Tashi County

Introducing Tashi County

Tashkurgan is the abbreviation of Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County (Tashkurgan). Tashkurgan, meaning "Stone City" in Uyghur, is named after the ancient stone castle (ruling center) to the north of the city. It is a colorful town.

Located in the southwestern Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, on the eastern side of the Pamir Plateau, Tashkurgan County is a pristine world of peaks and valleys, a renowned tourist destination in China. It boasts the snow-capped Muztagh Ata Peak and the picturesque Karakul Lake. It also boasts Neolithic cultural relics such as the Xiangbaobao Tomb, the Tashkurgan Quhepantuo Stone City Ruins, and highland architecture such as the Princess Fort and ancient post stations.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental arid climate;

Best time to visit in spring and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Pamir Plateau

The Pamir Plateau lies in southeastern Central Asia and the westernmost part of China, straddling Tajikistan, China, and Afghanistan. "Pamir" means "Roof of the World" in Tajik. The plateau, with its numerous peaks and elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,700 meters, was nicknamed "Congling" (Onion Ridge) as early as the Han Dynasty in China, deriving its name from the abundant wild onions and verdant cliffs. Also known as Mount Buzhou, the ancient Silk Road's southern and central routes passed through this area, extending westward to Western Asia, South Asia, and Europe.

Ancient Stone City

Stone City is a renowned ancient city site on an ancient route in Xinjiang. It marked the intersection of the Central and Southern Routes of the ancient Silk Road, where several routes to the Pamir Plateau converged, from Kashgar, Shache, Yingjisha, and Yecheng. The overlapping rock mounds and piles of boulders between the walls create a unique Stone City landscape. Cultural relics indicate that the ancient city was abandoned during the Tang Dynasty and once served as the capital of the Jiepantuo Kingdom. After the Tang government unified the Western Regions, massive construction and expansion efforts were underway, transforming the old Stone City into a new one. Today, the former prosperity and authority are gone, with only ruined walls remaining silent in the setting sun.

Aral Golden Grassland

The Aral Golden Grassland lies just outside Tashkurgan County, beneath Stone City. It's named after the village of Aral, located there. Because the Tashkurgan River flows through it, the area is lush with grass and water, and cattle and sheep roam the land. The scenery blends beautifully with the distant snow-capped mountains, white clouds, and blue sky. As the sun sets, the emerald green grasslands turn golden, and the distant shepherds' white yurts and flocks of sheep bathe in the sunset, creating a breathtaking scene. This is the origin of the "Golden Grassland" moniker.

Recommended play time: about 2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Tashi County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tashi County has historical significance as a Silk Road hub, connecting Central Asia with China. It is an area of rich cultural diversity, particularly known for its Uyghur heritage, and the county holds cultural and religious importance in Xinjiang province.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Tashi County is located in the Kashgar Prefecture of Xinjiang. It can be reached by bus, taxi, or private car from Kashgar city, which is the nearest large urban area. The nearest airport is in Kashgar, which has flights connecting to major Chinese cities.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no fixed opening hours for the general areas of Tashi County, as it is a region to explore freely. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no entrance fees for general sightseeing in Tashi County. However, specific sites like the Tashi Grand Mosque or museums may have a small entrance fee (10-20 RMB). Tickets can be purchased onsite or via local travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is generally not required except for specific tours or during peak tourist seasons. It is advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance during busy travel periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the main attractions in Tashi County, including the mosque and nearby landmarks, can take 1 to 2 days, depending on your interest in history and local culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Tashi Grand Mosque, a significant religious site with intricate architecture.
• The ancient ruins of Tashi City, reflecting the area's rich Silk Road history.
• The beautiful Karakol Valley, ideal for scenic photography and nature walks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English, especially for historical sites like the Tashi Grand Mosque and ruins. You can arrange a tour via local travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Top of the Tashi Grand Mosque for sweeping views of the town and surrounding desert.
• Along the Karakol Valley, especially at sunrise or sunset, for breathtaking natural views.
• The ruins of Tashi City provide an interesting perspective on historical architecture against the desert backdrop.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Tashi Grand Mosque early in the morning to avoid crowds. Follow up with a tour of the ancient ruins, then head out to the Karakol Valley for a relaxing afternoon amidst nature.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available in Tashi County. However, special cultural events may take place during festivals like the Uyghur New Year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tashi County is relatively quiet compared to major tourist destinations. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons (November to March).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available near major attractions. Local shops sell souvenirs and essentials. Larger facilities can be found in Kashgar city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most major attractions in Tashi County, like the Tashi Grand Mosque, are accessible to elderly and children. However, the ancient ruins and hiking areas may not be suitable for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While some places accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay), cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas. It’s advisable to carry cash in RMB for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants and cafes in Tashi County offering Uyghur specialties. For a larger selection, Kashgar has many more dining options, including international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is the primary food choice in Tashi County, with numerous options available, including vegetarian dishes such as Uyghur-style noodles and bread.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and local hotels in Tashi County. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Kashgar, which has a wider range of accommodations.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Kashgar Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site with traditional Uyghur architecture.
• The Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar, one of the largest mosques in China.
• The Karakul Lake, a scenic high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Tashi County sell traditional Uyghur crafts, including carpets, textiles, jewelry, and spices. Kashgar also has markets selling a wide variety of local products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip, you can take a bus or taxi back to Kashgar city. From there, you can access trains, flights, or other transportation options for further travel in Xinjiang.