper train to 

St Petersburg. 

Arrive in St Petersburg in the 

morning, with the rest of the day 

at leisure. 

Travel out to the spectacular Palace 

of Peter the Great by hydrofoil. 

Morning tour of the Hermitage. 


Catherine the Great before flying 


Stay longer 


St Petersburg. There are also many other historic 

Golden Ring towns that could be visited as part 

of this trip, such as Yaroslavl. 

Historic Russia 

This itinerary is perfect for those looking to delve a 

little deeper into Russia’s history. Starting in 

Moscow, you’ll then move on to the Golden Ring 

towns that surround the capital – historic, pretty 

places, many of which predate Moscow. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly from the UK to Moscow. 

Take a walking tour of the Kremlin 

and Novodevichy Convent. 

Day at leisure to continue exploring 

Moscow, perhaps taking in some of 

Moscow’s world-class museums. 

Leave Moscow and head to Suzdal, 

stopping at the historic city of 

Vladimir enroute. 

A half day tour of Suzdal, with the 

afternoon at leisure. 

Drive on to Yaroslavl, passing 

through Kostroma on the way. 

See the highlights of Yaroslavl, 

including the Church of Elijah the 

Prophet with its beautifully 

preserved frescoes. 

Return to Moscow via the town of 

Rostov and the monastery of Sergiev 

Posad. In the evening fly back to 

the UK. 

Stay longer 

An additional night in Moscow at the end would 

make for a more relaxing itinerary. St Petersburg 

could easily be added at the end of the trip 

as well. 

The Three Capitals 

A great introduction to the culture and history of 

the Ukraine and Russia, this 10 day itinerary covers 

the three major cities – Kiev, Moscow and St. 

Petersburg. You start in Kiev – the ancient capital 

of the Kievan Rus and mother of all Russian cities, 

and continue to explore the historical sites of 

Moscow – the communist powerhouse, finishing 

your journey in St Petersburg – Russia’s ‘window 

to the west’. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Fly from the UK to Kiev. 

Take an introductory tour of the city, 

including St Sophia’s Cathedral and 

the Caves Monastery. 

A further day to explore Kiev. In the 

evening take an overnight train to 

Moscow. 

Enjoy a walking tour of Red Square, 

the Kremlin and the Armoury. The 

afternoon is at leisure to explore. 

See the Novodevichy convent and 

cemetery – burial place of many 

famous Russians. 

A day at leisure to explore Moscow 

under your own steam. 

Take an afternoon train to 

St Petersburg. 

Have an introductory tour of 

St Petersburg, including a visit to the 

Peter and Paul fortress, where the 

city was founded. 

See the treasures of the Hermitage. 


Catherine the Great before flying 


Stay longer 


St Petersburg. Alternatively, the Baltic capitals of 

Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius can be visited as part of 

a trip to the region. 

Monk and church goer, Moscow 


The Trans-Siberian Railway 

Trans-Siberian train, Lake Baikal 

The Trans-Siberian is one of the world’s truly 

great journeys. Crossing eight time zones and 

stretching for 9,340 kilometres, the railway is 

what stitches the largest country in the world 

together – for some stretches in Siberia there 

are no roads between settlements, just the 

railway line. 

The routes 

It’s important to stress that the Trans-Siberian 

refers not to a particular train, but to a series of 

routes. There are three routes that can be taken, 

all of which can be done in either direction. 

The classic Trans-Siberian route stretches from 

Moscow to Vladivostok, on Russia’s Pacific coast. 

This is the purist’s choice since this is the only 

route that truly does cross Siberia completely. 

On the downside, it is scenically and culturally 

less varied, though taking this route opens up 

the possibility of continuing by ferry (or plane) 

to Japan. 

The most popular route is the Trans-Mongolian. 

Cutting south from Siberia, the line runs through 

Mongolia and the Gobi desert, before finishing 

up in Beijing. Following this route really gives 

you the experience of crossing continents and 

of travelling from west to east (or vice versa). 

It is also scenically more varied, crossing the 

Mongolian steppe, the Gobi desert and even 

the Great Wall at one point. 

The lesser known Trans-Manchurian route 

bypasses Mongolia, cutting down through 

Manchuria, a part of China. 

When to Go 

May to September is the best time of year to 

tackle the Trans-Siberian, when the weather 

in all countries along the way isn’t too cold. 

The optimum time to travel is mid-August to 

mid-September, when the weather in Beijing 

is especially clear. 

The Public Trains 

These are working trains that criss-cross Russia, 

Mongolia and China. On board, there are two 

or four berth sleeping compartments, with a 

toilet and washbasin at each end of the carriage. 

There are no shower facilities available. All trains 

have a restaurant car which serves breakfast, 

lunch and dinner – quality is not bad, though 

don’t expect gourmet cuisine! 

Private Trains 

There are several private trains which cover 

the routes. While these are perhaps a less 

‘authentic’ and adventurous way of doing the 

trip, they are generally more comfortable – 

there are showers on board, and some cabins 

are en suite. Food is all served on board and 

is generally of a high quality. Departures are 

available from Moscow through to Beijing or 

through to Vladivostok and vice versa. 

Tsar’s Gold dining car 

Tsar’s Gold 

The private Tsar’s Gold train is one of the 

more comfortable ways to travel along the 

Trans-Siberian. There are a range of cabins, 

some of which have en suite facilities. Cabins 

which are not en suite have access to a 

shower and washing facilities, unlike the 

public trains, and the food served in the 

convivial restaurant car is of a high standard. 

Days on board can be spent taking in the 

scenery or enjoying a variety of lectures and 

talks from learned speakers as you cross the 

great expanses of Siberia. The train operates 

a number of set itineraries from Moscow to 

Beijing (or vice versa), via Mongolia, stopping 

at many of the fascinating and beautiful 

destinations along the way. The wide choice 

of cabins means this is an option to suit a 

range of budgets. 

80

Where to stop 

It is possible to take a train non-stop from 

Moscow to Beijing or Vladivostok (or vice versa), 

but we wouldn’t recommend it – spending six 

continuous days on the train is liable to lead 

to cabin fever! 

Ekaterinburg 

1,770 kilometres from Moscow 

Capital of the Urals, Ekaterinburg is a town with 

something of a grisly history. It was here that 

the last Tsar Nicholas II was murdered, along 

with his wife, their five children, their doctor 

and three of their servants. The city also marks 

the ‘border’ between Europe and Asia. 

Irkutsk and Lake Baikal 


Established in 1651, Irkutsk grew to become 

the administrative and cultural centre of Siberia, 

and has interesting small museums, a charming 

riverside setting, and many fine examples of 

traditional Russian wooden architecture. Around 

an hour from Irkutsk is Lake Baikal, the ‘Pearl of 

Siberia’. This is a place of breathtaking beauty 

and mind-boggling statistics: at 1,637 metres it is 

the world’s deepest lake, containing an incredible 

fifth of the world’s fresh water resources. 

Carriage attendents 

Ger tent, Mongolia 

Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia 


The capital of Mongolia is not the prettiest city 

in the world, but it can be used as a base to see 

some of the surrounding countryside, and to get 

a small taste of the traditional nomadic way of 

life. There are national parks within easy reach 

which can be visited as a day trip, or where you 

can stay for a night in a traditional ger tent – a 

memorable experience. See page 82 for more 

information about Mongolia. 

Beijing, China 


To truly experience the Chinese capital, we’d 

suggest a stay of at least four days to allow 

sufficient time to see The Forbidden City, The 

Great Wall as well as the other key sights. For 

more about Beijing, see page 12. 

Vladivostok 


At the end of the classic route, the longest 

continuous railroad in the world, is Vladivostok. 

A bustling port home to the Russian Pacific fleet, 

it’s a pleasant city spread across a series of 

peaks, peninsulas, and islands. 

Train driver 

Classic Trans-Siberian 

Spanning eight time zones, this epic itinerary is ideal 

for those looking for a real adventure through some 

of the world’s most fascinating countries. Taking in 

the highlights of all that the Trans Mongolian branch 

of this journey has to offer the itinerary begins in 

Beijing and travels westbound through Mongolia and 

Siberian Russia to Moscow. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Fly to Beijing. 

See The Forbidden City and 

Tiananmen Square. 

Leave the city for the day to see the 

Great Wall. 

Visit the Temple of Heaven and 

Summer Palace. 

Board your train to Mongolia. 

Arriving into Mongolia in the afternoon, 

head out of the city to Khustai Nuruu 

National Park. 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Enjoy the park before returning to 

Ulaan Baatar. 

Morning tour of the city. In the 

afternoon board the train to Irkutsk. 

Arrive in Irkutsk and transfer to 

Lake Baikal. 

At leisure to enjoy the lake. 

Transfer back to Irkutsk for the 

afternoon train to Moscow. 

Days 12-13 On board the train. 

Day 14 

Day 15 

Day 16 

Arrive into Moscow. 

Walking tour of the Kremlin. 

Return flight back to the UK. 

Stay longer 

It’s easy to spend an extra day or two in Moscow, 

and you could also continue on to St Petersburg. 

The city of Ekaterinburg makes for an interesting 

additional stop. 


Mongolia 

Mongolia, the ‘Land of Blue Sky’, was 

home to one of the largest empires 

the world has ever known, the Ghengis 

Khan-ruled Mongol empire of the 13th 

century. Today it is undoubtedly Asia’s last 

undiscovered wilderness. Awesome expanses 

of rolling steppe, home to Mongolia’s famous 

horses and herdsmen, meet high glacier clad 

mountains, impenetrable forests and deep, 

crystal lakes. To the south the great Gobi 

Desert stretches to the horizon; empty save 

for deep canyons and sweeping dunes – one 

of the least populated regions on earth. 

Across much of this vast land, the nomadic 

lifestyle has remained unchanged since the 

days of Genghis Khan. These days, modern 

life is starting to encroach, and a series of 

harsh winters has made nomadic life 

increasingly difficult. Nevertheless, around 

half of Mongolia's population still live in 

the traditional way, and if you venture 

beyond the capital you will be bound to 

encounter them. A visit here is truly beyond 

imagination, from the magnificent spectacle 

of the country’s annual Naadam Festival to 

the unspoilt, breathtaking natural beauty 

that awaits at every turn. 

82

Audley in Mongolia 

1 The Gandan Monastery, 

Ulaan Baatar 

One of the most important 

working monasteries in 

Mongolia, Gandan Khiid is 

home to an increasingly active 

community of Buddhist monks 

who live and study within the 

monastery grounds. 

2 The Gobi 

A vast and beautiful section 

of the country with stunning 

scenery including the 

magnificent ‘singing’ sand 

dunes at Khongoryn Els. 

5 

5 Karakorum 

Once the political and cultural 

capital of the Mongol empire, 

Karakorum still holds enormous 

significance for many Mongolians 

and is home to the country’s 

first Buddhist Monastery, 

Erdene Zuu. 

Stay in a traditional 

Mongolian Ger 

At the heart of Mongolia’s 

nomadic lifestyle, a stay in a 

traditional ger or tented 

dwelling is often the highlight 

of a trip to the country. 

4 

Takhi Horse, Khustai National Park 

3 

1 

2 

The Nadaam Festival 

The highlight of the year for 

all Mongolians, Nadaam 

celebrates the three ‘manly’ 

sports of wrestling, archery 

and horse racing. 

Nomadic life 

Meeting a Mongolian family in 

their ger home is the only true 

way to understand this very 

different way of life. 

Nomad outside his ger 

The great expanses of Mongolia offer 

incredible opportunities to explore one of 

the world’s last true wildernesses. This is a 

land three times the size of France with a 

population less than that of Wales. The 

Mongols are naturally a nomadic people, and 

it was only during the Communist years of 

the 20th century that urbanisation began in 

earnest. Over a third of the population now 

lives in the capital, Ulaan Baatar, the political 

and cultural hub for the region and entry 

and exit point for those visiting the country. 

We suggest getting out of the capital and 

seeing some of the countryside. With such 

vast distances, you inevitably spend a large 

amount of your time travelling, but we know 

which routes work best, and have the most 

spectacular scenery. With no direct flights 

from the UK, connecting flights via Beijing or 

Seoul are the most convenient and frequent 

option, while a slower but more atmospheric 

journey brings you to Ulaan Baatar on the 

famous Trans-Siberian railway. 

Accommodation 

Mongolia’s capital Ulaan Baatar offers a 

range of modern, international hotels with 

standards approaching those of more 

developed nations. Head beyond the city, 

however, and the lack of developed 

infrastructure means camping in traditional 

nomadic gers (traditional felt yurt tents) 

is often the only option. These are cosy 

and offer a true Mongolian style of 

accommodation, giving you an insight into 

the Nomadic way of life. Most popular 

destinations offer semi-permanent 

encampments with modern facilities, though 

the further you venture off the beaten track 

the more basic conditions become. 

Find out more 

Gers on the steppe 

3 Yol Am Canyon 

A striking gorge deep in the 

desert, remarkable for the 

microclimate that its 

presence creates. 

4 Khustai National Park 

See the world’s last surviving 

species of wild horse in this 

beautiful and easily accessible 

national park. 

Herdsman with his charges 


information about travel in Mongolia, please 

see page 86. 

☎ 






Discuss your plans with our Mongolia 


Mongolia 83

Khongoryn Els, Gobi Desert 

Ulaan Baatar and around 

As urban capital of a nomadic nation Ulaan Baatar 

is something of a paradox, but with the modern 

world rapidly sweeping away the monolithic 

remnants of the Soviet era the city has become 

a forward-looking, if laid-back, base from which 

to explore this remarkable country. A number of 

impressive and atmospheric sights are dotted 

around the town, including Mongolia’s largest 

Buddhist Monastery, the Gandan Khiid, and the 

extraordinary Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan. 

For those with a little more time to explore the 

surrounding area we thoroughly recommend 

sampling the wonders of Mongolia’s natural 

heritage and traditional hospitality with an 

overnight visit to the beautiful Khustai National 

Park, just a couple of hours’ drive west of the city. 

Here you can see the Takhi, Mongolia’s rare and 

much-loved wild horses which had become 

extinct in the wild until they were reintroduced 

using stock from foreign zoos in the 1990s. This 

is also an ideal opportunity to spend a night in a 

traditional nomadic felt tent or ‘ger’, a surprisingly 

comfortable form of accommodation. 

Gobi and the South 

The great Gobi Desert stretches across much 

of southern Mongolia and its border with 

neighbouring China, ranging from the towering 

sand dunes at Khongoryn Els to more forgiving 

terrain home to numerous herds of gazelle and 

camel. The Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, a stunning 

natural formation which glow with the intensity 

of fire, are a must see. Also nearby is the 

extraordinary Yol Am Canyon, a series of gorges 

so sheer that thick ice remains in their depths 

throughout the scorching summer months. The 

area has regular flight connections with the capital 

or can be visited as part of an overland journey 

to Karakorum and beyond. 

Wrestlers, Naadam festival 

The Nadaam festival 

The annual gathering of the tribes at 

the great Naadam Festival dates back to 

the times of Genghis Khan and gives the 

menfolk, once the most feared warriors 

on the planet, the opportunity to 

demonstrate their considerable prowess 

in the ‘Three Manly Sports’ of wrestling, 

archery and horse racing. Even if the 

sports do not appeal, this is the biggest 

event in the Mongolian calendar and 

the colourful crowds and general 

atmosphere of excitement make it a 

fine focus for a visit to the country. 

Festivals throughout the country run 

annually from the 10th to the 13th July 

and attract visitors from across the 

globe – accommodation can be scarce 

so it is worth booking well in advance. 

84 

Gandan Khiid, Ulaan Baatar

Ger tent 

Mongolian children near Lake Khuvsgul 

Horses grazing, Lake Khuvsgul 

Karakorum 

In 1220 Genghis Khan chose to move his capital 

west from Khentii to Karakorum. Though the city 

was not completed until after his death it was, for 

a time, the political, economic and cultural centre 

of the vast Mongol Empire, housing great palaces, 

mosques, churches and monasteries representing 

many of the world’s religions. Barely a stone of 

the original Empire now remains, but the sense 

of history is palpable, and the nearby Erdene Zuu 

Khiid, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, 

offers a reminder of the region’s glorious past. 

Khuvsgul and the north 

Mongolia’s northernmost province, hugging the 

border of Siberia, is perhaps its wildest and most 

beautiful: high mountains, great forests of pine and 

larch, lush grazing meadows, and crystal streams 

and lakes teeming with fish. In the heart of the 

province is the sublime alpine scenery of Lake 

Khuvsgul, the deepest lake in Central Asia and 

surrounded by woodland alive with bear, moose 

and ibex. This is Mongolia’s finest natural 

attraction, now protected as part of the Khuvsgul 

National Park, offering wonderful opportunities 

for boating, horse riding, fishing and hiking. The 

region is reached by plane from Ulaan Baatar via 

the provincial capital, Mörön, from where it’s a 

rough 100 kilometre drive to Khatgal, the town at 

the southern tip of the lake. 

Erdene Zuu Khiid, Karakorum 

Ger camps 

Despite the Soviet occupation of Mongolia 

the traditional nomadic way of life has 

survived remarkably intact, with about half 

the population still making their homes 

outside of the main cities in traditional 

encampments. As such, the ger has remained 

at the centre of Mongolian family life and 

often houses several generations of family, 

along with all of their possessions. 

Lightweight and well insulated this 

remarkable home can be quickly dismantled, 

packed away and moved to better grazing 

lands as and when seasons change. 

Generally visitors to Mongolia who travel 

outside of the capital stay in larger ger camps 

which offer the opportunity to experience 

Inside a ger tent 

Nomadic children outside their ger 

nomadic living. Facilities usually include shared 

toilets and showers. Individual gers are kitted 

out cosily with two, three or four wooden 

beds with bedding, a small table and chairs. 

These traditional nomadic tents are 

remarkably warm and weatherproof, with 

the felt walls providing excellent insulation 

against outside elements. 

The ger is heated by a central wood-burning 

stove, which will be started for you each 

evening and can be replenished on request. 

Camps generally have a personable 

restaurant, where long evenings can be spent 

enjoying the nomadic atmosphere and 

listening to stories from fellow travellers or 

the local people. 

www.audleytravel.com/mongolia ● 01993 838 225 ● Mongolia 85








Please call one of our Mongolia specialists to start 


Telephone: 01993 838 225 


With no direct flights from the UK, connecting 

flights via Beijing or Seoul are the most 

convenient and frequent option, while a slower 

but more atmospheric journey brings you to 

Ulaan Baatar on the famous Trans-Siberian 

railway, offering the ideal opportunity to 

disembark and explore the city and beyond. 

Flights radiate from the capital to the provinces 

(aimags), which cut down on some of the vast 

distances. Much of the infrastructure beyond the 

capital is very basic, so we suggest travelling by 

private jeep with a guide, which allows you to 

stop and meet any locals you might come across, 

whilst travelling in as much comfort as possible. 

When to go 


✕ ✕ ~ ~ ✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✕ ✕ 





Mongolia’s landlocked location gives rise to an 

extreme continental climate, giving an average of 

260 sunny days a year, but with wide variations in 

temperature between summer and winter. Ulaan 

Baatar is the world’s coldest capital, and across 

the country winter temperatures regularly drop 

to -30C and below. Only the southern Gobi is 

truly hot in the summer months, though this is 

also when the little rain that does fall each year 

is most likely. Given the severity of the winter 

months travel beyond Ulaan Baatar is only really 

feasible during the warmer months between 

May and October. 


Flight time from UK: 13 hours, with an overnight 

stop in Beijing usually required. 

Prices 



prices for your trip to Mongolia on our website, 

alternatively please call our specialists to 


86 

Mongolia uncovered 

A fantastic itinerary which makes for a perfect 

introduction to this fantastic country. Beginning in 

Ulaan Bataar you explore some of the main sights 

before taking a spectacular flight south to the Gobi, 

home to dinosaur fossils, singing sand dunes and 

vast panoramas. After some time spent exploring 

here you drive back up towards the capital taking 

in the ancient city of Karakorum and the famed 

Khustaii National Park, home to the last surviving 

pre historic horse species, the Takhi. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Day 9 

Day 10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Karakorum 

Ongi Khiid 

Khongoryn Els 

CHINA 

MONGOLIA 

Khustaii 

National Park 

Yol Am 

Bayanzag 

Fly to Beijing overnight. 

Transfer to your hotel with a day 

to explore Beijing or relax. 

Fly to Ulaan Bataar. Explore the 

Museum of Mongolian National 

History. 

Full day city tour with the afternoon 

at the Winter Palace. 

Fly south to the Gobi, see the 

Flaming Cliffs at Bayanzag. 

See Yol Am, known as a wonderful 

spot to view eagles and other wildlife. 

Drive across the desert to the 

‘Singing’ sand dunes at Khongoryn Els. 

Drive to Ongi Khiid, home to some 

interesting monastery ruins. 

Continue to the ancient Mongolian 

capital of Karakorum. 

Explore the monastery of Erdene 

Zuu, before continuing on to Khustaii 


Continue back to Ulaan Baatar via 

the monastery ruins at Manzushir. 

Fly back to Beijing with an afternoon 

at leisure. 

Fly back to the UK. 

RUSSIA 

Gobi desert 

Ulaan Baatar 

Lake Khuvsgul 

Land of Blue Sky 

A comprehensive itinerary which sees you visit 

many of the scenic highlights of this vast country. 

You drive out to the west of the country, seeing 

the Takhi horses in Khustaii National Park before 

heading up to pretty Lake Khuvsgul. From there 

you’ll fly down to the Gobi to witness a completely 

contrasting landscape, before 

returning to the capital Ulaan Baatar. 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Days 9-10 

Day 11 

Day 12 

Day 13 

Fly to Beijing overnight. 

Have the day to relax or 

explore Beijing. 

Fly to Ulaan Bataar. Explore the 

Museum of Mongolian National 

History. 

Full day city tour with the afternoon 

at the Winter Palace. 

Drive out from Ulaan Bataar to 

Khustaii National Park. 

Travel on to Karakorum 

Continue on to Khorgo 


Your journey continues as you travel 

on into the Tsenkher Valley. 

Drive on to White Lake and spend 

time at the lake. 

Continue north to the hot spring 

town of Jargalant. 

Drive on to the ancient deer stones 

at Uushigiin Uver. 

Travel up to the magnificent Lake 

Khuvsgul, via the provincial capital 

of Moron. 

Days 14-15 Time to relax and explore the sights 

in and around the lake. 

Day 16 

Day 17 

Day 18 

Day 19 

Day 20 

Day 21 

Day 22 

Karakorum 

Khongoryn Els 

Moron 

Khorgo and White Lake 

CHINA 

Khustaii 

National Park 

MONGOLIA 

Bayanzag 

Yol Am 

Fly back to the capital. 

Fly down to the Gobi National Park. 

In the evening visit the ‘Flaming Cliffs’ 

at Bayanzag. 

Drive across the desert to the 

‘singing’ sand dunes at Khongoryn Els. 

Take in the ‘Eagle’ Canyon at Yol Am. 

Fly back to Ulaan Bataar where the 

rest of your day is spent at leisure. 

Fly back to Beijing. 

RUSSIA 

Gobi desert 

Return flight to the UK. 

Ulaan Baatar

Useful information 

St Basil’s, Cathedral, Moscow Local men, Kashgar, Silk Route Rural scene, China 

Contact us 

Audley Travel, New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, 

Oxfordshire, OX29 9SX. 

nca@audleytravel.com 

Useful telephone numbers: 

China: 01993 838 220 

Tibet: 01993 838 215 

Taiwan: 01993 838 260 

The Silk Route: 01993 838 205 

Iran: 01993 838 265 

Ukraine: 01993 838 245 

Russia: 01993 838 230 

Mongolia: 01993 838 225 

Terms & Conditions and 

Travel Insurance 

Your booking is subject to the Terms and 

Conditions of Audley Travel, which we will 

include with your personalised itinerary and can 

also be found on our website. It is vital that you 

have adequate travel insurance and we are able 

to suggest a number of policies either for the 

duration of your trip or on an annual basis. 

Group Travel 

In addition to our tailor-made tours, we offer a 

small programme of guided small group tours, 

typically no more than 16 travellers. Not only 

does this make for a much more sociable group 

but it also enables us to use smaller and more 

characterful accommodation and venture away 

from the large tour groups. We offer regular 

tours to several countries in this brochure which 

have become very popular and are an alternative 

to a tailor-made itinerary. 

We can also arrange private tours, whether this is 

for a group of friends, those with a special interest 

or a fundraising trip for charity. For larger groups 

we may be able to offer discounts or a free place 

to the organiser. See our website or call us to 


www.audleytravel.com/groups 

Honeymoons 

A honeymoon to Russia, China or Central Asia 

would make for a memorable trip. For most 

destinations, it’s possible to combine some of 

the cultural highlights with time to relax. China 

in particular has an increasing number of good 

quality resorts in a variety of locations. The 

beaches of Southeast Asia are also easily 

combined with a trip to this region. 

Flights 

There are a variety of airlines that fly directly to 

China, Russia and Central Asia from London 

Heathrow, with British Airways currently offering 

the greatest coverage. We choose from these 

airlines based on current airfares and taxes, 

your preference for travel and your itinerary. 

Connecting flights from regional UK airports can 

also be arranged. There are also several airlines 

which fly indirectly to many destinations via 

European cities, which often offer convenient 

connections from regional airports. 

AITO Membership 

Audley is a member of the 

Association of Independent Tour 

Operators. The Association 

represents Britain’s leading independent tour 

operators and encourages high standards of 

quality and service. Audley abides by the 

Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres 

to the AITO Quality Charter which can be 

viewed on www.aito.com. 

Photography in this brochure 

We would like to thank the following 

photographers for the images used in this 

brochure: Peter Branch, Bill Hobdell, Steve Allen, 

Jamie Marshall, Simon Spicknell, Lee Dalton, 

Simon Irwin, Alamy, Lonely Planet Images, 

ASLA Travel Group, AWL Images, Tips Images, 

Istockphoto, Taiwan Tourist Board, and 

members of the Audley China, Russia and 

Central Asia team. 

All images used in this brochure were obtained 

in good faith by Audley Travel Group Limited 

and in the belief that all necessary consents and 

clearances were obtained for their use. However, 

if you believe that unauthorised use has been 

made of an image belonging to you please 

contact us on 01993 838 040. 

Visit our offices 

If you would like to discuss your 

travel arrangements in person we 

welcome personal visits, please 

call in advance to arrange an 

appointment with one or more of 

our country specialists. Our offices 

are at the New Mill, a 17th century 

converted wool mill on the outskirts 

of Witney, ten miles west of Oxford 

on the edge of the Cotswolds. 

www.audleytravel.com/visit-us 


Our website is packed with 

information, features and advice 

covering all our destinations across 

the globe. On the site you can browse by 

theme, special interest or region as well as 

viewing additional accommodation options 

and itineraries that are not featured in 

this brochure. You can download all our 

brochures online or contact us via the 

website where you can fill in the details of 

your plans so that we can start tailoring 

your itinerary. 

Useful information 87

New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom 

Telephone: 01993 838 200 • Fax: 01993 838 010 

Email: nca@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.com 

This brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forestry Stewardship Council, using vegetable inks. 

Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC environmental accreditations. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure, we kindly request that you recycle it.

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