Kashgar, sometimes known as Kashi, lies between branches of the ancient Silk Road in the southwest of remote Xinjiang. The town lies amid fantastic mountain scenery and is the start point of the Karakoram Highway.
Kashgar is especially known for its massive bazaars and has been trading since the Silk Road days, when it was a meeting point on the route from central China to the north and south of the Taklamakan Desert.
The old town in Kashgar is the main touristy part, with its warren of streets and interesting adobe architecture, which is unfortunately in the process of being modernized by the government. To avoid paying the entry fee to the residential part of the old town, head for a backstreet.
The beautiful yellow Id Kah Mosque hails from the mid-1400s and is the star Kashgar landmark. The huge Sunday Bazaar livestock market is another must-see, as is the Yengi Bazaar for clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Getting There & Away
Shuttle buses run to downtown Kashgar from Kashgar Airport, the nearest airport which receives limited flights from Urumqi and Hong Kong (5 hours). It’s a 27-hour bus ride from Urumqi to Kashgar.
Things to Do
Kashgar Attractions
- Kashgar Sunday Bazaar
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This huge livestock market runs on a sunday and is worth having a look even if you’re not buying.
- Id Kah Mosque
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A 500-year-old yellow mosque in the old town. women cannot enter.
Side trips from Kashgar
- Karakoram Highway
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Starts in kashgar, goes to the pakistani border, and onto islamabad. it takes in breathtaking scenery including the nearby karakul lake.