Imperial Cities, Tibet & Yangtze River Cruise

Start early on this fascinating tour of the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City. Walk through the gates of the Temple of Heaven to chance upon Beijing residents engaged in their daily exercise regimen. Marvel at the simple yet elegant structure of the temple before you enter it. This temple with its abundant esoteric symbolism was a favorite with Ming and Qing dynasty rulers, who considered themselves messengers from heaven and sought to communicate with God from here. Afterward, stroll into the Forbidden City - restored in 2008, this palace complex has regained its vibrant colors that make for a mesmerizing contrast against the blue sky. Explore the sprawling complex in three parts, starting with the official spaces. Listen to your expert guide narrate anecdotes about the opulent ceremonies and important government meetings that these walls have witnessed. Saunter on to the imperial lodges surrounded by exquisitely beautiful gardens. Soak in the splendid sight before you amble over to the public areas where the temples and libraries can be found. Familiarize yourself with the legends associated with the construction of this magnificent complex before you climb up an artificial hill. Savor fabulous views of the compound and all of its 9,999 buildings before you make your way to the exit gate. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please bring along your passport on the day of the tour to clear security. This tour must be booked at least two weeks in advance and once the booking is done, the date cannot be changed or modified.)

Soak yourself in the mysticism that defines Lhasa! Marvel at the impressive Potala Palace set atop Marpo Ri hill which was built by the fifth Dalai Lama in the 17th century. Surrounded by 7th century architectural marvels that form a part of the complex today, this World Heritage site is at the very heart of Tibetan cultural heritage. Visit the ancient Jokhang Temple right in the center of Old Lhasa, an exquisite amalgam of ancient Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese design and architectural elements. Direct your steps towards the more than 200 year old UNESCO World Heritage site of Norbulingka or ‘jeweled garden’ - an ideal example of Tibetan palace architecture. Set amid lush gardens, this summer palace of the Dalai Lama also served as a religious and administrative center. Spend your evening ambling around the streets of the bustling Barkhor Bazaar as locals go about their daily lives amid shops laden with jewelry, artifacts, masks and other souvenirs. (Full Day, Time of Day: Morning; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes. Please note that climbing the steps of the Potala Palace can be tiring due to the thin level of oxygen.)

Get ready for a fascinating stroll from the past to the present during this half-day Shanghai tour. Start your journey at the historic riverside walkway, famous as the Bund, where western traders arrived in early twentieth century China. Take in the colonial architecture of heritage buildings that once served as foreign consulates, international hotels and trading houses. Learn from your experienced guide how the grand avenue fell to neglect during the Chinese Civil War and then later of restoration projects which revived its historic importance. Next, walk through Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to cross the Huangpu River to emerge into a striking different world – that of uber modern Pudong district. Marvel at towering skyscrapers and glitzy buildings as you hear the story of Pudong’s incredible transformation from marshy fields to a glittering downtown. Explore the hip Lujiazui neighbourhood boasting of some of the most famous buildings in the country, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Before heading back, consider taking the high speed elevator to the 118th floor observation terrace for stunning panoramas of the city. (Half Day; Times: 0800/1300 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers).