Day 1: We start our trip exploring the bustling streets of Kunming and sampling some of the delicious local food.

Day 2-3: Lijiang -Recently granted World Heritage listing, the charming ancient town of Lijiang is home to the Naxi people, descendents of the Tibetan Nomads. We stay amid the Old Quarter's cobblestone lanes and canals.

Day 4-5: Chengdu. A long, tiring journey by road and rail to Chengdu. We are rewarded by a visit to see the incredibly cute inhabitants of the Panda Research Center and a taste of old China in the city's quaint temple teahouses.

Day 6-10: Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is dominated by the awe-inspiring Potala Palace. There is ample time to walk the holy Barkhor circuit with devout Buddhists and be immersed in the grandeur of this great city.

Day 11-12: Samye. The dramatic monastic fortress of Yumbulagang rises out of a rocky hill in the Yarlung Valley. As we cross the Yarlung Tsangpo by open barge, the roofs of Samye glitter in the sun, promising a warm welcome.

Day 13: Gyantse. Turquoise lakes, snow-covered peaks and glaciers lead to Gyantse. This important junction between India and China retains a very Tibetan feel.

Day 14-15: Shigatse. The golden rooftops of Tashilhunpo are visible as we drive towards Shigatse. Join pilgrims on their evening 'kora' around the monastery walls and admire the lavish, jewel encrusted stupas of the Panchen Lamas.

Day 16-18: Everest Base Camp. Rongphu Monastery offers stunning views of the ice-covered peaks and glaciers of the world's highest mountain. Walk or take a jeep ride to Everest Base Camp or wander through the picturesque valleys.

Day 19: Dhulikhel. Leaving the plateau we head down through rapidly changing scenery into Nepal and the town of Dhulikhel with its magnificent mountain backdrop.

Day 20-21: Kathmandu. The legendary city of Kathmandu is a fitting place to end our trip. A vibrant, colourful and majestic place teaming with Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian people. Explore, shop or rest up after our incredible adventure.