Pamir Plateau Self-Driving Must-See Guide

【Kashgar · Pearl of the Western Regions】
Millennium Ancient Silk Road City | Pearl of the Pamir Plateau | Southern Xinjiang Food Paradise
This is the westernmost exotic city in China, where you instantly feel like you've traveled to Central Asia!

📅 Best Time to Visit:
🌸 April-May: See apricot blossoms bloom, comfortable 20°C temperature
🍉 June-August: Melon and fruit harvest season, perfect for summer escape on the plateau (strong UV, remember sunscreen)
🍁 September-October: Golden autumn poplars are stunning, best season for photography
❄️ November-March: Fewer people, peaceful, enjoy snowy ancient city alone

🔥 Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions:
1️⃣ Kashgar Old Town (5A Scenic Area)
- City opening ceremony at 10:30 AM and 6:00 PM is super cool!
- Maze-like alleys perfect for stunning photos
- Century-old teahouses to drink medicinal tea and listen to folk songs

2️⃣ Pamir Plateau (Border Permit Required)
🌟 White Sand Lake: half white sand, half clear water
🌟 Karakul Lake: breathtaking reflection of Muztagh Ata Peak
🌟 Panlong Ancient Trail: over 600 bends, "walk it today, walk life’s twists"

3️⃣ Gaotai Residential Houses (Newly Opened)
600-year-old rammed earth buildings
Intangible cultural heritage handicraft DIY experience is a great value

4️⃣ Xiangfei Garden
Watch Xinjiang-style song and dance performances
The architecture is perfect for photos and check-ins

5️⃣ Cattle and Sheep Bazaar (Sundays Only)
Largest livestock market in Southern Xinjiang
Experience the most local street life

🍢 Foodie Must-Try List:
【Staple Foods】
✔️ Ailizati Pilaf: lamb leg pilaf is legendary
✔️ Roasted Baozi: crispy skin, fragrant meat, the most authentic "grab and eat"
✔️ Jar Meat: lamb stewed in vintage enamel jars

【Snacks】
✔️ Red Willow Barbecue: big chunks of meat, very satisfying
✔️ Handmade Ice Cream: century-old brand
✔️ Pomegranate Juice: all-natural vitamin C bomb

⚠️ Practical Tips:
1️⃣ Remember to write "Kashgar Region + Taxkorgan" on your border permit
2️⃣ Taxi starting fare in the old town is 5 yuan, super cheap
3️⃣ Respect local customs, do not photograph strangers
4️⃣ Prepare oxygen bottles for the plateau, sunscreen is a must

🚗 Recommended 3-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Stroll Old Town + Xiangfei Garden + Night Market
Day 2: White Sand Lake → Karakul Lake → Muztagh Ata Peak
Day 3: Panlong Ancient Trail → Bandier Blue Lake → Return

💬 Traveler Reviews:
"Every corner of Kashgar Old Town has a story"
"The starry sky in Pamir is breathtaking"
"Southern Xinjiang food made me gain 5 pounds..."