Kashi Kurgan County (Tajik Autonomous County of Tashkurgan) in Xinjiang is a tourist destination full of natural beauty and human history. Here are some main tourist attractions and recommended experiences:
1. Stone City Ruins
As a national AAAA scenic area, the Stone City Ruins are an important node on the ancient Silk Road, witnessing the comings and goings of countless merchants. The ruins are built on a hillside, and the city walls have stood the test of time for thousands of years. Standing on the ruins, one can overlook the snow-capped mountains and feel the profoundness of history and the grandeur of nature.
2. Mount Muztagh Ata
Mount Muztagh Ata, with an altitude of 7,509 meters, is a landmark peak on the Pamir Plateau. The grassland at the foot of the glacier contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped mountains in the distance, forming a picturesque scene. Here, tourists can experience the unique scenery of the plateau.
3. Panlong Ancient Road
The盘龙古道 (Panlong Ancient Road) is famous for its over 600 S-shaped curves and is a paradise for self-drive tours. The scenery along the way is magnificent, from the winding highway to the majestic Pamir Plateau, to the unique mountain landforms on both sides, making it a heaven for aerial photographers.
4. Baisha Lake
Known as the most beautiful lake on the Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake attracts countless tourists with its unique scenery of half desert and half lake. The color of the lake water changes with the weather, ranging from light blue, deep blue, Tiffany blue, and other colors, making it an excellent location for taking photos.
5. Other Recommended Attractions
Tasha Ancient Road: Located on the Pamir Plateau, it runs alongside the Tashkurgan River and the Yarkant River. The scenery along the way is worth stopping to enjoy.
Kezhou Glacier Park: The park has grasslands, forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and other landscapes. In particular, the spectacular sight of the Klazi Glacier is breathtaking.
Bandir Blue Lake: With clear water and beautiful surrounding scenery, it is a sacred place for taking photos.
Travel Tips:
When self-driving, please apply for a border defense certificate in advance and prepare necessary self-driving tools and oxygen tanks to cope with altitude sickness.
Please pay attention to safety when taking photos, especially when taking photos on the road and be vigilant of passing vehicles.
Local cuisine such as roast whole lamb, hand-seized rice, naan, and others are worth trying. Don’t forget to taste the Tajik traditional delicacies of toasted naan and milk tea.
In summary, Kashi Kurgan County in Xinjiang attracts countless tourists with its abundant natural landscapes and profound human history. Whether it’s a self-drive tour or a hiking trip, one can find their own unique experience here.