Kashgar

A bustling medieval city, Kashgar was once one of the most prosperous trading towns in Asia. Located in the far west of Xinjiang, China's westernmost province, Kashgar has long been multi-ethnic, with Chinese, Kyrgyz, Uighurs, Uzbeks and Tajiks residing side by side. Because of its long, varied trading history, food in Kashgar, as in the rest of China's west, is flavorful and unique, one of the first true fusion cuisines in the world. Today, the city is home to busy markets, and serves as a hub to Central and South Asia.

Two of Kashgar's most evocative sights are the fascinating Yekshenba Bazaar, filled with wares from across Central Asia, and Kashgar's old city, which once sat at a trade crossroads, and was among the most cosmopolitan enclaves in the world.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Afaq Khoja Mausoleum

Known as the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang, this is a fine example of Islamic architecture, featuring intricate patterns and a majestic facade at the entrance.

Day Trip to Karakul Lake

Trace the Karakoram Highway, which goes from China to Pakistan, to Karakul Lake. The road trip comes with breathtaking scenery, complete with mountains, camels and yaks. Once arrived, admire the deep blue colors of the lake, surrounded by the scenic snowcapped Kunlun mountain range.

Id Kah Mosque

Visit Kashgar's historic and elegant mosque, Id Kah. The giant structure is China’s largest mosque, measuring more than 55,000-square-feet, and housing 10,000 worshippers every Friday.

Uyghur Cuisine

Savor a dinner of traditional Uyghur food, the main cuisine of Xinjiang, with its unique blend of Chinese, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern/Indian elements. Try spicy stews made with lamb and flavored with generous quantities of cumin and chili pepper; laghman, thick, hand-pulled noodles in steaming, hearty soup; dapanji, flavored, marinated chicken slow roasted in a pan with assorted vegetables; as well as the Uyghur flatbread, called nan. Juicy lamb kebabs are incredibly popular and practically a daily staple.

Walking Tour

Wander through the narrow, winding streets and enticing shops of this bustling medieval city, once one of the most prosperous trading towns in Asia. Take in the diversity of the various ethnic groups, and see their customs and lifestyles mesh in the urban metropolis.

Yekshenba Bazaar

Visit the Yekshenba Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest open-air market in the world. With vendors from as far away as Pakistan and Uzbekistan offering their wares and services, this large bazaar is a fun place to visit.

Yekshenba Livestock Market

Once a part of the Yekshenba Bazaar, the famous livestock market now sits on the outskirts of town. Sheep, goats, cows, bulls and camels are traded here, in a unique, friendly atmosphere. Be prepared for somewhat pungent smells!

Yurt Stay

Spend a night in the desert near Lake Karakul in a yurt, the traditional dwelling of the nomadic tribes of Central Asia. The abode consists of animal hide stretched over a wooden frame, yurts are portable, and is easy to set up and dismantle. You will be hosted by a Kyrgyz family, one of a number of groups who reside in the Kashgar area.

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