There are multiple convenient route options for tourism in Kashgar. Here are several classic routes recommended based on different timeframes and attractions arrangements:
1. In-depth Tour of Kashgar Old City (1-2 days)
Day 1: Depart from Kashgar city in the morning and spend the whole day exploring Kashgar Old City in depth. Enter the west side of the old city from the west gate, visit popular attractions such as Rainbow Alley and Cloth Bag Alley, and taste local specialties such as pot lamb meat and baked stuffed buns. In the afternoon, you can relax at Muchai Coffee and the century-old tea house. In the evening, taste various snacks in Khan Bazaar in the east side of the old city and visit Mamat’s old house.
Day 2 (optional): Continue exploring other areas of Kashgar Old City or visit Etigar Mosque to feel the solemnity of religious culture. Afterwards, you can visit the surrounding handicraft markets to purchase souvenirs.
2. Kashgar-Taxkorgan Plateau Scenery Tour (2-3 days)
Day 1: Depart from Kashgar to Taxkorgan County. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Aytak Glacier on the way. Upon arrival in Taxkorgan County, visit the Stone City ruins and experience the prosperity of Silk Road culture.
Day 2: Continue visiting attractions in Taxkorgan County such as the Panlong Ancient Road and Bandier Lake. The Panlong Ancient Road is famous for its over 600 bends and stunning visuals, making it a paradise for photographers.
Day 3 (optional): If time permits, visit Hongqilapu Port to experience the solemnity of the plateau post, or explore the Wakhan Corridor to experience the historical charm of the ancient Silk Road.
3. Kashgar Southern Xinjiang self-driving route (about 4 days)
Day 1: Spend a day exploring Kashgar city, including Kashgar Old City, Etigar Square, and the night market. Obtain a border defense permit in advance to prepare for the next itinerary.
Day 2: Depart from Kashgar to Taxkorgan County, enjoying the plateau scenery on the way. Upon arrival, visit the attractions in Taxkorgan County.
Day 3: Continue exploring Taxkorgan County or visit surrounding areas such as the Wakhan Corridor and Hongqilapu Port.
Day 4: Return to Kashgar, and optionally visit other attractions such as Baisha Lake and Mustaghe Glacier Park on the way back.
4. Six-day Kashgar itinerary (for a more comprehensive experience)
Day 1: Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Mustaghe Glacier Park – Taxkorgan County. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of lakes, mountains, and glaciers.
Day 2: Taxkorgan County – Wakhan Corridor – Hongqilapu Port -盘龙古道 (Panlong Ancient Road) – Bandier Lake – Taxkorgan County. Deeply experience the plateau scenery and Silk Road culture.
Day 3: Taxkorgan County – Stone City – Karakul Lake – Kashgar. Visit the ancient city ruins and enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Day 4: Kashgar – Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Exposition Park – Yarkand Royal Palace – Shache. Experience the charm of intangible cultural heritage.
Day 5: You can choose to visit other attractions such as Atush Tianmen.
Day 6: Free activities in Kashgar city, purchase souvenirs, and prepare for the return trip
The above routes can be flexibly adjusted according to personal interests and time. During the trip, it is recommended to plan the itinerary in advance and book accommodation and transportation to ensure a smooth journey.