Introducing Kashgar
Kashgar (short for Kashgar, meaning "jade-like place") is China's westernmost city, overlooking the Tarim Basin to the east and the Pamir Plateau to the west. Over 2,100 years ago, it served as the western confluence of the northern and southern routes of the Silk Road in China, serving as a transportation hub and gateway for China's economic and cultural exchanges with the West.
Kashgar has two cities: the old city and the new city. The main streets of the old city almost all lead to the Id Kah Mosque. On Friday mornings, people can hear the mosque's mazeng (religious official) standing on the minaret, calling the believers to worship, the voice vibrating in the dawn air and drifting across the fields.
Climate and best time to travel
The cool and refreshing autumn season coincides with the ripening of fruits and vegetables. It is not too cold and you can enjoy the snowy northern scenery.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
In addition to the attractions in Kashgar city such as the Id Kah Mosque, the Tomb of the Fragrant Concubine, and the Grand Bazaar, people who come to Kashgar for sightseeing will also visit the Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata, Stone City, and Khunjerab Pass south of Kashgar.
Most Popular FAQs for Kashgar
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Kashgar is a historic Silk Road city in western Xinjiang, known for its strategic location connecting China with Central Asia. It has been a cultural, trading, and religious center for over 2,000 years, blending Uyghur, Han, and Central Asian influences.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in western Xinjiang, near the borders with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
- Accessible via Kashgar Airport with domestic flights from major Chinese cities.
- Taxis, buses, and ride-hailing services available within the city.
- Most attractions in the Old Town are best explored on foot.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions: 8:00–18:00.
- Best visiting season: Spring and autumn (April–June, September–October) for mild weather.
- Avoid extreme summer heat and winter cold for outdoor exploration.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Id Kah Mosque: free entry.
- Apak Hoja Tomb: ~30–50 RMB.
- Tickets generally purchased onsite; some attractions offer online booking through official platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
For popular attractions like Apak Hoja Tomb, booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended; most markets and mosques do not require advance booking.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 2–3 days for Kashgar city highlights.
- 4–5 days if including day trips to Karakul Lake or surrounding natural areas.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Kashgar Old Town and its traditional Uyghur architecture.
- Id Kah Mosque.
- Sunday Market (Grand Bazaar).
- Apak Hoja Tomb.
- Ancient city walls and Kashgar Fortress.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English; private local guides can offer deeper insight into Uyghur culture.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Rooftops in the Old Town for cityscape photography.
- Id Kah Mosque and the surrounding plaza.
- Karakul Lake for sunrise/sunset photos of the Pamir Mountains.
- Bazaars for vibrant street and market scenes.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Day 1: Old Town, Id Kah Mosque, Sunday Market.
- Day 2: Apak Hoja Tomb, Kashgar Fortress, local handicraft workshops.
- Day 3: Optional day trip to Karakul Lake or Pamir Plateau.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night markets in the Old Town offer local food and crafts.
- Some cultural performances may be arranged at hotels or cultural centers.
- Night photography of illuminated mosques and bazaars is popular.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Kashgar is busiest during the Sunday Market; weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets available at major attractions and markets.
- Restaurants and street food stalls serving Uyghur cuisine.
- Shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and daily necessities.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Many areas in the Old Town have narrow and uneven streets; some mosques and tombs have ramps, but accessibility is limited compared to modern cities.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is widely used; mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay are accepted in larger stores, but small vendors often require cash.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Uyghur cuisine restaurants: kebabs, naan bread, pilaf.
- Cafes and tea houses in the Old Town.
- Street food vendors near markets and plazas.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes, halal food is widely available; vegetarian and vegan options are limited but possible at larger restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury: Silken Karakorum International Hotel.
- Mid-range: Kashgar Grand Hotel.
- Budget hostels and guesthouses in Old Town.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Karakul Lake for natural scenery.
- Pamir Plateau for mountain landscapes.
- Local villages to explore traditional Uyghur life.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Traditional Uyghur carpets and textiles.
- Handmade jewelry, pottery, and musical instruments.
- Local dried fruits, nuts, and spices.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Kashgar Airport for domestic flights to major Chinese cities.
- Long-distance buses to nearby Xinjiang cities.
- Train services to Urumqi and other regional destinations.
