Guide to exploring the Panlong Ancient Road in Xinjiang

The Panlong Ancient Road in Xinjiang is located in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County on the Pamir Plateau. It is a famous highway connecting Taxkorgan County and Kashgar Prefecture. It is named after its winding path and shape resembling a coiled dragon. This road is not only a paradise for self-driving enthusiasts, but also a holy place for photography enthusiasts. The following is a detailed guide about Panlong Ancient Road to help you enjoy this magical road. 1. Brief Introduction of Panlong Ancient Road Geographical location: Panlong Ancient Road is located in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, and spans the Pamir Plateau. Features of the highway: It is about 75 kilometers long, with an altitude rising from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters. It has more than 600 bends and is known as "one of the most dangerous roads in Xinjiang." Best time to visit: May to October, the summer weather is pleasant and the scenery along the way is magnificent. 2. How to get to Panlong Ancient Road Starting point and end point: Starting point: Taxkorgan County (Ta County). End point: Waqia Township. How to get to Tashkurgan: Starting from Kashgar, drive along National Highway G314 (Karakoram Highway), the whole journey is about 300 kilometers and the driving time is about 6 hours. You can choose to charter a car or share a car from Kashgar International Airport or Railway Station to Tashkurgan County. 3. Self-driving routes and precautions Self-driving route: Starting from Taxkorgan, navigate to the entrance of Panlong Ancient Road. The entire road is paved, but there are many bends, so drive carefully. You will pass several viewing platforms along the way, and it is recommended to stop at each viewing platform to enjoy the scenery. Notes for self-driving: Vehicle selection: It is recommended to use an SUV or off-road vehicle with a high chassis and strong power. Altitude sickness: Some sections of the road are at a high altitude, so be careful to prevent altitude sickness and carry an oxygen cylinder. Driving skills: There are many sharp bends, so you need to control your speed and pay attention to safety. Fuel supply: There is a gas station in Taxkorgan County. It is recommended to fill up the gas in advance. There are no supply points along the way. 4. Recommended attractions along the way Panlong Ancient Road Observation Deck: Located at the highest point of the road, it overlooks the winding road and is an excellent location for photographing the Panlong Ancient Road. Muztagh Ata: The "Father of Icebergs" in China, whose majestic snow-capped peaks can be seen from afar along the way. Karakul Lake: Located on the Pamir Plateau, the lake has clear water and reflects the snow-capped mountains, creating a picturesque scenery. Tajik Villages: You will pass through many Tajik villages along the way, where you can experience the local customs and culture. 5. Accommodation and Catering Accommodation: Taxkorgan County: It is recommended to stay in Taxkorgan County. We recommend Taxkorgan County Pamir Hotel and Taxkorgan County Mufeng International Hotel. Waqia Township: The conditions are relatively simple and suitable for a short stay. Catering: Tashi County: You can taste the local specialties such as pilaf, grilled lamb skewers, Tajik milk tea, etc. Bring your own dry food: There are few dining options along the way, so it is recommended to bring your own water and food. 6. Equipment and Material Preparation Necessary items: Documents: Mainland China ID card, border pass (required for traveling to Taxkorgan). Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is large on the plateau, so you need to prepare warm clothing. Sun protection: Ultraviolet rays are strong on the plateau, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Medicines: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, and anti-altitude sickness medicine. Photography equipment: camera, tripod, wide-angle lens, etc., to record the beautiful scenery along the way. VII. Precautions Border pass application: A border pass is required to go to Taxkorgan, which can be processed at the Kashgar Border Police Station. Altitude sickness: Do not be too active, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous exercise. Respect local culture: Tajiks believe in Islam and need to respect local customs and habits. 8. Conclusion Panlong Ancient Road is a beautiful road that combines natural scenery, adventure challenges and cultural experiences. Whether you are a self-driving enthusiast or a photography expert, this road can bring you unparalleled shock and emotion. Get ready to embark on this Panlong Ancient Road with its nine bends and eighteen turns, and start an unforgettable journey! Warm reminder: pay attention to the weather forecast before traveling, ensure safe driving, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau!