Overview

Kashgar

People may hear Kashgar being titled as "an important trade and cultural city on Silk Road". "a South Gate to neighbors Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan," "without Kashgar without Xinjiang," and "an alive recorder of Xinjiang's history," etc. By whatever praised, Kashgar is just more than words to describe.  

Located in the abdomen of Central Asia, Kashgar belongs to a warm continental arid climate zone with four distinct seasons. Summer is hot with abundant sunshine. The sun loves Xinjiang so much that it doesn't want to leave until 10 pm in summer. Winter is not cold but comfortable for outdoor activities. Golden Autumn shows us the best side of smoked yellow and avocado red.

Why Visit the City

**Historical Significants**

Kashgar is one of the oldest cities in China, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a vital hub along the ancient Silk Road, connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Explore the well-preserved Old City of Kashgar, visit historical sites like the IdKah Mosque and the Abakh Hoja Tomb, and immerse yourself in the city's fascinating past.

**Cultural Diversity**

Kashgar is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, with a strong Uyghur influence. Experience the unique culture, traditions, and cuisine of the Uyghur people, known for their vibrant music, dance, and craftsmanship. Explore the bustling markets, sample local delicacies like Uyghur kebabs and hand-pulled noodles, and witness traditional performances and celebrations.

**Architectural Marvels**

Marvel at the distinctive architecture of Kashgar, characterized by traditional Uyghur homes, mud-brick buildings, and ornate mosques. Visit the iconic Apak Hoja Mausoleum, the picturesque Afaq Khoja Mausoleum, and the historic Kashgar Old Town, where you can wander through narrow alleyways and admire traditional courtyard houses.

**Natural Beauty**

Surrounding Kashgar are breathtaking natural landscapes that offer opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration. Visit Karakul Lake, a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Pamir Mountains, or hike through the Tashkurgan Grasslands for panoramic views of rolling hills and grazing yaks. The rugged beauty of the Xinjiang region is sure to captivate nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

**Culinary Delights**

Indulge in the delicious flavors of Uyghur cuisine while in Kashgar. Sample local specialties such as polo (pilaf), laghman (hand-pulled noodles), samsa (meat pies), and Uyghur bread. Visit the bustling Grand Bazaar to taste a variety of street food, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and savor the unique blend of Central Asian and Chinese flavors.

**Colorful Markets**

Explore the lively markets of Kashgar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, carpets, and souvenirs. Visit the Sunday Market, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia, where you can browse a wide array of goods, interact with local vendors, and experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kashgar.

Top Attractions

Idkah Mosque, a courtyard-style temple. 

The main body is in goose yellow, which looks warm and inviting. Next to the gatehouse are two minarets in soft-curved shape with Islamic crescent moons on each tower's top. Inside decorations are spectacular. The roofs are supported by 158 light blue pillars in a grid shape. The ceiling and the four corners of the wooden pillars have exquisite wood carvings and colorful bath well patterns. They are a symbol of peace and the universe. 

Old Town

Somehow the town is commercialized for attracting tourists, but why people still love to see the town with great passion? Charming exists in its largest-preserved-adored residential complex in the world, making the impression with long history and epitome of Uyghur culture. On the other side, the town is full of life. Either you hang around a street or have a cup of tea in the hundred-year Tea house, you can't help falling in love with it for its light orange color all over and labyrinthine layouts, as if here nothing has changed, but everything has. In my eyes, The Old Town is like an aged man with wisdom and peace simultaneously having strong chest muscles of Sparta Warriors' and fearless spirit. It stirs my soul and gives me fantasy.

Apak Hoja Mazzar

I'd rather call it a magnificent palace with Islamic ancient architecture styles of domes and crescent moons on the top. Outside walls are all veneered with dark green glazed bricks from top to bottom, and occasional with colorful pictures and Arabic Quran epigrams. 

These glazed bricks were made more than 300 years ago but still beautiful and shining today. 

Sunday Bazaar

Held every Sunday on the outskirts of Kashgar, this bustling market is a must-visit for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. You can find a wide range of goods, from livestock and produce to clothing and household items.

Whether in Sunday Bazaar or the Grand Bazaar, Uyghur business people are good at trading. 

Pamirs -- "Roof of the World" 

The Pamirs are renowned for their stunning beauty, with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes creating a breathtaking backdrop for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. 

Trekking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching are popular activities in the Pamirs, offering visitors a chance to explore this pristine and awe-inspiring region.                                              

Karakuli Lake --"Black Lake" 

The Lake is deep dark blue, and spooky. It is about 160km away from Aktao county, 3600m above sea level, with 10km. 

Just because of the Gongge peak, Gongger Jiubie peak, and Mustage peak around to the Lake, all makes it so picturesque with mountains and the Lake in one. Silver mountains and blue Lake are intoxicating and add a bit of romance to the majestic Pamirs. 

Taxkorgan County 

 A town located near the border with Pakistan and Tajikistan, Tashkurgan is known for its ancient stone fortress, cultural heritage, and stunning mountain scenery. 

You can explore the town's historic sites and interact with the local Tajik community.The Tajik as the Europa white people in China make them so special and unique.

When to Come

The best Time of touring Kashgar is in Autumn. The sun isn't so scorching as in summer and sets us free to go outside. August fruits and September breeze make everything possible. 

To those who love sunshine and make trips in summer is also a good choice. Kashgar's summer is always hilarious, like its red color. You might burn the passion for experiencing "lonely smoke straight in the desert, long river and a round sunset" somewhere in the desert of Kashgar. 

                 

Different seasons bring you the different experience. Spring is young green while Winter is white cold. Time is just in your heart. Don't wait but make it.  

Transportation

Kashgar is the transportation hub of Southern Xinjiang. It is convenient either by plane (the airport about 9km away from the city center) or by train to come down. Round-trip trains from Urumqi are available every day.

Kashgar highways go to 12 counties (cities) directly. From Kashgar City to the northeast highways leading to Kezhou, Aksu, Korla, Turpan, and northward to Urumqi. From Kashgar City to the southeast highways leading to Shule, Yingjisha, Shache, Zepu, Yecheng and Hotan, and to Dunhuang in Gansu Province and Golmud in Qinghai Province to the East, and Ali area of Tibet from Yecheng to the south.

Accommodation

Accommodation of Kashgar has been upgraded a lot in recent years to fit in the title as an important city on Silk Road. Travelers have no worry about finding a hotel room to stay in. 

Some valuable hotels are well-rated among guests for your references. They can ensure cozy hotels and pleasant service to help travelers have a great experience in Kashgar. Please have a check.

Kashgar Maps you might need