2025 Tashkurgan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

| Pamir Deep Tour Route Guide! This route starts and ends in Kashgar, with a total journey of 5 days and 4 nights. · On this journey, 🏔️ Visit Oytagh Red Mountain to experience the first passionate welcome of the China-Pakistan Highway; Go to Baisha Lake to quietly appreciate the azure blue and crystal clear waters where sky meets water; 🌊 Explore the Muji Volcano Crater to witness "the natural power from the abyss"; Then travel to Panlong Ancient Road to receive those heartfelt blessings meant for adults... · The sparkling waves of Bandir Blue Lake touch the heart, While the majestic grandeur of Muztagh Peak is enough to embrace everything... The best time for a Pamir journey Is right now. 🏞️ - 📍 Detailed itinerary: D1 Nationwide-Kashgar (airport pickup) D2 Kashgar-Oytagh Red Mountain-Gez Canyon-Baisha Lake-Muji Volcano Crater-Tashkurgan D3 Tashkurgan-Wakhan Corridor-Panlong Ancient Road-Bandir Blue Lake-No.4 Glacier-Kashgar D4 Tashkurgan-Muztagh Peak-(No.4 Glacier) Karakul Lake-Kashgar D5 Free day in Kashgar (end of tour) Note: No.4 Glacier is temporarily closed. Please inquire before your trip!

Because it's too beautiful!!! Kashgar 3-Day 2-Night Deep Exploration | Local Insider's Guide New to Southern Xinjiang and want to experience the most authentic local culture in limited time? This carefully designed 3-day 2-night Kashgar travel guide helps you avoid crowds and immerse yourself in the charm of the Western Regions. Pack your bags and let's go! Transportation Guide Train Departing from Urumqi, taking the train to Kashgar Station allows you to leisurely enjoy the Gobi Desert scenery along the way, which is a unique travel experience. Flight Nowadays, there are direct flights to Kashgar Airport from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xi'an and other cities, greatly reducing travel time. After landing, it's very convenient to take a taxi to the city center or rent a car for a self-driving tour. You can also fly to Urumqi first, then transfer by plane or car to Kashgar. Must-Visit Attractions Cultural Heritage Sites - Kashgar Old City: This thousand-year-old city is the soul of Kashgar. Not only is it a filming location for "The Kite Runner," but also a living folk museum. Walking through the winding alleys, you'll see earth-colored buildings arranged in a picturesque manner, exquisite wooden carvings on doors and windows, and colorful decorative tiles, each telling a historical story. Local residents live leisurely here, and you can visit a century-old teahouse, enjoy a cup of milk tea, and listen to Uyghur elders playing the rewap, experiencing the peaceful passage of time. - Gaotai Residences: Adjacent to Kashgar Old City, this is a Uyghur residential area with houses built along cliffs, stacked layer upon layer, creating a unique architectural style. Although some areas are temporarily closed for safety reasons, you can still appreciate the distinctive architectural features and rich cultural atmosphere from the periphery. Natural Landscapes - Muztagh Glacier Park: The majestic Muztagh Peak, known as the "Father of Ice Mountains," stands tall with Karakul Lake at its foot, creating a perfect harmony. The crystal-clear blue lake reflects the snowy mountains, like a fairyland. Here, you can admire the magnificent glaciers up close and experience nature's masterpiece. - White Sand Lake: White sand surrounds emerald green water, with snow-capped mountains in the distance, creating a pure and breathtaking landscape. Under the sunshine, the white sand and lake water complement each other beautifully, making every photo look professional. - Panlong Ancient Road: This short mountain road of just a few dozen kilometers has over 600 bends, like a giant dragon coiled among the mountains. Driving on this road gives you a thrilling experience with different scenery at every turn. The view from above is truly spectacular. - Taheman Wetland: This is a plateau wetland with lush grass and herds of cattle and sheep in summer. In autumn, the golden meadows form a beautiful picture with distant snow-capped mountains and blue skies with white clouds. The meandering rivers in the wetland glisten under the sunlight, like the veins of the earth. - Oytagh Red Mountain: The unique red mountain shines brilliantly under the sunlight, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding green vegetation, as if entering a fantasy world. The rich textures and color variations of the mountain make it a paradise for photographers. - Tasha Ancient Road: A road full of historical charm and mystical colors, following the Yarkand River. Along the way, you can enjoy diverse natural scenery including canyons, snow-capped mountains, and oases, as well as visit ancient villages and experience primitive lifestyles. Historical Relics - Stone City: The ruins of the capital of Qiepantuo, one of the thirty-six states of the Western Regions. Although only broken walls remain, you can still feel its past glory and vicissitudes. Standing on the city wall and looking at the surrounding snow-capped mountains and grasslands, it's like traveling back to the Western Regions a thousand years ago. - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves: One of the earliest Buddhist cave complexes in China, with exquisite murals showcasing the charm of ancient Buddhist art. The murals are rich in content and vibrant in color, recording Buddhist stories and scenes of social life at that time, making them an important treasure for studying ancient culture and art. 3-Day Pamir In-Depth Tour Itinerary Day 1: Kashgar - Kashgar Old City - Oytagh Red Mountain - White Sand Lake - Muji Township - In the early morning, walk into Kashgar Old City with the first ray of sunlight and feel the awakening of the ancient city. Explore the bustling bazaar, select exquisite handicrafts, and taste local specialty breakfasts like baked buns and milk tea. - Then drive to Oytagh Red Mountain to admire the unique red mountain landscape. - Arrive at White Sand Lake in the afternoon, be deeply attracted by the pure scenery, and take plenty of photos. - Head to Muji Township before dusk, where the volcanic crater is a great wonder. Enjoy the spectacular sunset and feel the magic of nature. Stay overnight in Muji Township and gaze at the starry sky. Day 2: Muji Township - Muztagh Glacier Park - Taheman Wetland - Golden Grassland - Stone City - Tashkurgan - Set off early to Muztagh Glacier Park, get close to the "Father of Ice Mountains," and stroll along Karakul Lake. - Then visit Taheman Wetland to enjoy its beautiful scenery. - In the afternoon, head to the Golden Grassland, where green grass, distant snow-capped mountains, and Stone City create a charming landscape. - Explore Stone City and learn about its long history and culture. Stay overnight in Tashkurgan County. Day 3: Tashkurgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake - Karakul Lake - Kashgar - Challenge the Panlong Ancient Road in the early morning, experiencing the feeling that "after walking all the winding roads today, life's path will be smooth from now on." - Then head to Bandir Blue Lake, where the water shows a charming blue color, like a jewel embedded among the mountains. - Finally arrive at Karakul Lake, once again enjoying the perfect combination of snow-capped mountains and lake water, before returning to Kashgar to end the pleasant journey. Culinary Feast - Roasted Lamb: How could you miss the crispy outside, tender inside, aromatic roasted lamb in Kashgar! Fresh lamb marinated with secret spices, slowly roasted over charcoal fire, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, juicy and flavorful with every bite. - Nang Pit Meat: Large pieces of lamb roasted in a nang pit, this unique cooking method makes the lamb skin golden and crispy while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Paired with onions to cut through the richness. - Pilaf: Carrots, lamb, and rice stewed together, golden in color and fragrant. The savory lamb flavor infuses the rice, with added raisins and other dried fruits, creating a rich taste and nutritious meal. - Baked Buns: Crispy outside and flavorful inside, the thin dough wraps chopped lamb, onions, and other fillings, baked in a nang pit. When you take a bite, the meat aroma spreads. - Pottery Pot Meat: Lamb soup stewed in small pottery pots, with rich broth and tender meat. Eaten with nang bread, it warms both stomach and heart. - Liangpi (Cold Noodles): Kashgar's liangpi has a smooth texture, served with unique sauce, chili oil, and various toppings, tangy and spicy, perfect for summer heat relief. - Pomegranate Juice: Freshly squeezed pomegranate, bright in color, sweet and sour in taste, rich in vitamin C, refreshing and healthy. Helpful Travel Tips 1. ID Card: Always carry your ID card as it's required for many places in Xinjiang, including scenic spots, hotel check-ins, etc. 2. Food Experience: Kashgar's bazaars offer various foods. Besides nang bread, try freshly grilled lamb skewers and sweet fruits. But eat in moderation to avoid stomach discomfort. 3. Luggage: You may need to move around frequently during your trip, so travel light with only necessary items to reduce burden. 4. Altitude Sickness: Tashkurgan and the Pamir Plateau are at high altitudes, and some people may experience altitude sickness. Consider preparing oxygen bottles and taking altitude sickness medication in advance. Avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest in high-altitude areas. 5. Scenery Along the Way: The scenery around Kashgar is breathtaking. Don't just look at your phone while traveling; look out the window, and you might discover unexpected beautiful views. 6. Time Difference: Xinjiang time is about 2 hours behind mainland China, and daily routines may differ. Plan your itinerary and rest time accordingly. 7. Climate: Kashgar has large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so remember to bring a thick jacket. Also, the climate is dry, so stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Kashgar, this charming city with endless beautiful scenery and delicious food, awaits your exploration! Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Southern Xinjiang!

Come to Kashgar Region - Kizilsu for an exciting 7-day trip! Here, you will enjoy an authentic Xinjiang breakfast, enjoy the unique perspective of drone aerial vlogs, taste the relaxation of wild luxury afternoon tea, and feel the magnificence of nature under the sunset starry sky. Don’t forget to experience the exotic style of the Tajik Western Region, it will surely make your trip worthwhile! / 🛤️ Route suggestions D1: The Kashgar Exploration Tour opens🚩, the first stop is the ancient city of Kashgar, stroll through the streets and alleys of the ancient city, and feel the cultural charm of the Western Regions. D2: White Sand Mountain ⛰️ - White Sand Lake Scenic Area, appreciate the pure beauty of nature - enjoy the China-Pakistan Friendship Road, witness the friendship between the two countries - overlook Gonggeltao and Muztag Glacier Park 🏔️, feel the magnificence of the glacier - Taheman Wetland Park Observation Deck, enjoy the wetland scenery - experience Tajik traditional dwellings🏠, integrate into local life. D3: Explore the Pamir Tourist Area, explore the mystery of the plateau - Kashgar Ancient Stone City, listen to the echo of history - Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Aral National Wetland Park🌿, get close to nature - Challenge Panlong Ancient Road, feel the eighteen bends of the mountain road - Bandil Blue Lake and Kerakul Lake Scenic Area, indulge in the lake and mountains. D4: Muji Crater🌋 Explore the secret and feel the power of the earth - Shache County Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park, appreciate the charm of intangible cultural heritage. D5: Tour of the Old Town Scenic Area, taste the charm of the ancient city - N39 Desert Exploration Base 🏜️, open an interesting desert journey. D6: Wuqia Colorful Mountain, enjoy the colorful mountains - Tianshan Kunlun Mountains intersect, feel the majesty of the mountains - Smhana Village 🏡, visit the border village - Ilkashtan Port, learn the style of the country - China's West Pole Stone Monument, leave unforgettable photos📸. D7: The trip to Kashgar ends successfully 🎉, shuttle down by car 🚘, and embark on the journey home with beautiful memories. Looking forward to seeing you next time! / Essentials before the trip: 🎒 👕 Clothing: day and night temperature difference, bring a thick jacket, warm underwear, and light spring clothes, do not forget waterproof non-slip hiking shoes. 🎩 Accessories: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, no one can be less, but also charger, thermos, at any time to last and drink water. 📂 Documents: Mainland China ID card, border defense card, student card, elderly card and other preferential documents are brought together. 💊Medicine: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine, and mosquito bite spray, in case of emergency. 🍞 Food: Prepare some dry food, such as bread, biscuits, and bottled water to replenish energy. 📷 Photography: Camera, spare battery, storage card, record beautiful moments. 💵 Cash: Although electronic payment is popular, but prepare some cash just in case, the signal in mountainous areas may not be good. / Kashgar region - Kizilsu, stories and scenery coexist, do not miss every exciting part here! 🎉Looking forward to your travel stories~

[Opening]: The Pamir Plateau is a place full of mystery, attracting countless travelers. The following are famous attractions in the Pamir Plateau in southern Xinjiang: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Warm home - Kashgar Day 2: Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Karakul Lake - Golden Grass Beach - Stone City - Tashkurgan Day 3: Tashkurgan - Wakhan Corridor - Khunjerab - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake - Tashkurgan Day 4: Tashkurgan - Taheman Wetland - Muztagh Ata Glacier Park - Kashgar Ancient City - Kashgar Day 5: Kashgar - Warm home - Muztagh Ata Peak: With an altitude of 7,509 meters, it is known as the "Father of Glaciers". The mountain glaciers on both sides of the main peak extend from 5,100 meters above sea level to over 7,000 meters, forming a unique canyon-style overflow valley glacier with spectacular scenery. It is a dream place for mountaineering enthusiasts and also the most beautiful scenery on the China-Pakistan Friendship Road (National Highway 314). - Stone City: Located in the north of Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, it is about 3,100 meters above sea level. It is a famous ancient city site on the ancient Silk Road. It has steep terrain and is of great historical and geographical value. The castle is built on a high hill with an extremely steep terrain. There are multiple layers of walls outside the city, some continuous and some discontinuous, forming a unique stone city scenery. - Khunjerab Pass: China’s only land route into and out of Pakistan, and an important gateway to the South Asian subcontinent and even Europe. Here is the famous China-Pakistan Boundary Monument No. 7 and the spectacular national gate. It is a great place to experience the China-Pakistan friendship and border scenery. - Baisha Lake: Located in the Pamir Plateau Mountains in Kashgar, Xinjiang, the lake water is crystal clear and appears very pure under the reflection of the blue sky. Baisha Mountain is made up of stacked white fine sand. It is 460 meters high and stretches for more than ten kilometers. It is closely connected with Baisha Lake, forming a moving natural picture. This is also the prototype of the Quicksand River in Journey to the West. - Panlong Ancient Road: Located in Waqia Township, Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, it is a popular highway in Kashgar Prefecture. The highway is built around the mountain, winding and twisting like a huge dragon hovering over the Pamir Plateau. It is about 30 kilometers long, with an altitude rising sharply from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters. It has hundreds of bends and is a paradise for photography and self-driving enthusiasts. - Karakul Lake: The tranquility and beauty of the lake are refreshing and it is a pearl on the Pamir Plateau. The lake is fed by glacial meltwater from Muztagh Ata, giving it different colors that change with the seasons, weather, and light. - Taheman Wetland: Located on the eastern foot of the Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang and at the foot of Muztagh Ata Peak, it is the largest wetland in Taxkorgan. Here, snow-capped peaks are continuous, streams crisscross, grasslands and rivers are intertwined, and snow-capped mountains and wetlands embrace each other, forming a picturesque plateau beauty. 🍩【Must-eat food】: Pigeon noodle soup: pigeon meat and noodles are the main ingredients, and the taste is delicious. - Blue Ram Barbecue: The lamb is tender, and the barbecue and side dishes taste great and are affordable. - Gangzi meat: a mutton delicacy stewed in a jar, with tender meat and rich soup. Naan pit grilled fish: the fish is fresh and the gluten side dish is extremely delicious. - Pilaf: Made with mutton, carrots, onions and other ingredients, it is a traditional delicacy in southern Xinjiang that is nutritious and delicious. - Baked buns: famous for their thin skin, large fillings, crispy outside and tender inside, they can be found everywhere in the alleys of the old city of Kashgar. Roasted whole lamb: golden in color, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a fragrant aroma. - Hand-pulled meat: Choose fresh mutton, cook it and eat it with your hands. It tastes delicious and is rich in nutrition. - Kumiss: It has a mellow taste and a strong milky flavor and is a favorite drink of the local people. 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four Diamond + Golden B&B 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Seven-seater business car or luxury seven-seater car 🧡【tips】: - Climate and clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in southern Xinjiang is large, so you need to bring enough warm clothes even in summer. At the same time, the sunlight is strong during the day and the ultraviolet radiation is strong, so you should bring sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and other sun protection products. - Documents and border control: A border control permit is required to travel to some border areas in southern Xinjiang (such as the Pamir Plateau). You can handle it at the Kashgar Public Security Bureau, or through a travel agency when traveling in a group. - Transportation and road conditions: Southern Xinjiang is a vast area, and the distances between scenic spots are far. It is recommended to plan your itinerary and transportation in advance. You can choose to charter a car, join a tour group or drive yourself. But when driving by yourself, you need to pay attention to road conditions and driving safety, especially in mountainous and desert areas. In addition, in the Pamir Plateau, renting oxygen bags is necessary. Baisha Mountain-Baisha Lake Scenic Area Karakul Lake Scenic Area Pamir Golden Grassland-Observation Deck Kashgar Ancient Stone City Wakhan Corridor Khunjerab Panlong Ancient Road Bandir Blue Lake Muztagh Ata Glacier Park Kashgar Ancient City

Setting foot on the Pamir Plateau is like stepping into a dreamland. This is a paradise for photographers, with rolling snow-capped mountains that seem to have come straight out of a painting. The magnificent scenery is awe-inspiring, and you'll want to capture every moment with your camera. Standing on the plateau, you'll find yourself in a grand painting. Every inch of the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, and every frame calls for you to press the shutter and capture the fleeting beauty. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight gently touch the snow-capped mountains, a golden glow instantly shines, as if draping the entire plateau in a mysterious and magnificent veil, like a dream. At sunset, the sky becomes a palette of colors, with vibrant hues blending together and complementing the distant snow-capped mountains, creating a unique and stunning painting that is mesmerizing. When night falls, the starry sky is like diamonds embedded in the sky, so close that it seems you can reach out and touch them. At this time, set up your camera, and you can capture the dreamy starry sky. Each star is like a spirit of the plateau, silently telling the ancient stories of this land. On the Pamir Plateau, whether it's the vast grasslands, clear lakes, or majestic snow-capped mountains, every scene is a unique painting. You can wander freely, capturing the mesmerizing scenery with your lens. Photography here is not just about recording; it's a heartfelt expression. On the Pamir Plateau, you can deeply feel the endless charm and majestic power of nature. Through your lens, you'll find a unique way to connect with the soul of this land. Every shutter click is a sincere tribute and passionate praise for the beauty of the Pamir Plateau. This plateau is a paradise for photographers, an eternal place of longing in our hearts, and a dreamland that must be visited in a lifetime.

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 😭

#Playful Traveler The Panlong Ancient Road lies across the majestic Kunlun Mountains📸💕, with a total length of 36 kilometers, a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters, a drop of 1,000 meters, and more than 600 S-bends from the top of the mountain to the foot of the mountain📸👍🌹. We went up from Dapanlong and down from Xiaopanlong. The Big Panlong has a large curvature, with sparse bends, like a giant dragon rising into the sky; the Small Panlong is connected in bends, twisting and zigzagging, like a giant dragon coiled, and it is spectacular when viewed from high above. Because of the dense sharp turns and large height differences, both the visual experience and the driving experience are extremely challenging🥰. There are multiple viewing platforms on the ancient trail, but you need to pay attention to the vehicles going down when you get off the car to take pictures. Due to the high altitude, you also need to be equipped with oxygen cylinders. #Southern Xinjiang #Mainland China Attractions

#Playful Traveler Descend from Panlong Ancient Road and drive along Tasha Ancient Road to Bandir Blue Lake. Bandir Blue Lake 📸🌹 is next to the ancient road. It was originally a section of the Taxkorgan River. It is a reservoir built for water storage. The lake water is meltwater from snow mountains. Due to mineral reasons, it appears dark blue and cyan in the sun, as beautiful as blue crystal, so beautiful that it makes people unable to take their eyes off. If there is no wind, the mountains on both sides are reflected on the lake surface 💕. You can imagine how beautiful it is. Unfortunately, the wind was very strong at that time, so the reflection was not clear 😇. When we were taking pictures, someone came over to discuss with us and it turned out that the media was filming. So we crossed the bridge to the other side and went downstream. The lake we saw downstream was a different color 📸👍🏞️🪻. #Southern Xinjiang #Highland Lakes #Mainland China Attractions

👉 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

#June2024 Coming out of Tashkurgan County, take G314 Highway to the Dreamy Tree Cave in Taheman Township. This is a straight road with trees on both sides🌳, branches and leaves that are close to the middle to form an arch📸👍. From a distance, it looks like there is a small hole at the end of the road📸🥰. Because I went there in October, this golden tunnel 📸💕 was like walking into an autumn fairy tale 💫. If you go there in summer, you will see emerald green tree holes, and walking through them is like receiving the baptism of life. Coming out of the tree hole, there is a wetland📸👍 and a wild pasture📸❤️. Further away are the snow-capped mountains of the Kunlun Mountains📸🌹. This scenic spot without fences and only passed down by word of mouth is 100% pristine📸🥰, without any human elements. When traveling to southern Xinjiang, you must visit the Katahman Dream Tree Hole. #XinjiangTourism #MainlandChinaAttractions

Southern Xinjiang, a place abundant with exotic customs, a place of song and dance, a place of fiery passion, has a culture and human interaction vastly different from the inland. The fruits here are so sweet, the lands so vast. Come and see the landscapes of Southern Xinjiang, and experience the unique scenery and people! Recommended Itinerary: D1: Kashgar - White Sand Lake ~ Karakul Lake - Stone City Jinhaitan - Taxkorgan D2: Taxkorgan - Panlong Ancient Path - Bandier Blue Lake - Tashkurgan Viewing Platform - Secret Tree Hole - Kashgar D3: Kashgar - Yingjisha Knife Village - Shache Grand Palace - Hotan D4: Hotan - Jotkan Ancient City - Aral D5: Aral - 359th Regiment Memorial Hall - Wen Su Grand Canyon Aksu D6: Aksu - Daolang Tribe - Kashgar Old Town - Kashgar

The 8-day pure play travel guide. The combination of culture and natural scenery in Southern Xinjiang can be described as perfect. Visiting Kashgar allows you to experience the local customs of Xinjiang and see different beautiful landscapes, with the core being the Pamir Plateau. The main features are not flora, but the vast and magnificent snow mountains, lakes, rivers, and landforms... Suggested Itinerary: D1: Departure place - Urumqi D2: Urumqi - en route Wind Power Station - passing by Xinjiang Salt Lake Scenic Area - Korla D3: Korla - Loulan Village - Resitan Street - Kuqa D4: Kuqa - Flaming Spring - Xinjiang Tianshan Tumor Scenic Area·Grand Canyon - Aksu D5: Aksu - Kashgar Old Town - Kashgar D6: Kashgar - White Sand Lake - Muztagh Glacier Park - Golden Beach - Stone City - Taxkorgan D7: Taxkorgan - Panlong Ancient Path - Bandier Lake - Muztagh Peak - Karakul Lake Scenic Area - Kashgar D8: Kashgar - Warm Home Travel Tips: 🔸There is a big temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring seasonal clothes as well as some thick clothes 🔸When going to the Pamir Plateau, be prepared for wind protection and warmth, especially since the Panlong Ancient Path can be quite windy and sandy 🔸Panlong Ancient Path might cause motion sickness, so it's advisable to prepare some motion sickness medicine 🔸The altitude of the Pamir Plateau is high, be aware of altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise

Kashgar: A millennium-old city sleeping in the desert sands. One hasn't truly been to Xinjiang without visiting Kashgar, a statement full of vigor that is still written on the walls of the ancient city to this day. Here, you can experience the local customs and the warmth of the Uyghur people, as well as taste the unique cuisine of Xinjiang! The famous Handarwaza Food Street is located in the East District. All are delicious Xinjiang foods, from yogurt shaved ice to yogurt zongzi, from spicy lamb trotters to grilled kebabs, Kashgar is also the city with the latest sunset~ The sun still shines warmly at 9:30 pm as you stroll through the ancient city~ Aimlessly wandering through the Kashgar ancient city, which is like a maze, every window, every door, every alley, and every shop is full of exotic charm~ : Day 1: From all over the country to Kashgar Day 2: Kashgar - Kashgar Ancient City - Id Kah Mosque - Hundred-Year-Old Teahouse Day 3: Kashgar - White Sand Mountain - White Sand Lake - Karakul Lake - Tashkurgan Day 4: Taxkorgan County - Panlong Ancient Path - Kangxiwa Village - Bandier Lake - Almaliq Village - Taxkorgan County Day 5: Tashkurgan - Golden Beach - Stone City - Oytag Glacier Park - Kashgar Day 6: Kashgar - Shache Royal Mansion - Yerqiang Khan Mausoleum - Shache Day 7: Shache - Yingjisha Pottery Village - Kashgar Day 8: Kashgar - Back to all over the country

Band-e Amir Blue Lake is a reservoir within Taxkorgan County, also known as the Lower Banjir Reservoir or Kaner Yanglong Pond. Due to the mineral composition in the water, the lake appears a profound blue, creating an interesting contrast with the surrounding grey-white rock formations and snow-capped mountains, forming a cold and mysterious beauty. A trip to Band-e Amir Blue Lake is a journey of awe, healing, and intoxication, a collision and fusion of colors.

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.

The Pamir Plateau, known in ancient China as the Congling, was traversed by the ancient Silk Road. It is located in the southeastern part of Central Asia, at the westernmost point of China, stretching across Tajikistan, China, and Afghanistan. It is the convergence point of several major mountain ranges in Asia. 'Pamir' means 'the roof of the world' in Tajik, and the plateau has an average altitude of 4000 meters to 7700 meters, boasting many high peaks, with the main peaks all above 6000 meters. There are mountain passes such as the Khunjerab and Mintaka, which were important passages of the ancient Silk Road heading south to India, west to Afghanistan, and Iran. The moment you set foot on the Pamir Plateau, tears involuntarily fill your eyes. It's not out of sadness, but a tearful appreciation for nature's grandeur—beauty beyond imagination.

🌡️🌡️【3-4🈷️Weather conditions】 🌈3️⃣ Temperature in March: Snow starts to melt, -11°C-12°C🌡️, mostly sunny and cloudy days 🌈3️⃣ Outfit: The temperature difference between morning and night is large, wear a coat🧥, sweatshirt, thick jeans👖 during the day, and wear a cotton coat, cotton pants, and fleece shoes at night · 🌈4️⃣ Temperature in April: 0°C-25°C🌡️, mostly sunny☀️ and cloudy days, it often rains in Yili🌧️ 🌈4️⃣ Outfit: Big temperature difference between morning and night, long sleeves, coats🧥, jeans during the day, cotton clothes, fleece clothes at night — 🌈🌈【Play plan】 March: Southern Xinjiang and Turpan are the first to warm up, and the apricot blossoms here are the first to bloom April: It is the home of Yili. The apricot blossoms on the Yili grassland are gradually blooming. May: The flowers in the valley of Yili are in full bloom, very beautiful — 🗺️🗺️【3️⃣🈷️Itinerary👉6-day tour in Southern Xinjiang】 D1️⃣: Landing in Kashgar - Taking photos in Kashgar D2️⃣: Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Panlong Ancient Road, Tashi County D3️⃣: Kashgar Old Town (East/West City) - Id Kah Mosque - Aksu Ming D4️⃣: Aksu-Wensu Tomur Grand Canyon-Tomur Forest Park D5️⃣: Aksu Daolang Tribe - Alaer Silk Road Sandy Bay D6️⃣: Taklimakan Desert-Aksu Night Market D7️⃣: Aksu – Return — 🗺️🗺️【4️⃣🈷️Itinerary👉Ili Secret Land➕Turpan 8 Days】 D1️⃣: Urumqi - S101 National Defense Highway - Kuitun D2️⃣: Kuitun - Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Yining D3️⃣: Yining - Xiata - Zhaosu D4️⃣: Zhaosu-Qiongkushitai-Tekes Bagua City D5️⃣: Tekes-Qiaxi Ancient Road-Nalati D6️⃣: Nalati-Tangbula Hundred Miles Gallery-Tangbula D7️⃣: Tangbula-Fairy Lake-Yining D8️⃣: Yining – Duzi Grand Canyon – Urumqi

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

**🗺️ Route Overview: Southern Xinjiang Grand Loop** **Korla → Kuqa → Aksu → Kashgar → Tashkurgan → Hotan → Desert Highway → Korla** **Total Mileage**: Approx. 2,800 km **Highlights**: Silk Road relics + Pamir Plateau + desert crossing + ethnic culture --- **📅 Daily Itinerary & Accommodation Recommendations** **Day 1: Arrival in Korla** - **Activities**: Pick up rental car (recommend 7-seater SUV), explore **Peacock River Night Views** - **Stay**: **Korla Kangcheng Jianguo Hotel** (family suites, swimming pool) - **Food**: Pit-baked fish🐟 + Korla fragrant pear juice **Day 2: Korla → Kuqa (280km/3.5h)** - **Highlights**: ⛰️ **Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon** (red rock hiking) 🏺 **Kuqa Prince's Mansion** (stories of the last princess) - **Stay**: Kuqa **Tianyuan International Hotel** (garden courtyard) **Day 3: Kuqa → Aksu (350km/4h)** - **Experiences**: 🌅 **Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves** (ancient Qiuci murals, free for children) 🥬 **Wensu Grand Canyon** (off-road adventure on Mars-like terrain) - **Dinner**: Aksu applewood-roasted whole lamb🍖 **Day 4: Aksu → Kashgar (460km/5h)** - **Key Stops**: 🕌 **Kashgar Old City Opening Ceremony** (10:30/18:00) 🧵 **Artisan Bazaar** (try copperware/pottery painting) - **Stay**: **Ulan Homestay** (Uyghur-style courtyard in the old city) **Day 5: Kashgar In-Depth Tour** - **Activities**: 📍 **Id Kah Mosque** → **Century-Old Tea House** (rose jam tea) 🐫 **Xiangfei Garden** (Uyghur dance performances, ethnic costume photos) - **Night Market**: Hanzha grilled eggs🥚 + yogurt rice dumplings **Day 6: Kashgar → Tashkurgan (300km/6h)** - **Stunning Sights**: 💧 **White Sand Lake** (Pamir's "blue eye," photo stop) ❄️ **Muztagh Ata Glacier Park** (light hiking) - **Stay**: Tashkurgan **Plateau Scenery Hotel** (oxygen-equipped rooms) - **Tip**: Carry oxygen cans, no vigorous play for kids! **Day 7: Tashkurgan → Kashgar (Return)** - **Must-Do**: 🛣️ **Panlong Ancient Road** ("Finish all life's twists today!") 🏞️ **Golden Grass Wetland** (reflection shots under Stone City) - **Dinner**: Kashgar **Golden Cup** pigeon soup (divinely delicious!) **Day 8: Kashgar → Hotan (500km/6h)** - **En Route**: 🪨 **Yecheng Xitaiya Lost City** (desert ruins exploration) 🍇 **Hotan Tuan City** (buy Atlas silk/dried figs) - **Stay**: Hotan **Jade Capital International Hotel** (spacious family rooms) **Day 9: Hotan → Desert Highway → Korla (620km/8h)** - **Epic Experience**: 🏜 **Cross Taklamakan Desert** (road trip photography) 🌵 **Visit Keriya Village** (optional, book in advance) - **Stay**: Desert stopover **Tazhong Hotel** (simple & clean) **Day 10: Return to Korla** - **Final Fun**: 🛍️ **Hualing Market** for dried fruits (raisins, almonds) ✈️ Drop off rental car, journey ends --- **🍴 Southern Xinjiang Food Guide** | **Region** | **Must-Try** | |------------|-----------------------------| | **Kuqa** | Face-sized naan🥞 + "Gangzi" stewed meat | | **Kashgar** | Rose-flavored hand-pulled rice🌹 + nut-filled Maqit candy | | **Hotan** | Red willow skewer buns🔥 + grilled ostrich eggs | | **En Route** | Watermelon with naan🍉 + camel milk ice cream | --- **💡 Family Travel Tips** 1. **Documents**: Apply for **border permit** in advance for Tashkurgan (free at Kashgar Tourism Center) 2. **Climate**: - Desert temps exceed 40℃🌡️, pack sun protection + cooling spray - Pamir nights drop to 5℃, bring fleece jackets 3. **Driving**: - Refuel before desert crossing, carry spare tire + tow rope - Strict speed limits, no speeding! 4. **Budget Reference** (family of 5): - 🚗 Rental + gas: ¥12,000 - 🏨 Lodging: ¥6,000 (budget hotels + homestays) - 🎫 Tickets: ¥2,000 (half-price for kids) --- **🌟 Top Family Moments** > Learn Uyghur dance in Kashgar💃 · Stargaze on Desert Highway🌌 · Crack giant grilled egg "blind boxes" at Hotan Night Market🎁 **Southern Xinjiang's romance lies in the whispers of millennia-old winds and the vibrant life of its oases. This 10-day odyssey lets kids touch the soul of the Silk Road, leaving the whole family in love with this land～ 🐫✨🌙**

The winds of the Western Regions whisper through ancient city walls millennia old, the snow-capped peaks of the Pamirs reflect in the mirror of Karakul Lake, and the golden waves of the Taklamakan Desert surge endlessly. This epic Southern Xinjiang route takes you across the Congling Pass of Xuanzang's pilgrimage, tracing the living memories of the Silk Road—enchanted by the eagle flute melodies of Tajik herders, wandering alone under desert highway stars, savoring the vibrant flavors of oasis cities. Ten days of breathtaking landscapes await! —— 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Arrive in Kashgar - Airport transfer - Free time in Kashgar D2: Kashgar - White Sand Lake - Karakul Lake - Tashkurgan Wetland - Pamir Scenic Area - Tajik family visit - Overnight in Tashkurgan (289km, 5h) D3: Tashkurgan - Wakhan Corridor - Khunjerab Pass - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandier Blue Lake - Overnight in Tashkurgan (231km, 4h) D4: Tashkurgan - Muztagh Ata Glacier Park + horse riding - Overnight in Kashgar (289km, 5h) D5: Kashgar - Intangible Cultural Heritage Pottery - Shache King's Mausoleum - Shache Old Town - Overnight in Shache (197km, 4h) D6: Shache - Xitiyan Lost City - Yotkan Ancient City - Overnight in Hotan (319km, 4.5h) D7: Hotan - Yurungkash River - Cross Taklamakan Desert Highway - Overnight in Aral (440km, 6h) D8: Aral - Wensu Grand Canyon - Overnight in Aksu (208km, 3h) D9: Aksu - Visit a Uyghur family in Kashgar - Gaotai Ancient Residence - Overnight in Kashgar (405km, 5h) D10: Kashgar airport transfer - Tour concludes —— ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: White Sand Lake: Where pale desert meets azure waters—Pamir's most surreal mirror world. The north shore viewpoint (if open) offers crowd-free vistas. Panlong Ancient Road: 639 hairpin turns over 75km. Snap a photo with the iconic sign: "After navigating all these bends, life's path will be smooth." Muztagh Ata Glacier Park: Touch millennia-old ice at 4,688m altitude. Horseback ascent recommended (bring oxygen). Taklamakan Desert Highway: The world's longest crossing through shifting sands—a straight road splitting golden dunes, perfect for cinematic solitude. Gaotai Ancient Residence: Kashgar's last surviving earthen architecture. Get lost in maze-like alleys with naan bakers and potters, where sunset light evokes Arabian Nights. —— 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Rose-stuffed tandoori lamb buns—Crispy shells with fragrant rose-infused meat, only found in century-old Kashgar shops. Yak bone hotpot—Wild mushroom broth simmered with highland yak bones, unbearably umami. Muqam roasted pigeon—Secret-marinated squab charcoal-grilled to juicy perfection. Desert-baked eggs—Yolks mixed with saffron honey, pit-roasted to molten sweetness. Applewood lamb skewers—Fruitwood-smoked meat paired with Xinjiang's famed "honey heart" apples. —— 🚌【Transport Tips】: Recommended: ✅ Private/chartered cars (4-6 person groups ideal): Local drivers handle Pamir mountain roads + border checkpoints ~¥1500-1800/person (10-day all-inclusive) · Self-drive warnings: ⚠️ Experienced drivers only! Note: Obtain border permit in Kashgar (list Tashkurgan & Muji Township) Desert highway crosswinds require firm steering (speed limit 60km/h) Panlong Road bans vehicles over 7 seats —— 🧡【Pro Tips】: Altitude: Avoid nighttime showers in Tashkurgan; use oxygen if needed. Drone rules: No-fly zones at Khunjerab Pass & Wakhan Corridor! White Sand Lake requires registration (forms at entrance). Packing: Pamirs: Windbreaker + fleece (July nights ~10°C) Desert: UV face cover + sunglasses (ground temps >50°C) Hidden gems: Learn Uyghur dance during home visits—earn handmade hats as gifts Bring a small shovel for jade-hunting at Yurungkash River (best at dawn) Signal alert: Mid-desert highway has no reception—download offline maps 🌟 Essentials: ID + border permit, moisturizers, neck pillow, cash (some tolls cash-only), power strip (hotels lack outlets)

🎒『10-Day Trip Revealed』🎒 🌟Day1【Kashgar Old City Exploration】 🏨Stay: Homeinn Plus (Kashgar Old City Scenic Area People's Square Branch) 📍Highlights: 👉Kashgar Old City: Immerse in millennia-old Central Asian charm 👉Id Kah Mosque: Xinjiang's largest mosque🕌 👉Xiangfei Garden: Legendary story of Emperor Qianlong's fragrant concubine 👉Gaotai Ancient Residence: Living adobe architecture museum ✨Unique Experiences: Old city hot air balloon/Kunlun Eye Ferris wheel/Night market in ancient streets 🌟Day2【Red Canyon Adventure】 🔴Nature's masterpiece! Breathtaking canyon sunset🌄 🌟Day3【First Taste of Pamir Plateau】 🏕️Muyun Camp (Karakul Lake Branch) 📍Must-visit: 👉Muztagh Glacier Park: Up close with the "Father of Ice Mountains" 👉Taheman Wetland: Stunning plateau wetland reflections 👉Pamir Golden Grassland: A golden fairy tale world🍂 🌟Day4【Must-Drive Experience】 🏨Shangyin Hotel (Tashkurgan Pamir Tourist Area Branch) 🛣️Panlong Ancient Road: "After today's winding roads, life will be all smooth sailing ahead" 🚗Over 600 thrilling curves! 🌟Day5【Volcanic Wonders】 ⛺Tashkurgan·Meet·Tuogelunxia Pasture High Flute Starry Sky Camp 🌋Muji Volcanic Crater: China's westernmost volcanic crater group Stargazing at the Milky Way at night🌌 🌟Day6【Plateau Lakes】 ☁️In the Clouds Starry Sky Camp Homestay (White Sand Lake Branch) 💧Kezhou Glacier Park: The "blue tear" of Pamir Plateau 🔥『Super Recommended Spots』🔥 1️⃣Xiangfei Garden: Exemplar of Central Asian architecture 2️⃣Panlong Ancient Road: 3000m-altitude viral photo spot📸 3️⃣Muztagh Glacier: Touch millennia-old ice 4️⃣Id Kah Mosque: Kashgar's landmark 💡『Practical Tips』💡 ✅Best travel season: July-August ✅Border permit required for Pamir Plateau ✅SUNSCREEN! SUNSCREEN! SUNSCREEN! ✅Stay warm and prevent altitude sickness in plateau areas

#chinatravel Tashkurgan is honestly one of the most unreal places I’ve ever been. Way out in the far west of Xinjiang, this little town sits high up in the mountains, and the views? Absolutely insane. Snow-capped peaks, endless grasslands, and skies so blue it doesn’t feel real. It’s peaceful, raw, and just hits different. One of my favorite spots was the Stone Fortress, super ancient and full of history, with epic views all around. And the drive along the Karakoram Highway to get there? Easily one of the most beautiful road trips I’ve taken. You’re surrounded by giant mountains the whole way. The Tajik culture here is also amazing. Everyone was super welcoming, and the vibe is really chill and authentic. I stayed in a yurt for a night, watched yaks wander by, and stargazed under the clearest sky ever. If you’re into nature, culture, and total serenity, Tashkurgan is the spot. It’s remote, stunning, and so worth the journey.

Over the years, I’ve always traveled alone. Once a year, no matter how busy work gets or how chaotic life becomes, I insist on setting out by myself. It’s not because I enjoy solitude, but because I know that only when I’m alone on the road can I truly connect with myself and make peace with the past. This time, I chose Xinjiang for my journey. Not for the popular tourist spots, not for the photo ops, but for the Panlong Ancient Road—a winding path that mirrors the twists and turns of life itself. Starting from Taiwan, I transited through Shanghai to Kashgar, then headed westward into the Pamir Plateau, passing through Tashkurgan, White Sand Lake, and Karakul Lake. My final destination, however, was the true purpose of this trip: the Panlong Ancient Road. Why do I always travel alone? Because I don’t want to leave any regrets. Since 2020, we’ve witnessed too much impermanence in life. A pandemic widened the distance between people in an instant. Some left us suddenly, and some words were left forever unsaid. The person closest to me, the one I loved most, quietly departed during that chaotic time. No goodbyes, no hugs, not even one last proper look at her. She was so young, yet she never got the chance to see the world. For a long time, I couldn’t pull myself out of the sorrow. One day, I decided to pack my bags and set off on a journey—to see, with my own eyes, the sights she never had the chance to witness. I told myself: as long as I’m still here, I won’t let life be filled with regrets. Even if I’m alone, even if the road is long, I’ll keep walking. Panlong Ancient Road: A Winding Path That Reflects My Life On the return journey, the car ascended a highland road. The driver said, "This is the Panlong Ancient Road, the section leading to Tageman. It’s not a place tour groups visit, but you’ve come to the right place." Outside the window were rolling clouds, steep mountains, and bottomless valleys. As the car spiraled upward, I felt as though I was walking through the past few years of my life. Each bend was like a question I once couldn’t answer; each turn, a loss, a breakdown, a moment of despair. I had asked myself more than once, "How much longer can I endure days like this?" But today, as I walked this winding road, I neither turned back nor stopped. I just kept going, round and round, until I saw the light. At the Mountain’s Peak, I Saw the World’s Beauty for Her When the car reached the viewing platform, I got out. The wind was so strong it could almost knock a person over. Standing at the edge of the cliff, I looked back at the Panlong Ancient Road. It lay like a giant dragon sprawled across the chest of the Pamir Plateau, winding and coiling, with no straight sections and no easy paths. But it was precisely because of this that it was so magnificent, so real. My eyes welled up as I softly said to the distance, "I saw it for you. It’s truly beautiful." She can no longer see it, but I’m still here. As long as I can keep walking, I’ll see the desert sunsets, the plateau clouds, the reflections of snow-capped mountains, and the bends of the Panlong Ancient Road for her. I no longer travel for myself, but to see for her, to walk for love. The stone tablet on the viewing platform read: "Having walked all the winding roads today, may the rest of life be smooth." I finally understood. This wasn’t a promise, but a blessing; not an end, but a beginning. Life is never smooth sailing, but we can choose to keep going—no matter how hard, no matter how lonely. I’m not afraid of winding roads because I know that behind every bend, there’s always a view waiting for me. Just like at the end of this journey, when I thought I was utterly exhausted, the Panlong Ancient Road gave me its deepest embrace. It didn’t speak, but it understood me. This journey was a pilgrimage for myself and a tribute to her. This year, I walked another long road alone. Some say I’m brave; others say I’m lonely. But only I know, I’m not alone. Behind me is her shadow; in my eyes are the sights she never saw; in my heart are the memories she left behind. Travel is not an escape but a form of remembrance, a way to keep moving forward. I will keep walking, seeing all the sights worth seeing in this world—for her and for myself, to live more fully. If there’s a heaven, it must look like the snow-capped mountains of Pamir. And I’m willing to walk step by step along the Panlong Ancient Road, toward the light in my heart.