Western China Tours & Trips
Western China means going beyond Beijing and Shanghai properly. Visit Kunming, Dali’s ancient town, Xizhou with Bai snacks, Tiger Leaping Gorge hike, and stunning Sumtseling Monastery. Alternatively head overland to Tibet, heading to Everest Base Camp, monasteries, and Tashilhunpo, turquoise lakes. Western China's culturally different from east, and it rewards you with landscapes and cultures beyond typical China tours.
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Olena • traveled in December
I want to thank Pradip and his tour company for organizing for me the trip. Everything was well organized. Travel guides in Kathmandu and Pokhara were very nice, polite and knowledgeable. Tibet is a place to visit at least ones in live. The mini bus in Tibet had oxygen bottle for our use in case of altitude sickness and we used it few times. Pradip provided his personal number and was available to answer question at all times during the tour. He organized for me one more night in Pokhara instead of Kathmandu and arranged extra activities. They are very flexible on tour activities in Nepal. They can organize for you some extra activities according to your interest. I definitely recommend this tour.
Glimpses of Nepal and Tibet Tour 14 Days - H
Hannah • traveled in September
Tibet is such an awe inspiring country and our Tibetan guide looked after us so well and had so much fantastic knowledge about Tibet’s rich history and deep connection with Buddhism. A once in a lifetime experience for sure.
Budget Tibet Overland Tour Fix Departure - A
Aurelia • traveled in January, 2025
Our Lhasa tour from Kathmandu with Peregrine Treks and Tours was an unforgettable experience. Pradip's quick and helpful communication made booking a breeze. Our group of seven made for a fun and supportive trip. The tour was well-organized, highlighting the best of Lhasa’s cultural and historical sites. I highly recommend Peregrine Treks and Tours to anyone thinking about this incredible adventure.
8 Days Lhasa Tour from Kathmandu
Table of contents
- The best Western China tour packages
- Travel Western China your way
- Best tour companies for Western China tours
- Discover Western China tours for every budget
- Western China tours for every type of group
- Top Western China travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Western China
- Contact our Western China travel experts
- What our customers ask about Western China Tours & Trips
The best Western China tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaWestern China travel expert at TourRadar
Glimpses of Nepal and Tibet Tour 14 Days
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It took us through jaw-dropping landscapes and provided enriching cultural experiences. The seamless transition between these two extraordinary destinations made the trip truly unforgettable.”
Noel, traveled in June
Ancient cultural landmarks dot Western China, including UNESCO-listed Potala Palace and Tashilhunpo Monastery. The scenic Gyantse La pass rises to 5,220m, while traditional monk debates unfold at Sera Monastery. The comfortable Yak Hotel in Lhasa serves as a base for visiting the region's spiritual and architectural treasures.
Duration 14 days Destinations Kathmandu, Pokhara, Gyirong County, Xegar, Shigatse, Gyantse, Lhasa Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Peregrine Treks and Expedition Pvt Ltd From
- NZ$7,465+$407 upfront costs
Yunnan: Kunming, Dali, Shangri-la, Lijiang Highlights Mini Group Tour 7D
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Nice trip, nice people.”
Tint, traveled in August
Yunnan province unfolds from Kunming to Shangri-la, featuring the world's deepest gorge at Tiger Leaping Gorge. The route includes Tibet's Songzanlin Monastery and three UNESCO-listed ancient towns, showcasing the region's diverse ethnic cultures.
Duration 7 days Destinations Kunming, Dali, Shangri-La, Lijiang Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Top China Travel From
- NZ$2,044
8 Days Lhasa Tour from Kathmandu
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“From the moment we left Kathmandu, everything was well-planned and efficiently arranged, making this trip stress-free and truly enjoyable.”
Jo, traveled in February
Shigatse's Tashilhunpo Monastery and Lhasa's Potala Palace stand as cornerstones of Western China's heritage. Monk debates echo through Sera Monastery while the vibrant Barkhor Bazaar bustles with activity. The Yak Hotel and local guesthouses provide comfortable lodging throughout.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kathmandu, Gyirong, Tingri, Shigatse, Lhasa, Xegar Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Peregrine Treks and Expedition Pvt Ltd From
- NZ$3,359
Budget Tibet Overland Tour Fix Departure
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We've been in safe hands with a very sympathic guide and driver that conveyed us a lot of knowledge about the fascinating culture in Tibet.”
Haiko, traveled in April
High monasteries dot Western China's landscape, from Tashilhumpu in Shigatse to Potala Palace in Lhasa. Mountain passes reach skyward to 5,220m at Gyatchu La. The Flora Hotel provides a base for two days of Lhasa's cultural exploration.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kathmandu, Dhunche, Lhatse, Shigatse, Gyantse, Lhasa Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Outshine Adventure From
- NZ$2,205
Best of Silk Road 10Days: Beijing, Xian, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi and Kashgar
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour was an incredible journey and a very good introduction to the complex history of China, the beauty of the vast landscape and the intricacies of Chinese philosophy.”
Maryam, traveled in October
From the intricate Mogao Caves of Dunhuang to the bustling bazaars of Kashgar, this route unveils Western China's treasures. The journey features Turpan's ancient cities, Urumqi's Xinjiang Museum, and the pristine Heavenly Lake in Tianshan Mountains.
Duration 10 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kashgar Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- NZ$5,088
7 Days Tibet Trip Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tibet Tour
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Guaranteed the Tibet permit and followed through. Made this an adventure of a lifetime.”
Douglas, traveled in October
The route from Lhasa to Gyirong Border features ancient monasteries and high Himalayan passes. Dadong Village's traditional life, Yamdrok Lake views, and Everest Base Camp sunrise create memorable moments. Three-star hotels with breakfast and expert local guides (rated 4.5/5) ensure comfort.
Duration 7 days Destinations Lhasa, Shannan, Gyantse, Shigatse, Lhatse, Xegar, Everest Base Camp, Gyirong County, Kathmandu Age Range Ages 7+ Operator Tibet Vista From
- NZ$1,678
8 Days Lhasa to Mt. Everest Group Tour
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The Tour was good with a caring, responsible informative guide.”
SAMUEL, traveled in June
Buddhist heritage comes alive at Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Western China. Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier mark the path to Everest Base Camp, where traditional nomad tents await.
Duration 8 days Destinations Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Xegar, Everest Base Camp Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Great Tibet Tour From
- NZ$1,775
Pandas roam in Chengdu's sanctuaries while karst bridges tower in Wulong on this varied expedition. The path leads to Buddhist landmarks including Mount Emei's Golden Summit and Leshan's Giant Buddha, before reaching Chongqing's urban innovations.
Duration 8 days Destinations Chengdu, Leshan, Mount Emei, Chongqing Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Top China Travel From
- NZ$1,849
8 Days Tibet Trip Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: marvel at Mt.Everest real close
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I enjoyed my time so much I will definitely tell all my relatives and friends to go. And really, Pasang, excellent!”
Fernanda, traveled in November
Tibetan plateau adventures stretch from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp. UNESCO-listed Potala Palace, 5,248m Gyatsola Pass, and 11th-century Nyimatang Monastery in Dadong Village await. Professional guides lead this tour (costs around $1,000) with comfortable transport and 3-star accommodations.
Duration 8 days Destinations Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Tibet Vista From
- NZ$1,610
Duration 8 days Destinations Xi'an, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kashgar Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- NZ$3,391
Travel Western China your way
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Best tour companies for Western China tours
Discover Western China tours for every budget
Western China tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Western China travel itineraries to fit your plans
3 Day Itineraries
7 Day Itineraries
10 Day Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers101 tours- Couples118 tours
- Seniors (50+)91 tours
Best time to visit Western China
- Winter 2025 / 2026
- 110 tours
- popular 111 tours
- 107 tours
- Spring 2026
- 101 tours
- 119 tours
- popular 135 tours
- Summer 2026
- popular 127 tours
- 114 tours
- 115 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
- popular 127 tours
- 123 tours
- 102 tours
Contact our Western China travel experts
Claire
Expert in Western China at TourRadar
Claire is one of our seasoned Western China Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Western China tours answered!
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+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Western China Tours & Trips
When is the best time to visit Western China's diverse regions?
Western China's regions each have distinct prime visiting seasons. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most reliable weather across the region. The Silk Road destinations including Dunhuang and Turpan are most comfortable in spring before temperatures soar. Yunnan maintains pleasant conditions year-round with temperatures staying between 20-25°C. For Tibetan regions such as Shangri-La plan your visit from May to October when roads are clear and skies are bright. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The timing was perfect in September with clear skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring both cities and mountainous areas."
What types of accommodation can I expect in Western China?
The accommodations reflect Western China's blend of urban development and rural tradition. City centers like Chengdu feature international chains such as the 4-star Dorsett while Shangri-La offers properties like the Hilton Garden Inn that incorporate local design elements. In more remote spots like Tiger Leaping Gorge local guesthouses provide basic but clean rooms. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The hotels throughout our journey were excellent especially the DuoFu Resort in Lijiang which perfectly blended modern comfort with traditional architecture."
How should I prepare for the altitude changes in Western China?
The elevation shifts in Western China require careful planning. Regions like Shangri-La sit at 3200 meters while Tibet reaches even higher altitudes. Start your journey in lower-elevation cities like Kunming (1900 meters) to help your body adjust. Take it easy the first few days drink plenty of water and avoid demanding activities. One TourRadar reviewer noted: "Our guide in Shangri-La helped us adjust to the altitude by planning relaxed activities on the first day and ensuring we took plenty of breaks."
What's the food like on Western China tours?
The food scene in Western China spans from fiery Sichuan dishes to unique ethnic minority recipes. Local specialties include Chengdu's hot pot Lanzhou's hand-pulled noodles and traditional Tibetan foods. Tour packages typically cover hotel breakfasts and select group meals at vetted local restaurants. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "The food variety was incredible - from street food in Xi'an's Muslim Quarter to traditional Bai minority dishes in Dali."
How long should I plan to spend exploring Western China?
A proper exploration of Western China needs 10-14 days at minimum. This timeframe lets you see key sites along the Silk Road visit Yunnan's historic towns and explore Tibetan monasteries. The schedule accounts for travel time between locations and necessary altitude adjustment periods. A TourRadar reviewer recommended: "Our 13-day journey from Beijing through Yunnan to Shangri-La felt perfect - enough time to really experience each destination without feeling rushed."
What kind of weather should I expect during a Western China tour?
The climate varies significantly across Western China. Silk Road cities experience extremes ranging from -20°C to 40°C. Yunnan stays mild throughout the year. Mountain regions like Shangri-La require warm clothing even during summer months. As noted by a TourRadar traveler: "The weather in Lijiang was perfect in May but we needed warm layers for the early morning at Tiger Leaping Gorge and the higher altitude of Shangri-La."