India–China flights resume: 10 dreamy destinations you can visit again
India–China direct flights are back after five years! From Beijing’s Great Wall and Chengdu’s panda reserves to Shanghai’s skyline and Zhangjiajie’s Avatar mountains, discover 10 dreamy destinations to explore in China now that air travel between the two nations has resumed.
For the first time in five years, Indian travellers can once again fly directly to mainland China—no more detours through Hong Kong, Singapore, or Bangkok. On October 26, an IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou quietly reopened a long-silent air corridor that had been grounded since early 2020. The resumption marks more than just the return of a flight path—it’s a symbol of renewed curiosity, rekindled ties, and a cautious thaw in relations between the two Asian giants.
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As business travel, tourism, and student exchanges prepare for takeoff once more, the possibilities are endless. From imperial cities steeped in history and panda sanctuaries in bamboo forests to ultramodern skylines and misty mountain escapes, China is calling again—vibrant, vast, and full of wonder. Here are 10 destinations that will make you fall in love with the Middle Kingdom all over again.
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1. Beijing A city where dynasties meet modern design, Beijing is home to icons like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven. Wander through centuries-old alleys called hutongs, feast on Peking Duck, and watch the sunset from the ancient walls — history truly comes alive here.
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2. Shanghai A glittering mix of old-world charm and modern glamour, Shanghai is China’s boldest expression of progress. The Bund’s colonial facades face off against the Pudong skyline, while hidden French Concession cafés whisper stories of another era. Don’t miss a night cruise along the Huangpu River — the city lights are pure magic.
3. Xi’an The ancient capital that once marked the start of the Silk Road, Xi’an is where emperors sleep and warriors stand guard in clay. The Terracotta Army remains one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries, and the bustling Muslim Quarter offers irresistible street food adventures.
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4. Chengdu If happiness had a postcode, it might just be Chengdu. Home to China’s beloved giant pandas, the city also simmers with the heat of Sichuan cuisine — fiery hotpots, chili-drenched noodles, and numbing peppercorns. Balance it all with a quiet moment in a tea house, watching locals play mahjong under the shade of bamboo trees.
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5. Guilin A Chinese proverb says, “Guilin’s scenery is the best under heaven.” Glide along the Li River, where limestone peaks rise like dragon’s teeth, and discover the storybook village of Yangshuo — a haven for bikers, climbers, and dreamers alike.
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6. Hangzhou Once praised by Marco Polo as “Heaven on Earth,” Hangzhou enchants visitors with its mirror-like West Lake, willow-lined paths, and ancient pagodas. Sip Longjing green tea at a hillside plantation and let the city’s poetic calm wash over you.
7. Guangzhou Known as the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, Guangzhou offers a feast for the senses. From traditional dim sum brunches to futuristic towers like the Canton Tower, this city blends tradition with innovation — and always leaves you hungry for more.
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8. Lhasa Tucked high in the Himalayas, Lhasa radiates peace and spirituality. The Potala Palace stands as a beacon of Tibetan culture, while the chanting at Jokhang Temple fills the air with devotion. Every step here feels like a pilgrimage.
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9. Zhangjiajie Step into the world of Avatar in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where sandstone pillars pierce the clouds and glass bridges hover over deep valleys. It’s not just a destination — it’s an experience that defies imagination.
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10. Hong Kong Though unique in its identity, Hong Kong remains a spectacular gateway to China. Explore Victoria Peak for panoramic views, shop in Mong Kok’s street markets, and taste your way through the city’s Michelin-starred dim sum joints.
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
