Traveling to Kashgar in December is an excellent opportunity to experience exotic customs and winter scenery. Here are some detailed travel suggestions:
Attraction recommendations
Kashgar Old City:
Walking through Kashgar Old City, feeling the intertwining of ancient and modern times, as if stepping into the stories of One Thousand and One Nights.
The eastern district of the old city is bustling, while the western district is a residential area for locals, suitable for a leisurely stroll without the crowds, perfect for taking photos and checking in.
Don’t miss the opening ceremony at 10 am. Dancers dressed in elaborate costumes dance to lively drumbeats, as if instantly transporting you back to the ancient Silk Road.
Taxkorgan County and Pamir Plateau:
Head to Taxkorgan County and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau along the way. The Baisha Lake is dreamlike and a paradise for photographers.
盘龙古道 (Winding Ancient Road):
Visit the盘龙古道 (Winding Ancient Road) and feel the profound meaning of ‘having taken all the detours in life today, from now on, life is all smooth sailing’.
Other attractions:
Xiangfei Garden: Worth visiting attractions include the Xiangfei Stone and Xiangfei’s former residence. The colorful cemetery is perfect for taking photos.
Pantuocheng: Suitable for tourists interested in human history, where you can learn about Ban Chao’s life and his history of fighting against the Huns.
Kashgar Museum: A great place to learn about the history of Kashgar and the Silk Road.
Food recommendations
Wandering through the alleys of Kashgar Old City and tasting local specialty foods such as baked stuffed buns and hand-grabbed rice will delight your taste buds with a feast.
Pot meat is also a must-try delicacy. Tender mutton is stewed until soft and tender in an enamel pot, with delicious soup and meat aroma.
Accommodation and clothing suggestions
Accommodation: It is recommended to stay in the downtown area, which is bustling and cost-effective. There are fewer accommodation options within Kashgar Old City. Consider hotels in the downtown area, such as NEO Home Inn by Wanda, which has a superior location and convenient transportation.
Clothing: The temperature in Kashgar in December is low, ranging from -10℃ to 6℃. It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as down jackets, cotton-padded clothes, thermal underwear sets, and bring hats, gloves, and other warm-keeping equipment.
Precautions
Pay attention to altitude sickness and be prepared in advance.
Tickets may not be required for attractions such as Kashgar Old City, but some attractions, such as Xiangfei Garden, have ticket fees, which need to be understood and prepared for in advance.
Although tourism in Kashgar in December is in the off-season, it is a great time to experience its unique charm and customs. Whether wandering through the streets and alleys of Kashgar Old City or heading to Taxkorgan County to admire the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau, both will leave a deep impression on you.