Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

The stunning Gansu Province is one of China’s most beautiful and unvisited rural regions. Full of rustic charm, it boasts a pure, natural beauty that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. Ancient cultures thrive here, maintaining a life that is encompassed by traditional values and remain hidden amongst the mountainous landscape. This journey takes visitors through an unseen world, set deep in China’s rural landscape, to witness a land so remote that only a few eyes have ever seen it. Visitors will start off in the culture-rich city of Xian, before making their way to the rustic outdoors of Norden Camp and finishing of in the secluded village of Ritoma. This enviable tour visits rare sights still shrouded in mystery, including the excavation site of Xian and stunning Labrang Monastery. This exciting itinerary can be done on its own, or easily added to any of our other thrilling journeys within the region!

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Ancient History Lesson: Follow this great civilization's rise from the Neolithic era to the Qing Dynasty at the Shaanxi Xian Archaeological Institute with a curator.
  • Labrang Town: This remote town is ethnically and culturally Tibetan and maintains a rural charm barely touched by modernization. Dine on momos, spin prayer wheels, and take scenic hikes in the hilly countryside.
  • Yak Textiles: Visit the headquarters of Weaving Yak Treasures, a leading luxury brand renowned for its innovative work with yak textile. Learn about the process from weaving and dyeing to sewing and felting.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Xian

You’ll start your thrilling journey in the ancient city of Xian, said to be more than 3,000 years old and known as the ‘undisputed root of Chinese civilization’. Upon arrival, you are free to take a leisurely stroll to explore this charming city and take a trip to the Han Mausoleum, where the tombs of the Han emperor and empress are kept. Check in to a luxury city hotel where you will spend your first night in Xian.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

History: Xi’an once served as one of China’s ancient capitals and is the former home to 13 imperial Chinese dynasties. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton Xi’an can experience some of this history visiting the Terracotta Warriors, Great Wild Goose Pagoda, and the old City Walls.

Attention to Detail: Guests should expect to want for nothing during a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Xi’an, as befitting the prestigious brand.

Dining Experiences: The hotel's quintet of dining venues offers International cuisine, fine dining Cantonese fusion, Japanese teppan grills, signature afternoon tea, and creative cocktails paired amazing views from their rooftop bar.

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Ritz-Carlton Xi'an Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Set in lush landscaped gardens, the Shangri-La Xian offers tranquility with quick access to the city sights.

History: This ancient capital is replete with historic remnants, including its immense city walls.

Views: All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows offering great views of the city.

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Shangri-La Xian Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located within the Xian City Walls on the former Imperial Palace grounds, the hotel is close to all the main famous historical sites on offer. History: This heritage building opened its doors in 1953 as the legendary Xian People's Hotel and in 2014 was completely refurbished into an ultra luxury hotel.

Service: Five-star service and experiences including the signature Sofitel MyBed as well as extra luxurious touches including pillow menu, silk robes and Hermes amenities.

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Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Xian

Your second day in this remarkable city gives you the opportunity to gain insight into its cultural history. A short trip from the city center will lead you to a famous excavation site where the Terracotta Warriors were uncovered. It may be possible to join a private trip down to the excavation level for a close encounter with these legendary sculptures. Following the exploration of this phenomenal site, head back to Xian and onto the Shaanxi Xian Archaeological Institute. A number of ancient artifacts are displayed here, spanning the regions entire history, from the Neolithic right through to the Qing Dynasty. Tonight, return to your modern hotel to enjoy another night’s rest in luxury.

Xian
Xian

Day 3

Xiahe

On the third day of your tour, you will be picked up from the historic city of Xian and taken to Norden Camp in Xiahe. This unique accommodation, concealed amongst lush greenery and surrounded by majestic peaks, will be your base for the next three nights. You will be shown to your room where you can relax and enjoy picturesque scenes filled with effervescent wildlife. A rewarding, home-cooked dinner awaits followed by an unwinding session of dessert and drinks next to a bonfire under the starry night’s sky.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located in rural China, approximately 20 minutes from Labrang, the Norden Camp is set in an area of remarkable and pure natural beauty. Surrounded by effervescent wildlife and lush greenery, it’s a stunning destination to connect with unspoilt landscapes and local culture.

Service: Guests can enjoy a tranquil retreat in the comfort of stylish and authentic accommodation, while having every need catered for by a group of friendly staff, on hand to deal with any request.

History: After traveling the world, a Tibetan Nomad was inspired to share the beauty of this location along with its rich cultural heritage. He founded the Norden Camp to continue the nomadic values prevalent in this region, combined with ecological and cultural respect.

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Norden Camp Preferred Hotel

Day 4

Xiahe

After breakfast at the camp, a 30-minute drive will take you through graceful landscapes to the colorful town of Labrang. Set deep within an elongated valley, surrounded by two rising mountains, Labrang’s two towns - monastery and modern town - meet in the center and extend out in opposite directions. Take a walk around the expansive monastery, made up over 18 halls and hundreds of monk’s residencies, to journey back in time and witness ancient cultures rarely seen in modern-day life. A stop for lunch in either the Norden Coffee Shop or at a local restaurant will give you the chance to recuperate over Western dishes or sample some traditional Tibetan foods including yak meat and yoghurt. In the afternoon, explore the vast rural plains of the Norden Camp on horseback, or over the mountains for the more adventurous. An evening meal awaits upon your return and you can enjoy another night under the stars with dessert and drinks, enjoying the tranquil ambiance of this Tibetan plateau.

Xiahe
Xiahe

Day 5

Xiahe

Breakfast in beautiful surroundings is followed by a 30-minute drive to a local Nomadic camp. The drive will take you on scenic journey through Nomad pastures and past colorful local customs. At the camp, you will witness local culture in its most natural form, an exceptionally rare glimpse that is virtually unseen by outside eyes. A hospitable nomad family will welcome you in for lunch to sample a local nomadic cuisine, made up of yak or lamb meat and Tsampa. Arriving back to the camp, you are free to enjoy the rest of the afternoon to yourselves, re-energizing in the camp’s sauna or taking in the sights on a walk around the camp’s surroundings. At 7pm, there is a one hour Q and A session between guests and the nomadic staff who are more than happy to share insights into their experiences and Tibetan culture.

Day 6

Xiahe

An early morning breakfast is followed by a two-hour drive to the predominantly Tibetan and quaint village of Ritoma, also within the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. You will be taken to Norlha House for a traditional lunch and quick rest. In the afternoon, a trip around Norlha’s workshop awaits. It’s the home of Weaving Yak Treasures - a leading luxury brand in China, renowned for its innovative work with yak textiles. The brand is a work of art which you can become acquainted with by witnessing the different processes of manufacture, from weaving and dyeing to sewing and felting. From here, take a leisurely walk around the local monastery and surrounding pastures to catch a glimpse of village’s history. Return to Norlha House for dinner and comfortable night’s rest.

Xiahe
Xiahe

Day 7

Departure

On the final day of your tour, awake in unforgettable surroundings and savor your last breakfast within this region. Your personal driver will collect you from the village and take you to Xiahe Airport for you departure via Xian or Lhasa, and on to your next enticing destination.

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–2

Ritz-Carlton Xi'an
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Xi'an

Set within the city’s central business district, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an is the ideal base for experiencing this vibrant, ancient capital. Merging traditional elements with modern luxury, the hotel's 283 guest rooms and suites offer great views spanning across Xi’an. Home to 13 imperial Chinese dynasties, Xi’an today is a blend of history and modernity from a mix of eras and influences, where the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Terracotta Army lives among a thriving tech culture. Dining options include three restaurant venues offering International menus, fine dining Cantonese, Japanese teppan cuisine, as well as a Lobby Lounge with signature Afternoon Tea service, and a rooftop bar offering impressive sundowner views. Facilities include a well-equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, and spa offering a menu of wellness treatments.
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Shangri-La Xian
Preferred Hotel

Shangri-La Xian

The Shangri-La Hotel in Xian is located in the heart of the Gaoxin hi-tech district, just a stone’s throw away from the ancient city walls of the old city. Each of the hotel’s 390 guest rooms and suites features floor-to-ceiling windows and chic modern decor, as well as complimentary Internet access. Dining options include: traditional Thai cuisine at Siam Garden; pan-Chinese cuisine at Tian Xiang Ge; and International cuisine at the Yi Cafe. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art health center, a luxurious spa, and a swimming pool with sauna and steam room. The Shangri-La Xian is approximately 30 minutes by car from the Xianyang Airport (XIY).

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Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian

A stunning hotel with harmonious architecture blending French and Sino-Russian touches, a true heritage feel exudes from the detailed exterior. Step inside and the lofty ceilings, ornate mouldings and coving, art deco influences along with state of the art technology make this an incredible hotel befitting of the name Legend. The overtone of luxury is hard to miss. Everything from the service, the detailed inlaid floors, chandeliered ceilings and air of elegance places this hotel in a league of its own. Set in ornate gardens with flowing waterfalls and incredible gazebos, entering the hotel is like entering another world, a world of pure opulence and indulgence. With 37 suites, each designed with attention to the smallest of details, the minimalist design oozes luxury and comfort, striking an almost impossible balance. The signature Italian restaurant whisks guests away to the heart of Italy, or dine in comfort and privacy with food delivered to the suites.

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Suggested Hotel For Days 3–6

Norden Camp
Preferred Hotel

Norden Camp

Surrounded by rising peaks that stretch out to the horizon, the Norden Camp is a hidden charm in the rustic Gansu Province of China. It lies an impressive 10,500 feet above sea level, set amidst an area of stunning natural beauty. The camp covers a vast area in which vivacious wildlife enveloped by abundant vegetation year round. Although, just 30 minutes from Labrang Airport, it is more convenient to access the camp by a four-hour drive from the Gansu capital of Lanzhou, easily reached via any major Chinese city. Untouched by outside development, visitors will instantly feel a connection with the distinctive Nomadic heritage in these picturesque surroundings, making an idyllic setting for exploring the local culture and opening up to the allure of outdoor beauty. Adding to this, there are two unique accommodation options within the camp, where guests can rest in luxurious comfort and style while sleeping under the stars. An authentic cuisine, based on local nomadic lifestyles and prepared using traditional recipes, completes the rustic ambiance here. Guests can enjoy a stay tailored to them, from relaxing in the sauna to riding on horseback across the plains.

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