Here is a 3-day travel guide to Kashgar, Xinjiang:
Day 1: Kashgar Old Town and Cultural Exploration
Kashgar Old Town: As the filming location of "The Kite Runner", Kashgar Old Town is filled with a rich cultural atmosphere. Strolling through the alleys of the old town, you can savor the ancient architecture, exquisite handicraft shops, and fragrant food stalls. The residents here are warm and hospitable, and tourists can chat with them at any time to learn about the history and culture of the old town.
Id Kah Mosque: The largest mosque in China, where tourists can appreciate the charm of religious culture.
Kashgar Night Market: Taste authentic local cuisine and experience Kashgar’s nightlife, making it a perfect end to the first day’s itinerary.
Day 2: Natural Scenery and Plateau Experience
White Sand Lake: The lake water is like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and white sand, creating a beautiful scene. The white sand by the lake is like snow, making it a paradise for photographers.
Karakul Lake: The deep blue lake water reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning landscape. Situated at the foot of the magnificent Mount Mushtag, the lake water is as clear as jade, resembling a pearl on the plateau.
Mount Mushtag: Known as the "Father of Ice Mountains", Mount Mushtag stands beside Karakul Lake, with majestic peaks and snow-capped summits that never melt, contrasting with the azure lake water to form a breathtaking scene.
Stone City: Standing on the ancient city wall, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Golden Grass Beach and feel the rich cultural history of Stone City.
Day 3: Deep Dive into Tajik Autonomous County and Panlong Ancient Road
Tajik Autonomous County: Visit the Tajik Autonomous County to experience its unique ethnic culture. It borders Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan, occupying a unique geographical and cultural position.
Panlong Ancient Road: The winding highway is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. On the mountain, you can get close to snow-capped mountains, and after crossing the mountain, you can enjoy a cup of hot coffee, adding a touch of comfort to your journey.
Bandir Blue Lake: It is a paradise for photographers, with picturesque lakes and mountains, making it a must-visit photo spot.
Precautions
Transportation: You can choose to take a train or plane from Urumqi to Kashgar, or you can stop over in Urumqi to experience the charm of this city.
Accommodation: Regular hotels in the urban area cost around 300 to 400 yuan, while homestays in the Old Town cost around 100 to 200 yuan per person. Reservations can be made in advance according to personal needs.
Food: Kashgar boasts a rich variety of cuisine, such as Grandfather’s Grandfather’s Father’s Naan, Desert Poplar-特色 Naan Pit Roast, Suleiman’s Little Grill Restaurant, etc., all of which are delicious treats not to be missed.
With this 3-day travel guide, tourists can fully experience Kashgar’s cultural customs, natural scenery, and plateau characteristics, leaving unforgettable travel memories.