This journey through China’s ancient heartlands and mystical highlands aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express blends cultural immersion with breathtaking landscapes. The meticulously planned itinerary, inspired by the Silk Road and Qinghai-Tibet Railway, begins in Beijing’s Imperial grandeur, traverses the historical treasures of Luoyang and Xi’an, and ventures into the spiritual and natural wonders of Chengdu, Xining, Dunhuang, and Lhasa. With private cabins, gourmet dining, and expert-guided excursions, this adventure offers a seamless blend of comfort and discovery, culminating in the spiritual capital of Tibet.
Starting in Beijing, explore the Forbidden City and Great Wall, before travelling to Luoyang, home to the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple, the cradle of Kung Fu. In Xi’an, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, a testament to China’s first emperor. Journey to Chengdu to meet adorable pandas and savour Sichuan’s spicy cuisine, then continue to Xining, the gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. In Dunhuang, uncover the Mogao Caves’ ancient Buddhist art, a Silk Road jewel. The tour peaks in Lhasa, where the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple offer profound spiritual encounters at the roof of the world.
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Accommodating a maximum of just 80 guests, the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express has been carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind and provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys combining vibrant cultures and legendary landscapes that have inspired travellers for centuries. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Beijing, China.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Beijing.
Arrive today and transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel Beijing for a two night stay in five-star comfort. This evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner, an opportunity to meet with your fellow travellers prior to the journey ahead.
Day 3 Beijing.
Today, we can marvel at the legendary Great Wall at Badaling, one of mankind’s greatest architectural triumphs. Wander along this beautifully restored section, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the rugged hills and countryside that stretch to the horizon. Returning to Beijing in the afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to relax or explore the city’s rich tapestry of culture at your own pace. This evening, we gather for a special dining experience: a traditional Peking Duck feast at one of Beijing’s most celebrated restaurants, offering an authentic taste of the capital’s proud culinary traditions.
Day 4 Beijing.
Today, immerse yourself in the splendour of Imperial Beijing with a full-day exploration of its most iconic ancient landmarks: the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square, the timeless majesty of the Forbidden City, and the tranquil beauty of the Summer Palace, with its ornate pavilions and lakeside gardens. Alternatively, choose to visit modern Beijing, with its architectural masterpieces such as the Olympic Village, the striking CCTV Tower, and the world-class National Museum. This evening, step aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express and enjoy a welcome dinner in the dining car.
Day 5 Luoyang & Xi’an.
Awaken in the heart of China’s ancient cradle as the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express arrives into Luoyang, a city with over 4,000 years of history and once the capital of 13 dynasties. Step into a world where time seems to stand still, surrounded by the delicate scent of blooming peonies, Luoyang’s proud emblem, and the distant chime of temple bells. Our exploration begins at the awe-inspiring Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where more than 100,000 Buddhist statues and 60 stupas are masterfully carved into the limestone cliffs along the Yi River. Later, continue to the legendary Shaolin Temple, nestled at the foot of Mount Song, the spiritual birthplace of both Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu. Wander through historic courtyards where monks still train, their graceful martial arts performances breathing life into centuries of tradition. Back in Luoyang’s charming old town, sample local specialities such as the famous water banquet dumplings, a delicious reflection of the city’s Silk Road heritage. As evening falls, we arrive in the ancient city of Xi’an, where a Tang Dynasty-style banquet of traditional cuisine, music, and dance awaits, an unforgettable celebration of the region’s rich cultural legacy.
Day 6 Xi’an.
Discover Xi’an’s ancient city walls, one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved defensive structures in the world. Stroll along the ramparts where Imperial guards once stood watch, and take in panoramic views of the old town, a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern life. After lunch at a local restaurant, the highlight of the day unfolds with a visit to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors. Discovered by farmers in 1974, this vast subterranean army, over 6,000 intricately detailed life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, was created to protect China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. Wander through the vast excavation pits and marvel at the individuality of each warrior, from the folds of their armour to the expressions on their faces. This extraordinary archaeological site is a powerful testament to the ambition, artistry, and military might of ancient China and is widely regarded as one of the greatest discoveries of the 20th century. After a day filled with awe and inspiration, we will return to the comfort of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, reflecting on the grandeur and mystery of Xi’an’s rich Imperial past.
Day 7 Chengdu.
As the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express glides into Chengdu, the vibrant energy of Sichuan’s capital embraces us. After a sumptuous breakfast on board, our day of discovery begins at the world-renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here, amidst lush bamboo groves, the sight of these endearing animals sparks instant delight and offers a heartwarming glimpse into one of China’s greatest conservation successes. Later, we gather at the Sichuan Opera Theatre, exclusively reserved for our group, where the magical world of traditional opera unfolds before us. In an intimate and atmospheric setting, performers in radiant silk costumes captivate with the ancient art of bian lian, the dramatic, lightning-fast face-changing technique that leaves audiences spellbound. Amidst fiery displays, haunting melodies, and graceful choreography, the spirit of Sichuan’s rich artistic heritage is brought vividly to life, making for an unforgettable afternoon of cultural immersion.
Day 8 Xining.
Spend a relaxing morning on board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express travelling through the dramatic landscapes of the Qinghai Plateau, relax in your private cabin or enjoy the panoramic views from the observation carriage as the train approaches Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province. We first head to Kumbum Monastery, one of China’s most sacred sites this architectural marvel captivates with its golden rooftops, intricate thangka paintings, and vibrant prayer halls. Our expert guide unveils the monastery’s spiritual legacy, offering exclusive access to quieter corners for a moment to take in the serene ambiance. Following your visit, choose to delve into Qinghai’s heritage at the Provincial Museum, home to fascinating exhibits spanning ancient Silk Road artefacts and Tibetan culture, or explore the vibrant Shui Jing Xiang Market – an aromatic, colourful celebration of local life. Later this afternoon, return to the comfort of the train, where your luxurious journey continues.
Day 9 Dunhuang.
Today we discover one of the Silk Road’s most awe-inspiring cultural treasures: the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves. Set dramatically against the cliffs of the Gobi Desert, this labyrinthine complex, often referred to as the ‘Caves of a Thousand Buddhas’, houses over 1,000 years of Buddhist devotion. Inside, nearly 500 richly adorned grottoes, vivid murals and painted sculptures chronicle spiritual tales and cultural exchange from the 4th to the 14th centuries, forming one of the world’s most remarkable collections of ancient art. Accompanied by an expert guide, we will step into a selection of the most exquisite chambers to see the legendary artistry that has withstood the sands of time. The experience is made even more special with an exclusive live performance by local folk musicians and dancers, their graceful movements and soulful melodies adding further memories to the visit. Following a leisurely lunch, the afternoon’s adventure continues with a camel ride across the sweeping dunes of the Gobi. As we ride along the very paths once travelled by Silk Road merchants, the golden sands unfold towards our final destination: Crescent Lake. The enchanting desert oasis, nestled like a jewel beneath towering dunes, has miraculously endured for millennia. Its pristine waters reflect the afternoon sun, offering a moment of quiet awe in the heat of the desert – a perfect conclusion to a day steeped in history, legend, and enduring beauty.
Day 10 Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
After a final gourmet breakfast aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, our journey continues aboard the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest railway in the world. A marvel of modern engineering and stretching over 1,900 kilometres from Xining to Lhasa, this iconic route offers a rare opportunity to travel through some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes on earth. Settle into your comfortable seat and watch as the scenery shifts from the edge of the Tibetan Plateau to sweeping grasslands and shimmering salt lakes, all framed by distant snow-capped peaks. Alternatively, guests may opt for a direct flight to Lhasa, allowing extra time to relax and begin acclimatising in the mystical capital of Tibet.
Day 11 Tanggula Mountain Pass & Lhasa, Tibet.
Today we will traverse the Tanggula Mountain Pass, the highest point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway at an astonishing 16,640 feet above sea level, where panoramic vistas of the Himalayan Mountain range and untouched valleys unfold beyond your window. After lunch on board, we arrive in Lhasa, Tibet’s mystical and awe-inspiring capital, and check in to the luxurious St Regis Lhasa Resort for a two night stay. This afternoon, choose to delve into Tibet’s spiritual heart with an optional guided tour. Begin at the Jokhang Temple, a 13th century sacred sanctuary that stands as the spiritual nucleus of Tibetan Buddhism. Afterwards, visit the Barkhor Market, Lhasa’s oldest market, where stalls overflow with traditional crafts, prayer beads, and colourful thangka paintings. Alternatively, take time at leisure to absorb the sights and sounds of Lhasa at your own pace.
Day 12 Lhasa.
We begin our full day of discovery in Lhasa with a visit to the serene Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace. Established in the 1740s as a retreat from the summer heat, this “Jewel Garden” enchants with its meticulously landscaped grounds, lotus-filled ponds, and a sense of stillness that contrasts beautifully with the city’s liveliness. Strolling through this peaceful oasis offers a moment of reflection amid Tibetan heritage and artistry. For lunch, savour authentic Tibetan cuisine, richly flavoured with local herbs and accompanied by the sounds of traditional folk music. This afternoon, we ascend to the majestic Potala Palace, an awe-inspiring 17th century architectural masterpiece that once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Rising 300 metres above the valley floor, its towering red and white façade dominates the Lhasa skyline. Inside, labyrinthine corridors lead to ornate chapels, golden stupas, and sacred relics, each step a journey through centuries of spiritual and political history. As evening falls, we gather for a farewell dinner, raising a glass to the unforgettable moments of this extraordinary journey through the heart of China and Tibet.
Day 13 Lhasa to Beijing.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 14 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 9 to 22 April 2027 • 17 to 30 September 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Cabin | £18995 | |
| Han Dynasty Suites | £44995 | |
| Superior Cabin for sole occupancy | £28995 | |
| Han Dynasty Suite for sole occupancy | £88995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAROOF
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Beijing and two nights hotel accommodation in Lhasa • Six nights aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express Train • Overnight aboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway • All meals • All drinks aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express Train (excluding premium wines) and with included lunches & dinners off the train • Excursions • Hotel Porterage • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, China visa.
Please note: The high altitude of some of the destinations may affect some travellers and so you are advised to seek medical advice before booking.
Important Information: Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 10% deposit, except where the booking is made within 90 days of departure, in which case full payment will be required at the time of booking. Please also note that nonstandard cancellation fees terms apply to bookings for this holiday. Please contact us for further information.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Accommodating a maximum of just 80 guests, the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express has been carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind and provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys combining vibrant cultures and legendary landscapes that have inspired travellers for centuries. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
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Train Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the train or click on the booklet to download.We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express provides the ideal base for some of the most spectacular private rail journeys through China, providing a unique way to absorb the rich culture and cinematic landscapes. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
ACCOMMODATION
The accommodation on board has been crafted to offer the ultimate in luxury. Choose from two elegantly designed cabin classes: the Superior Cabin or Han Dynasty suite. Each cabin blends the ornate design of the Orient with the grandeur of a bygone era, providing an exquisite home as you embark on your adventure.Superior Cabin: There are 16 double and 20 twin bedded superior cabins on board the train which offer 11 square metres of thoughtfully designed space. By day, relax in two single sofas, perfect for unwinding as you take in the scenery. By night, the cabin transforms into your choice of twin beds or a large double bed. All superior suites feature a private en-suite bathroom with smart TOTO toilet and full power shower. Amenities include a wardrobe, bathrobes, slippers, personal safe, mini bar and fridge, Dyson hairdryer and toiletries.
Han Dynasty Suite: The two Han Dynasty suites offer an expansive 22.2 square metres of space and provide the ultimate in comfort and elegance. They feature a large double bed, double sofa, dressing table, separate living room and a table for in-cabin dining. The 5.2 square metre en-suite bathroom features a bathtub, shower, double sinks and a smart TOTO toilet. Amenities include a full-length wardrobe, personal safe, bathrobes, slippers, Dyson hair dryer and luxury toiletries.
AIR-CONDITIONING & HEATING
All public cars are fitted with air-conditioning. Each cabin features remote controlled air-conditioning, heating and humidifier. The air-conditioning will only work satisfactorily if the windows and doors are closed.DAILY PROGRAMME
A day to day itinerary is placed in all cabins detailing train arrival and departure times, the latest weather forecasts for the next destination and information on the following day’s excursions and activities.DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. Once on board, please speak with the Chef on arrival to reconfirm and the onboard staff will endeavour to accommodate your needs. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.DINING & DRINKING
All meals are freshly prepared on board by expert chefs. Menus are crafted to reflect both Western culinary tradition and local influences, with ingredients sourced locally, every dish offers a taste of the destinations traversed. Meals are served in one sitting for all passengers across both restaurant cars, and there is an open-seating policy. Breakfast is served as a buffet with hot dishes to order. A choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes will be offered at every lunch and dinner.
All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including beer, spirits, local wines and soft drinks from the standard bar list are included without charge for all guests, including with lunch and dinner on the train. Premium wines are available for an additional cost.DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate whereas the evenings are smart casual.ELECTRICITY
The sockets on the train and in your compartment are a combination of standard Chinese and two-pin European style, with electricity operating on 230 volts. A limited number of adaptors are available on request. USB ports are also available in all cabins.EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your journey, please remain calm and follow the instructions of the train staff. The train will be brought to a halt for any required action. Do not jump from a moving train.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.LAUNDRY SERVICE
A complimentary laundry service is available on board. Most items (except heavy materials, such as jeans) are delivered to your cabin within 24 hours. There are no dry-cleaning facilities en-route or on board the train.LUGGAGE STORAGE
All compartments have limited in-cabin storage. Once unpacked, any larger cases can be removed for storage. These will be returned to you upon request as well as prior to arrival at your final destination.LOST PROPERTY
Before you leave the train, please check your compartment carefully to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and to advise of any associated costs.MEDICAL FACILITIES
A UK-registered doctor is available 24 hours a day.ONBOARD ACCOUNT
Currency on board the train is the US Dollar. Onboard purchases can be charged to your cabin account and settled aboard the train prior to departure by cash or credit card. Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards are accepted.PASSPORTS
All passports are collected by the Train Manager upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities between borders. If required, your Train Manager will provide the necessary forms for you to fill out. Passports will be returned to passengers prior to the end of the journey.PUBLIC AREAS
The Bar Car is the social heart of the train. It offers a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board. Unwind and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers or enjoy an evening drink whilst listening sound of the resident pianist playing. Every night, the bar stays open until the last person leaves.
The Observation Car is a comfortable, relaxing space which features a stunning 270° panoramic window, allowing guests to effortlessly capture the ever-changing scenery during their journey.
There are two unique dining cars aboard the train. The Western-style restaurant car offers banquet dining in the company of your fellow travellers. Here five-star service meets silver service tradition with steward service and liveried wait staff committed to delivering an impeccable experience. For those who prefer a more intimate setting, the Chinese-style restaurant car offers booth seating and has been designed to reflect the local culture.QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us; therefore we ask that you fill in a questionnaire prior to disembarkation from the train. We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and in order to do this we request feedback from our guests.SECURITY
Each car has two car attendants, one of whom is always on duty. All cabins on the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express have a safe which is located inside the wardrobe. The attendants remain with the train during the city tours.SERVICE
Your car attendant provides general housekeeping, nightly turndown service, and a full daily service during daytime hours and the evening. Complimentary tea, coffee, beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water are available from your cabin staff. Towels in cabins are changed regularly.SMOKING POLICY
Smoking is strictly prohibited aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.TRAIN TOUR MANAGER
The Train Tour Manager is there to coordinate all elements of the tour and, if you encounter any problems, you should approach them directly and they will do their best to assist. Your Train Tour Manager will greet you when you arrive and travel with you throughout the tour.TELEPHONE CALLS
There is no telephone system on board.WI-FI
Starlink Wi-Fi is available free of charge in all areas of the train except the restaurant cars. Please note, a VPN may be needed to access certain websites, apps and messaging services in China.Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Booking Conditions For This Tour
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express - Addendum to Booking Conditions (Click to Download)
Before you confirm your booking for the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, please be aware that all bookings for this holiday are subject to non-standard booking conditions. You should still complete Noble Caledonia’s standard booking form and should read through our standard booking conditions. Please note, though, that section 6(a) of Noble Caledonia’s standard booking conditions will be altered for the purposes of your booking for this holiday and that the following alternate version of 6(a) shall apply instead of the standard one:
6(a) You or any member of your party may cancel your holiday at any time before departure. Notification should be made in writing or via the telephone or made on your behalf by your travel agent. Notification of cancellation will be effective when it is received by us at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your holiday, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below (although please note the exceptions outlined in Part 6(c) below):
| Period before the day of departure within which cancellation notification is received by us | Amount of cancellation fee as % of total holiday price payable* |
| 90 days or more | 10%*† |
| 70 to 89 days | 40%* |
| 61 to 69 days | 60%* |
| 60 days or fewer | 100%* |
* Plus any additional amendment charges or cancellation charges for upgraded and/or connecting travel arrangements or other additional extras (see part 3(d) of these Booking Conditions).
† In the event that you cancel your holiday and in the event that notification of said cancellation is received by us 90 days or more before the commencement of your holiday, please note that (i) if the value of the payment that you made to us as a deposit for your holiday booking was less than 10% of your total holiday price, you may have to pay a further top-up amount to Noble Caledonia such that, following our receipt of said top-up payment, the total amount then paid by you as a cancellation fee equates to 10% of your total holiday price, and that (ii) if we have asked you for a deposit payment of more than 10% of your total holiday price, in accordance with section 3(a) of these Booking Conditions, that higher amount will be the value of your cancellation fee. The cancellation charges set out above have been calculated as a genuine pre-estimate of the losses we would incur in the event you cancel your holiday within the stipulated time period, taking into account the charges we will incur from our suppliers (some of which may be up to 100%) and our expected cost savings and income from alternative deployment of the travel services that comprise your holiday package. We will deduct your cancellation charges from the monies that you have already paid to us and will reimburse any remaining monies within 14 days of our receipt of your cancellation notification. Where your cancellation charges exceed the value of the monies that you have already paid to us, we will contact you for the payment of the remainder, which shall be due within 14 days of our receipt of your cancellation notification. Note: If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges and other costs that you may incur as a result of your cancellation from your insurer. You should contact your insurer for information about this at the earliest opportunity and you should double-check your terms of cover and double-check and conditions relating to time bars on claims.
Please also note that we require a 10% deposit for all bookings for this holiday and that, if you are a Commodore Club member, your usual 5% deposit benefit will not be available on this occasion.
Aside from the above exceptions, all other terms of Noble Caledonia’s standard booking conditions are unchanged.
When confirming your booking, we will ask you to acknowledge your receipt of this addendum to our standard booking conditions and confirm your acceptance of the above
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000