Following many requests from ADFAS members, we are pleased to offer a tour to China that goes beyond the now well-worn path of Beijing, Xian and Shanghai.

China's southern provinces of Sichuan, Guizhou and Yunnan contain a splendid amalgam of traditional villages, important historic sites and outstanding scenery - all refreshingly different from the more visited sites in the north. Our 19-day journey begins in Chengdu. We fly south to Da Li, an ancient capital. Over four nights in the world-heritage city of Lijiang we explore the distinctive art, architecture and traditions of China's ethnic minorities. In Kunming, we explore the old walled city and nearby sites. Our tour ends in Kaili, amid the natural splendours of the Leigongshan mountains.

Brief itinerary

• Sat 2 or Sun 3 April: Fly from Australia to Chengdu. There is a range of flight options available, depending on your Australian departure point and preferred airline. For those wanting a more relaxed journey it is also possible to arrange a stopover in Singapore or Hong kong en route.
• April 3-7: Touring Sichuan province Arrive Chengdu, long one of China's most important cities and the capital of the Sichuan province. Visit the famous Panda Research Institute, Sanxingdui archaeological site, cruise the Min River and view a famous Buddha statue carved into the cliff-face, visit the 16th century temple at Emei mountain and take a sunrise cable car ride to the 'Golden Peak'.
• April 7-10: Da Li Fly to Da Li via Kunming. Da Li contains a mix of archaeological sites, temples and charming landscapes. Visit the Bali Bai Museum, which has archaeological finds relating to the history of the Dai and Bai people, the Guanyin Temple, cruise Erhai Lake, visit the 9th century Three Pagodas for which Dali is famous and take a day trip to Weishan, at the headwaters of the Red River which runs down to Hanoi and Haiphong, site of temples and camellia gardens.
• April 10-14: Lijiang Travel overland to Lijiang, stopping at villages and tea centres. In Lijiang ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and its 18th century Yufeng Lamasery (Lama Monastery), learn about the many plants originating from this part of China, and visit temples and gardens the south of Lijiang. There is a free day here to enjoy this historic centre.
• April 14-15: Kunming Visit Yuantong Temple, the largest Buddhism temple in Kunming, the Flowers Market & Growers and enjoy an excursion to the hills to the south of Kunming.
• April 16-19: Kaili Fly to Guiyang then overland to Kaili, stopping at the villages of ethnic groups on the way. Visit villages known for their silverware and embroidery and attend festival celebrations of the Miao villagers, including the ancient Sister Meals Festival.
• April 19-20: Chongqing and home Fly from Guiyang to Chongqing and take a city tour, including the Stilwell museum, mostly assembled by American collectors. Afternoon flights from Chongqing to Hong Kong and other ports connect to homeward flights.
• April 21: Arrive Australia

A detailed itinerary is now available and we are accepting bookings. Please click on the link above to download an itinerary or call us on on 9235 0322 or 1800 639 699 (outside Sydney)to receive a copy by post.