Things To Do
in Kashgar
Kashgar is a historic city in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant marketplaces. The city is located along the ancient Silk Road, making it a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange. Kashgar is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Uighurs, Tajiks, and Han Chinese, contributing to its unique blend of traditions and customs.
Visitors to Kashgar can explore the old town with its mud-brick buildings, visit the Id Kah Mosque, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Sunday Market.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China. Marvel at its architecture and enjoy the atmosphere as local worshippers gather.
Explore the Kashgar Old Town, known for its traditional Uyghur architecture and vibrant bazaars. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to sample authentic Uyghur dishes.
Wander through the night market to experience local culture at its finest. Try some street food and shop for handicrafts under the stars.
Take a scenic drive to Karakul Lake, admiring the stunning landscapes along the way. Enjoy the cool mountain air and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Arrive at Karakul Lake for a picnic by its shores. Optionally, take a short hike to enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Return to Kashgar and unwind at your accommodation. Reflect on the day while enjoying a relaxing dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, being a significant Silk Road city.
- Diverse ethnic communities, particularly the Uyghur population, providing a unique cultural experience.
- Beautiful natural scenery including the nearby Tianshan Mountains and Karakul Lake.
- Vibrant markets and local artisan crafts, particularly in textiles and traditional goods.
- Strategic location as a gateway to Central Asia.
- Tension and challenges related to ethnic and political issues, particularly concerning Uyghur rights.
- Government surveillance and restrictions on personal freedoms in the region.
- Tourism infrastructure may be underdeveloped in some areas compared to other Chinese cities.
- Limited access to some areas due to strict regulations and potential safety concerns.
- Environmental challenges in the region, including water scarcity and climate change effects.
Best Activities in Kashgar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Kashgar's Old City, soak in the rich Uyghur culture, and marvel at the traditional architecture and vibrant bazaars.
Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Sunday Market, where you can shop for local goods, handicrafts, and enjoy the lively ambiance of this traditional market.
Embark on a breathtaking journey to Karakul Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, offering opportunities for photography, picnicking, and relaxation in nature.
Engage in exhilarating hiking adventures in the Pamir Mountains, exploring scenic trails and enjoying panoramic views of the rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kashgar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kashgar
Visit one of these nice places.
Located about 200 km from Kashgar, Karakul Lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and makes for a great photo opportunity.
The largest mosque in China and an architectural masterpiece, Id Kah Mosque provides a picturesque backdrop for photos and offers a unique cultural experience.
The narrow streets, traditional Uyghur architecture, and bustling market in the Old City of Kashgar offer numerous photo opportunities and a chance to capture the city's rich history and culture.
Food in Kashgar
Kashgar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These grilled skewers of seasoned lamb are a popular street food and can be found at various food stalls across the city, especially around the night market.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish made with seasoned rice, lamb, carrots, and a blend of aromatic spices. Visit local Uyghur restaurants for an authentic taste.
These savory pastries are filled with minced lamb, onions, and spices. Look for them at local bakeries or street food vendors.
Noodles served with a flavorful meat and vegetable stew, they are a staple dish and can be enjoyed at Uyghur-owned noodle houses throughout the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kashgar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market comes alive in the evening, offering a wide array of street food options, including kebabs, samsa, and various traditional snacks.
A hub for local street food, visitors can sample a variety of dishes such as grilled meats, dumplings, and fresh fruit juices.
In addition to goods and crafts, this market hosts numerous food vendors where visitors can taste local specialties and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Scattered throughout the city, these vendors serve up delicious hand-pulled noodles, a must-try for any visitor.
Known for its delectable kebabs and grilled meats, this food center provides a great insight into the local barbeque culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kashgar, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with proper titles and showing deference in tone and behavior.
Visitors to Kashgar should make an effort to learn and abide by local customs and traditions, including dress codes, greetings, and dining etiquette.
Demonstrating an appreciation for Uyghur culture, such as participating in local festivals or enjoying traditional music and dance, can contribute to positive interactions with the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kashgar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kashgar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kashgar, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Kashgar. Credit and debit cards may not be accepted in many places, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kashgar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Kashgar as the weather is mild and the famous Kashgar Sunday Market is in full swing. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is awash with colorful blooms.
Summer (June to August) can be quite hot in Kashgar, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's the best time to experience the traditional Uyghur culture and festivities, including the lively Meshrep festival.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and is a good time to explore the city and surrounding areas. The grape harvest season in the nearby vineyards makes for a picturesque backdrop.
Winter (December to February) can be very cold in Kashgar, with temperatures dropping below freezing. However, it's a great time to experience the unique winter traditions and celebrations of the Uyghur people.
Kashgar at Night
Hiking in Kashgar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning valley known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse hiking trails, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
A vast mountain range offering various hiking opportunities with breathtaking views, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A high mountain pass that provides access to stunning panoramas and challenging hikes, ideal for adventure seekers.
Home to numerous trails with varying difficulty levels, offering unique cultural and natural experiences along the way.
A beautiful grassland area perfect for trekking, featuring lush landscapes, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kashgar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kashgar by plane.
The main airport serving Kashgar, located 7 km from the city center.
Located approximately 1,400 km from Kashgar, this is the largest international airport in Xinjiang province.
Approximately 450 km from Kashgar, serving the Hotan region.
Around 450 km from Kashgar, providing services to the Aksu region.
About 1,200 km from Kashgar, it serves the Turpan area.
Located approximately 1,500 km from Kashgar, serving the Ili region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Uyghurs are the largest ethnic group in Kashgar, primarily practicing Islam and having a rich cultural heritage.
The Han Chinese are the majority ethnic group in China and have a significant presence in Kashgar, mainly due to migration and government policies.
Kazakhs are a Turkic ethnic group residing in the surrounding regions of Kashgar, known for their nomadic traditions and distinct language.
The Tajiks are a Persian-speaking ethnic group found in Kashgar, engaged in agriculture and trade.
The Hui are Chinese Muslims who can be found in Kashgar, contributing to the city's cultural and culinary diversity.
This includes smaller groups such as Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, and others who may reside in the Kashgar area, each with their own unique cultural practices.
The Soul of Kashgar
Discover the essence of Kashgar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a highly popular sport in Kashgar, with many local courts and teams competing in various leagues.
Soccer, or football, is widely played in Kashgar, with youth teams and local clubs participating in regional tournaments.
Table tennis is a favored sport in many communities in Kashgar, often played in schools and recreational centers.
Running is a popular activity, with many local events and marathons celebrated throughout the year.
A cultural sport that reflects local traditions, traditional Uyghur wrestling events are held during festivals and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kashgar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Uyghur cuisine is meat-centric, certain restaurants in Kashgar offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes or vegetable-based options.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes such as Uyghur Polo and certain stir-fried or grilled meat dishes that do not contain gluten-based sauces or seasonings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kashgar with these cultural adventures.
