Can I get a year Tourist Visa

Hi there, I am leaving the Uk to go travelling for 6 months in January. I will be in India for 2 months and intend to travel around china and surrounding areas for the remaining 4 months.
I have been told that i cannot get a 1 year L type with multiple entries as a tourist, can i get 6 months with multiple entry, or do i have to get 3-6 months double entry?

Thanks alot