Top best things to do in Kashgar

Not visiting Kashgar means not having truly experienced Xinjiang. Walking into Kashgar is like opening a rich, historical book. Its ancient architecture, winding streets, and warm-hearted people all tell the tale of this legendary city. Here are the best things when visiting Kashgar.

Top 1: Stroll in Kashgar Old City

Ancient City of Kashgar is steeped in historical charm, with its architecture, culture, and cuisine all worthy of exploration. Strolling through the streets of Kashgar Old City feels like a journey through time. You can immerse yourself in the local way of life, savor local delicacies, and experience the rich cultural atmosphere of the ancient Silk Road. A stroll down the street reveals workshops where local artisans produce instruments, tools, and bronze ware, showcasing the beauty of ancient crafts. At the end of the walk, you'll find the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang, where you can appreciate its architecture and decorations outside of prayer times.

Strolling across from Kashgar Old City lies the Gaotai Residential Area, the only remaining earth-constructed architectural complex in Kashgar. Although not large, this area is rich in Kashgar's traditional folk culture, where the houses are built using mud and poplar wood. In addition, you can also stroll to the Grand Bazaar shopping, feel the bustling crowds bring a sense of relaxation.

Top 2: View the Opening Ceremony

The Opening Ceremony of Kashgar Old City is a captivating performance that blends traditional music, dance, and welcoming rituals, showcasing the historical and cultural charm of Xinjiang. This ceremony is held twice daily at 10:30 AM and 6:00 PM, attracting many visitors. In this vibrant event, historical figures such as "Ban Chao" from the Han Dynasty and "Fragrance Concubine" from the Qing Dynasty welcome guests from all over the world, while characters like "Afanti" ride donkeys and contemporary girls dressed in traditional Adras silk dance gracefully. Set against the backdrop of Kashgar Old City, the performance highlights the area's rich ethnic culture and historical heritage, making it a must-see experience when visiting Kashgar.

Top 3: Have Tea at Ancient Tea House

The Ancient Tea House, located at the Ancient City, is a landmark building on the bustling streets of Kashgar, which encapsulates cherished memories of several generations of Kashgar residents. If you want to gain a direct understanding of the local culture and customs, this tea house, rich in ethnic character, is the perfect place to visit. Inside, friendly patrons, whether acquainted or not, sit cross-legged around kangs, engaging in casual conversations. Some may play the traditional instrument "Tanbur", with its scattered notes accompanying a few verses of song. Others might choose a quiet spot on the balcony to watch the comings and goings on the street below. The Ancient Tea House serves as a shining cultural symbol of Kashgar, showcasing the region's authentic Xinjiang charm to the world.

Top 4: Experience Ethnic Costumes

The traditional clothing of Xinjiang's ethnic minorities is known for its vibrant colors and diverse styles, forming a unique aspect of the region's beauty. Experiencing these traditional costumes is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Xinjiang's rich culture. In the old city of Kashgar, you can find some photography shops along the ancient streets that offer a chance to try on a variety of ethnic outfits. From the ornate robes of the Uyghurs to the intricately embroidered garments of the Kazakhs, and the distinctive attire of the Kyrgyz, each piece showcases the craftsmanship and creativity of artisans. Wearing these traditional costumes and taking photos is a memorable experience that captures the exotic charm of Kashgar.

Top 5: Make a Copper Ware

In the distant ancient city of Kashgar, artisans meticulously hammer and polish copperware, creating an atmosphere that transports you back to centuries past. Their skilled craftsmanship produces pieces rich in cultural significance, captivating the eye and evoking deep respect. Here, you can engage in a hands-on experience by making your own copperware under the guidance of these craftsmen, and share their stories about everyday life in Kashgar, feeling the warmth and connection that flows from their hands to your heart. This kind of experience is more meaningful and interesting than simply traveling and shopping.

Top 6: Ride a Camel at Dawakun Desert

Visiting the desert wouldn't be complete without a camel ride. The Dawakun Desert, located about 130 kilometers from Kashgar, is just a two-hour journey away. This area connects to the vast Taklamakan Desert, where the landscape is dominated by undulating sand dunes. Riding a camel across these dunes offers a unique experience; the camel's steady gait takes you through the endless desert, making you feel as if you've stepped back in time. This journey allows you to truly appreciate the resilience and courage of the ancient travelers on the Silk Road, who braved the vast desert sands on camelback.

Top 7: Drive on Panlong Ancient Road

Panlong Ancient Road is located in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County in Kashgar. Stretching 36 kilometers with a maximum elevation of 4,200 meters and a vertical drop of 1,000 meters, this winding road boasts 608 turns, resembling a giant dragon coiling on the Pamir Plateau. The road is a breathtaking and thrilling route, showcasing the wonders of nature with its magical and magnificent landscape. Each bend on the Panlong Ancient Road symbolizes life's challenges and obstacles, and overcoming these turns represents triumphing over difficulties and moving towards broader horizons.

Top 8: Play in the Sand

The Makit N39° Desert Adventure Base serves as the "lifeline" for crossing the Taklamakan Desert and is an ideal entry point for those looking to challenge the desert. With sand dunes reaching up to a hundred meters in height and fine, white sand, the base offers a perfect destination for sandboarding, off-roading, beach volleyball, and watching stunning sunrises and sunsets. Here, you can surf through the vast expanse of sand, reveling in the excitement and thrill that the desert offers, or sit by a campfire, savoring delicious food and enjoying lively song and dance performances. In summary, the N39° Desert Adventure Base is a comprehensive tourist destination that combines sightseeing, adventure, and entertainment. Whether you're an adrenaline-seeking traveler or a nature enthusiast, you'll find something to enjoy here.

Customize Your Unique Kashgar Old City Tour

If you are interested in one of the Kashgar itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Kashgar Tour, please visit our Kashgar Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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