Eastern explorer

Combine China's highlights with some of its hidden gems, travelling from Xi'an to Beijing. Take in the Terracotta Warriors, head through Inner Mongolia for an authentic glimpse of life in provincial China, catch up on the glories of the Imperial past in Chengde and take a trek along the Great Wall, before heading to Beijing for the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and the less-visited Eastern Qing Tombs during Dragoman’s 16-night China & Inner Mongolia overland.

From Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities, enjoy a guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors and explore spectacular Mt. Kongtong, the sacred birthplace of Taoism in China, where ancient temples offer magnificent views. Discover China’s modern provincial urban life in the fun city of Yinchuan before crossing the Yellow River into the deserts and semi-deserts of the north.

In an officially atheist state, visit to the multi-religion Zhongwei Temple complex - for Buddhists, Confucians, Taoists and even Christians, then overland via Hohhot through China's Inner Mongolia and the famed grasslands of the Asian Steppes - historically the great Mongol homeland.

Later, explore Yungang Buddhist Caves near Datong, a UNESCO World Heritage complex of 21 caves containing over 50,000 statues. Nearby, see the Hanging Monastery dating back over 1,400 years and the Imperial city of Chengde, summer home to the Emperor's family. En route to Beijing, take in the Great Wall at Jinshanling, Simatai and at Mutianyu, before continuing to the Summer Palace and Forbidden City on arrival at the centre of China’s universe!

The overland costs £725 p/p plus kitty US$420 (~£287) including hotel and guesthouse accommodation, transport aboard Dragoman Overland’s customised Mercedes Benz expedition truck and guidance from an experienced two-person crew and local guide.

For more information and bookings, log on to Dragoman.com.