Every year the Asia Society organizes a Caravan - an exciting and unique trip to Asia, highlighting sites that are lesser known and inaccessible to the average tourist. The 2005 Caravan is no exception. Visits to extraordinary cultural sites, informative discussions with experts, breathtaking natural beauty and exotic cuisine will ensure that this Caravan is a truly unforgettable experience.

Joining the Caravan is a benefit of President's Circle and Friends of Asian Arts membership at the Asia Society. If you are not yet a member and would like to travel with the Caravan, please contact Carol P. Herring, Vice President for External Affairs at (212)327-9314 or cherring@asiasoc.org.

Mountains and Meadows:
Southwest China in Spring 2005
The spectacular southwestern provinces of Sichuan and Yunnan comprise an area often referred to as frontier China. Protected by towering mountain ranges and carved by the great river systems of Asia (the Mekong, the Yangzi and the Salaween), this region is a treasure trove of cultural wonders and is also the scenic gateway to Tibet. Southwest China is still far enough removed from the economic onslaught now rapidly transforming the eastern third of the country to have remained delightfully rustic and entrenched in its traditions.

Spring in this region is particularly breathtaking, with its meadows ablaze in a riot of colors - rhododendrons in shades of pink, white and yellow, wild irises in rich hues of purple, primulas, roses and gentians in all the colors of the rainbow. It is undoubtedly the ideal season to celebrate the wonders of southwest China's natural beauty. With Hong Kong as our gateway city, we will embark on a 10-day odyssey that explores the natural wonders, cultural riches and ethnic diversity that distinguish southwest China from all other regions. The rugged mountains and deep valleys protect rare plant and animal species. Recent archaeological excavations of the Ba Shu and Jinsha cultures near Chengdu (Sichuan) have yielded remarkable bronze works and attest to the cultural sophistication of this area. The Baisha Murals of Lijiang (Yunnan) are an unusual record of religious and philosophical tolerance and interchange found nowhere else in China while in the high meadows of the Zhongdian region (Yunnan), Khampa Tibetan culture continues to survive relatively unaffected by outside forces.

An extension to Tibet will further pique the interest of those travelers who are charmed by the beauty of the Southwest. Tibet is a wonderland of culture and artistic traditions. From her sacred landmarks (the Potala, Jokhang, Sera and Drepung monasteries) to her ever-stoic people, Tibet is a region of sublime beauty and appeal.

The Caravan will be led by Dr. Vishakha N. Desai, President of the Asia Society and Asian art specialist, and Dr. Robert Oxnam, President Emeritus of the Asia Society and eminent China scholar. Regional specialists will also be on hand to share their expertise. This Caravan will undoubtedly be a unique and unforgettable introduction to southwest China and Tibet.

MAIN GROUP ITINERARY

Thursday, April 14 - HONG KONG
The Caravan will open in Hong Kong with cocktails and dinner at the China Club. Setting the mood for the journey ahead, a guest speaker will discuss the myriad wonders of southwest China - its minority traditions, unique ecosystems and its cultural riches. HOTEL: THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL

Friday, April 15 - HONG KONG/CHENGDU
This morning we fly to Chengdu, Sichuan's dynamic capital city and an important centre for early south Chinese cultural development. We will visit the Jinsha ruins, one of Sichuan's most important archaeological finds. Archaeologists believe Jinsha was probably the political and cultural center of the Shu Kingdom, which moved to Chengdu following the sudden demise of Sanxingdui culture about 3,000 years ago. More than 1,000 precious relics, including exquisite jade, bronze, gold and ivory artifacts have so far been unearthed. We will meet with site archeologists to discuss the significance of these findings, and enjoy exclusive access to recently excavated pieces not yet on view to the general public.

Later in the afternoon we will meet with a group of Chengdu's leading contemporary painters at a specially arranged viewing of local works. HOTEL: THE CHENGDU SHERATON

Saturday, April 16 - CHENGDU
This morning we travel to the famed Sanxingdui site, which contains the earliest and largest ruins of the ancient and highly developed Shu kingdom. Excavations of this site have shed new light on the history of the region. You will get the opportunity to view the remarkable bronze works that have captured the imagination of the Asian art world. Crafted more than 3,000 years ago, they are distinctly different from the ritual bronzes cast in north China, and represent a dynamic cultural achievement unique to the region. We then return to Chengdu for a visit to the government-sponsored Panda Research Institute. Experts will brief you on the measures being taken to protect China's most potent symbol of wildlife conservation, the Giant Panda. Later in the evening, enjoy a stunning performance revue of traditional Sichuan theatre and music pieces performed under the direction of a noted Sichuan artist. HOTEL: THE CHENGDU SHERATON

Sunday, April 17 - CHENGDU/DAZU/CHONGQING/KUNMING
Early in the morning we drive to Dazu, site of the most vibrant and best preserved of China's great Buddhist grottoes. The hillsides of Dazu display a stunning array of rock carvings dating from the 9th to the 13th century. These vividly colored, larger-than-life statues are remarkable for their aesthetic quality, diversity of subject matter (both secular and religious), and the insight they offer into everyday life in China during this period. They are also beautiful examples of the harmonious synthesis of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.

We will continue on to the Chongqing airport and depart for Kunming, the city of eternal spring, and the charming capital of Yunnan province. HOTEL: THE HARBOUR PLAZA HOTEL

Monday, April 18 - KUNMING
Situated at 6,100 feet on the fertile Yungui Plateau, Kunming is the gateway to Yunnan's diverse minority cultures. Under the auspices of the Provincial Minorities Institute, enjoy an engaging symposium on the minority cultures of Yunnan led by a group of the province's leading experts. We then visit the Yunnan Provincial Museum, renowned for its fine bronze pieces and comprehensive collection of minority textiles, musical instruments, artwork and other related materials.

Time permitting we will also explore the city's flourishing Bird and Flower Market which is located in an historic city neighborhood. HOTEL: THE HARBOUR PLAZA HOTEL

Tuesday, April 19 - KUNMING/LIJIANG
Early this morning we fly to Lijiang. Set at 7,800 feet and dominated by the majestic peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Range, Lijiang is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful areas of Yunnan province. Its rich flora was first studied in the early 20th century by Joseph Rock, famed American adventurer and botanist. His numerous articles on this lush paradise are said to have inspired James Hilton's "Lost Horizon." Lijiang is also the seat of the matriarchal Naxi culture. We will spend the day exploring different aspects of Lijiang - meet with a Dongba, the Naxi shaman, view ancient Naxi pictographic texts and stroll through Naxi villages far removed from the tourist hype that now plagues many areas. Time will also be given to a guided walking tour of Dayan, the Old Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the evening, we will meet with a representative of the Nature Conservancy for a presentation and discussion on the Conservancy's work in the Lijiang and Zhongdian regions. HOTEL: THE GRAND LIJIANG HOTEL

Wednesday, April 20 - LIJIANG
Enjoy an early morning optional walk to the Wangulou Pagoda (said to be the highest wooden pagoda in China) that rises above the Old Town before setting off to the Lashi Hai Lake (Tiger Lake) region to visit a Nature Conservancy Village Project. Here school children are being exposed to important conservation concepts that will help protect their magnificent environment while bringing forth sustainable development.

Continue on to the home of Dr. Xuan Ke, a controversial figure who is credited with encouraging the revival of ancient Naxi music. Born into a Naxi/Tibetan family that was friendly with Joseph Rock and Teddy Roosevelt, Xuan Ke was a musical prodigy. His love for western classical music landed him in jail for over 20 years during the tumultuous period from the 1950s through the 1970s. Soon after his release, Dr. Xuan founded the Dayan Naxi Ancient Music Association to study and revive Naxi music as well as to train young stars. He has taken his orchestra around the world, performing for heads of state and in celebrated concert halls. His rehabilitation and popularity as a respected conductor have made him something of a lightening rod - he is now a fearless commentator on China today, drawing thousands of Chinese to Lijiang to enjoy and reflect upon his humorous insights into life. HOTEL: THE GRAND LIJIANG HOTEL

Thursday, April 21 - LIJIANG/ZHONGDIAN
We depart in the morning for a magical drive to Zhongdian (now officially "Shangri-la"), the seat of Khampa Tibetan culture in Yunnan. The drive will include stops at Shigu (the Stone Drum Village) and the "First Bend" in the Yangzi River.

Upon arrival at our hotel, guide and regional expert Uttara Crees will lead a discussion on Khampa cultural traditions. HOTEL: THE GYALTHANG DZONG HOTEL

Friday, April 22 - ZHONGDIAN
Enjoy a full day absorbing the scenic wonders and cultural highlights of Tibetan Yunnan. Meet with the Living Buddha of the Songzangling Monastery (the largest Tantric Monastery in Yunnan) and explore the old city that was built on the fortunes of the "Cha Ma Gu Dao" (Tea and Horse Road). This ancient route was used to transport aromatic Yunnan black teas to Tibet in exchange for horses and salt. Take in the traditions of the horse festival at Ringha, a pristine Khampa village built around a sacred hill on the top of which is a monastery dedicated to the Five Wisdom Buddhas.

In the evening enjoy a traditional Tibetan festival complete with tents and bonfires and the energetic music and dance celebrations of Kham. HOTEL: THE GYALTHANG DZONG HOTEL

Saturday, April 23 - ZHONGDIAN/KUNMING/HONG KONG
This morning you bid farewell (if not joining the Tibet Extension) to Yunnan and return to Hong Kong via flights from Zhongdian to Kunming and Kunming to Hong Kong.

A farewell dinner will be arranged at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
HOTEL: THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL

Sunday, April 24 - DEPART HONG KONG
You will be met and transferred to the Hong Kong International Airport where you board your departure flight.

EXTENSION TO TIBET

This leg of the journey includes visits to Tsedang and Lhasa, the two most important historic centers on the Central Tibetan Plateau. Tsedang is the cradle of early Tibetan civilization, and where the seeds of Tantric Buddhism were first planted. The fabled city of Lhasa has long been the religious, political and economic heart of Tibet. Home to such cultural treasures as the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and the Drepung monastery, Lhasa is undoubtedly one of the most magical and fascinating cities in the world.

EXTENSION INTINERARY

Saturday, April 23 - ZHONGDIAN/GONGGAR AIRPORT/TSEDANG
This morning we fly to Gonggar, the main commercial airport serving Central Tibet. The flight is spectacular, taking you across the majestic mountain ranges that rise above the eastern regions of Tibet.

From Gonggar, we will travel eastward along the sacred Yarlong Tsampo river (the Brahmaputra river) to Shannan, the central region of Tibet and sacred land of early Tibetan culture. It was here that in 127 BC the first line of great kings rose and where the Samye Monastery, the oldest monastery in Tibet, was constructed. Spend the afternoon climbing the Yumbu Lakang, an ancient fortress and palace that is a striking symbol of early Tibetan cultural achievement.

In the evening enjoy a performance of central Tibetan music and dance. HOTEL: THE TSEDANG HOTEL

Sunday, April 24 - TSEDANG - THE SAMYE MONASTERY
Early this morning we drive to Samye, the earliest of the great monasteries to be established by the Guru Rimpoche, the Indian monk and Buddhist scholar who was instrumental in establishing Buddhism in Tibet in the 8th century. Samye, in spite of the devastation unleashed during the Cultural Revolution, retains its distinctive design. Laid out in the shape of a Mandala, it beautifully melds the influences of three important Buddhist regions - India, China and Tibet.

Return to Tsedang via a crossing of the Yarlong Tsampo river in a traditional pilgrims' boat. In the afternoon, visit a rural village and meet with local families. HOTEL: THE TSEDANG HOTEL

Monday, April 25 - TSEDANG/LHASA
This morning we set off for Lhasa. We arrive before lunch, which gives us the afternoon to begin our exploration of Tibet's holiest city. From across the Tibetan Buddhist world - Mongolia, Bhutan, Ladakh, Sikkim and greater Tibet itself -- the faithful make their way to Lhasa, the city of the Sun.

In the afternoon we visit the Jokhang Temple, Lhasa's holiest site, and view the treasure room, normally closed to the public. We continue for a circumambulation of the Barkhor, the area outside the temple now lined with shops and market stalls selling all manner of Buddhist art.

In the evening enjoy dinner with a group of Lhasa residents from different walks of life and nationalities. HOTEL: THE LHASA HOTEL

Tuesday, April 26 and Wednesday, April 27 - LHASA
Enjoy two full days in Lhasa taking in the major religious and cultural monuments as well as meeting with some of the city's most distinctive individuals. Visit the major Gelugpa monasteries - the Sera and the Drepung - founded by the disciples of Tsong Khapa, the 14th century reformer who established the last great sect, the Gelupga or Yellow Hats. Explore the shrines and chapels of the majestic Potala Palace and the verdant gardens of the Norbulingka, both former residences of the Dalai Lamas. We will meet with Tashi Tsering and Sabriye Tenbrekan, two leading activists working tirelessly on behalf of the Tibetan people, and we will explore the back lanes of the old Tibetan city for an unvarnished look at Tibet as it once was.

Our trip will end with a private tour and farewell dinner in the Tibet Museum, an outstanding facility that brings together several (scattered) collections of fine Tibetan art. HOTEL: THE LHASA HOTEL

Thursday, April 28 - LHASA/CHENGDU/HONG KONG
Today you bid farewell to Tibet and fly from Lhasa to Chengdu. On arrival, have lunch and transfer to your flight from Chengdu to Hong Kong.

A farewell dinner will be arranged in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
HOTEL: THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL.

Friday, April 29 - DEPART HONG KONG
You will be met and transferred to the Hong Kong International Airport for your departure flight.

Costs for the Main Tour
$7,618 per person, share basis, land and regional air costs
$834 single supplement

Costs for the Extension
$4,640 per person, share basis, land and regional air costs
$555 single supplement

A contribution to the Asia Society of $1000 per person is requested. This contribution is fully tax-deductible and defrays the cost of offering such travel programs. Please make a separate check payable to the Asia Society.

Trip Costs Will Include:

• Regional airfare (economy) and related airport and departure taxes in China and Tibet
• All accommodations, hotel and government taxes and service charges
• Enrichment lectures by Asia Society and local experts, and on-site guides
• All transfers and cultural programs by private vehicles with an English-speaking guide and a driver
• All entrance fees
• All meals beginning with dinner on April 14 and ending with breakfast on April 24 (April 29 for extension)
• Drinks including bottled water, soft drinks, local beer, wine and juices at all lunches and dinners
• Luggage handling at all hotels and airports
• Gratuities for local service personnel throughout the program
• Packet of pre-departure information including final itinerary, background materials and suggested reading list

Trip Costs Will Not Include

• Visas for China
• Any arrangements prior to April 14, 2005 and after April 24, 2005 (or April 29, 2005 on extension) unless otherwise specified
• Any meals not included in the final meal plan
• Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, telephone/fax/communication charges, etc.
• Travel insurance

Participation: This tour is limited to a maximum of 40 participants for each of the Main Tour and Sri Lanka Extension. Once this number has been reached, we will accept additional requests on a wait-list basis only.