2024 Tashkurgan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Get your money's worth by visiting both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one trip

Xinjiang flights are so expensive! Of course, you should visit both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one go 😏 👉 This route takes a total of 13 days (including 2 days for round-trip transportation and 1 flexible day 🉑 for adjustments), covering the Northern Xinjiang Ili Loop ➕ Southern Xinjiang Kashgar/Pamir Plateau ⛰️ Suitable for those with tight schedules who want to check off both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one go 💖 Not for special forces❗ Not for special forces❗ Not for special forces❗ Important things are said three times! 【📸 13-day Northern ➕ Southern Xinjiang Route】 (Route map on p2) Day 1: Various locations → Urumqi, stay in Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi → Kuitun, via S101 National Defense Highway, stay in Kuitun Day 3: Kuitun → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Yining, stay in Yining Day 4: Yining → Tekes → Kalajun, stay in Kalajun Grassland Cabin Day 5: Kalajun Hiking → Tekes, stay in Tekes Day 6: Tekes → Nalati, stay in Nalati Day 7: Deep tour of three routes in Nalati Grassland, stay in Nalati Town Day 8: Nalati → Kuqa, via the southern section of Duku Highway (super beautiful!), stay in Kuqa Day 9: Flexible day in Kuqa (prices here are super low!) or continue the journey, stay in Kuqa Day 10: Kuqa → Kashgar, stay in Kashgar Day 11: Kashgar → Glacier Park → White Sand Lake → Tashkurgan, stay in Tashkurgan Day 12: Tashkurgan → Kashgar, stay in Kashgar Day 13: Kashgar → Various locations 【⚠️ Route Notes】 ❶ In Xinjiang, it gets dark around 10:30 PM, the time difference will affect your schedule, and the attractions are far apart with long journeys, so be sure to leave a flexible day for adjustments❗ ❷ If you feel tired during the trip, you can rest in Kuqa on Day 9. The reason for recommending Kuqa is: prices here are really low 😭, I booked a four-star hotel with buffet breakfast and lunch 🍜 for 290R. This is the birthplace of 'Naan', and there are many nearby attractions, making it a good place for a mid-journey rest 🌿 ❸ S101 National Defense Highway: Worth a visit! Here's a navigation route for you 👉 'Urumqi → Qigu Bridge → Hundred Mile Danxia → Kentes Reservoir → Lujiaowan → Anjihai Grand Canyon', you can choose attractions based on time and road conditions, and if you encounter road closures, you can directly get on the highway❗ ❹ Day 3 Sayram Lake ➕ Guozigou is highly recommended ❤️ If you have enough time, it's suggested to stay for 2 days, if only 1 day, be sure to start early as the journey is long❗ ❺ Note ⚠️ For the Guozigou Bridge viewing platform, be sure to navigate to 'Guozigou Viewing Resort' to reach it, otherwise, you will directly get on the highway 🛣️ ❻ Kalajun is the pinnacle in my heart, it's recommended to stay for 2 days 🙈 But make sure to open it correctly ⭕ 👣 On the first day, go directly to 'Jiasagan' and stay in a grassland cabin or yurt 👣 On the second day, hike from Flower Terrace → Falcon Terrace (highly recommended❗), about 5/6 km, mostly boardwalk, beginner-friendly, be sure to bring a raincoat and wear a windbreaker ❼ Nalati is beautiful, but crowded 😥 Self-driving is 🉑, if you take the sightseeing bus, it's not recommended ❌ The internet-famous bridge is really hard to rate ❽ Kashgar → Kuqa can be chosen by train/plane Limited space, specific car rental ➕ transportation guide in the next article 😭

A summer trip to Xinjiang is not complete without a visit to the Pamir Plateau

👉 Starting from Kashgar and following National Highway 314, you will pass through plateaus, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lakes, all the way to the westernmost point of our country, the Khunjerab Pass. This most beautiful border corridor is the Karakoram Highway, also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway. One-third of it is in China (416 kilometers), and two-thirds is in Pakistan (616 kilometers). 🚘 Self-drive route: Kashgar — Oytagh — White Sand Lake — Karakul Lake — Muztagh Ata — Tashkurgan Wetland — Tashkurgan County — Stone City Ruins — Jincaotan — Khunjerab Port 👉 Here you can find the eagles of the Pamir Plateau, visitors on the ice mountains, the origin history of the Tajik people, the ancient capital of the Pando nation 'Stone City', and the lush 'Jincaotan'. 👉 There is also the 'Tashkurgan Ancient Path' leading to the ancient kingdom of Yarkent in Shache; the 'Wakhan Corridor Road' that lies like a giant dragon on the land; and the birthplace of 'Why Are the Flowers So Red', Kaner Well Village. ⚠️ National Highway 314, the 'China-Pakistan Friendship Highway', requires a border pass in Taxkorgan County ⚠️ At the Bulungkol fork, the road to 'Muztagh Village' and its volcano crater requires a border pass ⚠️ In Tashkurgan County, the fork to the 'Tashkurgan Ancient Path' is a shortcut from Taxkorgan to Shache ⚠️ From Tashkurgan County towards Khunjerab, the fork to the 'Wakhan Corridor Road', also known as the Panlong Ancient Path, continues to Wakhan Township and then to 'Kaner Well Village', eventually returning to Tashkurgan County. ⚠️ Khunjerab requires a border pass. Khunjerab Port

I waited a year just for the Xinjiang of May to July, here's an ultra-detailed guide!

Life is a wilderness, not a track, hearing a thousand times is not as good as seeing once. Here's a route reference D1: From various places, arrive in Urumqi D2: Urumqi—Sayram Lake—Guozigou Bridge—Ili D3: Ili—Xia'ta—Tekes Hexagonal Town D4: Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Gongliu D5: Gongliu—Qiaxi—Nalati—Northern Section of Duku Highway—Kuqa D6: Kuqa—Kashgar—Kashgar Old City D7: Kashgar—Bai Sha Lake—Muztagh D8: Kashgar—Turpan D9: Turpan—Kumtag Desert—Urumqi Precautions: Remember to rent a car in advance on Ctrip or other reliable platforms before departure, it is recommended to place an order on the platform for security. (Insurance is a must because the distances between each scenic spot in Xinjiang are far, and the driving distance is long, in case of emergency) Xinjiang has a large temperature difference between day and night, prepare 1-2 pieces of thick clothing.! For the long self-driving journey, remember to go to the supermarket to purchase some food for when you get hungry on the road and to replenish energy. Remember to bring your ID card and student ID, if you go to southern Xinjiang or some scenic spots in Kanas, you need to apply for a border pass, which can be done at a nearby police station. Travel tips and outfit suggestions: 1. Remember to wear brightly colored clothes on the grasslands for better photos (such as yellow, pink, purple, etc.). 2. You must visit the pine trees at Sayram Lake, although it's tiring and you may want to give up many times, as long as you persist to the top you will find it's all worth it as you can overlook the entire panorama of Sayram Lake and Guozigou Bridge. 3. Bring some sunglasses and hats for sun protection and also as a fashionable item for better photos (girls can buy a triangular scarf to wear on their head for amazing photos). ps: 'Northern Xinjiang for scenery, Southern Xinjiang for culture', the moment you arrive in Xinjiang, your story begins. Every moment is like a movie playing, the beauty of Xinjiang, no words in this world are enough to describe it.

Crossing more than half of China, in pursuit of the gentleness and strength of southern Xinjiang

This is my first time in Xinjiang. Starting from Shenzhen and crossing more than half of China, it took almost eight hours to reach the beautiful southern Xinjiang without a direct flight! Xinjiang has a pleasant scenery. The end of May and June in Xinjiang is even more beautiful, with a pleasant climate, cool and comfortable, and plenty of sunshine. It's just a bit dry, but overall it's very comfortable! The itinerary is as follows: First stop: Baisa Lake Baisa Lake is a must-visit place in southern Xinjiang. The lake is clear and bright, presenting a dazzling sapphire color. The surrounding white sand peaks are also spectacular, as if you are in a fairy tale world. Second stop: Pamir Plateau On the way to Taxian, you will cross the Pamir Plateau. The mountains here are all made of stone piles. Although there are fewer green trees in southern Xinjiang, you can occasionally see lush oases between the sand and stone mountains. Yaks and sheep are leisurely walking in it, feeling the gentleness and strength of nature. Third stop: Mustag Peak Snow Mountain You must not miss the spectacular Mustag Peak Snow Mountain! This peak is the highest in southern Xinjiang and one of the most beautiful snow mountains in China! The snow mountain stands between the sky and the earth, as white as jade, giving people a fairy-tale feeling. Fourth stop: Bandir Blue Lake Bandir Blue Lake is one of the more beautiful and bluer lakes than Baisa Lake, and there is no admission fee! The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. If the sky is clear, the scenery will be even more magnificent! The Kashgar region in southern Xinjiang is really beautiful. One trip may not be enough, this place is worth visiting again!

Touring Southern Xinjiang | Heading to the Pamir Plateau | Pamir always needs to be seen once

Some places, just hearing the name makes people love it, and Pamir is one of them. This land carries the snow-capped Muztagh, Gongger Jiubie Peak; it has Karakul Lake, White Sand Lake; there are Wakhan Corridor, Hongqirafu Port, and all these are centered on Tashkurgan, this border county town at the junction of three countries in western China. In terms of scenery, honestly, I think it may be slightly inferior to the Tibetan plateau landscape, but in a geographical sense, this is a place that must be visited once in a lifetime. And the Taerman Wetland is the place I think can best showcase the scenery of Pamir. Here, the blue sky, white clouds, snow-capped mountains, rivers and grasslands are perfectly integrated, presenting the most authentic plateau landscape. It is hard to find another picture that can simultaneously display snow-capped glaciers, red ridges, green pastures and gurgling streams. Each layer is a unique landscape and landform, but together they elevate this stunning scenery again. Southern Xinjiang is mostly desert, with a dry climate, and the Pamir Plateau is the same, but the Taerman Wetland is a rare plateau pasture. Muztagh Peak, known as the father of glaciers, has very developed glaciers. The huge ice tongues scatter down from the mountain, and the distant snow-capped mountains are Gongger Peak and Gongger Jiubie Peak, which are also the highest peaks on the west side of the Kunlun Mountains. "Today I have walked all the detours, and from now on my life is smooth", this sentence is absolutely a textbook-level tourism slogan. Whether my future is smooth, I don't know, but in Pamir, I have indeed walked a lot of detours these days. There are many other places worth checking in, such as the Apricot Flower Village in Datong Township, the signboard of the Wakhan Corridor, the Bandir Blue Lake on the Panlong Back Tower County Road, etc. But I think all the attractions are more meaningful because they are all part of the Pamir Plateau. Pamir is always worth exploring.

If you haven't been to Southern Xinjiang, you won't know the beauty of Xinjiang - the Pamir Plateau

The mysterious Pamir. If you haven't been to Xinjiang, you won't know the vastness of China; if you haven't been to Southern Xinjiang, you won't know the beauty of Xinjiang. Southern Xinjiang is not only a place to see culture, but also scenery. Southern Xinjiang has the White Sand Lake, which is half white sand and half lake, the majestic Gongger Peak and Jiubie Peak, the Muztagh Peak known as the 'Father of Ice Mountains', the rugged Panlong Ancient Road, the Bandir Blue Lake, the Yarkand River, and the exotic Kashgar Old City. The snow mountains of the Pamir Plateau are so close that they seem to be within reach, and the emerald-like lakes change with the weather and angle at any time, everything is so beautiful that it makes people intoxicated ☺️ This winter, come to Southern Xinjiang for a visit.

Every person who travels to Xinjiang will eventually return to southern Xinjiang

1. Must-visit attractions in southern Xinjiang: 1️⃣ Kashgar: The largest Aitigaer Mosque in Xinjiang, the exotic Gaotai residential houses, the unique Karakuri Lake, and the Mustag Peak it reflects, as well as the highest-altitude port - Khunjerab Pass. Its unique Western Region cultural atmosphere, desolate and atmospheric plateau scenery, tall and pure snow mountain scenery, all touch every inch of your nerves. 2️⃣ Aksu: Aksu has played a huge role since ancient times. At its most glorious, the Aksu region was an important post on the "Ancient Silk Road" connecting Central Asia, West Asia and the Central Plains. 3️⃣ Hotan: Hotan is famous for its jade, but as an important town on the southern line of the ancient Silk Road, it has left many ruins such as the Niya ruins, the Aksu ancient city, the Mailik Awati ancient city, and the Karadun ancient city; the ancient woodblock prints, silk carpet fragments, gold Buddha statues, mummies, ancient coins, etc. unearthed here all shine with the brilliance of ancient civilization. 4️⃣ Bayingolin: Most of Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture is located at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains and the north and northeast edge of the Tarim Basin, with a small part located at the southeast edge of the Tarim Basin and between the Kunlun Mountains and the Altun Mountains. Here, there are not only rich alpine grasslands, but also beautiful Bosten Lake, and the most mysterious and desolate Taklamakan in China.

South Xinjiang | Shitoucheng | Taxian's April gift to us

Perhaps as a gift for those who came from afar, Ta County had a heavy snowfall in early April. Overnight, it became a kingdom of ice and snow. This surprise is so lovely, we love it. The ancient stone city, believed to be the capital of the "Qiepantu Kingdom" established by the Tajik ancestors in the early AD, has a history of more than 2,000 years. Although only ruins remain of this stone castle, it is still a source of pride for the Tajik people. Thousands of years ago, on the barren Pamir Plateau, the Tajik ancestors used the hard stones around them to build this impregnable capital, which was already a remarkable achievement in itself. In the years that followed, this place has always been the center of politics, economy, culture, transportation, and military on the Pamir Plateau, and an important core location on the Silk Road. Xuanzang and Faxian both propagated Buddhism here, and in the history of Buddhism, Shipton City has left many indelible marks. I think that the stone city under the sunlight should be full of traces of time, just like many ruins I have visited along the way, with unrecognizable murals and broken objects that have long lost their owners, leaving only historical blanks for us to imagine. And the stone city in front of us is covered with a heavy snow, hiding all the dusty regrets. As far as the eye can see, there is only vast whiteness and dazzling light refracted, decorating this place with a sacred and elegant beauty. Those old wounds that were once exposed have long disappeared without a trace. The snow-capped mountains stand still, and the melting ice begins to reflect the real world. In the eyes of nature, human history is just a fleeting moment. And without human history, how much more boring would it be? Address: No. 43 Tashikuergan Road, Tashikuergan County. Tip: The beef hotpot in Taxian County is delicious. If you stay in Taxian County for a night, you can give it a try.

Xinjiang Muztag Peak | It is finally arrived at the Pamirs is finally arrived in the Pamirs, the westernmost border of the Chinese border, is also the southernmost coordinates of this Xinjiang road trip. The car is driving in the borderland, walking in the thin air of the Pamirs, sleeping night under the Muztag Peak, suddenly feels that those who have been quiet for thousands of years, it seems that they have never been clean The land has happened. Only plateaus, snow mountains, lake glaciers, into eternity. Tips

What kind of people would like snow mountains?

K2 is the second highest peak in the world, located on the border of China and Pakistan. 1. Recommended attractions: - K2 Base Camp: This is the starting point for climbers to challenge K2, and it is also a good place to feel the charm of the peak at close range. Here you can see climbers from all over the world preparing, and the base camp is surrounded by magnificent mountains, vast grasslands and clear streams, and the natural scenery is beautiful. - Muztagh Ata: Not far from K2, it is 7509 meters above sea level and is known as the "Father of Icebergs". You can enjoy the spectacular glacier scenery, the huge glacier winding down like a silver dragon, shining dazzling light in the sun. There is also a rich plateau ecosystem around it, which is a good place to watch wildlife and plateau plants. - Tashkurgan Stone City: An important post on the ancient Silk Road, it was once the royal city of Puli, one of the 36 countries in the Western Regions. The stone city is built on the mountain, and the city walls, forts, houses and other sites are scattered, as if telling the glory and vicissitudes of the past. Standing on the stone city, you can overlook the whole view of Tashkurgan County, and the distant snow-capped mountains and grasslands reflect each other, forming a beautiful picture. 2. Best travel time: - The climate conditions of K2 are harsh. The lowest temperature on the top of the mountain in winter can reach -50°C, and the maximum wind speed can reach more than 25 meters/second, which is not suitable for tourism. Climbing activities are usually arranged to enter the mountain from May to early June, and start climbing from July to September, but for ordinary tourists, going there in summer can better appreciate the surrounding scenery, but also be prepared to deal with high altitude and complex climate. 3. How to get there: - If you depart from China, you need to arrive in Kashgar, Xinjiang first. You can choose to fly to Kashgar Airport, and then go to Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County and other places by road. After arriving in Taxian, go to the relevant attractions near K2. - To go from Pakistan, you can first arrive in Islamabad, then transfer to Skardu, and then go to the K2 area by land. 4. Precautions: - Prevention of altitude sickness: The altitude of the K2 area is relatively high, and tourists may have altitude sickness. Take preventive measures against altitude sickness in advance, such as taking anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance, maintaining good rest and diet, etc. In the itinerary, gradually adapt to the high-altitude environment and avoid strenuous exercise. - Changeable climate: The climate in this area is complex and changeable, the weather conditions are unstable, and bad weather often occurs. Tourists need to bring enough warm clothes, windproof and waterproof equipment, etc., to cope with possible low temperature, rain and snow and other weather. - Safety guarantee: K2 has steep terrain and complex surrounding environment, and there are certain safety risks. Tourists should strictly abide by the regulations and instructions of the scenic spot during the tour, do not leave the designated tour area without authorization, and avoid accidents.

Walk the most winding road, Panlong Ancient Road.

Panlong Ancient Road, a winding road that runs through the Pamir Plateau, is about 36km long and has 639 bends. This trip is not only a self-driving challenge, but also a spiritual baptism. The scenery along the way can only be deeply experienced by those who have experienced it. 🚏Tour navigation and route: The starting point is directly navigated to the direction of Hongqilafu, and drive south along G314. It only takes 30 minutes to drive from Taxian. Drive to the uphill section, first pass the Shuixiu Viewing Platform, and then to Dapanlong and Xiaopanlong. The whole journey is about 1.5 hours by car, among which the Longji Mountain Footpath in Dapanlong is the essence of Panlong Ancient Road. 📸Photo check-in points: There are many check-in points on the hillside of Dapanlong, especially where there are many people, it is the most popular check-in location. On the viewing platform of Longji Mountain Footpath, you can overlook the panoramic view of Dapanlong. In addition, the parking lot after Xiaopanlong is finished can also take the slogan "Today I walked all the bends...". 🌟Itinerary route and highlights: A 5-day tour of the Pamir Plateau can be customized, including attractions such as Baisha Lake, Mustag Peak Glacier Park, Taxian, and Panlong Ancient Road. Within five days, you can experience the characteristics of South Xinjiang in autumn, such as lakes, deserts, roads, and Populus euphratica forests. 📝Note tips: Panlong Ancient Road is located in the border area and a border defense certificate is required in advance. There are more tourists during the Mid-Autumn National Day holiday, it is recommended to book accommodation and transportation in advance. The mountain road is winding, please be prepared for motion sickness. In addition, the altitude is relatively high, and oxygen tanks should be prepared to prevent high anti. At the same time, pay attention to sun protection, warmth, and moisturizing. Please check the local weather and road conditions before departure to ensure safe travel.

The Stone City Ruins in Xinjiang date back 2,500 years and were a major transportation hub on the ancient Silk Road. The Stone City Ruins are 3,100 meters above sea level.

2024.9.24 The Stone City Ruins in Xinjiang date back 2,500 years and were a major transportation hub on the ancient Silk Road. The Stone City Ruins are 3,100 meters above sea level. The structure can be roughly divided into two parts: the inner city and the outer city. The inner city is relatively well-preserved. From a distance, the Stone City is a barren, towering fortress, forming a spectacular palace and city wall. The city wall is more than 20 meters high and is majestic. The rest of the buildings have all collapsed, and the ground is covered with a small number of boulders and earthen walls. From this, we can vaguely see the majesty of the ancient castle...🍀

Explore Southern Xinjiang

Southern Xinjiang · Xinjiang 🛬【Itinerary】: Southern Xinjiang Pamir Plateau 7 days 6 nights ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Carefully selected classic and niche spots in Southern Xinjiang · Kashgar Old City/White Sand Lake/Karakul Lake/Dragon Ancient Road/Pamir Scenic Area/Zepu Golden Poplar Forest/Dawakun Desert/Muztagh Ata Glacier Park, featuring a variety of stunning landscapes including mountains, lakes, glaciers, ancient cities, deserts, poplar forests, and the Pamir Plateau. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Lamb skewers/Baked buns/Hand-pulled rice/Big plate chicken/Mixed noodles/Naan-wrapped meat/Pigeon soup/Yogurt dumplings... 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Comfortable accommodations throughout the trip, ensuring not only a fun experience but also a restful sleep. 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Private small group tours with a variety of vehicle options to choose from, compliant vehicles ensuring safe travel, exclusive services throughout the journey, local guides to help you explore Xinjiang, and a 24-hour online concierge to address all your needs during the trip. 🧡【Tips】: Southern Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night, and the climate varies greatly by season and altitude. It is recommended to bring appropriate clothing according to the season and itinerary, and to be mindful of sun protection, cold protection, and altitude sickness.

2 humps camels seen from Karakoram Highway

A must-visit for self-driving trips, the Pamir Plateau, known as the "ancestor of mountains and source of rivers," is definitely worth it!

The Pamir Plateau is located in the western part of Xinjiang, China, and spans China, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. With an average altitude of over 4,500 meters, the main peaks are all above 6,000 meters. The world's second highest peak, K2, with an altitude of 8,611 meters, and the Mustagh Ata, known as the father of glaciers, are all located on the Pamir Plateau. The Pamir Plateau is composed of several groups of mountains and the wide valleys and basins between the mountains. Five huge mountain ranges—the Himalayas, the Karakoram, the Kunlun Mountains, the Tianshan Mountains, and the Hindu Kush—meet here and twist into a huge mountain knot. Because of this terrain, the Pamir Plateau is known as the "ancestor of mountains." The melting snow of the glaciers forms the source of the three major water systems, namely the Tarim River to the east, the Indus River to the south, and the Amu Darya to the west. Therefore, the Pamir Plateau is also known as the "source of rivers." Between the towering peaks are narrow and deep valleys and basins. After being filled with melted snow, high-altitude lakes are formed in the depressions, basins, and dammed areas, nourishing the lush water plants. This is a paradise for wild animals such as highland goats and a pasture for nomadic people to survive. Driving from Kashgar to the Pamir Plateau is a wonderful journey to witness magical landforms and natural landscapes. We can see the "Quicksand River," the hometown of "Sha Wujing" in "Journey to the West," and the current White Sand Lake. We can also see the "Giant Dragon Pool" Karakul Lake in Tang Seng's mouth, and the "Father of Snow Mountain" Mustagh Ata. There are red mountains in Oytag, no wonder some people say that the essence of the scenery from Kashgar to Taxkorgan is on the road. To appreciate such beautiful scenery, remember to apply for a border pass and bring your ID card. There will be checkpoints on the road, and the speed of passage is still very fast if you cooperate actively~

Tashkurgan, how many more surprises do you have that I don't know about?! Tashkurgan Wetland is so beautiful!

Who would have thought that there is such a beautiful secret place on the way from Tashkurgan to Kashgar. The beauty of the snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and rivers intertwined like an oil painting suddenly appeared before my eyes. This is Tashkurgan Wetland, a low-key but beautiful place that is not self-aware. Tashkurgan Wetland is located 32 kilometers north of Tashkurgan County and is part of the Aral National Wetland Park on the Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang. It is the largest grassland base in Tashkurgan County and is also known as the Golden Pasture. There is a dedicated viewing platform here, which is convenient for parking and viewing the beautiful scenery. Be sure to climb to the second floor of the viewing platform to overlook the vast beauty of the wetland. The green grassy wetland grassland is close by, and the endless snow-capped mountains are far away. It's really a good place to take pictures. You can bring a drone to take aerial photos, and it is very convenient to take off and land on the viewing platform. We didn't expect to encounter such a beautiful place on the way, and the drone was put away more strictly and it was not easy to take it out, but the photos taken with the mobile phone are also very beautiful. What is surprising is that there are original cultural and creative shops, coffee bookstores, and handmade milk tea shops on the second floor of the viewing platform. The cultural and creative products inside are relatively complete and beautiful, and I can't help but chop my hands and buy, buy, buy... Tashkurgan, how many more surprises do you have that I don't know about?! Location: China-Pakistan Highway, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, navigate to "Tashkurgan Wetland Park Viewing Platform", only 30 kilometers from Tashkurgan. Ticket: Free Parking: Free Altitude: 3050 meters

South Xinjiang self-driving loop, the most beautiful scenery is on the road.

Finally arrived at Kashgar City and Kashgar Prefecture, which I have been thinking about. I spent two days in Kashgar City to eat and shop. I have to say that the food here is dazzling, and the fruits are also very delicious. You can't buy them when you return to the mainland. From Kashgar to Taxkorgan, drive on National Highway 314, which is the essence of the South Xinjiang trip. On the first day, I passed by Lake Baisha and Karakul Lake Scenic Area. The former is a highlight of the White Sand Mountain on the opposite bank, while the latter is the best place to view Muztagh Ata. Of course, the weather has a great impact on the lake. On the third day of the return trip, the weather was very good, and these two lakes were simply beautiful. On the second day, I started from Taxkorgan and drove to the Wakhan Corridor. Then I took the Panlong Ancient Road and returned to Taxkorgan via Bandir Blue Lake. The best viewing point of the Panlong Ancient Road is the plank road when going down the mountain, and Bandir Blue Lake also changes color with the light. The scenery along the way is also great. On the third day, I returned from Taxkorgan to Kashgar. On this day, I went to the Muztagh Ata Glacier Park, which has an altitude of 4600 meters. Children may feel a little uncomfortable. After a day of rest in Kashgar, I went to Yarkant. Yarkant has many ancient sites, and the grilled pigeons are a must. It's a pity that the Yarkant Royal Palace is closed. The whole trip took 10 days, and the road conditions were pretty good. It is definitely a self-driving route with both cultural and natural landscapes.

Pamir, Xinjiang | A beautiful painting between heaven and earth | Mysterious and magnificent.

| A beautiful painting between heaven and earth | Mysterious and magnificent. The Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang is a magnificent place located on the western border of China. It is a masterpiece of nature and a paradise for explorers and photography enthusiasts. Here, towering snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands are intertwined, like a beautiful painting between heaven and earth. The sky on the Pamir Plateau is clear and distant, and the white clouds are leisurely, as if within reach. In the distance, the majestic peaks such as Muztagh Ata stand tall, they are covered with snow all year round, and they are silver-clad, which is a challenge and beauty that climbers and photographers dream of. On the Pamir Plateau, you can experience a transcendent tranquility and purity. In summer, the grassland is full of flowers, colorful, and herds of cattle and sheep, forming a vivid pastoral scenery. In winter, the snow covers the whole plateau and turns into a silver world, quiet and solemn. Pamir is not only a treasure trove of natural landscapes, but also a meeting point of diverse cultures. There are many ethnic groups living here, such as Tajiks and Kirgiz. Their traditional lifestyles and customs add more humanistic colors to this land. In Pamir, you can feel the blending of different cultures and experience a unique ethnic style. The Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang is a place where people's hearts can be purified. It attracts every visitor with its unique natural scenery and mysterious atmosphere, and becomes an eternal memory in people's hearts. Pamir tickets are about 40 yuan, and the interval car is 11 yuan. Pamir Plateau Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Alar National Wetland Park

I had a great time in Taxkorgan County and I'd like to share my travel tips with you.

Preparation: Apply for a border pass in advance. You can apply at a police station in Kashgar, or at the service area of the glacier park in Shufu County or Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture. Bring a down jacket or a thick coat, an oxygen tank, and some Coca-Cola to help with altitude sickness. Itinerary: Day 1: Rent a car in Kashgar and drive to Taxkorgan County. Along the way, you'll pass by Oytagh Glacier Park, White Sand Lake, Muztagh Ata, and Tashkurgan Wetland. The scenery is stunning, with herds of cattle and sheep grazing in the pastures, and the ice-blue rivers formed by the melting glaciers. Although the grass starts to turn yellow in autumn, it has its own charm. Try to minimize the time spent on the road and arrive in Taxkorgan County before dark. After arrival, try the local yak hot pot and then check in to a homestay to rest. Day 2: Get up at around 8:00 in the morning, pack up, and set off for Khunjerab Pass. Remember to bring warm clothes because it's cold in Taxkorgan County in the morning. There are many pastures along the way and it takes about an hour to get there. The altitude of the national gate is high but you may not experience altitude sickness. You can take photos of the altitude monument, the No. 7 boundary monument, and the national gate. It's enough to spend about an hour there. In the afternoon, return to Tashkurgan Wetland and enjoy the beautiful view of yaks grazing leisurely at the foot of the snow-capped mountains and the winding stream in the middle of the yellow-green grassland from the viewing platform. Finally, go to Muztagh Ata and take a shuttle bus at the visitor center. If you want to go to the glacier after getting off the bus, you can choose to ride a horse (CNY 100 for a single trip and CNY 200 for a round trip). If you're not physically fit or have altitude sickness, it's not recommended to walk there, otherwise, you may feel uncomfortable like me. I overestimated myself. Although the scenery was amazing when I walked up there, I felt a headache, dizziness, and weakness after walking down the mountain. Tips: Coca-Cola can help with altitude sickness to some extent. You can bring more when you go to high-altitude areas.

Today, I walked through all the winding paths, and from now on, my life will be smooth

The Pamir Plateau, the Panlong Ancient Road, and the Tajik people always intrigue me and make me want to visit. ✅🚴Route: Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Tahman Wetland Viewing Platform - Tashkurgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandier Blue Lake - Kashgar ✅Photos📷: The entire route is very photogenic📷, with beautiful scenery all the way. Highly recommend Baisha Lake and Panlong Ancient Road! ✅Clothes👕: Be sure to bring warm clothes. It gets really cold at night in Tashkurgan, and the wind is strong! ✅Food: Tashkurgan is small, and I didn't find anything particularly delicious. You can try their local yogurt and other specialties. ✅Transportation: You can choose to drive yourself or hire a car. Since I was alone, I opted for a two-day group tour.

National Geographic didn't lie to me. The Pamir Plateau under the snow-capped mountains is seriously underrated.

The Pamir Plateau is located at the junction of China, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. It is one of the highest plateaus in the world and is known as the "roof of the world". Not only is the natural scenery magnificent, but it also has rich cultural and historical relics. It is a good place for hiking and photography. The following is a travel guide written based on my understanding of the area. ### I. Main Attractions - **Karakul Lake**: Located on the Pamir Plateau, the lake is clear and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is one of the best places to shoot snow-capped mountain reflections. - **Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County**: This is a good place to experience Tajik culture and customs. You can visit traditional Tajik villages and learn about their way of life. - **Khunjerab Pass**: This is an important border crossing from China to Pakistan. The scenery along the way is spectacular, but you need to pay attention to weather changes. - **Muztagh Ata**: Known as the "Father of Glaciers", it is a holy place for mountaineering enthusiasts. Although the climbing is difficult, its majestic mountains are shocking. ### II. Surrounding Attractions - **Kashgar Old City**: Although it is not on the Pamir Plateau, it is a must-visit place to go to the Pamir Plateau. It has a long history and unique Uighur culture. - **Tashkurgan Stone City**: An ancient castle site, located in the Tashkurgan Valley, is a good place to explore ancient civilizations. ### III. Transportation The main way to go to the Pamir Plateau is to fly to Kashgar, and then rent a car or join a local tour group to go to the Pamir. It takes about 8 hours to drive from Kashgar to Tashkurgan. It is recommended to confirm the road conditions before traveling, because some sections may be closed in winter. ### IV. Food - The food in the Pamir Plateau area is mainly mutton, such as roast whole lamb, pilaf, etc., which are not to be missed. - There are also local specialty dairy products, such as yogurt, cheese, etc., which are also good choices for travel. ### V. Accommodation - There are hotels to choose from in Tashkurgan and other places, but due to the remote location, the conditions may not be as good as in the city. - If you are camping in the wild, you need to prepare sufficient equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, and necessary warm clothing. ### VI. Precautions - The altitude of the Pamir Plateau is high, and people who go there for the first time may have altitude sickness. It is recommended to bring corresponding medicines and rest appropriately. - The weather is changeable, please prepare enough warm clothing, even in summer, you may need a down jacket. - Respect the customs and habits of the local ethnic groups, do not take pictures or enter private areas at will. - The plateau has strong ultraviolet rays, and sun protection measures are essential. - Due to the special geographical location, some areas may need to apply for a border pass. Please consult relevant departments in advance and prepare. I hope this guide can help you have an unforgettable journey on the Pamir Plateau. Remember that safety comes first, and while enjoying the journey, you must also protect the natural environment.

On the Pamir Plateau in southern Xinjiang, there is a dreamlike blue - the White Sand Lake Scenic Area.

Along the China-Pakistan Friendship Road, head west from Kashgar towards Taxkorgan. The vehicle winds along the winding road. Suddenly, after a turn, the view suddenly opens up, and at the end of the road is a vast expanse of blue waves, with silver sand shining brightly in the sun. It is said that this is one of the settings for the story of the Sand Monk in the Journey to the West, the mysterious realm of "eight hundred sand worlds, three thousand weak waters, ten thousand years of wind, white sand into mountains". On the vast land of the Pamir Plateau, it is like a shining blue gem, deeply embedded in it. From a distance, the lake is as blue as the deep ocean; from a closer look, it is as clear as the lakes of the Maldives. Behind it, there are rolling white sand mountains, with graceful and smooth lines, like a work of art carefully crafted by nature. Under the strong sunlight of the plateau, the white sand shimmers with a metallic sheen, reflecting each other with the blue waves, and the snow-capped mountains stand tall. On the majestic and magnificent Pamir Plateau, the White Sand Lake is like a gentle and beautiful girl, quietly nestled in the arms of the Kongur Tagh on both sides, gently guarded by it. 🚘Here is a classic one-day tour route recommendation: Karakoram Highway➡️White Sand Mountain - White Sand Lake Scenic Area➡️Muztagh Ata Peak - Karakul Lake➡️Pamir Plateau➡️Oytak Red Mountain ❤️At the same time, here are some warm tips for everyone: 1️⃣Border Pass: This is the most important thing, be sure to apply for a border pass in advance. 2️⃣Weather: Before visiting the White Sand Lake, be sure to check the weather forecast carefully and try to choose a sunny day. If you visit on a cloudy day, you may be disappointed. Because only on a sunny day, the serene and charming blue will be particularly beautiful, making people mesmerized. 3️⃣Precautions: When the vehicle arrives at the checkpoint, please do not take pictures.

Journey Across China to Discover the Panlong Ancient Road 🐉

Traveling across China for a single adventure, I came to the Panlong Ancient Road, a route that promises remarkable views and unforgettable experiences. I crossed half of China from Guangdong ✈️ to reach this spot. In just two days, I drove the route three times to witness Panlong in different light: morning, noon, and night. Each time, the road revealed new and unexpected beauty, offering a uniquely healing experience. ——————————————— 📍 Transportation: Upon reaching Taxkorgan, drive about 20 km towards the Hongqilapu direction. After crossing the ridge, you'll see a road winding through the Kunlun Mountains. From above, it looks like a black dragon coiled in the mountains—an awe-inspiring sight. 🐉🚗 📍 Photography Tips: If you have time, start your journey around 9 AM. By noon, the sunlight illuminates the valley, showcasing the most vibrant colors of the mountains 🌄. Stay until twilight to capture stunning night shots of the Panlong Ancient Road from a high vantage point 🚁. Near the Panlong area, there's a small path leading to a spot popular for breathtaking travel photos 📸. For a truly dramatic view, consider aerial shots 🛩️. Enjoy your adventure and the majestic views of the Panlong Ancient Road!

2-Day Tour in Kashgar: Explore the Ancient City Without Getting Lost

Kashgar Trip is Here! In two days, explore Kashgar City with all the must-see attractions and delicious food! Quickly browse through this guide and start your Kashgar adventure! / **Must-Visit Attractions**: **Karakul Lake Scenic Area⭐⭐⭐⭐** - Address: 1700 km on National Highway 314, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture - Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00 - Duration: 2-3 hours - Recommendation: The holy lake under Mount Muztagh Ata, with clean and clear water, like a pearl on the plateau. **Pamir Plateau⭐⭐⭐⭐** - Address: Tiznaf Township, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Region - Opening Hours: 08:30-20:30 - Duration: 2-3 days - Recommendation: Climb the Pamir Plateau and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Roof of the World, with new views at every step. **White Sand Mountain-White Sand Lake Scenic Area⭐⭐⭐⭐** - Address: Bulunkou Township, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region - Opening Hours: 09:30-19:30 - Duration: 1 day - Recommendation: The top of White Sand Mountain is powdered rock, intertwined with lakes and rivers below, creating a unique landscape. **Kashgar Ancient Stone City⭐⭐⭐** - Address: Tashkurgan Road, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Region - Opening Hours: 08:30-20:30 - Duration: 1-2 hours - Recommendation: An important stop on the ancient Silk Road, standing on the hill, you can feel the weight and vicissitudes of history. **Panlong Ancient Road⭐⭐⭐** - Address: Wacha Township, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Region - Opening Hours: Open all day - Duration: 1 hour - Recommendation: Winding and twisting like a dragon, the beauty of the road's curves is breathtaking from above. / 🎒 Travel Essentials: Kashgar City Travel Checklist 👕 **Clothing** Short-sleeve T-shirts, light long sleeves, sun protection clothing, jeans, hats, sunglasses. In September, Kashgar is warm and comfortable during the day and slightly cool at night, so these clothes are enough. 👟 **Shoes** A pair of comfortable sneakers, perfect for exploring the ancient city and wandering the streets! 💼 **Accessories** Power bank, data cable, camera, to capture beautiful moments. 📘 **Documents** ID card, cash, bank card, don't forget to carry them with you for safe travel. 🧴 **Protection** Sunscreen, sun hat, mosquito repellent, the strong sunlight in Kashgar requires these to protect yourself. 💊 **Medicines** Cold medicine, stomach medicine, band-aids, be prepared for any situation to travel with peace of mind. / 🎉 Kashgar Trip, To Be Continued! More excitement awaits you🌈. Quickly like, bookmark, and follow me to start your Kashgar adventure!🚀

Pamirs: Unleash Yourself on an Adventure at the 'Roof of the World'

The Pamirs, known as the 'Roof of the World,' is a mysterious land that resembles a magnificent natural painting. The towering mountains and snow-capped peaks glisten under the sunlight, making one marvel at the wonders of nature. Here, you can explore the ancient Silk Road and feel the weight of history, or experience the unique local culture and cuisine. Whether it's hiking or photography, this place is a paradise for adventurers. Come to the Pamirs and start your 'Adventure at the Roof of the World,' letting your soul soar high in the sky!

China-Pakistan Friendship Highway

On the forty-fourth day of heading west, we departed from Kashgar and traveled along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway G314, spending the night in Tashkurgan County... Here, there are also grasslands, lakes, canyons, and snow-capped mountains. The snow-capped mountains are particularly distinctive, closer, larger, and more majestic. You can not only view them from a distance but also observe them up close and even touch them... Let's start with a few photos: White Sand Lake beside White Sand Mountain, Karakul Lake at the foot of the snow-capped mountains, and the Muztagh Ata Glacier, known as the father of glaciers. The color of White Sand Lake is milky green against the backdrop of White Sand Mountain, while Karakul Lake appears dark green under the reflection of the snow-capped mountains, showing a clear contrast. Finally, there are distant views of the Muztagh Ata snow peak, close-up views, and even touches of the Muztagh Ata Glacier.

Explore the 18-day Autumn Tour Guide of Northern and Southern Xinjiang

Northern Xinjiang for Scenery, Southern Xinjiang for Culture In fact, besides the cultural attractions like the ancient city of Kashgar, the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves, and others, Southern Xinjiang also boasts many magnificent natural landscapes such as the Taklamakan Desert, White Sand Lake, Golden Autumn Poplar Forest, Muztagh Ata, and Aksu Grand Canyon. These awe-inspiring natural landscapes, combined with the ancient cities full of Western region charm, make for a unique experience. 18-day Tour Itinerary of Northern and Southern Xinjiang: Day 1: Various places across the country - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Day 4: Jiadengyu - Hemu Scenic Area Day 5: Hemu - Five-colored Beach - Burqin Day 6: Burqin - World Devil City - Kuitun Day 7: Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Liuxing Street - Yining Day 8: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiata Scenic Area - Zhaosu Day 9: Zhaosu - Kalajun Scenic Area - Tekes Day 10: Tekes - Nalati Grassland - Nalati Day 11: Nalati - Duku Highway - Bayinbuluke Scenic Area - Bayin Day 12: Bayin - Southern Section of Duku Highway - Daxiaolong Pool - Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon - Kuqa Day 13: Kuqa - Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area Grand Canyon - Aral Day 14: Aral - Desert Highway - Hotan Day 15: Hotan - Ancient City of Kashgar - Kashgar Day 16: Kashgar - White Sand Lake - Pamir Golden Grassland Stone City - Tashkurgan Day 17: Tashkurgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Karakul Lake - Kashgar Day 18: Kashgar - Various places across the country

If 100 is the full score, then I give this hotel 120 points | Snow Hotel

| Snow Hotel. 📆8/26 Live Broadcast 🏨Tashkurgan. Snow Hotel From Kashgar to Tashkurgan, the scenery along the way is picturesque. The White Sand Lake and Bandir Blue Lake are impressive and intoxicating. We set off early in the morning and arrived at the Snow Hotel in Tashkurgan at 20:00. 🛌Room: I didn't expect such a delicate hotel in such a remote border town; the room itself is impeccable, and what touches people are those thoughtful services~ ❤️Thoughtful Services: 🔸Send a message in advance to remind you to bring more clothes and be careful of altitude sickness; 🔸The room is equipped with an oxygen generator, oxygen tube, and humidifier; 🔸There are also branded moisturizing masks, L'Occitane body lotion, makeup remover pads, and a whole pack of soft wet wipes, which feel more complete than those in Japanese hot spring hotels 🔸The welcome fruit is Xinjiang small tomatoes, super sweet🍅! 🔸Each person gets a cup of goodnight milk🥛, warm and cozy 🔸After breakfast the next morning, we were ready to drive away, but unexpectedly, the hotel prepared shumai, xiaolongbao, hand-grabbed rice, a whole box of melons, and several bottles of water for each person, just in case the long journey made the travelers thirsty or hungry. 🔸Free airport pick-up and drop-off My friend drove back to Kashgar, and I took a flight from Tashkurgan Hongqilafu Airport back to Urumqi. The hotel provides free pick-up and drop-off services, which is very considerate. 🥩Dinner: The tent hot pot on the top floor of the hotel features Tashkurgan yak meat hot pot, just in time to enjoy the sunset and snow-capped mountains, truly a feast for the eyes and the palate. ❓Will there be altitude sickness? The altitude of the Snow Hotel is 2970 meters. I didn't feel any altitude sickness, just need to avoid strenuous activities. 💯If the full score is 100 points, then I give the Snow Hotel 120 points, not just for the normal five-star service, but for the thoughtful and warm details in every aspect, surprises everywhere, making people feel touched all the time!

Compared to Northern Xinjiang, I prefer Southern Xinjiang!

It is said that Northern Xinjiang is for natural scenery, while Southern Xinjiang is for cultural experiences. Only after arriving at the Pamir Plateau did I realize that Southern Xinjiang is an upgraded version of Northern Xinjiang, combining cultural elements with stunning natural scenery. That's Southern Xinjiang! Must-visit attractions on the Pamir Plateau include: White Sand Lake, Muji Crater, and Bandir Blue Lake. The scenery on the north shore of White Sand Lake is exceptionally beautiful (the north shore is free and less crowded, and cars can drive up to the platform by the lake. It is recommended to visit in the morning when the lake's color is more vibrant, and you can see the reflection of the White Sand Mountain. In the afternoon, the wind picks up, which can affect the view). Muji Crater (now charges an entrance fee of 40 yuan per person, with a sightseeing bus taking you into the scenic area. You can then walk or ride a horse to the crater for a visit. Aerial photography is best for taking photos, as the overhead shots are particularly stunning). Bandir Blue Lake (the scenic area is free, and like White Sand Lake, it is recommended to visit in the morning). The water of White Sand Lake is clear, surrounded by white sand mountains that shimmer in the sunlight. The area around Muji Crater features vast grasslands and magnificent mountains, offering spectacular views. The water of Bandir Blue Lake is a captivating blue, resembling a gemstone. Here, you can enjoy delicious grilled lamb skewers, which are tender and juicy; special Nang pit meat, which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside; and tasty hand-pulled rice, which is nutritious and rich. Other notable attractions include Stone City and Tashkurgan Golden Grassland. Here are some things to keep in mind: 1. Learn about the local climate in advance and prepare appropriate clothing. 2. In high-altitude areas, be mindful of altitude sickness and prepare relevant medications in advance. 3. Respect local customs and religious beliefs. 4. If driving, pay attention to road conditions and ensure driving safety. 5. Protect the environment, do not litter, and preserve the beautiful scenery.

Xinjiang Kashgar Tourist Attractions Guide

Xinjiang Kashgar Tourist Attractions Guide 🌄Xinjiang Kashgar, a place full of mystery, awaits your exploration! If you plan to travel to Kashgar, these attractions are a must-see! 🌟Must-Visit Attractions🌟 1️⃣ China-Pakistan Friendship Highway: From Kashgar to Tashkurgan, drive towards the snow-capped mountains and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Don't fall asleep! 🛣️ 2️⃣ White Sand Lake: The clear water on the south shore allows you to get close to the lake surface. You can even ride a yak and take photos, feeling the grandeur of nature! 🐮📸 3️⃣ Karakul Lake: The lake's blue water is like a gem, reflecting Muztagh Ata and Kongur Tagh peaks, creating a stunning view! 💧🏔️ 4️⃣ Tashkurgan Wetland: The roadside viewing platform is an excellent spot for photos. The wetland, streams, cattle, sheep, and snow-capped mountains form a beautiful picture! 🌊🐂🐑 5️⃣ Wakhan Corridor: Although the scenery along the way is nice, it mainly serves as a checkpoint to record your journey! 📍 6️⃣ Panlong Ancient Road: With many bends, drive slowly to avoid motion sickness. There are checkpoint signs at the entrance and exit of the ancient road. It's recommended to take photos at the exit sign! 🚗📷 7️⃣ Bandier Blue Lake: You can walk down to the lake from the viewing platform near the bridge. Be careful when flying drones as it's windy! 🌬️💙 8️⃣ Golden Grassland Stone City: The exhibition hall introduces the history of Tashkurgan. Although the ruins of the Stone City are dilapidated, the scenery is still beautiful in good weather! 🏛️🌤️ 💡Travel Tips💡 1. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so bring an extra jacket to keep warm! ❄️🧥 2. If you are driving to Tashkurgan, remember to get a border pass in advance! 📄🚗 3. Tashkurgan has a high altitude, so bring an oxygen bottle to prevent altitude sickness! 💪💨 4. The climate in southern Xinjiang is dry, and the UV rays are strong during the day. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated! ☀️🧴💦 Come to Kashgar and start your mysterious journey! ✨🌍