How to Plan Your Xinjiang Best Classic Silk Road Tour with Locals in Kashgar

Are you looking for a unique travel experience that will take you through the heart of the Silk Road? Look no further than the Xinjiang Best Classic Silk Road Tour with Locals, a 12-day private guided tour that will take you from Kashgar to Urumqi, exploring some of the most scenic and historic highlights along the way. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your tour, including the itinerary, accommodation, transportation, and more.

Overview

Taking this tour will be like following in the footsteps of Marco Polo himself, but with the added comfort of air-conditioned vehicles and 3-4 star hotel accommodations (breakfast included!). You will explore highlights of the north and south Silk Road, from the Taklamakan Desert to the Thousand Buddha Caves. This tour also provides multilingual local guides to eliminate any language barriers during your journey.

Itinerary

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary of this Silk Road tour:

Day 1: Kashgar

Your tour guide and driver will meet you at your hotel in Kashgar at 8:30 AM.

Day 2: Kashgar to Tashkorgan

Drive from Kashgar to Tashkurgan, stopping at historic sites along the way including the Id Kah Mosque and the Abakh Khoja Tomb.

Day 3: Tashkurgan to Taxkorgan to Karakul Lake to Kuqa

Take in the scenic Karakorum Highway on your way to Karakul Lake, where you can offset in a peaceful surrounding. Head to Kuqa on the overnight sleeper train.

Day 4-5: Kuqa

Explore the ancient city of Kuqa, which dates all the way back to the Han Dynasty. Highlights include the Kizil Grottoes, the Tianshan Grand Canyon, and the Kuqa Old City.

Day 6: Kuqa to Turpan

Take some time in the morning to explore on your own before riding the sleeper train to Turpan.

Day 7-8: Turpan

Enjoy two days in Turpan, a city famous for its grapes due to its unique irrigation system. Highlights of this city include the Emin Minaret, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, Jiaohe Ancient City, and karez irrigation system.

Day 9-10: Urumqi

Take a morning drive to Urumqi, where you’ll explore Heavenly Lake, and the Nanshan Pasture.

Day 11: Urumqi to Kashgar

Conclude your trip by taking a flight back from Urumqi to Kashgar.

Day 12: Kashgar Departure

Check out and head back home from the airport.

Accommodation and Transportation

All accommodation is included in the tour, with 3-4 star hotels shared between two people. Breakfast is included every day but lunch and dinner are not. Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle and the overnight sleeper train, allowing you to travel in comfort.

Costs and What’s Included

The tour costs includes all permits and entrance fees for attractions. The costs of transportation, accommodation, and guided tours are also included. Personal expenses, lunch and dinners are not included. The return air ticket to Kashgar and from Urumqi is also not included.

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour simply follow this link to Viator, the official website for booking this tour. Simply choose your preferred dates, number of people in your group, and proceed with the booking process.

Book Your Tour Now

The Xinjiang Best Classic Silk Road Tour with Locals is a one-of-a-kind experience that will take you through some of the most scenic, historic, and culturally rich parts of China. By following this guide, you can easily plan and book your trip, leaving you with plenty of time to focus on enjoying the amazing journey. Book your trip today and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kashgar

Kashgar is a city located in the far west of China, in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. It is known for its rich history, unique culture, and diverse population. If you’re planning a trip to Kashgar, you may have some questions about the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kashgar.

1. What is the best time to visit Kashgar?

The best time to visit Kashgar is during the spring and autumn months, which are from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, if you want to experience the local festivals and events, such as the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, which takes place in summer, you may want to plan your visit accordingly.

2. How can I get to Kashgar?

Kashgar can be reached by air, train, or bus. The Kashgar Airport offers flights to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as some international destinations. There are also trains that run from major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, to Kashgar. The journey can take up to three days, but it offers stunning views of the landscape. Finally, buses are available from nearby cities, such as Urumqi and Hotan, that can take you to Kashgar.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Kashgar?

Kashgar is home to many historical and cultural attractions. Some of the must-see attractions include:

Id Kah Mosque:

This is the largest mosque in China and it is believed to have been built over 500 years ago. It is a great example of traditional Islamic architecture and attracts many visitors.

Kashgar Old Town:

The old town is a maze of narrow alleyways and traditional houses. It is a great place to explore and see the local way of life.

Abakh Khoja Tomb:

This is the tomb of a famous Uyghur Muslim, who was also known as the Fragrant Concubine. It is a beautiful example of Uyghur Islamic architecture.

Kashgar Grand Bazaar:

This is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, with over 1,000 years of history. It is a great place to shop for local souvenirs, spices, and textiles.

4. What should I eat in Kashgar?

Kashgar is known for its delicious Uyghur cuisine, which is a blend of Chinese, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Laghman:

This is a type of noodle dish that is usually served with stir-fried vegetables and meat.

Mutton Kebabs:

These are skewers of grilled lamb meat that are marinated in a blend of spices.

Polo:

This is a dish of rice mixed with carrots, raisins, and lamb. It is a staple dish in Uyghur cuisine.

5. What should I wear in Kashgar?

Kashgar is a predominantly Muslim city, so it is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their heads with a scarf. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes, as many of the attractions in Kashgar involve walking on uneven terrain.

6. Is it safe to visit Kashgar?

Kashgar is generally a safe city to visit, but it is important to take some precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur, especially in crowded areas like the Grand Bazaar. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid any political demonstrations or protests. In addition, there are some areas of Xinjiang that are considered high-risk due to terrorist activity, so it is recommended to check with your embassy or travel agency before planning your trip to Kashgar. In conclusion, Kashgar is a unique and fascinating city with a rich history and culture. By following these tips and recommendations, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kashgar.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kashgar: A Comprehensive Guide

Kashgar is a colorful and vibrant city located in the western region of China, with a rich cultural history that dates back thousands of years. As a tourist, there are many things to see and do in Kashgar, including exploring the city’s old town, visiting the famous Sunday market, and taking a trip to the nearby Karakoram Highway. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step plan for spending your time in Kashgar.

Day 1:

Discover the Old Town

The Old Town of Kashgar is a must-visit destination for any tourist. With its winding narrow streets, mud brick buildings, and traditional Islamic architecture, the Old Town provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Start your day by exploring the Old Town’s famous Id Kah Mosque, which is the largest mosque in China and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. After that, you can wander around the streets and alleyways of the Old Town, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this unique neighborhood.

Visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb

Located just outside the Old Town, the Abakh Hoja Tomb is a mausoleum that houses the remains of the famous Islamic leader Abakh Hoja. The tomb is a masterpiece of Uighur architecture and is richly decorated with exquisite carvings and colorful tiles. Visiting the tomb is a perfect opportunity to learn more about the Islamic heritage of Kashgar and to experience the local culture.

Day 2:

Explore the Sunday Market

The Sunday Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the world, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the region every weekend. The market offers a wide range of goods, including handmade crafts, spices, and traditional Uighur food. To experience the market at its fullest, start early in the morning, so you have plenty of time to explore the various sections of the market and discover unique souvenirs to take home.

Visit the Apak Hoja Mausoleum

The Apak Hoja Mausoleum is another beautiful example of Uighur Islamic architecture and is located just a short distance from the Sunday Market. The mausoleum is dedicated to Apak Hoja’s wife and features unique dome-shaped architecture and beautiful gardens. Visiting the mausoleum is a perfect way to learn more about the cultural history of Kashgar and take a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Day 3:

Take a Trip to the Karakoram Highway

The Karakoram Highway is one of the most scenic and adventurous highways in the world, stretching from Kashgar to Pakistan’s border. A trip to the Karakoram Highway is a perfect way to explore the breathtaking scenery of the region, see the famous Snow Mountains, and experience the local culture of the nearby villages.

Visit the Kashgar Livestock Market

The Kashgar Livestock Market is located just outside the city and is a unique destination for any tourist. The market features a wide range of animals, including camels, horses, and cattle, and provides a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local people. Visiting the market is also an excellent opportunity to try local delicacies such as roasted lamb and naan bread.

Book Your Tour Now

Kashgar is a city rich in history and culture, and there are many things to see and do for any tourist. From exploring the winding streets of the Old Town to visiting the famous Sunday Market and taking a trip to the Karakoram Highway, Kashgar is an exciting and vibrant destination that should not be missed. By following this step-by-step plan, you can experience the best of Kashgar and create unforgettable memories of your trip to China.