2 Days Classic Chengde Tour plus Eastern Qing Tombs from Beijing

D1 Beijing--Chengde

We will organize a thorough and convenient pick-up service from your downtown Beijing hotel, train station, or airport. Our professional guide will be there to welcome you with a "Your Way Holiday" sign, ensuring that you easily spot them upon arrival. From the moment you are met, our guide and driver will take care of all the details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. They will assist with your luggage, manage transportation logistics, and provide insightful commentary about Beijing’s historical and cultural landmarks. This attentive service will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse activities and attractions Beijing has to offer, making your tour both enriching and memorable.

Firstly, you will be driven to the northeast of Beijing to visit the Eastern Qing Tombs in Chengde, approximately 125KM from the city, taking about 2 hours. Locally known as Qing Dong Ling, these tombs are part of the Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties UNESCO World Heritage Site. The last imperial dynasty of China, the Qing Dynasty, ruled from 1644 to 1911, during which time China's borders expanded to their greatest extent, encompassing modern-day Mongolia, Xinjiang, Tibet, Korea, Burma, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Surrounded by mountains, the Eastern Qing Tomb complex spans 80 square kilometers and serves as the final resting place of some of China’s most renowned emperors. Among the highlights, you will find the grand and opulent tombs of Emperor Shunzhi, the first Qing emperor to rule all of China, and Empress Dowager Cixi, one of the most powerful women in Chinese history. This historical site is not only a testament to the grandeur of the Qing Dynasty but also offers a serene and majestic landscape, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Later, you will be driven approximately 160KM to visit the Little Potala Palace, a remarkable Buddhist temple complex built during the Qing Dynasty. Constructed between 1767 and 1771 during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor (1735-1796), the palace garnered significant attention during its development. Located near the Chengde Summer Resort, it is one of the Eight Outer Temples of Chengde, alongside the equally famed Puning Temple. Modeled after Tibet's Potala Palace, the ancient sanctuary of the Dalai Lama built a century earlier, the Putuo Zongcheng Temple earned the nickname "Little Potala Palace." This architectural marvel combines Han and Tibetan styles, featuring towering halls, intricate carvings, and stunning views, providing a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural fusion of the era. The temple complex not only reflects the grandeur and influence of the Qing Dynasty but also serves as a serene and majestic site, offering visitors a profound sense of history and tranquility.

After the tour, our comprehensive guide and driver will ensure your safe return to your hotel in Chengde or train station. Throughout the day, they will have provided insightful commentary, historical context, and seamless logistics, ensuring a rich and immersive experience. Whether navigating the complex history of the Eastern Qing Tombs, exploring the architectural wonders of the Little Potala Palace, or simply enjoying the scenic drive, our team is dedicated to making your journey both educational and comfortable. Your return to Chengde marks the conclusion of a day filled with cultural discovery and memorable experiences.

D2 Chengde--Beijing

After breakfast, you will have the opportunity to visit the Chengde Mountain Resort, also known as the Chengde Summer Resort, a renowned landmark of historical significance. During the Qing Dynasty, emperors like Kangxi, Qianlong, and Jiaqing retreated to this tranquil retreat for several months each year to escape the summer heat of Beijing. The palace zone in the southern part of the resort was intentionally designed to resemble Beijing's Forbidden City, reflecting the imperial elegance and architectural grandeur of the time. Set amidst picturesque landscapes and serene lakes, the Chengde Mountain Resort offers a perfect blend of imperial history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for leisure and cultural exploration during your Chengde tour from Beijing.

Next, you will visit the Puning Temple, also known as the "Temple of Universal Peace," a significant Buddhist temple in Chengde. Established in 1755 during the Qing Dynasty under the patronage of the Qianlong Emperor, it stands near the Chengde Mountain Resort alongside the renowned Putuo Zongcheng Temple. As one of the "Eight Outer Temples" of Chengde, Puning Temple embodies a harmonious blend of Tibetan and Han architectural styles. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 along with Chengde's other temples, Puning Temple continues to attract tourists and host local festivities, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of northern China.

After the tour concludes, our dedicated guide and driver will ensure your smooth return to your hotel in Beijing or drop-off at the Beijing train station, depending on your preference. Throughout the day, they have provided insightful commentary, historical context, and seamless logistics, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment of each destination visited, from the serene Chengde Mountain Resort to the culturally rich Puning Temple. Your journey back to Beijing marks the end of a memorable excursion filled with exploration, cultural discovery, and the comfort of expert guidance.

Price Per Person in US Dollars