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

[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

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

#discoverchina Panlong Ancient Road, located near the Bayinbuluk Grassland in Hejing County, Xinjiang, China, is a breathtaking mountain road that winds dramatically through the highlands. Known for its striking zigzag curves, it has earned the title of one of the most beautiful mountain roads in China. The visual impact of Panlong Ancient Road is truly stunning—the road twists and turns in layers, resembling a giant dragon coiling through the mountains. It is especially popular for aerial photography, offering spectacular and unique views.

#discoverchina Khunjerab Pass is located in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, China. It is the only land border crossing between China and Pakistan, connected by the famous Karakoram Highway, which leads directly to the Sost Port in Pakistan. As a national first-class port, it also serves as a key hub of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, making it highly significant and truly unique.

#discoverchina Khunjerab Pass is located in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, China, at an altitude of about 4,733 meters. It is one of the highest land border ports in the world and serves as a vital trade route between China and Pakistan. Standing at Khunjerab Pass, you are surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains under a vast sky, creating a breathtaking and majestic scene—it truly feels like being on top of the world, and the experience is incredibly unique.

If you’ve never been to Southern Xinjiang and have only heard about its unique cultural heritage and architecture, you’re missing out on half the story. Visiting this region reveals that it’s not just about history, architecture, or legendary tales. Southern Xinjiang is home to the largest desert scenery belt, the hottest place in China, the lowest altitude in the country, the most populous area of poplar trees, the most ancient kingdoms, the densest ethnic communities, the origin of countless rivers, and the most winding mountain roads. Following the path of Master Xuanzang, I felt the ancient simplicity, the profound culture, and the weight of history here. Touching the walls of ancient buildings, I marveled at the wisdom and strength of the ancients. Crossing the Taklamakan Desert, I saw poplar trees standing tall, their shapes bizarre—some resembling coiled dragons, others like eerie specters. The guide told me that poplar trees live for a thousand years, remain standing for another thousand after death, and take a thousand more years to decay. Touching their rough bark, I felt as if countless stories were hidden within their textures. Amid the desert, ruins emerged—crumbling walls half-buried in yellow sand. The guide explained that these were the remnants of the ancient Kingdom of Jingjue, once prosperous but now silent. As the wind blew, grains of sand rolled, whispering tales of sorrow. Visiting the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves, I found the caves carved into cliffs, with suspended walkways that were challenging to climb. Inside, the murals were vibrant, depicting ethereal flying figures and solemn Bodhisattvas. However, many Buddha statues had damaged faces and hollowed eyes due to religious conflicts. One mural featured a half-preserved Bodhisattva, gazing downward with a faint smile, seemingly lamenting human ignorance. Outside the caves, a stream flowed, its sound harmonizing with the wind. Staying at a local farmhouse, I experienced warm hospitality. The host slaughtered a sheep and served wine. During the feast, musicians played the rawap and daf drums, and people of all ages danced to the music. A young girl invited me to dance, but my clumsy steps often went wrong, eliciting laughter and encouragement from the crowd. As the night deepened, the host shared stories of his ancestors, who migrated from Persia and had lived here for over ten generations. Under the starry sky and beside the bonfire, history intertwined with the present, evoking deep emotions. The people of Southern Xinjiang live challenging lives but remain optimistic. On the desert’s edge, farmers channel snowmelt from the Kunlun Mountains to irrigate the land, creating oases in the barren terrain. Under grape trellises, children play; in poplar groves, elders relax. Despite occasional sandstorms and hardships, the locals are simple and hospitable. Everywhere I went, I was invited into homes and offered fruits and tea. Though language barriers existed, smiles bridged the gap. In Kashgar’s old town, narrow alleys crisscrossed, and tall earthen walls loomed. Walking through felt like navigating a maze. Residents lived on elevated platforms, with doors facing each other, and the sounds of chickens and dogs filled the air. Women lowered baskets from second-floor windows to buy flatbreads from street vendors, who used hooks to exchange money and goods, saving the effort of climbing up and down. Wandering the alleys, I glimpsed an open courtyard where an elderly man sat smoking under grapevines, the smoke curling and dancing with the setting sun. The beauty of the Pamirs is neither the elegance of Jiangnan nor the grandeur of the Central Plains but an ancient desolation and purity. Here, time seems to stand still, and civilization and nature achieve a delicate balance. Silent snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes speak louder than words, leaving a profound impact. Nomads following water and grass, border guards standing firm, and millennia-old relics together form the rhythm of life in the Pamirs. Arriving at the Ghez Canyon, the terrain suddenly became steep and treacherous. The red mountains appeared as if carved by knives, with folds occasionally revealing a ribbon of green water winding through. Driving through, cliffs loomed on one side and deep chasms on the other, the engine’s hum blending with the wind. Groups of wild goats stood on precarious cliffs, gazing at passersby with calm demeanor. Turning a sharp corner, Kongur Peak suddenly rose before me, its snowy summit gleaming like silver in the sunlight. Clouds swirled around its waist, appearing and disappearing like a veiled goddess. By the time I reached White Sand Lake, dusk had fallen. True to its name, the lake was surrounded by white sand, and its waters shifted in color—from pale green near the shore to deep blue and finally inky black at the center. When the wind blew, gentle waves lapped the shore, and the white sand flowed with a soft rustling sound. Across the lake, snow-capped mountains reflected in the water, their images rippling with the waves, blurring the line between reality and illusion. A Kyrgyz herder led his sheep along the lake’s edge, their hooves breaking the mountain’s reflection, which fragmented and reformed. The herder invited me to his yurt with hand gestures, offering salty milk tea and flatbread. Though we couldn’t communicate verbally, his gaze was as warm as the highland twilight. At Karakul Lake, situated at an altitude of 3,600 meters and backed by Muztagh Ata, known as the "Father of Ice Mountains," the lake’s surface was as calm as a mirror, perfectly reflecting the 7,500-meter snow peak. Walking along the shore, I saw the water so clear that pebbles were visible. Suddenly, a fish leapt out, creating ripples that shattered the mountain’s reflection. Nearby, stone monuments bore the names of climbers who had perished attempting to conquer the peak. As the wind blew through the monument forest, it seemed to narrate the unfinished stories of those ascents. In Tashkurgan County, a small and tidy town, many Tajik people could be seen. Women wore colorful dresses and embroidered hats, while men had prominent features, often carrying eagle flutes on their hooked noses. At the afternoon market, I saw an elderly man selling eagle flutes and tried one, its sound piercing the sky like an eagle’s cry. At the market’s end stood the ruins of the Stone City, where remnants of palaces and temples could still be discerned. The guide explained that this was the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Jibantuo, which Xuanzang passed through during his westward journey. Standing atop the crumbling walls, overlooking the grasslands and river valleys, I imagined the caravans winding through and bustling trade of a thousand years ago, feeling a sense of melancholy. At the Red Flag Lap Port, the cold wind was biting, and the national flag fluttered at the border gate. At an altitude of 4,700 meters, this is China’s highest border crossing. Border guards, their faces red and frosted eyelashes, stood tall despite the harsh conditions. A Pakistani caravan passed through, camels laden with goods and bells jingling. A Pakistani merchant greeted me with a clumsy "friend" in Mandarin and handed me a bag of pine nuts. People from both countries shook hands and laughed, transcending borders. On the return journey through the Tashkurgan Wetlands, it was dusk. The setting sun painted the grasslands gold, and the winding rivers shimmered. Shepherds rode horses, driving sheep home, their whips cracking crisply. In the distance, snow-capped mountains turned pink, then purple, before fading into the night. An eagle soared across the sky, gradually becoming a black dot and disappearing over the snowy peaks. Can you imagine what I’ve seen and described? If not, I invite you to come and experience it yourself! 🛬【Itinerary】: Urumqi - Turpan - Korla - Kuqa - Aksu - Kashgar - Tashkurgan - Kashgar ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Flaming Mountains - Karez System Origin - Bosten Lake - Luobu Village - Poplar Forest Park - Kuqa Palace - Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves - Kizilia Red Mountains - Wensu Grand Canyon - Kashgar Old Town - White Sand Lake - Karakul Lake - Tashkurgan Wetlands - Wakhan Corridor - Red Flag Lap Port - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Skewered Lamb - Red Willow Grilled Meat - Original Grilled Meat - Baked Dumplings - Thin-Skinned Dumplings - Pigeon Noodles and Soup - Stewed Lamb 🧡【Tips】: After May, the weather gets hotter. In high-altitude areas, remember to use sunscreen and carry oxygen bottles. Most places don’t cause altitude sickness, but some may experience mild reactions at Panlong Ancient Road and Muztagh Ata Park—just take a few breaths of oxygen if needed!

#discoverchina Southern Xinjiang has many attractions, such as important stopovers on the ancient Silk Road, traditional Uyghur villages, and beautiful desert and oasis landscapes, all of which attract visitors. The local cuisine, handicrafts, and traditional folk performances are rich in regional character, making it an ideal destination to experience the diverse cultures and natural beauty of Xinjiang. When visiting Southern Xinjiang, it's best to slow down and take the time to fully immerse yourself in this beautiful region.

Kashgar's charm lies in its West Region ambiance. Trip Overview Kashgar, a dazzling pearl on the western frontier of China, exudes a rich exotic charm. This three-day itinerary will take you through the ancient city's streets and alleys, exploring the high-platform residences, immersing yourself in folk culture, and unlocking the unique charm of this Silk Road town, embarking on a soul-stirring journey through the Western Regions. Daily Itinerary Day 1: Unveiling the Ancient City 📍Kashgar Old City: Kashgar Old City is one of the largest existing earthen architectural complexes in the world. Stepping into the old city is like traveling back to the Middle Ages. With its earth-colored buildings and maze-like alleys, stroll through the city, encounter traditional handicraft shops and spice stores, and experience the ancient life of the Uyghur people (the old city is free, some home visits are charged). 📍Id Kah Mosque: The largest mosque in Xinjiang, solemn and majestic, with magnificent architecture, its domes and minarets gleaming in the sunlight. On religious holidays, believers gather here, creating a spectacular scene, allowing you to quietly feel the sacred power of religious culture (Tickets: ¥45). 📍Century-old Tea House: Find a century-old tea house in the old city, order a pot of brick tea, pair it with naan bread, watch the locals drink tea and chat, listen to traditional Uyghur music, and experience a leisurely afternoon (Cost: ¥30-50). Day 2: Experiencing Folk Culture 📍High-Platform Residences: A Uyghur residential area built on a high platform, with scattered houses full of primitive and simple charm. Although some are under renovation, you can still experience the unique folk customs, exploring the traditional residential structures and life scenes (currently not open, external visits are free). 📍Apak Hoja Tomb: The legendary garden of the Fragrant Concubine, with exquisite architecture, including the tomb of the Fragrant Concubine and the scripture hall. Learn about the legendary story of the Fragrant Concubine, admire the unique Uyghur garden landscape, and immerse yourself in the romantic and mysterious atmosphere (Tickets: ¥120, including performances). 📍Kashgar Grand Bazaar: The largest market in Xinjiang, with a dazzling array of goods, from exquisite carpets and gorgeous Atlas silk to various dried fruits and spices, the sound of bargaining rises and falls, allowing you to experience the rich commercial atmosphere (Free). Day 3: Admiring Natural Scenery 📍Pamir Plateau Day Trip: Departing from Kashgar, head to the Pamir Plateau, admiring the scenery of the Gobi, snow-capped mountains, and lakes along the way. Pass by Karakul Lake, where the azure lake water contrasts with the white sandy mountains; arrive at Muztagh Ata, and experience the majestic "Father of Icebergs" up close, the plateau's magnificence is breathtaking (Carpool: ¥300-500, including scenic spot tickets). 📍Tashkurgan Stone City: An important royal city in the ancient Western Regions, although only ruins remain today, it stands on the plateau, overlooking the Golden Grassland, recalling its past prosperity, and evoking a sense of historical vicissitudes (Tickets: ¥30). 📍Golden Grassland: Adjacent to the Stone City, the water and grass are abundant in autumn, turning golden yellow, with picturesque wetland scenery, complemented by the distant snow-capped mountains, like a fairy-tale world. Stroll through it and feel the gifts of nature (Free). Must-Eat Food List: Kashgar on the Tip of Your Tongue ✅Lamb Kebabs: A signature Xinjiang dish, Kashgar's lamb kebabs are made with fresh local lamb, large and delicious, grilled over charcoal fire, sizzling with oil, sprinkled with cumin and chili peppers, and fragrant. One skewer: ¥5-10. ✅Plov: Lamb, carrots, onions, and rice are perfectly blended, oily, golden, soft, sweet, and nutritious. Price per person: ¥30-50. ✅Baked Buns: Thin-skinned buns filled with tender lamb and onions, baked in a naan pit until golden brown, with a crispy crust and juicy filling. One bite brings a mouthful of happiness. One bun: ¥3-5. ✅Lamb in a Pot: Stewed lamb served in an enamel pot, paired with naan. The lamb is tender, the soup is delicious, warming and nourishing. One pot: ¥20-30. Photography Tips: Capture Beautiful Moments 1️⃣Kashgar Old City Streets and Alleys: In the early morning or evening, the soft light sprinkles on the old city. Dressed in bright ethnic clothing, stand in front of the characteristic patterned doors, and use the light and shadow to take exotic photos. Side backlighting can highlight the texture of the clothing. 2️⃣Apak Hoja Tomb: With exquisite buildings and carved archways as the background, strike elegant poses. When the afternoon sun shines obliquely, the light and shadow hit your face, creating beautiful retro photos. 3️⃣Pamir Plateau: By Karakul Lake, with the azure lake water and white sandy mountains as the background, wear a jacket and sunglasses, capture moments of jumping and cheering, showcasing the vitality of the plateau. Sunny weather with sufficient light makes the picture even more stunning. Pitfalls to Avoid: Tips for Avoiding Trouble 🚗Transportation: Taxis are convenient in the city. It is recommended to carpool or charter a car to the Pamir Plateau. Negotiate the price and itinerary in advance. Pay attention to safety due to complex road conditions on the plateau. 🍱Food: Choose restaurants based on local patronage to avoid inauthentic flavors. Pay attention to the quality and price when buying dried fruits to avoid being cheated. 🎫Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance for popular attractions like Apak Hoja Tomb, as there are often discounts and you can skip the line. The altitude is high at plateau scenic spots, so prepare medicine in advance if you are not feeling well. 👟Clothing: Wear comfortable flat shoes for walking around the old city. Bring thick down jackets, jackets, and sunscreen to the plateau to cope with temperature differences and strong ultraviolet rays. Hidden Gems: Exploring Niche Treasures 1️⃣Oytagh Red Mountains: Unique Danxia landform, with red mountains contrasting sharply with the surrounding green trees and rivers, offering magnificent scenery. Hike and appreciate the natural wonders (Free). 2️⃣Corners of Kashgar Old City: Avoid the hustle and bustle of the main streets and delve into the corners of the old city to explore traditional musical instrument workshops and copperware shops, watch artisans at work, and experience the charm of ancient craftsmanship (Free). 3️⃣Yengisar Knife Village: If you are interested in Yengisar knives, visit the knife village to watch the knife-making process and buy authentic knives (can be mailed). Pay attention to the regulations on carrying knives.

🌊【8-Day In-Depth Tour of Southern Xinjiang】 🏜️【Itinerary Overview】 This is a comprehensive loop connecting the core highlights of Southern Xinjiang: starting from Urumqi, the "throat of the Western Regions," and traversing Bazhou, Aksu, and Kashgar. You'll discover China's largest inland lake, the world's top poplar forests, mysterious Yadan canyons, and finally reach the "Roof of the World"—the Pamir Plateau. Over 8 days, you'll cross deserts, oases, snow-capped mountains, and highlands, with daily drives of 5-7 hours, immersing yourself in the rugged yet gentle beauty of Southern Xinjiang. 🌟【Daily Itinerary｜What to Do? Where to Stay?】 Day 1: Urumqi → Bosten Lake → Korla ✅ Northwest's Largest Inland Lake: - Bosten Lake: Take a boat ride on the "Western Sea" (Lotus World/White Egret Island Scenic Area). Lotus blooms from June to August, and reeds turn golden in October. Drone photography recommended for the "lake embracing sand, sand embracing lake" spectacle. - Overnight in Korla: Stroll along the Peacock River at night and savor local specialties like "Lop Nor Grilled Fish" and "Nang Pit Barbecue." Day 2: Korla → Lop Nur Village → Luntai ✅ Primitive Desert Tribe: - Lop Nur Village: Visit the last desert fishing and hunting tribe, ride desert off-road vehicles (150 RMB/person), and explore the confluence of "China's largest desert, Taklamakan," and "the longest inland river, Tarim River." - Hidden Gem: Capture reflections of poplar trees at sunset (golden from September to November, rugged and ancient in other seasons). 🏡 Accommodation: Luntai County, convenient for exploring poplar forests the next day. Day 3: Luntai → Tarim Poplar Forest → Kuqa ✅ World's Largest Poplar Forest: - Tarim Poplar Forest Park: Ride a vintage train through 300,000 acres of poplar trees (best from October to November, tickets 45 RMB + shuttle 30 RMB). Climb a 24-meter observation tower for a panoramic view of the "golden ocean." - Hidden Photography Spot: Drive along G217 National Highway (Desert Highway) for wild poplar trees, perfect for road trip shots. Day 4: Kuqa → Tianshan Mysterious Canyon → Flaming Spring → Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves → Kuqa ✅ Silk Road Culture and Natural Wonders: - Tianshan Mysterious Canyon: Hike through red Danxia canyons (tickets 41 RMB). At noon, sunlight streams through the "Skyline," creating stunning light and shadow effects. - Flaming Spring: A lesser-known hot spring (10 km from the canyon), with natural 38°C sulfur water. Bring swimwear for a "desert soak." - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves: China's earliest Buddhist grottoes (300 years older than Mogao Caves, tickets 70 RMB, reservation required, photography prohibited). 💡 Tips: Round-trip from Kuqa to attractions takes about 2.5 hours. Start early to avoid the midday heat. Day 5: Kuqa → Kuqa Royal Palace → Wensu Grand Canyon → Aksu ✅ Explore Ancient Royal Residences and "Earth's Scars": - Kuqa Royal Palace: Visit the residence of the last king (tickets 55 RMB), watch Twelve Muqam performances, and learn about Uyghur royal history. - Wensu Grand Canyon: A "Chinese Colorado" more spectacular than Antelope Canyon. Self-driving allowed (high-clearance vehicles preferred, tickets 36 RMB + shuttle 30 RMB). Capture Yadan wonders like "Root of Life" and "Golden Kiss." 🏡 Accommodation: Aksu City, try "Xinjiang's Best Nang" (Awati County Nang Industrial Park). Day 6: Aksu → Kashgar Old Town (Travel Photography) → Kashgar ✅ The Vibrant Atmosphere of a Thousand-Year-Old City: - Kashgar Old Town: Visit century-old tea houses (popular "Grandpa's Tea House") in the morning, and take travel photos in the afternoon (in front of Id Kah Mosque, colorful alleys, ethnic costume rentals 80-150 RMB/set). - Night Market Must-Try: Grilled goose eggs (stuffed with lamb fat), pigeon soup with nang, handmade ice cream (Guli's Home). ⚠️ Note: Some areas of the old town require ID for entry. Respect local customs (ask for permission before taking photos). Day 7: Kashgar → White Sand Lake → Karakul Lake → Tashkorgan Wetlands → Tashkorgan ✅ Pamir Plateau Adventure: - White Sand Lake: "Blue Silk" along G314 National Highway, with clear reflections of Muztagh Ata Peak (free, drones prohibited). - Karakul Lake: At the foot of "Father of Glaciers," Muztagh Ata Peak. Stay in lakeside yurts (basic conditions, prepare for cold). Capture starry skies and sunrise over golden peaks (sunrise around 8:30 AM, sunset at 9:30 PM). - Tashkorgan Wetlands: Golden meadows surrounded by snow-capped mountains in September-October, ideal for photographing herders on horseback. Day 8: Tashkorgan → Panlong Ancient Road → Bandir Blue Lake → Muztagh Glacier Park → Kashgar ✅ Ultimate Highland Scenery: - Panlong Ancient Road: "600 bends in the sky," with a sign reading "After today's twists and turns, life's path will be smooth." Drone photography recommended. - Bandir Blue Lake: Pamir's "Blue Gem," with emerald green waters due to minerals. Walk along wooden paths (2 km) to the best viewing spot. - Muztagh Glacier Park: Get close to ancient glaciers (tickets 160 RMB, horseback glacier tour 300 RMB/person, wear sunglasses to prevent snow blindness). ⚠️ Note: Tashkorgan's altitude is 3,200 meters. Avoid strenuous activities and bring oxygen bottles (available in Kashgar). 📸【Seasonal Guide to Southern Xinjiang】 Season Core Highlights Recommended Experiences April-May Pamir apricot blossoms, Korla pear blossoms Tashkorgan Dathong Village for wild apricot blossoms, birdwatching at Bosten Lake June-August Desert oasis escape, Kashgar Old Town night market Stream trekking in Wensu Grand Canyon, shopping at Kashgar Old Town Bazaar September-November Golden poplars, Pamir autumn snow Photography in Tarim Poplar Forest, snow-capped mountain views on Panlong Ancient Road December-March Pamir winter scenery, Kuqa winter fishing Glacier hiking on Muztagh Ata Peak, cultural experiences in Lop Nur Village 🧳【Pre-Travel Checklist】 1. Documents: - Border Pass: Required for Tashkorgan (apply in Kashgar with ID, takes 10 minutes, valid for 3 months). - ID Card: Mandatory for all attractions, hotels, and checkpoints. Carry it at all times. 2. Clothing: - Pamir Plateau: Even in summer, bring a windbreaker (20°C+ temperature difference between day and night), sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen (strong UV rays). - Old Town Photography: Prepare bright long dresses (red/yellow preferred) with ethnic scarves and earrings. 3. Transportation: - Recommended to rent a car/join a tour (some areas have no signal, speed limits of 30-60 km/h from Tashkorgan to Kashgar). - Tashkorgan Accommodation: Book in advance during peak season (July-October). Limited facilities (most lack air conditioning). 4. Safety: - Southern Xinjiang is safe. Respect minority customs (e.g., remove shoes in mosques, avoid discussing religion casually). - Altitude Sickness: Avoid alcohol before staying in Tashkorgan, move slowly, and bring glucose oral solution. 🍽️【Southern Xinjiang Food Highlights】 - Korla: Roast whole lamb (pre-order, crispy outside, tender inside), pepper chicken (spicy and numbing) - Kuqa: Giant nang (larger than a face, 5 RMB/piece), kvass (fermented honey drink) - Kashgar: Pot meat (lamb soup with nang), baked buns (onion and lamb filling) - Tashkorgan: Yak hotpot (highland yak meat, rich broth) ⚠️【Avoiding Pitfalls】 - Scenic Area Costs: Negotiate prices for camel rides/off-road vehicles in Lop Nur Village (reference: camel 80 RMB/round, off-road vehicle 300 RMB/car). Buy dried fruits in Kashgar Old Town at stores with clear pricing; bargaining is acceptable. - Border Pass Application: Kashgar Administrative Service Center operates Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-7:30 PM, weekends only in the morning. Bring original ID, no photo needed. - Travel Time: Southern Xinjiang is vast, with long daily drives. Prepare motion sickness medicine and neck pillows. Xinjiang has a 2-hour time difference from mainland China; lunch at 2 PM and dinner after 8 PM are common. 🌟【Why Choose This Route?】 ✅ Unlock Three Major Southern Xinjiang Landscapes: ✔️ Nature: Tarim Poplar Forest (world's largest original poplar forest), Wensu Grand Canyon (China's most visually striking Yadan), Pamir Plateau (geographical center of the Asian continent) ✔️ Culture: Kashgar Old Town (a living thousand-year-old Western Region capital), Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves (Silk Road Buddhist art treasure), Lop Nur Village (living fossil of desert fishing culture) ✅ In-Depth Slow Travel Design: - Two full days in Pamir: Avoid rushed "same-day round trips to Kashgar," stay in Tashkorgan to experience highland starry skies and morning mist. - Double Poplar Forest Experience: Scenic train ride + wild poplar trees along highways, combining classic and niche perspectives. Southern Xinjiang is a feast of contrasts—deserts and oases coexist, ancient cities and modernity intertwine, desolation and vitality merge. If you're tired of cookie-cutter destinations, this journey will take you beyond textbooks, into the sands of Taklamakan and under the stars of Pamir, to truly understand the grandeur and tenderness of this land. 💬 Interactive Topic: Which moment in Southern Xinjiang would you most want to capture? Is it the golden peaks of Pamir at sunrise or the vibrant alleys of Kashgar Old Town? Share your travel dreams in the comments! 👉 Follow me for more niche Xinjiang travel tips!

Here's a travel guide to Xinjiang's Stone City: 🌟Attraction Introduction 🔷Historical Origins: Stone City is located north of Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County in southwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. At an altitude of 3,100 meters, it features ruins such as city walls, gates, temples, residential sites from the Jin and Tang dynasties, and government offices from the Qing dynasty. The city walls have a perimeter of 1,285 meters, and the total area of the ruins is 107,000 square meters. During the Han dynasty, it was the royal city of Puli, one of the 36 kingdoms of the Western Regions. After the Tang government unified the Western Regions, the Congling Guard Station was established here. During the early Yuan dynasty, the city walls were expanded. In the 28th year of Guangxu's reign, the Qing court established Puli Hall here and renovated the old castle. 🔷Architectural Features: The castle is built on a high hill, making it extremely steep. Multiple layers of intermittent city walls are built outside the city. Following the shape of the stone hill, they are built with stones and earth, undulating and bending, roughly square, with a perimeter of over 1,300 meters. Between the walls, stone hills overlap, and rocks pile up, creating the unique scenery of Stone City. The remaining city walls can reach up to 6 meters high, with the top 1-3 meters wide. Horse faces remain outside the west and north walls, and watchtowers once stood at the four corners, but have since collapsed. Stoves can be seen inside the houses within the city. There are ruins of an ancient Buddhist temple in the southeast corner of the ancient city, where pottery pieces, Tang Qian Yuan Zhongbao, wool cloth, silk fabrics, and a Sanskrit scripture on palm leaves have been unearthed. 👉🏻Travel Guide ◼️Best Tourist Season: The climate in the Stone City area is quite unique. It is recommended to visit during spring (March-May), summer (June-August), or autumn (September-November), when the weather is relatively mild and suitable for sightseeing. ◼️Ticket Price: 30 yuan/person. ◼️Tour Route: After entering the scenic area, you can first stroll along the city walls, experiencing the grandeur and vicissitudes of this ancient castle and enjoying the natural scenery outside the walls, such as the distant snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands. Then, head inside the city to visit the ruins of houses and Buddhist temples, imagining the prosperity of the past. Finally, take photos at suitable locations within the scenic area to record this unforgettable travel experience. 📅Visit Time: The ancient city is not large, about 300-400 meters long and wide, and it takes about 1 hour to visit. ➡️Transportation Guide 🔶External Transportation: You can first take a plane or train to Kashgar City, and then take a bus or chartered car from Kashgar City to Tashkurgan County and then to Stone City. Kashgar Lailing International Airport has opened routes to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Urumqi. Kashgar Railway Station is the main railway station in Kashgar, connecting to cities such as Urumqi, Aksu, and Hotan. 🔶Internal Transportation: Within Tashkurgan County, you can choose to take a local taxi or chartered car to the Stone City scenic area. Transportation is quite convenient. 🌟Nearby Attractions 🔷Golden Sand Beach: Located near Stone City, you can enjoy the sunshine and beach here, and admire the surrounding natural scenery. 🔷Tasha Ancient Road: A historical ancient road with beautiful scenery along the way, where you can feel the weight of history and experience the hardships of ancient merchants. 🔷Pamir Plateau: Located in the southwest of Kashgar Prefecture, with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters, it boasts famous peaks such as Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube, and Muztagh Ata. The snow-capped mountains are continuous, the lakes are azure, the grasslands are vast, and the scenery is magnificent. 🏨Accommodation Recommendations ◼️Hotels in Tashkurgan County: There are various accommodation options, such as the Kaitu International Hot Spring Hotel and the Highland Lijing Hotel in Tashkurgan County. You can choose a suitable hotel based on your needs. ◼️Hotels in Kashgar City: If you want to stay in Kashgar City, there are also many hotels to choose from, such as the Grand Mercure Kashgar, the Tianyuan International Hotel, and the Qiniwak Hotel. These hotels are well-located, with convenient transportation and complete facilities, providing tourists with a comfortable accommodation environment. 🍲Food Recommendations 🔺Tajik Cuisine: In Tashkurgan County, you can taste local Tajik cuisine, such as hand-pilaf, grilled mutton skewers, naan pit roasted meat, and pot-cooked mutton. These dishes mainly use mutton as the main ingredient, and are delicious and nutritious. 🔺Kashgar Specialties: In Kashgar City, you can also taste more varieties of Xinjiang cuisine, such as baked buns, cold noodles, and pomegranate juice. These dishes have a unique taste and a strong Xinjiang flavor.

[Opening]: Xinjiang is mainly divided into southern Xinjiang or northern Xinjiang Feel the humanities and experience the ethnic culture in southern Xinjiang, which is dominated by canyons, plateaus, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, lakes and deserts. Enjoy the natural scenery in northern Xinjiang, mainly forests, grasslands, sea of ​​flowers, lakes, and snow-capped mountains So don’t think that you can finish traveling around Xinjiang in one go. Every place in Xinjiang is beautiful, and different seasons have different scenery. Here is a recommended guide for Xinjiang throughout the year. Save it and use it at any time. ⛺【How to play】: ✅From late December to early March of the following year: Altay in Northern Xinjiang Attractions: Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba, Keketuohai ✅Mid-March to early April: Southern Xinjiang Scenic spots: Apricot blossoms in Taxkorgan County (Datong Township, Kuksiluk Township, Tal Township), Kashgar Ancient City, Pamir Plateau ✅April to May: Northern Xinjiang Scenic spots: Sailimu Lake, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Turgen Apricot Valley (flowering period from early April to mid-late April), Kurdening, Nalati, Qiaxi East Xinjiang Scenic spots: Kumtag Desert, Tuyugou Maza Village, Huoyan Mountain, Karez, Dahaidao No Man's Land Southern Xinjiang Attractions: Pamir Plateau, Kashgar, Bosten Lake, Luobu Village, Wensu Grand Canyon, Yarkand Khan Palace, Yotgan Ancient City, Desert Highway Panoramic view of northern Xinjiang + panoramic view of southern Xinjiang Northern Xinjiang: Kanas, Hemu, Kalajun, Xiata, lavender base (flowering period from mid-June to mid-late July), Qiongkushitai, Aktas, Qiapqihai, Tangbula Hundred Miles Gallery, Mengket Ancient Road, Grassland Stone City Southern Xinjiang: Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Glacier Park, Panlong Ancient Road, Bandir Blue Lake, Wakhan Corridor, Jincaotan Stone City, Taheman Wetland, Muji Crater, China's Western Pole, Oitaq Red Valley, Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves ✅Mid-to-late September to early October Altay in Northern Xinjiang Attractions: Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba ✅October to November Southern Xinjiang Populus euphratica forest Attractions: Huludao, Luntai Populus euphratica forest, Zepujin Populus euphratica National Forest Park, Kashgar, Pamir Plateau Xinjiang's four most popular highways: Duku Highway, Yizhao Highway, S101 National Defense Highway, and Desert Highway 🛬【Itinerary】: 🌲Day 1: Various Places - Urumqi Arrive in Urumqi and arrange your own activities according to your arrival time. You can go to the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, which is full of strong ethnic customs and has a variety of special products and delicacies. You can also visit the Xinjiang Museum to learn about Xinjiang’s history, culture and folk customs. 🌲Day 2: Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - Fuyun/Keketuohai In the morning, go to Tianshan Tianchi to enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains. You can also take a boat tour of Tianchi. In the afternoon, head to Fuyun or Keketuohai. 🌲Day 3: Keketuohai - Wucai Beach - Burqin Visit the Keketuohai Scenic Area and admire the unique geological landscape. In the evening, go to Wucai Beach to admire the colorful hills on both sides of the Irtysh River. 🌲Day 4: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Sanwan - Jiadengyu/Kanas Scenic Area When entering Kanas Scenic Area, first go to Kanas Lake and choose to take a boat tour on the lake. Afterwards, visit the three bays of Kanas, namely Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay and Wolong Bay. 🌲Day 5: Jiadengyu/Kanas - Hemu Observation Deck - Hemu Village Go to Hemu Village and climb up to the Hemu Observation Deck to overlook the entire Hemu Village and its beautiful scenery. 🌲Day 6: Sunrise and morning fog in Hemu - Wuerhe Get up early to watch the sunrise and morning mist in Hemu, and then head to Wuerhe. 🌲Day 7: Wuerhe - Devil City - Jinghe Visit the Urho Ghost City and admire the Yadan landform. Head to Jinghe in the evening. 🌲Day 8: Jinghe - Sailimu Lake - Guozigou - Yining Arrive at Sailimu Lake and stroll along the lake to enjoy the lake view. Pass through Guozigou, enjoy the spectacular scenery of Guozigou Bridge, and arrive in Yining in the evening. 🌲Day 9: Yining - Xiata Ancient Road - Zhaosu Go to Xiata Ancient Road, hike or ride a horse to experience the scenery of the ancient road, and stay in Zhaosu at night. 🌲Day 10: Zhaosu - Kurdenin - Gongliu Visit Kurdning, enjoy the original forest and grassland scenery, and then go to Gongliu. 🌲Day 11: Gongliu - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Enter the Nalati Sky Grassland, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the grassland, and participate in activities such as horse riding. 🌲Day 12: Nalati - Middle section of Duku Highway - Bayinbuluke Grassland - Sunset at Jiuqu Shibawan Drive along the middle section of Duku Highway to reach Bayinbuluke Grassland and watch the sunset over the winding grassland in the evening. 🌲Day 13: Bayin Town - Southern Section of Duku Highway - Big and Small Dragon Ponds - Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains - Kuche Continue along the southern section of the Duku Highway, visit the Big and Small Dragon Ponds and the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, and arrive in Kuqa at night. 🌲Day 14: Kuqa - Wensu Grand Canyon - Aksu Go to Wensu Grand Canyon to admire the spectacular canyon landscape, and then go to Aksu. 🌲Day 15: Aksu - Free travel in Kashgar Ancient City Arrive in Kashgar, and have free time in the ancient city of Kashgar to feel its charm. 🌲 Day 16: Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Karakul Lake - Viewing Muztagh Ata by car - Tashkurgan County Head to Tashkurgan County, passing Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake on the way, and seeing Muztagh Ata Peak by car. 🌲Day 17: Taxkorgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Tasha Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake - Kashgar Visit Panlong Ancient Trail, Tasha Ancient Trail and Bandir Blue Lake, then return to Kashgar. 🌲Day 18: Kashgar - Colorful Yadan Landform - Shell Mountain - Simhana Village - Westernmost Point of China - Kashgar Go to Simhana Village, visit the colorful Yadan landform and Shell Mountain, and arrive at the westernmost part of China. 🌲Day 19: Opening Ceremony of Kashgar Ancient City - Yarkand Han Dynasty Tomb - Hotan Night Market - Hotan Watch the opening ceremony of the ancient city of Kashgar, visit the Yarkand Han Dynasty Mausoleum, go to Hotan in the evening and visit the Hotan Night Market. 🌲Day 20: Hotan - Crossing the Taklimakan Desert Highway - Aral Cross the Taklimakan Desert Highway, experience the desert scenery, and arrive in Aral. 🌲Day 21: Aral - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves - Kuche Grand Temple - Restan Street - Kuche Visit Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Kuche Grand Mosque and Restan Street. 🌲Day 22: Kuche - Bosten Lake - Korla Go to Bosten Lake and enjoy the lake view, then go to Korla. 🌲Day 23: Korla - Kumtag Desert - Shanshan County Arrive at the Kumtag Desert, where you can enjoy activities such as sandboarding, and stay in Shanshan County at night. 🌲Day 24: Shanshan County - Huoyan Mountain - Karez - Grape Valley - Urumqi Visit Huoyan Mountain, Karez and Grape Valley, then return to Urumqi. 🌲Day 25: Airport transfer in Urumqi Send you to the airport according to the flight schedule, and end your pleasant journey. 🧡【tips】： Bring your ID card, student ID card (if applicable) and other necessary documents Clothing The temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang is large, so you need to prepare long clothes, short sleeves, jackets, and jackets, especially in mountainous areas or high altitude areas. Warm clothes are particularly important. Sunscreen products Xinjiang has long sunshine hours and strong ultraviolet rays, so be sure to bring sun protection products such as sunglasses and hats Other Items You can bring a selfie device, a small amount of cash, etc. In addition, you can also prepare some high-calorie snacks such as self-heating hot pot, beef jerky, chocolate, etc. for emergencies. + Jet lag adjustment There is a 2-hour time difference between Xinjiang and mainland cities such as Beijing. Tourists should be prepared to adapt to the time difference and adjust their work and rest schedules. Health preparation Prepare common medicines according to your personal situation, such as motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, Band-Aids, etc., and pay attention to maintaining good eating habits and adequate sleep. Respect for customs Xinjiang is a multi-ethnic area. Respect local customs and cultural traditions, protect the environment and cultural relics, and be a civilized tourist. Plateau preparation Some scenic spots in Xinjiang are located at high altitudes. Tourists may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. They should take adequate rest and drink plenty of water. Group tour suggestions It is recommended to join a tour group, because Xinjiang's scenic spots are scattered, and self-driving may make you tired and unable to enjoy the scenic spots properly due to inconvenient transportation. It is recommended to choose a local tour group or chartered car service to avoid self-driving fatigue and getting lost.