Overview

Kashgar and Tashkurgan are both located in the southwest of Xinjiang. As a historic "pearl of the Silk Road", Kashgar is the political, economic and cultural center of the Kashgar region with multi-ethnic settlement and multicultural integration. Tashkurgan is located in the Pamir Plateau and is famous for its unique border scenery and ethnic customs.

Tour highlights:

D1: Kashgar

D2: Kashgar-Tashkurgan

D3: Tashkurgan

D4: Tashkurgan-Kashgar

Detailed itinerary:

D1: Kashgar

After breakfast, head to the ancient city of Kashgar and enter through the East Gate to participate in the opening ceremony. Stroll through the unique bazaars within the old town, such as the Flower Pot Bazaar, Medicine Bazaar, and Flower Hat Bazaar, admiring various handicrafts and specialty goods. Then visit the Aitigao Mosque to experience its solemn and dignified atmosphere. Tour the Fragrant Concubine Garden to learn about the legendary story of the Fragrant Concubine and enjoy the ancient architecture and garden scenery. Next, proceed to the GaoTai residential area, which has a history of 600 years. The buildings are built along the cliff, arranged in a staggered manner, integrating ancient residential architecture, folk customs, and intangible cultural heritage. Watch the local ethnic song and dance performances to feel the charm of Xinjiang's folk culture.

D2: Kashgar-Tashkurgan

Starting from Kashgar and heading to Tashkurgan, we pass by White Sand Lake and enjoy its beauty from two viewing platforms. The lake water, under the sunlight, displays a captivating blue hue. Upon arriving at Karakul Lake, we admire the scenic views of mountains and the surrounding snow-capped peaks, as well as the reflection of Muztagh Ata Peak. We then visit Tajik families for performances featuring melodious and lively music played on instruments like eagle flutes and hand drums. These performances are accompanied by dynamic and graceful eagle dances that mimic the posture of eagles, along with traditional costumes and handicraft displays, offering an immersive experience of the unique culture of the Tajiks.

D3: Tashkurgan

After breakfast, head to the Panlong Ancient Road to experience the thrill of this winding and twisting highway, enjoying the magnificent canyon scenery along the way. Then visit Bandir Blue Lake, where the water displays a beautiful blue, like a fairyland. Touring Stone City is an important relic of the ancient Silk Road; though it has been reduced to ruins over time, it still carries profound history, witnessing the rise and fall of the Silk Road and the integration of ethnic cultures.

D4: Tashkurgan-Kashgar

After breakfast, you will return to Kashgar. On the way visit Muztagh Ata Mountain, which is steep and wide with glaciers spread all over it. It is known as the "father of ice mountains" and is a holy land for mountaineers. It also carries rich historical and cultural connotations. I returned to Kashgar.