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Embark on a 5-day adventure exploring the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Kashgar. Begin with a scenic drive to Karakul Lake, passing by the Oytagh Glacier Park and the breathtaking White Sand Lake. Traverse the winding Panlong Ancient Road and visit the historic Stone Fortress in Taxkorgan after that. Then take you to the high-altitude Khunjerab Port and the serene Tahman Wetland. Choose between a cultural tour of Yarkent or an exhilarating desert experience next. Conclude your journey with a farewell to Kashgar, filled with unforgettable memories of nature, history, and adventure.
The itinerary highlights the region's stunning natural landscapes, including Karakul Lake, Panlong Ancient Road, and Tahman Wetland, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Travelers can explore cultural and historical sites such as the Stone Fortress, Amanisha Khan Memorial Mausoleum, and Yarkent Jami Mosque, gaining insight into the Silk Road heritage and local traditions.
Adventure seekers will enjoy thrilling activities like navigating the Panlong Ancient Road and exploring the N39 Desert with its sand dunes and desert sports.
The journey provides authentic encounters with local customs, such as experiencing the Uyghur Twelve Muqam and interacting with Kirghiz herdsmen, offering a deeper connection to the region's cultural heritage.
Your first day's adventure begins with a journey to the breathtaking Karakul Lake. Before reaching this stunning destination, you'll make a stop at the Oytagh Glacier Park, a place of ancient Turkic heritage. Surrounded by towering mountains, ice peaks, rushing rivers, and lush alpine meadows, this park offers a serene walking tour where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Nearby, you'll also catch a glimpse of the Red Mountain, a unique geological wonder of Kashgar.
As you continue along the China-Pakistan Highway, you'll be treated to the magnificent views of Bulongkol Lake, also known as White Sand Lake. Nestled in the Pamir Plateau at an altitude of 3,500 to 5,000 meters, this area is a must-see on your way to Karakul Lake. The lake itself is a sight to behold, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding livestock and the nomadic life of the Kirghiz herdsmen. After soaking in the beauty, you'll head back to Kashgar for the night.
Ready to conquer the heights? After breakfast, your journey continues to the Panlong Ancient Road, a 30-kilometer mountain road famous for its over 600 S-shaped and U-shaped bends. As you ascend from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views that attract photographers and adventurers from around the world.
Next, you'll visit the historic Stone Fortress, an oval-shaped city with walls built on a stone foundation. The fortress, with a circumference of 1,285 meters, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Nearby, you'll find the Golden Grassland, where newly constructed wooden pathways allow you to stroll through the lush pastures and capture stunning photos of the fortress. You'll also have the chance to observe the local Tajik customs and experience their traditional way of life.
Let's get a taste of the border today. After breakfast, you'll head to the Khunjerab Port, one of the highest ports in the world. Known as the "Death Valley" due to its harsh environment, this port is not only a key transportation hub on the China-Pakistan International Highway but also a vital link on the ancient Silk Road. The rugged beauty of this area is truly awe-inspiring.
Your journey continues to the Tahman Wetland, located in the eastern part of the Pamir Plateau. This wetland is a natural treasure, renowned for its unique landscapes and rich biodiversity. Often referred to as the "Northern Treasure" and the "Kingdom of Birds", the wetland is home to vast lakes, rivers, and a variety of migratory birds. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Option 1: Yarkent Day Tour (Kashgar to Yarkent, 200 km, 3 hours driving)
Today, you'll embark on a cultural journey to Yarkent, where you'll visit the Amanisha Khan Memorial Mausoleum. Built in 1533 and expanded over a century, this mausoleum is the resting place of 11 generations of the Yarkand Khanate's royal family. The intricate Islamic architecture and decorative patterns make it a masterpiece of art and history.
Next, you'll experience the Uyghur Twelve Muqam, a grand traditional music form that combines song, poetry, dance, and instrumental performance. This cultural treasure offers a deep insight into the Uyghur heritage. Finally, you'll visit the Yarkent Jami Mosque, an ancient religious site built in 1409. Though you'll view it from the outside, the mosque's historical significance and spiritual importance are palpable.
Option 2: Desert Day Tour (Kashgar to N39 Desert, 200 km, 3 hours driving)
For those seeking adventure, today's journey takes you to the N39 Desert, part of the vast Taklamakan Desert. Known as one of the largest mobile deserts on Earth, the N39 Desert offers a unique landscape of rolling sand dunes, stunning Populus euphratica forests, and a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can indulge in thrilling activities like sand sliding, ATV riding, and even desert volleyball. It's an unforgettable experience for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, it's time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Kashgar. You'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your journey through this remarkable region. We hope to welcome you back on another adventure in China soon. Bon voyage!
Adult(Age:8-80) Price/p.p | Child(Age:4-7) Price/p.p | Infant(Age:0-3) Price/p.p |
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Private transportation through out the itinerary. Xinjiang China will arrange for all travelers to be met on arrival and seen off on departure based on your flight info.
4pax- 7seats. 6pax- 12seats. 8pax- 18seats. 12pax-33seats
4star hotel include breakfast, service charge and government tax. Located in the downtown.
All entrance fees(shuttle bus) sightseeing; excursions and activities as per the itinerary.
Private friendly and professional English-Speaking guides.
Visa support letter for you to apply Chinese visa easily.
Travel and health insurance when travel with us.
8, A 24/7 helpline while you are traveling.
International and domestic flights not indicated.
Food, Lunch or dinner not specified.
Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers.
Personal expenses and the other tours or activities not mentioned.
We always offer friendly and supportive discount for seniors and Families with little kids.
You are able to visit Xinjiang during Ramadan. All the restaurants are open.
Complimentary 2 bottles of water each person on daily use.
You will need Travel permit to Taxkorgan and Bayinbuluk.
Comfortable Vehicles with good aircondition, Friendly and professional Drivers.
2pax- 5seats. 4pax - 7seats. 6pax - 12seats. 9pax- 17seats. 12-15pax - 33seats.
All the hotels we selected are 4 star well-located in the city center with good and proper breakfast for our clients. 3star hotel in some remote towns where 4stars are not avilable. NO SMOKING rooms will be booked for you.
Our guides are very friendly, knowledgeable, helpful. And our group tours will be escorted from Xinjiang China Travel.
Generally speaking End March—End Oct are the best time to visit Xinjiang. From mid April to mid of August is the best time to explore the vast grassland in Yili River valley which borders with Kazakhstan.Mid may to Mid Oct is the best time to explore north Xinjiang of Kanas Nature park. End March to Mid June, Sept and Oct are the perfect season to South Xinjiang for its pleasant weather and sweet fruits. No need to worry about high altitude along the Xinjiang. We will prepare Oxygen bags if required. We offer beneficial Cancellation Policy to our customers.