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Akto, meaning "white mountain," refers to snow-capped mountains. It is located in southwestern Xinjiang, east of the Pamir Plateau, and on the western edge of the Tarim Basin. The county is named after its location at the foot of the oasis at Muztagh Ata, known as the "Father of Glaciers."
Akto County, known as the "Hometown of Baren Apricots in China," is renowned for its Baren apricots. Rich in tourism resources, the county captivates visitors with its magnificent natural scenery of the Pamir Plateau and unique ethnic customs. Muztagh Ata, known as the "Father of Glaciers," Karakul Lake, a plateau lake, and Muztagh Ata Glacier Park are designated national scenic spots.
Akto County has a warm temperate continental arid climate, with drought and little rain and snow throughout the year. It warms up quickly in spring, is windy and dusty, has clear and cool weather in autumn, and is cold in winter.
The climate of Akto County is three-dimensional and vertically distributed. Within a day, people can go from the scorching summer to the snowy winter.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Akto is located in the Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang. It is home to the Kyrgyz people and offers a blend of natural beauty, traditional culture, and historical significance. The area is known for its mountains and lakes, as well as being a gateway to exploring the Tianshan Mountains and ancient Silk Road routes.
Akto is located in the western part of Xinjiang, near the Kyrgyzstan border. To reach Akto, you can fly into Kashgar Airport and then take a taxi or hire a car for a 4-hour drive. There are no metro services in the region.
The best time to visit Akto is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is milder. The area is accessible year-round, but winter can be very cold and harsh.
There are no general entrance fees to visit Akto; however, certain attractions like local parks or cultural sites may charge small fees. Tickets can usually be bought at the site entrance or via local tour operators.
For most attractions in Akto, booking in advance is not necessary. However, it is recommended to book any guided tours or yurt stays at least a week in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
To fully explore Akto and its surroundings, 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows time for hiking, sightseeing, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Guided tours are available, often provided by local agencies. English-speaking guides may be available in larger groups, though some tours may only offer guides in Chinese or Kyrgyz.
Night visits are not typically offered, as Akto is a rural area. However, you can enjoy the night skies, which are excellent for stargazing.
Akto is generally not very crowded. The least crowded times are during the winter months (December to February) and early spring (March).
There are basic facilities like toilets and small rest areas. Food is available in local villages and guesthouses, but options are limited. It is recommended to carry water and snacks with you when exploring the area.
While the main areas are accessible, some of the hiking trails and remote locations may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the natural beauty and cultural experiences with appropriate supervision.
Cash is preferred, especially in remote areas. Some larger towns or hotels may accept mobile payments or cards, but it is advisable to carry cash in local currency (Chinese Yuan).
There are limited restaurant options in Akto. Small local eateries in villages offer traditional Kyrgyz food, including meat dishes and dairy products. In larger towns like Kashgar, you'll find more diverse dining options.
Halal food is widely available in the region due to the predominance of Muslim communities. Vegetarian and vegan options are limited, but can be found in larger cities like Kashgar.
Accommodation options include local guesthouses and yurt camps. In Kashgar, you'll find more luxurious hotels and guesthouses with modern amenities.
Kashgar is nearby and can be combined for a day trip, offering the ancient Id Kah Mosque, the old city, and vibrant markets. You can also visit the Tashkurgan Fortress, a historical Silk Road site.
Souvenir shops are mainly located in local villages and Kashgar. Typical souvenirs include Kyrgyz textiles, traditional crafts, and woolen products.
After visiting Akto, you can continue your journey by taxi, rented car, or bus to reach other destinations like Kashgar or the Tashkurgan area. The roads are generally in good condition for road trips.
