How to Explore Kashgar: Old City, Xiangfei Garden, and Surrounding Itineraries

Kashgar is the gateway to southern Xinjiang and a key destination for many travelers. Two to three days are enough to explore the Old City and its surroundings; use the remaining time to extend your journey toward the Pamirs or the desert.

How to spend two days in the city

Day 1: Enter the Old City via the East Gate, walk along the main street to Id Kah Mosque, explore the handicraft street and bazaar in the afternoon, and return to the Old City at dusk to enjoy the night lights. Day 2: Visit the Afandi's Mausoleum and Gaotai Village, then head to the night market in the evening.

The old town has many narrow alleys. Explore them by section to avoid backtracking. Visit in the morning when it's less crowded and the light is ideal for capturing architectural details.

How to choose merchandise

Head southwest toward the Pamir Plateau: Bosten Lake, Karakul Lake, and Muztagh Ata lie on a single route, typically requiring two days. Head southeast to Hotan (farther distance). Head north to Aksu and Kuqa.

• Pamir Route: 2 days; border permit required.
• Khotan Direction: 3+ days, focused on the desert and jade markets
• Kucha: 2 days to explore the caves and old town
• Tashkurgan Direction: Can be combined with Pamir; note the high altitude.

Documents & Transportation

A Border Management Area Permit is required to visit border counties and cities such as Tashkurgan. You can obtain this permit at local government service windows. Carry your ID card with you and present it for inspection at checkpoints.

Kashgar has direct flights to multiple cities in mainland China. Flights are limited during peak season, so we recommend booking in advance. Taxis are readily available in the city; for trips to nearby attractions, we suggest hiring a private car.

Schedule and Diet

Kashgar is in a different time zone than inland China. In summer, daylight persists past 10 p.m., so dinner is served later. Afternoons are very hot; indoor rest is recommended for comfort.

The diet features BBQ, pilaf, hand-pulled noodles, and naan, with a wide variety of options at night markets. For flavor profiles and ordering tips, seeXinjiang Food Route。

One-day itinerary for the Pamir route

Departing from Kashgar, you can reach Baisa Lake and Karakul Lake in one day via the Pamir Highway. Continue toward Tashkurgan as time allows. Elevation rises quickly; ensure adequate sleep before departure, avoid strenuous activity during travel, and descend immediately or use supplemental oxygen if you experience headache or nausea.

This route requires border crossing permits. Verify your documents and permit collection points before departure. Rest stops are sparse; carry ample water and food. Allow extra time for the return trip to avoid driving on high-altitude roads at night.

Taxis are readily available in the city center. However, due to narrow roads around the old town, walking is often faster than driving. Allow extra time for traffic when heading to the airport or train station; while morning rush hour isn't severe, security checkpoints may cause delays. For dining, start with light meals and save heavier ones for later. After several days of barbecue, a bowl of soup rice will be easier on your stomach.

The old town's alleys can be confusing; just follow a few landmarks and main roads. When you're tired, take a break at a tea house—it's easier than blindly searching for an exit with GPS. In the evening, soft light makes it perfect for another walk to capture photos of the architecture.

See route and waypoints below.Kashgar to Taxkorgan routeFor information on managing altitude sickness, seePamir Plateau Travel Tips。

Related reading

• How to Explore Kashgar Old City: Alleys, Bazaars, and Handcraft Experiences
• Pamir Plateau Route: Taxkorgan, Baisha Lake, and Muztagh Ata
• Travel Documents and Security Checks for Xinjiang: What to Bring
• View Southern Xinjiang Routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are recommended for a trip to Kashgar?

The old town and main attractions can be explored in 2–3 days. Add another 2–3 days for the Pamir region, or extend further if visiting Hotan or Kuqa.

Do I need to obtain a permit in advance for the trip to Taxkorgan?

To obtain a Border Management Area Pass, visit the local government service window or an authorized location in Kashgar. Before departure, confirm the destination area and required documents.

Supplementary Note: This article is compiled by the route consultant of Xinjiang China International Travel Service (Xinjiang CITS). South Xinjiang travel information and Xinjiang travel updates vary by season and road conditions. For itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please consult a local travel agency consultant online.