The journey from Kashgar to Tashkurgan is an excellent experience to explore the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau.
Main routes and attractions include:
Route: Starting from Kashgar, passing through Shufu County, Wupar, Aktao, and then to Baisha Lake, Mount Muztagh Ata, Tahman Wetland, and finally arriving in Tashkurgan.
Main attractions:
Baisha Lake: Known as the blue gemstone on the plateau, with clear lake water and sand dunes shining with a metallic光泽 in the sunshine, it is a paradise for photographers.
Mount Muztagh Ata: A landmark landscape of the Pamir Plateau with an altitude of over 7,500 meters, it is known as the ‘Father of Ice Mountains’. You can experience the magnificence and mystery of nature up close.
Karakul Lake: The plateau version of the ‘Mirror of the Sky’, with a calm lake surface reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful.
Kyrgyzstan-China Khunjerab Pass: The world’s highest border gate at an altitude of 5,100 meters, it is an international passage to Pakistan with strong winds, walking through it feels like challenging the limits of life.
Stone City: Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters in Tashkurgan, it is a living history textbook telling the ancient stories of the Silk Road.
Panlong Ancient Road: A 36-kilometer mountain road with 639 turns and a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters, it is an excellent challenge for driving enthusiasts.
Precautions along the way:
Border defense certificate application: Go to window 70 at the Kashgar Administrative Service Center and bring your ID card to apply. The validity period is 7 days.
Material preparation: It is recommended to bring high-energy foods such as beef jerky and chocolate, as well as hot water, as there are few dining options along the way.
Anti-skid chains: The Aktao checkpoint will check for anti-skid chains in winter. It is recommended to prepare them in advance.
Altitude sickness: Places like the Muztagh Glacier are at high altitudes. Be careful not to engage in strenuous activities to avoid shortness of breath and dizziness.
The journey from Kashgar to Tashkurgan is not only a visual feast but also a spiritual baptism. Here, you can experience the magnificence and mystery of nature up close and also travel through time to listen to the ancient stories of the Silk Road.