14 Days Mongolia-China-Laos Self-Driving Tour from Erenhot-Chengdu and Mohan

Overview:
Embark on an epic 14-day self-driving adventure from the northern border of China at Erenhot, through the heart of the country, to the southern border at Mohan. This journey takes you through diverse landscapes and cultural highlights across Inner Mongolia, Beijing, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Yunnan, offering an unforgettable experience of China’s rich history and natural beauty.

Duration: 14 Days
Areas Covered: Inner Mongolia, Beijing, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan
Route: Erenhot – Beijing – Pingyao – Xi’an – Chengdu – Xichang – Dali – Pu’er – Jinghong – Mohan
Season: Whole Year
Difficulty: Moderate

Trip Highlights:

  • Beijing: Explore the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall.
  • Pingyao: Wander through the ancient town of Pingyao.
  • Xi’an: Discover the Terra-Cotta Warriors and the ancient capital’s historical sites.
  • Chengdu: Visit the Panda Base and savor Sichuan cuisine.
  • Dali: Enjoy the serene beauty of Erhai Lake.
  • Jinghong: Explore the Tropical Botanic Garden and ethnic minority villages at Jinuo Mountain.

Travel Tips:

  • Ensure all vehicle documentation is in order before departure.
  • Carry essential supplies and spare parts for the vehicle.
  • Stay updated on road conditions and local weather forecasts.
  • Have a reliable GPS or navigation system.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Make sure to have cash for tolls and emergencies.

Day-by-Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Mongolia – Erenhot (Enter Inner Mongolia Province)
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Erenhot

  • Activities: Enter China and complete all necessary procedures.

Day 2: Erenhot – Ulanqab
Driving Distance: 340km
Accommodation: Hotel in Ulanqab

  • Activities: Complete remaining entry procedures, then drive to Ulanqab.

Day 3: Ulanqab – Badaling Great Wall – Beijing (Enter Beijing City)
Driving Distance: 360km
Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

  • Activities: Drive to the Great Wall and visit. Continue driving to Beijing for overnight stay.

Day 4: Beijing
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

  • Activities: Free day to explore Beijing city. Suggested visits include the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Tiananmen Square.

Day 5: Beijing – Pingyao (Enter Shanxi Province)
Driving Distance: 580km
Accommodation: Hotel in Pingyao

  • Activities: Drive from Beijing to Pingyao. Overnight in Pingyao, exploring the ancient town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture.

Day 6: Pingyao – Terra-Cotta Warriors – Xi’an (Enter Shaanxi Province)
Driving Distance: 535km
Accommodation: Hotel in Xi’an

  • Activities: Drive to Xi’an, visiting the Terra-Cotta Warriors en route. Continue to Xi’an for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Xi’an
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Xi’an

  • Activities: Free day to explore the ancient historic city of Xi’an. Suggested visits include the City Wall, the Bell Tower, and the Muslim Quarter.

Day 8: Xi’an – Guangyuan (Enter Sichuan Province)
Driving Distance: 470km
Accommodation: Hotel in Guangyuan

  • Activities: Leisurely morning in Xi’an, then drive to Guangyuan, crossing the Qinling Mountains.

Day 9: Guangyuan – Chengdu
Driving Distance: 300km
Accommodation: Hotel in Chengdu

  • Activities: Early morning drive to Chengdu. Free afternoon to visit the Panda Base and explore the city. Suggested activities include trying local Sichuan cuisine.

Day 10: Chengdu – Xichang
Driving Distance: 440km
Accommodation: Hotel in Xichang

  • Activities: Drive to Xichang via highway. Explore local attractions in Xichang upon arrival.

Day 11: Xichang – Dali (Enter Yunnan Province)
Driving Distance: 580km
Accommodation: Hotel in Dali

  • Activities: Drive to Dali using a combination of highway and national road. Explore Dali’s old town upon arrival.

Day 12: Dali
Driving Distance: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Dali

  • Activities: Free day to explore Dali. Suggested activities include a boat ride on Erhai Lake, visiting the Three Pagodas, and exploring the local markets.

Day 13: Dali – Zhenyuan – Pu’er
Driving Distance: 688km
Accommodation: Hotel in Pu’er

  • Activities: Long drive day to Pu’er for an overnight stay. Enjoy the scenic drive through Yunnan’s picturesque landscapes.

Day 14: Pu’er – Jinghong – Mohan
Driving Distance: 272km
Accommodation: Hotel in Mohan

  • Activities: Early morning drive to Mohan border. Complete exit procedures and help exit China to Laos. If time does not permit, exit to Laos the next day.

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation as listed.
  • Private English-speaking tour guide.
  • Private vehicle for transfers and sightseeing with a skilled driver.
  • Service charges and government taxes.
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.
  • Domestic train tickets (soft sleeper).

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets.
  • Chinese visa fees.
  • Excess baggage charges by airlines.
  • Single room supplement.
  • Tips to guides and drivers.
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff.
  • Personal travel accident insurance.
  • All optional programs.