Chengdu & Tibet: Pandas, Peaks & Pilgrimages

Discover hidden Taoist idols scattered across this ancient temple grounds, birthplace of Lao Zi and the philosophy of “do nothing.” Explore centuries of spiritual tradition nestled beneath open skies and bamboo groves • Rub shoulders with locals as you wander Kuan Zhai Alleyways, where Chengdu’s best coffee shops, galleries, and boutiques are located • Watch a dazzling fusion of taiji and kung fu culminate in tea landing artfully in a cup—a tradition unique to Chengdu. Then master the graceful pour and taste the results.

Volunteer at Dujiangyan Panda Base Break bamboo, craft panda cakes, and observe behavior as a carekeeper at this conservation center replicating giant pandas’ natural habitat • Navigate the sights and smells of a bustling spice market before creating a sumptuous meal in a hidden courtyard restaurant under a professional chef’s guidance.

Depart Chengdu and arrive in Lhasa, one of the world’s highest cities at 3,614 meters. Spend the day resting and acclimating to the elevation before dinner at a local restaurant.

Visit the oldest and holiest Tibetan Buddhist site: Jokhang temple. Witness massive crowds of pilgrims and enjoy stunning rooftop views of Potala Palace against snowcapped mountains • Drink in the local culture while sipping on a cup of Tibetan sweet tea made with yak milk in one of the city’s tea houses • At Sera Monastery, one of Tibet’s three most prestigious monastic institutions, watch the red-robed monks passionately debate Buddhist texts. 

Explore an architectural masterpiece perched atop Red Mountain: the Potala Palace, the historical winter residence of the Dalai Lama and the religious and political center of Tibet for more than 300 years • Watch Tibetan locals dance, sing karaoke, and play games with family and friends at Norblingka, the former summer palace of Tibet’s religious leaders. 

Embark on a pilgrimage hike through the sacred Yerpa Valley to Drak Yerpa, a clifftop hermitage honeycombed with 1,300-year-old meditation caves • Go behind the curtains to tour elaborate costume and prop rooms revealing hand-crafted masks and vibrant garments, then watch seasoned performers bring traditional opera to life. Learn a signature move and slip into costumes for a hands-on experience.

Stop at one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, 4,400 meters above sea level and revered as the region’s life-spirit. Picnic by the holy waters surrounded by Mount Donang Sangwari and snowy peaks • Learn about the nuances of Tibetan Buddhism’s different sects at Pelkor Chode Monastery.

Hike the kora around Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. Marvel at a 26-meter copper and gold Maitreya Buddha statue and listen to prayers in the Grand Hall • Breathe in the earthy scent of juniper and clove at a Tibetan incense factory, where craftsmen transform fragrant paste into perfect triangles.

Your WildChina guide will help you check in for your departure flight.