At this rare surviving 1850s diggings site, guests walk among original mine shafts and learn how both European and Chinese miners worked the goldfields. Your guide explains the lives, hardships and remarkable successes of Bendigo’s early Chinese community and their role in shaping Dai Gum San (“Big Gold Mountain”). The stop also includes a hands-on gold panning activity using real gold-bearing paydirt, giving guests an authentic taste of gold-rush life.

Here guests step inside one of Australia’s tallest and most spectacular Gothic cathedrals. The guide shares the extraordinary story of Reverend Backhaus, whose unexpected wealth helped fund the project, and the Italian craftsmen who completed the intricate stonework. Visitors explore the soaring interior, admire stained glass and carvings, and enjoy time for photography inside this architectural masterpiece.

This visit offers a peaceful and inspiring experience at the largest Buddhist stupa in the Western world. Guests stroll the tranquil Peace Park, see sacred artworks and learn about the 1,000-year vision behind the Stupa’s construction. The highlight is viewing the world-renowned Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, making this stop a powerful blend of culture, spirituality and storytelling.