Shanghai to Bangkok
Rail Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai

Upon arrival in Shanghai a private transfer will be provided from the airport to our iconic hotel, centrally located on the city’s famous Bund. Overnight Fairmont Peace Hotel or similar. 

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Located on the famous Bund, the Fairmont Peace Hotel is an Art Deco masterpiece that combines timeless elegance with modern facilities. The landmark hotel is perfectly situated for an exploration and appreciation of Shanghai’s best sights. One of the oldest hotels in the city, its furnishings recreate the ambience of the 1930s, when it served as a glamorous playground for the elite, where every night was an extravagant gala event and veritable Parisian fashion show. Mezzanine lounges and an octogenarian jazz band all add to the very special atmosphere. 

Day 2: Shanghai

Today we will join our guide for a full day tour of Shanghai including lunch. Visits will include Yuyuan Garden, a private garden built in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty, with typical Chinese classic architecture and style. The complex covers an area of 2 hectares, with rockeries, pavilions, ponds, and corridors. Then we will visit the famous - a 1.5km long embankment which runs along the western bank of Huangpu River. On its west side it is the "architecture gallery" with 52 well-preserved old European style buildings. Once the major trading and commercial centre of old Shanghai, the Bund has now taken on new vitality, with futuristic developments, chic restaurants, and top end shops and bars. It is also the location of our hotel. Our tour will continue and take in the city’s old quarter with its well-preserved residential houses and narrow lanes, where visitors can get a glimpse of local people’s life. We will conclude our day with a visit to Shanghai Tower - the world's second-tallest building, with 128 stories or 632 meters (2,073 feet) tall. Overnight Fairmont Peace Hotel or similar. (BL) 

Day 3: Shanghai to Xian

After breakfast we will be transferred to Shanghai’s modern Hongqiao Railway Station where we will board our first train of the trip, a high-speed service for Xian. Travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and slashing previous journey times, the rapid development of China’s rail network is truly astonishing. Trains are safe and punctual and link all of the major cities. Our journey to Xian, a distance of 1,500km, will take just five-and-a-half hours. Upon arrival in Xian, we will be met at the station and transferred to our hotel for a two night stay. After check-in at the hotel, we will join our local guide to explore some of the city. Visits will include the 7th century Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the city’s Ancient City Wall built in the 13th century. As part of our tour and between visits we will make a stop in Xian’s Muslim Quarter where our guide will introduce us to local snacks such as Chinese hamburger and bread soaked in mutton soup. After the tour will return to our hotel. Overnight Wyndham Grand Xian South or similar. (B) 

Day 4: Xian - Secrets of the Terracotta Warriors

Today we will visit Xian’s must-see sight, the Terracotta Warriors on a full day tour including lunch. Emperor Qinshihuang’s craftsmen made more than 8,000 life-sized warriors in the 11 years between about 220 and 209BC. This is nearly unbelievable, because even in modern times, a warrior factory could only make about 500 warriors of that size in a year. 

How could craftsmen of 2,200 years ago make them so quickly? Xian is cold in winter but hot in summer. How could they keep so many clay warriors from cracking? Originally warriors were painted with different colours. Most colours were natural, but the purple was very special, because it came from a chemical reaction. How did craftsmen have such skills at that time? Our guide will explain such secrets and then accompany us to a local cave dwelling where a craftsman makes warriors in the traditional way. We will have an opportunity to learn how to make warriors, and to try and make a small one ourselves. Overnight Wyndham Grand Xian South or similar. (BL) 

Day 5: Xian to Chengdu

From Xian another high-speed train will whizz us south in about four hours to the city of Chengdu. After checking in at our hotel for a two night stay, with our guide we will join the locals to have tea in the People's Park, with its refreshing bonsai gardens, artificial lakes, and rockeries. We will also visit Jinli Old Street, once the commercial heart of the old kingdoms, this ancient street has been fully restored in traditional Sichuan style. Picturesque, bustling, and cheerful, we can sample local arts and craft, traditional Chinese goods, food, and delicacies, before returning to our hotel. Overnight Grand Hyatt Chengdu or similar. (B) 

Day 6: Chengdu - Panda Breeding and Research Centre

Today promises to be one of the highlights of our adventure, and the main reason for visiting Chengdu. Located 6 miles north of Chengdu City, it is home to giant pandas, red (or lesser) pandas, and other endangered species. Visit the nursery to see the highly successful breeding program, among the bamboo groves and shady walkways, and to view the pandas at rest or play. There is a panda museum where we can learn some information about giant pandas. From the research centre we will return to the city and take lunch in a local restaurant of authentic Sichuan Cuisine, which is known for its deep and rich flavours, especially the taste of Sichuan pepper which is rare in other regional cuisines. The most popular Sichuan dishes include Mapo Tofu ('Pockmarked Granny' Bean Curd), Kung Pao Chicken (Spicy Diced Chicken) and Fish Flavoured Beef Shreds. After lunch we will continue to our final stop of the day, the Wu Hou Temple, an ancestral temple in memory of Zhuge Liang, Liu Bei, and other heroes of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period in China. Return to our hotel in the later afternoon. Overnight Grand Hyatt Chengdu or similar. (BL) 

Day 7: Chengdu to Kunming

After breakfast we will be transferred back to Chengdu’s modern Dong or East station to board a high-speed train for the southern city of Kunming, and the capital of Yunnan Province. Our journey will take around six hours to cover the distance of about 900km. Upon arrival in Kunming, we will be met at the station and transferred to our hotel for a two night stay. After check-in, the remainder of the day will be at leisure. Overnight InterContinental Kunming or similar. (B) 

Day 8: Kunming

After breakfast we will meet our local guide and set off on a full day tour including lunch at a local restaurant. The first of two stops will be the Jiuxiang Caves, located about 70km from Kunming. Inside the caves we can see are many well-developed and wonderful stalactites and stalagmites, which look like pretty fairies welcoming their guests. Names have been given to them such as "Fairies Welcoming Guests", "Woman Weaver", and "The Fairy is coming out of bathing". Note: The final stage is to climb up Bat Cave. This is the most challenging part as there are about 336 steps. Sometimes there are labourers who offer a sedan chair service, with payment to be made locally in cash. From Jiuxiang we will continue to the Ancient Stone Forest. 

Covering over 300 kilometres, the towering karst pinnacles of the Stone Forest (or Shilin) create a mysterious illusion of woodland. Made up of many smaller stone forests, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage listed as part of the South China Karst area, the formations we see here today were formed over 270 million years by erosion and seismic activity. As you wander through the maze of giant pseudo-stalagmites, stumbling across caves, waterfalls, and lakes. The visit involves around two hours on foot, walking along cobblestone paths. From the Stone Forest we will return to our hotel in Kunming. Overnight InterContinental Kunming or similar. (BL)

Day 9: Kunming to Luang Prabang

After an early breakfast we will be transferred to Kunming’s South station where we will join the China-Laos Railway, constructed as part of China’s ‘Belt and Road’ and which opened for full passenger service in 2023. A large part of today will be spent on the train as the journey is scheduled to take around seven hours, which allows for immigration and customs formalities which are conducted at the border. The route offers breathtaking views, particularly as it traverses through mountainous regions and lush landscapes of southern Yunnan and northern Laos. Passengers can enjoy views of verdant hills, river valleys, and rural scenery. We will arrive in Luang Prabang at around 4pm local time, where we will be met at the station and transferred to our five star hour for a relaxing three night stay. Overnight Sofitel Luang Prabang or similar. (B)

Sofitel Luang Prabang

Once a French Governor's residence in the 1900s, Sofitel Luang Prabang now epitomizes luxury amidst Lao heritage. This historic haven blends French elegance with traditional motifs, offering suites with private gardens and pools. Relish Lao-French culinary masterpieces, indulge in the hotel’s signature spa, and explore nearby gems like Wat Xieng Thong. With vibrant markets and the Mekong's serenity moments away, the Sofitel beckons with opulence in the heart of culture.

Day 10: Luang Prabang

At around 8am we will meet our local guide and set off for a full day tour including lunch. We will be transferred to the boat pier where we board a traditional riverboat for an upstream journey along the majestic Mekong River. This scenic boat ride will take us to the renowned Pak Ou Caves, which houses thousands of statues representing Lord Buddha. Along the way, we will make a stop at Ban Xanghai village, known for its production of rice wine. Later we will return to Luang Prabang with lunch served on the boat. Upon arrival we will be met at the pier and continue by road to the famous Kuang Si Waterfall, located about 30km outside of the city. The Kuang Si Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder, featuring multi-tiered limestone formations and inviting pools of cool, clear water. Take the opportunity to swim, relax, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. On the way to the waterfall, we will also make a short stop at the Khmu minority village of Ban Na Ouan, providing an insight into their unique lifestyle and culture. We will return to our hotel in Luang Prabang by about 5pm, after which the remainder of the day will be free. Overnight Sofitel Luang Prabang or similar. (BL)

Day 11: Luang Prabang

After what has been a busy trip thus far, today has been set aside as a free day, with no prearranged activities planned. You may want to explore this wonderful city – a UNESCO World Heritage, on your own and discover its well-preserved architecture, including traditional Lao wooden houses and French colonial buildings. Or just have a lazy day by the pool and enjoy the excellent facilities of our deluxe hotel, a former French Governor's residence in the 1900s. Overnight Sofitel Luang Prabang or similar. (B)

Day 12: Luang Prabang to Vientiane

After breakfast we will be transferred back to the station to continue our journey on the China-Lao Railway, to the capital, Vientiane. Our journey will take around two hours and we can expect some lovely scenery along the way with stunning views of Laos' lush countryside. Upon arrival in Vientiane and following check-in at our hotel, we will meet our local guide for an afternoon city tour taking in the main sights. Visits include the Siamese-style Wat Sisaket, distinguished by its surrounding terrace and ornate five-tiered roof. Inside, the temple boasts a cloister wall adorned with over 2000 ceramic and silver Buddha images. Following this, we will explore Wat Phra Keo, which was constructed between 1565 and 1556 and once housed the Emerald Buddha, now situated in Wat Phra Keaw in Bangkok. The temple has faced destruction multiple times, and the current structure was rebuilt by the French in the 1920s. Our next stop is the illustrious That Luang Stupa, an opulent gold-covered Buddhist stupa originating from the 3rd century. Regarded as the most significant national monument in Laos and a symbol of the nation, That Luang holds great reverence. Finally, we will proceed to the imposing Phatuxay Monument, also known as the "Victory Gate" or "Gate of Triumph," which pays homage to those who participated in the struggle for independence from France. Return to our hotel by late afternoon. Overnight Crowne Plaza Vientiane or similar. (B)

Day 13: Vientiane

At around 8.30am our guide will meet us at the hotel, and we will set off for a half day tour. Our excursion begins with a tuk-tuk ride to Thong Khan Kham market. This vibrant market offers a sensory feast with its colourful displays of rice, eggs, tea, live and cooked fish, ducks, pigs, alongside noodle and soup stalls, and 'takeaway' options wrapped in banana leaves. Amidst this lively scene, vendors selling jasmine, orchids, and marigolds weave garlands for temple offerings. Next, we will visit Wat Ong Teu, the largest temple with a bronze Buddha in Vientiane, followed by a visit to Wat Inpeng and Wat Simuang, the sacred pillar temple. Lunch will be served at Kua Lao Restaurant. Afterwards, we continue our tour by visiting the nearby Talat Sao (Morning market), known for its modern offerings such as electronics, clothes, and DVDs. In addition, you will discover some rare jewels in Vientiane that date back to the French Colonial era. While few of these beautiful old houses remain, you will have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of them from the outside. Return to our hotel by mid-afternoon with the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight Crowne Plaza Vientiane or similar. (BL)

Day 14: Vientiane to Bangkok

Most of today will be at leisure until the late afternoon when we will set off to take the overnight train to our final destination, Bangkok. At the time of writing, it is necessary to take a transfer from our hotel in Vientiane across the Laos/Thai border to the town on Nong Khai – a distance of about 25km. However, it is anticipated that the Bangkok train will eventually start in Vientiane, thus there will be no need for a transfer. In either case we will join the overnight sleeper service operated by Thai Railways. We will be allocated private air-conditioned two berth (lower and upper bunk beds) compartments, with shared toilet facilities available at the end of the corridor. We recommend taking dinner (payable locally) in the train’s restaurant car, as it is a great way to meet your fellow passengers. Alternatively, a restaurant car attendant usually walks through the train with a menu card showing pictures and English captions. They will take orders and bring the meal to your compartment. Overnight sleeper train (private compartment). (B)

Please note that the check-out time for our hotel is 12:00. A late check-out can be requested locally, but will be subject to availability and additional charges, not included, may apply. Alternatively, the hotel’s reception will store luggage until it is time to leave for the train.

Day 15: Arrive Bangkok

Our train is scheduled to arrive at Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central at around 6am. We will be met at the station and transferred to our hotel where an early check-in has been arranged in advance and is guaranteed. After time to freshen up, breakfast which is included, can be taken in the hotel’s restaurant. Today has been set aside without any preorganised activities arranged and you may choose to relax and enjoy the hotel’s resort style facilities and large outdoor pool. Or for first time visitors to Bangkok, we can pre-book a wide choice of activities and sightseeing. Please contact us for further details and costs. To mark the end of our flight free adventure we will have a group dinner at the hotel, before our tour concludes the next morning. Overnight Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort (deluxe river view room) or similar. (BD) 

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort

Situated on the river, yet away from the cluster of other luxury hotels in Bangkok, the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa (previously the Marriott Riverside) provides an excellent retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok's streets. It is located right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and the rooms enjoy fantastic river views. The layout is spacious, and buildings are dotted around an attractive leafy garden, creating a resort feel. The facilities have recently been upgraded and the spa is a real attraction. 

Day 16: Depart Bangkok

At a time to coincide with your flight, you will be transferred to Bangkok’s international airport for check-in and departure. (B).