Lanzhou-Liujiaxia-Bingling Temple Grottoes-Xiahe

Liujia Gorge - Begin your full-day excursion with a convenient hotel pickup in Lanzhou city, where you’ll meet your guide in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. The journey to Liujia Gorge takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Liujia Gorge is a significant hydroelectric project completed in 1974. It serves as the seventh step in a series of hydroelectric stations, offering multiple functions such as electricity generation, flood control, aquaculture, irrigation, navigation, and tourism.

Upon arrival, take in the sights of the Yellow River, Liujia Gorge, and the surrounding landscape. To maximize your time, you’ll board a high-speed boat to reach the Bingling Temple in just one hour.

Bingling Temple Grottoes - In Tibetan, Bingling translates to “one hundred thousand Buddhas.” The grottoes are divided into two temples, upper and lower, and are situated on a 2-kilometer-long cliff that runs from north to south, adjacent to the Yellow River. The Bingling Temple Grottoes were initiated during the Western Jin Dynasty (265-316). They comprise 34 grottoes, 149 shrines, 694 stone statues of varying sizes, and 82 clay statues. Notably, an ink preface from that era was discovered in Grotto No.169, marking the earliest preface found among all the grottoes to date. In 2014, it was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

With your guide, explore the grottoes and delve into their history, significance, and cultural value.

Lunch is included, and after the tour, you’ll proceed directly to Xiahe, home to the Labrang Monastery.

Labrang Monastery - Lanzhou

Labrang Monastery (Labuleng Si) - After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide to begin your exploration of the Labrang Monastery.

Labrang Monastery is a revered site where Buddhist devotees study the core teachings of Buddhism. It is home to over four thousand monks. Established in 1709 by Ngawang Tsondru, the monastery boasts an extensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, totaling approximately 65,000 in 18,200 volumes across various categories, including philosophy, collected works, medicine, linguistics, history, biography, and craftsmanship.

Accompanied by your guide, wander through the halls and courtyards, learning about the history of Tibetan Buddhism, admiring the stunning architecture that blends Han and Tibetan styles, and gaining insight into the temple’s beliefs, community, and spiritual essence.

Savor a delightful Tibetan lunch at a local restaurant.

Following your visit, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Lanzhou, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you may choose to conclude your tour in Xiahe and continue to your next destination independently.

• Overnight in a twin room with two beds, twin share basis.
• Boat tickets for Liujia Gorge included.
• Service of a private guide throughout the tour.
• Lunch provided.
• Travel comfortably in a private, air-conditioned car.
• Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off service.
• All entrance fees covered.

• Gratuities
• Single supplement charge of accommodation

In just two days, embark on a private guided tour from Lanzhou to experience a wealth of sightseeing opportunities. Marvel at the stunning views of the Liujia Gorge and the Yellow River, and enjoy a boat cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bingling Temple. Discover the impressive Labrang Monastery, where you can learn about Tibetan Buddhism, its distinctive architectural style, and the culture and spirit of its people. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a boat cruise, a local lunch, and travel by private vehicle. An overnight stay in a 4-star hotel in Xiahe is also included. You have the option to conclude your tour in Xiahe or return to Lanzhou after the tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.