November is a great time to visit Kashi. At this time, autumn is in full swing, and the trees in the city and surrounding areas turn yellow, contrasting beautifully with the ancient city architecture, allowing visitors to experience the unique western Chinese customs. Here are detailed travel tips for visiting Kashi in November:
I. Main Attractions Recommendations
Kashi Ancient City: Every corner of the ancient city is filled with mystery and vitality. It is recommended to visit over two days. The opening ceremony is held twice a day, at 10:00 (or 10:30) and 18:00, and it’s lively and bustling
. The buildings, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine within the old city all carry rich historical and cultural connotations. You can take a leisurely stroll and feel the traditional Uyghur culture.
The eastern district is more lively, with the Kashgar TV Tower, Wulanduo Coffee, and Sky Garden.
The western district is more culturally oriented, with Bagui Alley, Rainbow Alley, and Oil Painting Street.
Wensu Grand Canyon: Here, red rocks are like fire, and it is difficult for vegetation to grow. Red cliffs and cliffs, as well as various stone pillars and peaks, constitute the unique Danxia geological wonders in western China.
Karakul Lake: A beautiful lake on the Pamir Plateau, with an altitude of about 3,600 meters, surrounded by ice mountains. The color of the lake water changes with the seasons and time, creating a breathtaking view.
Mushtagh Peak: Known as the "Father of Ice Mountains", with an altitude of 7,509 meters, it boasts continuous snowy mountains and is breathtaking. After November, the lake near it will freeze, forming a unique landscape.
Baisha Lake: The pearl of the Pamir Plateau, with azure lake water reflecting snowy mountains and blue skies, creating a dreamlike landscape.
Id Kah Mosque: One of China’s large mosques, solemn and majestic, allowing one to feel the power of religious culture.
Xiangfei Garden: A national 4A-level tourist attraction with beautiful scenery and rich folk customs. Every day, a grand "Xiangfei Greeting" performance and folk wedding performances are held here, making it an excellent place to experience Kashgar’s folk culture.
II. Culinary Experience
In Kashgar, be sure to try traditional delicacies such as grilled mutton kebabs, grilled naan, hand-grabbed rice, and grilled stuffed buns. You can also visit Hetian Night Market or the area near Kashgar Grand Bazaar to taste various Xinjiang specialty snacks such as hand-pulled noodles and oil towers.
III. Accommodation Suggestions
There are various accommodation options in Kashgar’s downtown area. You can experience the atmosphere of the old city by staying in a characteristic homestay within the old city, or choose a hotel in the downtown area with convenient transportation and complete facilities. November is the off-season, and prices are more affordable. Hotels with underfloor heating are an even warmer choice in winter.
IV. Sample Itinerary Planning
Day 1: Arrive in Kashgar, check into the hotel, rest for a while, and then visit Kashgar Old City, watch the opening ceremony, and taste local cuisine.
Day 2: Visit the Id Kah Mosque, then go shopping at Kashgar Grand Bazaar, and enjoy the night view of the old city at night.
Day 3: Depart for the Pamir Plateau, enjoy the scenery of Aoyitake Red Valley on the way, arrive at Baisha Lake, and stay the night in Taxkorgan County.
Day 4: Challenge the盘龙 Ancient Road, visit Bandier Blue Lake, then admire Karakul Lake and Mushtagh Peak, and return to Kashgar at night.
Day 5: Visit the city, such as East Lake Park, and then prepare for the return trip.
V. Travel Precautions
Kashgar’s climate is dry, so it is important to drink plenty of water and use moisturizing skincare products to prevent skin dryness, chapped lips, and other issues.
Although the sunshine duration in Kashgar shortens in November, the ultraviolet rays are still relatively strong. Sunscreen measures such as applying sunscreen lotion and wearing sunglasses should be taken.
Warm clothing such as cotton-padded jackets and winter coats should be prepared to cope with the cold weather in Kashgar.
In summary, traveling to Kashgar in November allows one to experience the unique Western Regions’ customs and rich historical and cultural connotations. During the tour, attention should be paid to issues such as climate and sunscreen to ensure a pleasant journey.