2024 Tashkurgan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Get your money's worth by visiting both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one trip

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 😭

A summer trip to Xinjiang is not complete without a visit to the Pamir Plateau

👉 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

8-Day Tour of Southern Xinjiang

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

The bluest lake on the Pamir Plateau - Band-e Amir Blue Lake

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.

I waited a year just for the Xinjiang of May to July, here's an ultra-detailed guide!

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.

One must visit the Pamir Plateau at least once in a lifetime, even if it means enduring altitude sickness

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.

Crossing more than half of China, in pursuit of the gentleness and strength of southern Xinjiang

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!

Touring Southern Xinjiang | Heading to the Pamir Plateau | Pamir always needs to be seen once

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.

If you haven't been to Southern Xinjiang, you won't know the beauty of Xinjiang - the Pamir Plateau

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.

Every person who travels to Xinjiang will eventually return to southern Xinjiang

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.

South Xinjiang | Shitoucheng | Taxian's April gift to us

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

Autumn in Tibet and Xinjiang is a must-see!

First time visiting Tibet and Xinjiang? Don't miss this carefully prepared 8-day itinerary to help you explore both places and enjoy the beautiful scenery! -------- 🚩Route suggestion: 8-day in-depth tour from Tibet to Xinjiang Day 1: Lhasa River -> Gamba La Mountain -> Yamdrok Lake -> Karola Glacier -> Palcho Monastery 🏞️Cross the Lhasa River, climb over Gamba La Mountain, visit the holy Yamdrok Lake, admire the magnificent Karola Glacier, and finally visit Palcho Monastery to experience Tibetan religious culture. Day 2: Tashilhunpo Monastery -> Gyatso La Pass -> Everest Base Camp 🏔️Go on a pilgrimage to Tashilhunpo Monastery, cross Gyatso La Pass, and head straight to Everest Base Camp to admire the world's most spectacular scenery up close. Day 3: Shishapangma -> Peiku Lake 🌄Enjoy the morning light of Shishapangma, then head to Peiku Lake to experience the tranquility and beauty of the plateau lake. Day 4: Mount Kailash -> Lake Manasarovar -> Lake Rakshastal 🙏Circumambulate Mount Kailash, visit the holy Lake Manasarovar, and then head to Lake Rakshastal to experience the unique landscape of two worlds in one lake. Day 5: Mount Kailash -> Ruins of the Guge Kingdom 🏛️Look back at the sacred Mount Kailash, then explore the Ruins of the Guge Kingdom and trace the vicissitudes of history. Day 6: Shiquan River -> Rutog Rock Paintings -> Pangong Tso -> Pangong Lake 🎨Travel along the Shiquan River, admire the primitive art of Rutog Rock Paintings, and then head to Pangong Tso and Pangong Lake to experience the unique charm of the plateau lake. Day 7: Jieshan Daban -> Kangxiwa Martyrs Cemetery 🕊️Cross Jieshan Daban and arrive at Kangxiwa Martyrs Cemetery to pay tribute to the martyrs and remember history. Day 8: K2 -> Kashgar Old Town 🏰Admire the majestic K2, and visit Kashgar Old Town before the end of the trip to experience the rich Western style. -------- **Notes**: 📸 Photo spots: Potala Palace and Yamdrok Lake in Tibet, Tianchi Lake and Kanas Lake in Xinjiang are all beautiful places to take photos! 🛍️ Specialty prices: Compare prices when buying specialties. Tibetan medicine in Tibet and dried fruits in Xinjiang vary greatly in quality and price. ✈️ Airport transportation: Both Lhasa Airport in Tibet and Urumqi Airport in Xinjiang have convenient transportation. Remember to book an airport transfer in advance. 💡 Altitude sickness: Both places are at high altitudes, so prepare common medicines, rest properly, and avoid strenuous exercise. 🍽️ Food safety: When trying local delicacies, choose clean and hygienic restaurants to avoid food poisoning. -------- From Tibet to Xinjiang, the beautiful scenery never stops. For more detailed guides and private tips, remember to follow me and explore the unique Northwest China!🌄👍

10-Day Tour of Urumqi, Xinjiang and More: Don't Miss Out!

10-Day In-Depth Tour of Urumqi, Xinjiang: Snowy Tianshan Mountains, Grassland Scenery, and the Majestic and Mysterious Northwest. Don't Miss Out! -------- 🛣️Route Suggestion: 10-Day Xinjiang Adventure D1: Arrive in Urumqi, enjoy airport transfer service, and start your Xinjiang journey. D2-D3: Depart from Urumqi, visit Turpan Grape Valley and Karez, head to Korla, explore the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, and stay overnight in Kuqa. D4-D5: Depart from Kuqa, visit Kuqa Palace and Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves, head to Aksu, cross the desert highway, and arrive in Hotan. D6-D8: Head from Hotan to Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park, and arrive in Kashgar. Enjoy the scenery along the Karakoram Highway, including White Sand Lake and Muztagh Ata, and stay overnight in Tashkurgan. On the way back to Kashgar, you can choose to visit Panlong Ancient Road or Oytagh Glacier Park. D9: Experience the opening ceremony of Kashgar Old Town, visit the old town, Id Kah Mosque, and Abakh Hoja Tomb. D10: Airport transfer from Kashgar, end your wonderful Xinjiang journey, and look forward to seeing you again. -------- Travel Essentials: 🎒Traveling to Urumqi, Xinjiang? Don't Forget These! 👚Clothing: Thick coat, windbreaker, thermal underwear, and comfortable shoes to cope with temperature differences between day and night. 🎩Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, and scarf for sun protection and style. 🪪Documents: ID card and driver's license. Don't forget these travel essentials! 🧴Skincare: Sunscreen and moisturizing mask to keep your skin hydrated. 💊Medicine: Cold medicine and stomach medicine, just in case. 🔋Electronics: Power bank and headphones to keep you entertained on the road. 💰Other: A small amount of cash for emergencies. -------- 🎉Come to Xinjiang and experience its unique charm! More Urumqi travel tips are waiting for you to discover. Don't forget to follow me and explore the endless possibilities of travel together!🚀

Another day healed by the blue of Xinjiang.

P1-5📍Bandir Blue Lake Bandir Blue Lake is a niche landscape on the Pamir Plateau. With snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and wilderness, it feels like the end of the world. The blue of the lake makes me wonder if I'm on Earth. It is also known as the "bluest lake" on the Pamir Plateau. The lake water is glacial meltwater from the Kunlun Mountains, and it is blue due to special minerals. It is blue-green in summer and dark blue in winter. P6-10📍Muztagh Glacier Park Muztagh Glacier Park is located at the foot of the world-famous "Father of Glaciers" - the 7,546-meter-high Muztagh Peak. In the summer, the Pamir Plateau in southern Xinjiang has such a magnificent blue glacier, and the pure color is stunning. You can ride a horse to the 4,688-meter-high slope to see the millennium glacier. 🏔️

Don't miss the secret tree hole by the Taheman Wetland when you arrive in Kashgar.

In my opinion, autumn in southern Xinjiang is probably the most beautiful time of the year. The journey from Kashgar to Tashkurgan is full of beautiful scenery. ‼️ Right next to the Taheman Wetland, there is a tree crown intertwined with each other. The snow willows on both sides grow lushly, and the light and shadow are mottled and deep, like A country road like a "time tunnel" in Alice in Wonderland. It has now become a scenic spot and is called the "Taheman Tree Hole." 🧭｜Directly navigate to "Tahe Tree Hole Road," about 40 km from Tashkurgan, and a 15-minute drive from the Taheman Wetland Viewing Platform. 📷｜Taken on October 21, 2024. ⏰｜Best time to visit and take photos: All seasons are great 😌 Spring and summer are full of greenery, and winter is full of vines... Of course‼️ Every November, the snow willows turn golden and shine in the sun, the fallen leaves fall on the roadside, and you can see the Muztagh Ata Snow Mountain in the distance, and the pastures with cattle and sheep in the foreground, romantic and healing. ‼️｜Some travel tips: ▫️ This place has become a scenic spot, especially in autumn, the road is basically full of tourists, and you can also experience horseback riding. ▫️ The tree hole is located in the middle of Taheman Township, and if you have time, you can stroll around the village. The cattle and sheep are free-range 😂 and often walk to the middle of the road. ▫️ The village is located in the Taheman Wetland, so it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and you can also see Muztagh Ata Peak here. ✅ Of course, don't forget to go to the "Taheman Wetland Viewing Platform" to see the panoramic view of the wetland, autumn is really as beautiful as an oil painting 🖼️. ▫️ The overall sunlight in southern Xinjiang is relatively strong, even in autumn and winter 😭 The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and add or remove clothes in time. 📝｜My 4️⃣-day itinerary on the Pamir Plateau: Day①: Kashgar ➠ Baisha Lake No. 1 and No. 2 Viewing Platforms ➠ Karakul Lake ➠ Stay at 🏨 Karakul Lake Hotel Day②: Muztagh Ata Glacier Park ➠ Taheman Tree Hole ➠ Taheman Wetland Viewing Platform ➠ Stay at 🏨 Tashkurgan County Day③: Golden Grassland Stone City ➠ Panlong Ancient Road ➠ Panlong Wetland ➠ Bandier Blue Lake ➠ Stay at 🏨 Tashkurgan County Day④: North Shore of Baisha Lake ➠ Mujita Crater ➠ Return to Kashgar

Day 45 Panlong Ancient Road: From now on, life is smooth sailing.

Today's third stop: Panlong Ancient Road Panlong Ancient Road is really famous, and I want to walk it no matter what. But, the fact still tells me that the greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment. Baidu introduction: Panlong Ancient Road was originally a convenient path for people to travel. In June 2019, a new asphalt road was paved. Because there are more than 600 S-shaped and U-shaped bends in only 30 kilometers of mountain roads, the altitude suddenly rises from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters, "born stunning", attracting tourists from all over the world to check in. I want to say that this road is actually a bit boring, and there is no scenery on both sides of the road. All the expectations are just to find those classic shooting locations on the Internet. The viewing platforms have also been built, and everyone parked their cars along the slope and wanted to find the best shooting location. It is not enough to have a road, but also a car to cooperate with, so that the picture is full. We came before the National Day, there will be no traffic jams, no need to queue, on the contrary, we have to wait patiently for the vehicle to go down the mountain. I have to admit that this wave of marketing and publicity is quite in place, who doesn't want to have a smooth life from now on?

2-Day Tour of Kashgar, Xinjiang: A Unique Experience!

2-Day Tour of Kashgar, Xinjiang: Explore the Ancient City and Scenic Spots! A detailed guide is here! Check out this travel guide and enjoy a smooth trip without getting lost! -------- 📅Itinerary: Day 1: China-Pakistan Friendship Highway - Pamir Plateau - White Sand Mountain and White Sand Lake Scenic Area - Karakul Lake Scenic Area - Muztagh Ata - Tageman Wetland Park Viewing Platform Travel along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway and embark on a journey to the Pamir Plateau. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of White Sand Mountain and White Sand Lake, and feel the tranquility of Karakul Lake. Admire the majesty of Muztagh Ata from afar, and end the day at the Tageman Wetland Park Viewing Platform. Day 2: Ancient Stone City of Kashgar - Golden Grassland of Pamir - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake Visit the historical sites of the Ancient Stone City of Kashgar, and stroll through the Golden Grassland of Pamir to feel the gentleness of nature. Challenge the winding Panlong Ancient Road, and finally immerse yourself in the intoxicating scenery of Bandir Blue Lake to end your wonderful journey. -------- Must-visit attractions: 1. 🌊Karakul Lake Scenic Area: Located at the foot of Muztagh Ata, the lake is as clean and clear as jade, like a fairyland on earth. 2. 🏞️White Sand Mountain and White Sand Lake Scenic Area: The powdery white sand formed by the weathering of rocks on the mountain top, and the lakes and rivers at the foot of the mountain, create a beautiful contrast. 3. 🏔️Pamir Plateau: Standing on this plateau is like standing on the roof of the world, enjoying the boundless and magnificent scenery that is refreshing. 4. 🏰Ancient Stone City of Kashgar: As a key post on the ancient Silk Road, standing on the hill, you can feel the weight of history and the fusion of cultures. -------- **Notes**: 📸 Photo spots: Kashgar Ancient City and Jinhu Yang National Forest Park are great places for photos. Remember to wear beautiful clothes! 🍽️ Food: Roasted naan and roasted buns are a must-try! There are also pot-cooked meat and pigeon soup, which are Xinjiang delicacies not to be missed. 🎭 Customs: Respect the customs of the local Uyghur, Tajik, and other ethnic groups, and experience authentic Xinjiang folk customs and culture. 👟 Dress code: The ultraviolet rays in Kashgar are strong, so prepare sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes when visiting the ancient city. 🚗 Travel tips: Kashgar has convenient transportation, but cars are prohibited in the ancient city. You can take a sightseeing bus to visit. -------- The beauty of Kashgar is more than that! Want to know more travel tips? Click to follow us and unlock more wonderful journeys. Let's discover together!

Wow! Southern Xinjiang.

Southern Xinjiang in autumn is definitely a place worth visiting! Here is a guide to help you plan your trip to Southern Xinjiang in autumn: • Populus euphratica forest: In autumn, the golden leaves of the Populus euphratica forest in Southern Xinjiang resemble a golden ocean, spectacular and breathtaking. You can stroll through the forest and feel the breath of autumn. • Baisha Lake: Baisha Lake is known for its mirror-like surface and snow-white sand, making it a paradise for photographers. • Bandier Blue Lake: This is a hidden gem on the Pamir Plateau, with deep blue water contrasting with the surrounding gray-white rock layers and snow-capped mountains, creating a cold and mysterious beauty. • Glaciers and snow-capped mountains: The Muztagh Ata in Southern Xinjiang is known as the "Father of Glaciers," where you can experience the magnificence of snow-capped mountains. • Exotic atmosphere of Kashgar: The ancient city of Kashgar is full of rich Central Asian exotic atmosphere, and is the most well-preserved Western-style maze-like old street in China. • Xinjiang cuisine: The cuisine of Southern Xinjiang is not to be missed, including grilled meat, grilled lamb chops, grilled lamb legs, fried rice noodles, pilaf, cold noodles, dry-fried noodles, thin-skinned buns, baked buns, mixed noodles, pigeon soup, and naan. • Recommended travel routes: • 5-day Populus euphratica forest route: Urumqi - Korla - Luntai - Populus euphratica forest park - Korla. • 8-day Duku Highway + Populus euphratica forest route: Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - Kuitun - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Sayram Lake - Tekes Bagua City - Nalati - Swan Lake Sunset - Bayinbulak Grassland - Kuqa Palace - Populus euphratica forest park - Luntai. • Precautions: • The climate in Southern Xinjiang is dry in autumn, so bring sunscreen and moisturizing products. • The temperature difference between day and night is large, so prepare enough warm clothes. • The ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang are strong, so prepare enough sunscreen. I hope this guide will make your trip to Southern Xinjiang more perfect and enjoy the beautiful autumn time! Southern Xinjiang, Xinjiang

Snow Mountain Pure Enjoyment | Fall in Love with the Sacred Peak

| Fall in Love with the Sacred Peak. From afar, getting closer I don't remember how many pictures I took for it Every moment of approaching the snow mountain 💓 Every rock and snowflake is unrealistically beautiful Sunlight shines on the mountain top and lake Reflecting a dazzling diamond-like luster I want to put this scenery in front of my bed Dreams and souls are with it 💫

Southern Xinjiang | I unlocked the best photo spots on Panlong Ancient Road.

|I unlocked the best photo spots on Panlong Ancient Road. Panlong Ancient Road is located in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is a challenging and scenic self-driving route with a total length of 75 km and more than 600 bends. From the air, it looks like a giant dragon coiling between the mountains. It is especially stunning when photographed by drone. - The slogan "Today I have walked all the winding roads, and from now on my life will be smooth" has attracted countless tourists to check in. There is a slogan sign at both the start and end points. Panlong Ancient Road is a one-way road, only allowing entry from the large Panlong and exit from the small Panlong. / 📸Photo spots 1⃣Longji Mountain, with the large Panlong in the background, is a great spot. There is a drone photography service nearby, CNY 88 per person. If you know how to fly a drone, it is best to bring your own. 2⃣Coffee cart, next to Longji Mountain. You can take photos as long as you make a purchase. 3⃣Small Panlong Viewing Platform, which I think is more stunning and photogenic than the large Panlong. It has more and denser bends, and there are many parking spaces around. 4⃣You can fly a drone to take photos at the end point. Fly as high as you can. It is especially stunning to overlook Panlong Ancient Road with a drone. - ❗️Note It is windy and at a high altitude on the mountain top, so wear warm clothes. Be careful when flying a drone. There is no gas station along Panlong Ancient Road. If you feel that you don't have enough gas, be sure to fill up in advance, as it takes a lot of gas to go up the mountain. There is no restroom along Panlong Ancient Road, so plan ahead.

Bandier Blue Lake

📍Address: Bandier Blue Lake, Kashgar, Xinjiang 🚗Transportation: We set off from Panlong Ancient Road and drove 40 km north to reach Bandier Blue Lake. 👍️Must-visit: The blue lake is beautiful in all seasons. In spring, you can use a drone to capture the blue ice that hasn't melted yet. We visited in summer, so the blue ice had already melted. The lake is also beautiful in autumn and winter. The only constant is the stunning blue of the Pamir Plateau. 🎟️Tickets: Free 💗Other tips: This is where the movie Visitors on the Icy Mountain was filmed. When the melody of "Why Are the Flowers So Red" plays, you can imagine the Tajik woman in red appearing before you, as if time has never passed. Note: The altitude here is 3,050 m.

Pamir Autumn | A Fairytale Journey

Golden red leaves fall and scatter 💫 Under the blue sky, a path Seems to lead to a fairytale cabin Smoke rises from a quiet village A few trees snuggle on the grassland 💓 The breeze blows the leaves, rustling in the wind In the painting, like a dream

Tashkurgan, the shining pearl of the Pamir Plateau, is waiting for you to join us on a beautiful journey.

2-day and 3-day tours from Kashgar to Tashkurgan are available. Carpooling and private car services are available at any time. Do you long for the mysterious and magnificent Pamir Plateau and want to experience the unique Tajik culture? Then start from Kashgar! 🌄 Highlights: Oytagh Glacier Park, White Sand Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata, Muztagh Glacier Park, Tashkurgan Wetland, Tashkurgan, Dapdar Township, Wakhan Corridor, Khunjerab Pass, Panlong Ancient Road, Wacha Township, Bandir Blue Lake, Tashkurgan Tree Hole. 🎈 Service: Led by Tajik people, providing authentic cultural experiences and attentive service. 👨‍🏫 Guide: Experienced, explaining the historical and cultural background of the attractions. 📍 Departure: Kashgar.

Qiongbulak|The beauty-like scenery of the Western Regions.

|The beauty-like scenery of the Western Regions. Deep in the bronze sand Hidden in a bay of green amber💫 The ultramarine sky and the lake meet at the border There are golden islands in the far west Like the hometown of legendary treasures Joan Braque is a voluptuous dancer wearing a veil One glance makes your heart move, and you will never forget it for a long time🌟

Bandir Blue Lake

【Introduction】: Located in Bandir Township, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar, Xinjiang. It is known as a sapphire on the Pamir Plateau. ⛺【Name Origin】: Mainly due to its geographical location and lake water features. On the one hand: It is located near Bandir Township, so it is named after the place, called "Bandir Blue Lake". On the other hand, the lake presents a stunning blue color. This blue color is pure, deep and changeable, shining with charming brilliance under the sun. "Blue Lake" highlights the main feature of the lake water. 【Formation Reason】: Bandir Blue Lake was originally a river. Later, due to the construction of the Xia Ban Reservoir, the lake was formed after artificial water storage. The lake water comes from glacial meltwater, and the water contains a high concentration of minerals, making the lake water present a deep blue color all year round. The color of the lake water changes with the light and angle. Sometimes it is dark blue, sometimes it is light blue, and sometimes it presents purple, green, etc. It is a rare natural wonder. The lake is surrounded by exposed rocks of the Kunlun Mountains, presenting a gray-white color, forming a sharp contrast with the blue lake water, giving a sense of cold and deep beauty. You can also see the snow on the top of the mountain from time to time. 🚌【Transportation Strategy】: Charter/Drive/Share a ride 👉【Itinerary】: Day1: Kashgar-Baisha Lake-Karakul Lake-Tree Hole Highway-Taheman Wetland-Stay in Ta County (about 330 kilometers 6 hours) Day2: Ta County-Panlong Ancient Road-Bandir Blue Lake-Kaner Yang Village-Muztag Glacier Park-Stay in Kashgar (about 450 kilometers 8 hours) 🧡【Preparation】: 1. There is no place to eat nearby, it is recommended to prepare a simple meal in advance for consumption 2. You can make a short stop along the way, it is recommended to choose a safe place to park and watch 3. There is no shelter by the lake, avoid falling 4. Try not to run, jump or do strenuous exercise in the plateau area

Pamir Plateau Bandir Blue Lake ~ ~ ~.

Bandir Blue Lake is located in Bandir Township, Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Here are some details about Bandir Blue Lake: 1. Formation: It was originally a river, and later a dam was built to form a reservoir for water storage, also known as Xiaban Ground Reservoir. The lake water mainly comes from glacial meltwater. Because the water contains special minerals, it presents a deep blue color all year round. 2. Natural landscape: - Lake water color: The lake water is blue in summer and dark blue in winter. The color of the lake water will vary with the light and angle. Sometimes it is light blue, sometimes it is purple, sometimes it is green, etc. It is a rare natural wonder. - Surrounding environment: The exposed rock formations of the Kunlun Mountains surround the lake, forming a sharp contrast with the blue lake water, giving people a cold and deep beauty. 3. Tourist information: - Transportation: You can depart from Kashgar, pass Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, arrive at Taxian, and then continue to Bandir Blue Lake. However, the traffic near the Blue Lake is not particularly convenient, there is no public transportation, it is recommended to drive by yourself or charter a car. - Best time to visit: Each season has its own characteristics, but the lake water is the most blue in summer, which is a good time for viewing and photography. - Catering and facilities: There are no restaurants and shops nearby, it is recommended that tourists bring their own food and picnic mats to enjoy outdoor picnics by the lake. - Tickets: Bandir Blue Lake is actually a reservoir, not a formal attraction, so it is open for free.

Life is a wilderness, and Southern Xinjiang is not a wasteland.

Southern Xinjiang Travel Guide: 1. Must-see Attractions Kashgar Old Town: Experience the rich Uyghur customs, stroll through the narrow streets, and admire the colorful buildings and handicrafts. Tashkurgan Red Qilafu Port: The westernmost gate of China, where you can overlook Pakistan and experience the border scenery and unique culture. Pamir Plateau: Known as the "Roof of the World", the magnificent mountains, lakes, and grasslands form a beautiful picture. Whether hiking or self-driving, you can deeply experience the greatness and tranquility of nature. Karakul Lake: Located at the foot of Muztagh Ata, the lake is as blue as a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and clouds, and is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Luobu Village: Located in Yuli County, you can learn about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Luobu people, and enjoy the oasis and Populus euphratica forest in the desert. 2. Experience Activities Participate in Uyghur festival celebrations: such as Corban Festival, Rozi Festival, etc., to feel the strong ethnic atmosphere and festival joy. Taste Southern Xinjiang cuisine: such as lamb skewers, pilaf, naan, etc. These foods are not only delicious, but also have a strong local flavor. Desert Adventure: In the Taklimakan Desert in Southern Xinjiang, you can experience camel riding, sand sliding, watching desert sunsets and other adventure activities. Ethnic Handicraft Experience: such as making carpets, pottery, wood carvings, etc. These handicrafts are not only exquisite, but also have profound cultural connotations. 3. Travel Tips Pay attention to sun protection and warmth: The climate in Southern Xinjiang is dry and the sun is strong, so sun protection measures are needed; at the same time, the temperature difference between day and night is large, so you need to bring warm clothes. Respect local customs and habits: During the tour, please respect the customs and cultural traditions of local ethnic minorities such as Uyghurs. Pay attention to safety: When participating in adventure activities, please follow the guidance of the tour guide or locals to ensure personal safety. Environmental protection travel: During the tour, please pay attention to protecting the environment and cultural relics, do not litter or destroy vegetation.

Experience the Panlong Ancient Road. I conquered altitude sickness.

The Panlong Ancient Road was originally a road for the convenience of the people. The 30-kilometer mountain road has more than 600 S-bends and U-bends, and the altitude suddenly rises from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters, which is very unique. Therefore, after the asphalt road was paved a few years ago, it immediately attracted tourists from all over the world to check in. The so-called "amazing as soon as it comes out". On the second morning in Taxian, driven by curiosity, we also prepared to walk this road. The altitude of 3,000 meters is considered to be at the foot of the mountain. Before climbing the mountain, Master Wu took us to the lowest point of the highway to take a few photos, and then, from here, we started our journey on the Panlong Ancient Road. There are some eye-catching "Today I have walked all the bends, and from now on, life is all smooth" road signs along the way. Whether it is a bend or a smooth road, it is no longer important for people who have passed half of their lives. As long as they have experienced it, it is a wealth. The car winds up, and I have to praise Master Wu's car skills, which are very stable. I was afraid of motion sickness before I came, but not only did I not get motion sickness, but I didn't even use the oxygen cylinder that I brought with me. Climbed to the top of the mountain at an altitude of 4,216 meters in one breath. There is an observation deck here, a mobile coffee car, and an aerial photography stall. You only need to spend tens to more than 100 yuan, and the photographer can take some magnificent and beautiful pictures for you. In such a vast place in Xinjiang, it is most suitable to use drones to take videos or photos, different perspectives, magnificent pictures. Looking down from the observation deck, the Panlong Ancient Road really looks like a giant dragon entrenched here, and you can directly see the winding road. The Panlong Ancient Road will be closed to traffic when it is icy in winter🚫, and it will be lifted until the ice and snow melt. Therefore, if you want to self-drive the Panlong Ancient Road, summer and autumn should be the best time. 📝Note tips: The Panlong Ancient Road has many bends and high altitude. Before departure, you should buy oxygen cylinders and motion sickness medicine in advance, just in case. The plateau ultraviolet rays are very strong, and you have to apply sunscreen, bring sunglasses and hats, and protect your skin from injury.

I declare that Bandir Blue Lake is the most beautiful lake I have ever seen in Xinjiang||There is a holy land called the Pamir Plateau. There is a kind of healing called Bandir Blue Lake.

||There is a holy land called the Pamir Plateau. There is a kind of healing called Bandir Blue Lake. I declare❗️Bandir Blue Lake is the most beautiful lake I have ever seen in Xinjiang||🤩There is a holy land called the Pamir Plateau 🤩There is a kind of healing called Bandir Blue Lake 🤩There is a kind of blue called Bandir Blue 🥰Bandir Blue Lake was originally a river, and a reservoir was built for water storage. The lake is glacial meltwater, which is blue due to special minerals Generally speaking, Bandir Blue Lake is cyan in summer and dark blue in winter. But under different weather, different times, different seasons and different light, the lake will produce different colors, sometimes dark blue or light blue. When there is no wind, the lake will completely reflect the mountains on both sides on the lake, which is very shocking🥳 🎋Location: Navigate to Bandir Township and choose the road to Wacha Township 🎋Play time: 1 hour (varies from person to person) 🎋Play TIPS: 👉1. Bandir Blue Lake is free, the signal is relatively poor all the way, it is best to download the map in advance, or do not turn off the navigation 👉2. If you have a drone, use the drone to take a high-altitude shot on the bridge, which is very out of the picture 👉3. Whether the lake is blue or reflection depends on the weather and natural wind. When we went, the lake was as clean as a mirror, and the mountains on both sides were completely reflected on the lake, which was very shocking 👉4. If you come in autumn and winter, you must check whether the Panlong Ancient Road is open. If the Panlong Ancient Road is closed, you cannot pass to Bandir Blue Lake 🤩In general, if you go to the Panlong Ancient Road, you must not miss Bandir Blue Lake, which is very close. And the surface of Bandir Blue Lake really varies with the weather. When we went, the lake was as clean as a mirror, but the water was obviously emerald green when viewed closely.