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Tashkurgan, or Taxkorgan, officially known as Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, is a town in the far west of China's Xinjiang Region, near the borders with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. It's home to the Tajik ethnic group, who still maintain their nomadic lifestyle and ancient traditions. Our Tashkurgan tours offer you the chance to visit Tajik families, immersing yourself in their daily lives and rich heritage.
A historical and strategic point along the ancient Silk Road, Tashkurgan was once a vital trade hub connecting Central Asia with China. Our Tashkurgan Tours invite you to explore the Tashkurgan Stone City - an ancient fortress built over 2,000 years ago. Perched atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of lush valleys and formidable mountain ranges. Here, you'll experience the rich culture and ancient history of this crucial Silk Road outpos.
Nestled in the Pamir Mountains, Tashkurgan boasts stunning alpine scenery, featuring vast grasslands and rugged peaks. It's a meeting point for some of Earth's highest mountain ranges - the Pamirs, Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Himalayas. Tashkurgan is accessible via the Karakoram Highway. The road journey to Tashkurgan itself offers a rare chance to witness the unspoiled beauty of the Pamirs.
How to Plan Your Tashkurgan Tours?
Tashkurgan is typically visited as part of a Kashgar tour.
Day 1-2: Explore Kashgar's old city and main attractions
Day 3: Travel to Tashkurgan via the Karakoram Highwa/China-Pakistan Highway, enjoying spectacular views of high-altitude Pamirs landscapes: Karakul Lake, White Sand Lake, the mysterious Muztagh Ata, vast grasslands, deep valleys...
Day 4: Visit Tashkurgan Fort and Tajik families, take a leisurely stroll on the golden grasslands in Tashkurgan. And then return to Kashgar along the same route.
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"A unique experience despite a difficult context thanks
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Why Choose Tashkurgan Tours with us?
As a Xinjiang-based travel agency, our Tashkurgan tours are crafted by seasoned local experts. Leveraging our extensive network and resources, we offer Tashkurgan tours at the same affordable prices as locals. While Tashkurgan is just a small part of the vast Xinjiang region, we also provide Xinjiang tours to other captivating destinations such as Urumqi, Turpan, the Taklamakan Desert, and Kanas Lake. For those seeking to explore more of the Silk Road, we can extend your journey to include Gansu, Qinghai, and Xi'an.
Xinjiang is vast, and planning Xinjiang tours can be challenging for first-time visitors. In this section, we provide practical Xinjiang tour planning guides and curated articles to help you craft the perfect itinerary. Discover the best routes from Urumqi to Turpan, Kashgar, Kanas, and beyond. Explore must-see attractions along the Silk Road and learn how to maximize your experience in this diverse region. Whether you’re captivated by the deserts, grasslands, and lakes of Northern Xinjiang or the ancient ruins and lively bazaars of Southern Xinjiang, there’s something here for every traveler.
Urumqi: The capital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi is a vibrant blend of cultures and a gateway to the region's many natural wonders. It is known for its bustling bazaars, such as the International Grand Bazaar, and the Xinjiang Regional Museum.
Heavenly Lake of Tianshan: Nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, this stunning alpine lake is known for its clear blue waters and scenic mountain backdrop. It's a perfect spot for day trips and nature walks.
Turpan: This ancient city is an archaeological treasure trove, famous for its historical sites such as the ancient cities of Jiaohe and Gaochang, and the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that sustains life in this dry region.
Kashgar: An ancient Silk Road city, where you can explore the lively Kashgar Bazaar, the historic Id Kah Mosque, and the atmospheric Kashgar Old Town.
Tashkurgan: Located near the borders with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan, this ancient Silk Road stronghold known for the Tashkurgan Fort. Tashkurgan is located on the vast Pamir Plateau, often referred to as the "Roof of the World." The drive along the China-Pakistan Highway (Karakoram Highway) to Tashkurgan takes travelers through breathtaking mountain passes, valleys, and rivers, including the iconic Muztagh Ata Peak.
Kanas Lake and Hemu Village: Located in the northern part of Xinjiang. Kanas Lake known for its changing colors and Hemu Village for its picturesque wooden houses and pastoral lifestyle.
Yining and the Ili River Valley: Known for its lush meadows and wildflowers, particularly in Nalati Grasslands.Visit Sayram Lake, a high-altitude lake with crystal-clear water. Enjoy the region’s unique blend of Kazakh culture.
Taklamakan Desert: The second-largest sand desert in the world, it is surrounded by the Silk Road and offers adventurous visitors the chance to experience its vast, mysterious landscapes.
Xinjiang is a vast region in western China, and getting there is most convenient by air.
By Air
Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC): The largest airport in Xinjiang, handling domestic and international flights.
Kashgar Airport (KHG): Convenient for southern Xinjiang destinations.
Kanas Airport (KJI): For travel to northern Xinjiang's Kanas Lake and Hemu Village.
Xinjiang shares borders with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, and Mongolia. Some travelers enter Xinjiang via these border crossings:
The Torugart Pass and Irkeshtam Pass are important channels between China and Kyrgyzstan. The Karasu Pass is a crucial gateway between China and Tajikistan. The Khunjerab Pass is the only land border crossing between China and Pakistan. If you plan to arrive via a land border, please contact your travel advisor for specific costs and arrangements.
Rex F
New Zealand
Traveling from Dunhuang to Turpan introduced us to the captivating landscapes of Southern Xinjiang. From vast deserts to ancient cities, each stop held its own mysteries waiting to be discovered. Exploring these remote, culturally rich areas made the trip a true Silk Road adventure - ideal for travelers looking to experience China’s untamed beauty.
Destination(s): Xinjiang
Date of Experience: Jul 23, 2024
Tour Customized by: Claire
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Jessica K
Canada
Our journey from Urumqi through Turpan to Kashgar was unforgettable! Kashgar’s Old City was a highlight, with its maze of traditional homes and lively markets, while the Heavenly Lake of Tianchi provided breathtaking mountain views. Each location in Xinjiang had its own unique charm and was a feast for the eyes and soul. Perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts!
Destination(s): Xinjiang
Date of Experience: Jul 01, 2024
Tour Customized by: Claire
You May be Interested in This Tour: 7 Days Classic Xinjiang Tour for First-Timers: Urumqi Tianchi Turpan Kashgar
Jennifer H
USA
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