kashgar travel guide

Kashgar Travel Guide - How to Plan a Trip to Kashgar

Kashgar is the westmost city in China . With a history of over 2,000 years, Kashgar served as a main node of communications along the ancient Silk Road, which linked ancient China with Central Asian countries, such as present-day India and Iran, and Europe.

Many people yearn to visit Kashgar not only because of its exotic customs, but also because of the film " The Kite Runner ". Because of the war in Afghanistan, this film was shoot in Kashgar.

A visit to Xinjiang is incomplete without a look at Kashgar. The smells of yoghurt and melons, mutton and naan mix in the air. People in the streets are dressed in ethnic costumes. The streets are lined with exotic houses. Kashgar is the city with the strongest Uyghur culture .

Xinjiang Travel Restrictions : Xinjiang is open to tourism including Urumqi, Kashgar, Kanas, Yining, Korla, and Aksu. Contact us for more details or scan the QR code to check the up-to-date travel restrictions in English of different cities in China.

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Highlights of kashgar, best times to visit kashgar, how to get to kashgar, accommodation in kashgar, local food you may like to try, history of kashgar.

• Recommended Kshagar Tours

Snow-capped mountains, plateaus, deserts, oases, and other magnificent landscapes can be found there. Colorful ethnic customs and lively bazaars make Kashgar a vivacious place to visit.

The hospitable Uyghurs in Kashgar are good at both singing and dancing, and they welcome visitors from all over the world. Their unique musical instruments and clothes are an exotic attraction to visitors.

Kashgar Old City — Where the Kite Runner was filmed

Kashgar Old City is the only labyrinth-style city characterized by Islamic culture in China. Almost all the main streets in the old city lead to Id Kah Mosque, where the voice calling pilgrims and locals to worship resounds in the air every Friday morning.

With winding and secluded alleyways, folk houses with exotic styles, smoke rising from naan shops, the tinkling sound from workshops, old men with white beards drinking tea in the street... Kashgar Old Town shows the authentic Uygur folk life.

Recommended tour: 12-Day South Xinjiang Adventure Tour

International Bazaar

Composed of farmers' markets, flea markets, animal markets, and meat markets, with over 4,000 stalls, the bustling bazaar is packed with distinctively dressed Uyghurs, ambitious Central Asian traders and veiled Muslim women on Sundays. Muslim features are visible throughout the city.

From the 2nd century BC to the 15th century AD, Kashgar maintained a leading position in commercial trade during its long Silk Road history of 1,700 years. Caravans traveling east and west met in Kashgar, making Kashgar the earliest international trade market in western China, which is still preserved today as Kashgar International Bazaar.

Known as the "largest market in Asia" in ancient times, it is now the largest farmers' market in Xinjiang and the largest international trade market in Northwest China.

You will find beautiful and comfortable rugs, elegant earthenware, exquisite and unique Uyghur musical instruments, gorgeous and bright silk, elaborate jewelry, shining Russian bronze mirrors, Pakistani tapestries, Kyrgyz telescopes, and more interesting goods.

Kashgar Livestock Market

This is the largest livestock bazaar in Xinjiang. Cattle, sheep, camels, and other livestock are the main things traded there. Every Sunday, people take their livestock there for trade and shearing. You will hear people bargaining and lots of animal noises.

Karakuri Lake

Located at the foot of Muztagh Ata (second highest peak on the north rim of the Tibetan Plateau) in the northern Pamirs, Karakuri Lake is surrounded by mountains. The Karakoram Highway passes by the lake.

Subashi Grassland by the lakeside is lush in summer and scattered with Tajik yurts, wooden houses, cattle herds, and sheep flocks. Kirgiz herdsmen also graze their livestock there.

On a clear day, silver peaks are reflected in the lake, making it a picturesque scene.

The period from April to October offer pleasanter weather for visiting Kashgar, while the most optimal weather conditions and ripe fruits in that region make August and September the best two months to visit.

Two of the most popular local festivals (the Corban [Eid al-Adha, month 12 day 10 of the Muslim calendar: July 20, 2021] and Lesser Bairam [Eid al-Fitr, month 10 day 1 of the Muslim calendar: May 13, 2021] festivals) currently fall in the high season period, when visitors can enjoy many colorful celebratory activities.

Kashgar has a temperate and continental arid climate with four clearly distinct seasons, featuring a relatively longer summertime and a shorter winter. Summer doesn't feel too hot because of the dryness, and winter averages around freezing, but for the same reason doesn't feel so cold.

Kashgar has a July average daily range of 19–32°C (66–90°F) and a January average daily range of -10–1°C (15–33°F), negligible precipitation of less than 12 mm (½") per month, and 7 hours of sunshine on average per day, averaging over 10 hours/day in July but only around 5 hours/day in winter.

As the transportation hub of south Xinjiang, Kashgar has flights from some major cities such as Beijing (5½ hours), Chengdu (4½ hours), Xi'an (4½ hours), and Lanzhou (4 hours).

Xinjiang's high-speed rail network is incomplete, with only Urumqi, Turpan, and Hami connected by high-speed rail.

Taking a flight or normal train are the main ways to travel to Kashgar from other cities in Xinjiang.

From Urumqi to Kashgar, a flight is recommended, taking about 2 hours. Normal (overnight) trains take 18–25 hours.

From Turpan to Kashgar, it's 13–20 hours by a normal train. A 1–1½-hour bullet train with a transfer in Urumqi (for a flight) is recommended.

In Kashgar, although there are some star-rated hotels, they might not be as good as the same rating of hotels in big cities due to local expectations. Accommodation in the downtown area is best.

To ensure a comfortable hotel experience, we suggest booking 4- or 5-star hotels. They can offer Western-style breakfasts as well as simple English communication.

When booking a hotel by yourself, please make sure the hotel is allowed to accept foreigners.

A wide variety of Muslim food , Central Asian flavors, as well as tastes from other regions can be found in Kashgar. The main staples are wheat flour, corn, and rice. The followings are some typical foods found in Kashgar.

Roasted Meat

Roasted meat is the most popular and commonly seen food in Kashgar. Street stalls cluster everywhere around the city, selling a wide variety of roasted meat. Kabobs are very easy to find.

'Hand-Grab' Rice

'Hand-grab' rice is a popular food at festivals. The main materials are fresh mutton, carrots, onions, vegetables, rice, and raisins. Raisins are boiled with sliced onions, carrots, and small cubes of fried beef. Then they are put on soaked rice and boiled again.

Before eating, the custom is to wash one's hands three times and dry them with handkerchiefs. Sitting cross-legged on cushions, locals serve the rice on plates and eat it with their hands.

There are more than 10 kinds of this rice dish, mainly mutton, chicken, and vegetarian varieties, and the most common is the one using mutton.

This sour dairy product is very popular among the locals. The Muslim population enjoy drinking it all through the year. Kashgar yogurt is highly nutritious, containing a great variety of mineral substances and vitamins.

Kashgar (ancient Shule) was under the jurisdiction of the Huns during the late Qin (221 BC – 206 BC) and the early Han (206 BC – 220 AD) dynasties. Zhang Qian was stationed at Shule on his mission to the Western Regions in the 4th year of the Yuanshou Period (119 BC) of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC – 9 AD), and the Western Regions Frontier Command was established by the Han Empire in 60 BC, officially making Shule a part of ancient China.

Serving as an important military stronghold along the Silk Road during the Tang Dynasty (618–907), Kashgar was controlled by the Qarakhanid Dynasty (999–1211) and then the Liao Dynasty (916–1125) in succession from the Five Dynasties Period (907–960) to the Song Dynasty (960–1279), and it served as the capital of the Qarakhanid Dynasty.

After the great conquests of Genghis Khan prior to the Mongol Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), Kashgar became the feudal estate of Chahetai, the second son of Genghis Khan. It was ruled by Mongol khanates until its conquest by the Qing in 1759. Kashgar Prefecture was established in the 10th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign (1884) during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912).

Tour Kashgar with Us

If you are interested in visiting Kashgar, please see our Urumqi tours below for inspiration. All our tours can be customized.

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Or contact us to create a trip according to your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

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Locked away in the westernmost corner of China, closer to Tehran and Damascus than to Běijīng, Kashgar (喀什; Kāshí) has been the epicentre of regional trade and cultural exchange for more than two millennia.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Shipton’s Arch

This extraordinary natural rock arch (the rather prosaic Uyghur name means simply ‘mountain with a hole in it’) is one of the tallest on earth. The first…

Sunday Livestock Market

No visit to Kashgar is complete without a trip to the Livestock Market, which takes place once a week on Sunday. The day begins with Uyghur farmers and…

Grand Sunday Bazaar

Kashgar’s main bazaar is open every day but really kicks it up a gear on Sunday. Step through the jam-packed entrance and allow your five senses to guide…

Kashgar Old Town

The Old Town is the soul of Kashgar, and as such the government has spent much of the past two decades knocking it down block by block and building a…

Id Kah Mosque

The yellow-tiled Id Kah Mosque, which dates from 1442, is the spiritual and physical heart of the city. Enormous (it's the largest mosque in Xinjiang),…

Abakh Hoja Mausoleum

This 3-hectare mausoleum complex was built by the Khoja family, who ruled the region in the 17th and 18th centuries. Widely considered the holiest Muslim…

At the end of a 45km drive northeast of Kashgar are the ruins of Ha Noi, a Tang-dynasty town built in the 7th century and abandoned in the 12th century…

Kashgar Museum

This regional museum is not as good as some of the other excellent local museums in Xinjiang, but it's free and includes an incredible 6th-century…

Latest stories from Kashgar

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Apr 18, 2017 • 6 min read

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Kashgar Travel Guide

Updated May 2024 ,  The Kashgar Travel Guide was originally written in August 2018

Kashgar : The important Silk Road trading post at the junction of the Northern & Southern Routes in the extreme western fringes of China.

Closer to the Middle East than it is to Beijing and a world away. Home to Uyghur people, a suppressed ethnic minority within China, yet the majority in the Xinjiang Autonomous Uyghur Region.

I personally didn’t enjoy traveling in the Xinjiang Region, not because of anything to do with Xinjiang itself, but because of the constant military and police security checkpoints.

With that said, Kashgar seemed to be the most relaxed of the areas I was able to visit in Xinjiang, really bestowing on it the oasis it’s been known to be for the last two millennia.

Learn what to see, where to go, what to eat and where to sleep in this Kashgar Travel Guide.

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What To See & Do

There are a number of things to see in Kashgar. Sadly most of the old town has been removed and replaced by new buildings.

Most mosques have had their minarets taken off and signs with Chinese propaganda hung at the entrances. With that said the Uyghur culture is strong and you can still see important aspects of their lifestyle in Kashgar.

Sunday Livestock Market

About a 30 minute drive outside of Kashgar every Sunday this livestock market kicks off from about 8 am to 6 pm. It’s a great place to see the Uyghur, as well as Hui ( Dungan ), Tajik, Uzbek, Kazakh and Kyrgyz traders from all around Kashgar and the surrounding area come to trade livestock.

You’ll see trucks, carts, and pens full of sheep, camels, horses, cows, and donkeys. Watching the men haggle with their hand gestures is quite interesting. Make sure and get some freshly prepared lamb samsa and chai before you leave.

The Grand Sunday Bazaar

This is the main bazaar in Kashgar that happens every day, however, it’s far more lively on Sundays. Grab some silk, spices, tea, carpets, and doppa caps here.

Kashgar Old Town

Most of the true Old Town has been demolished and some parts re-built in the typical Chinese  let’s-tear-down-and-rebuild-in-a-Disneyified-manner-and-build-a-new-building-that-looks-old , and others built into very Chinese looking characterless big buildings.

In the government’s defense, the structures were dilapidated and had sewage issues. You aren’t allowed to visit what remains of the true Old Town, however, there’s no guard on duty there until about 9am. So get an early start and sneak in and out before his shift starts.

Id Kah Mosque

This is the big yellow mosque in the main square. This is the largest mosque in all of Xinjiang. Non-Muslims may enter outside of prayer times. Entrance is 45 RMB per person.

Abakh Hoja Mausoleum

One of the holiest sites in all of Xinjiang built by the Hoja family in 1640. The architecture is worth coming to visit, and it’s a major pilgrimage site for Muslims around Xinjiang. 30 RMB to enter.

Located in Kashgar’s Renmin Quare there is a massive Mao Statue.  I mean, when in China, right?

Mor Buddhist Pagoda

With only one pagoda remaining from the 7th century, this was where monks came to worship until most of the pagodas were destroyed in the 12th century.

Tomb Of Yusap Khas Hajip

Tomb of the Kashgari poet Yusap Khas Hajip who wrote the famous Uyghur poem  The Wisdom of Happiness and Pleasure.  30 RMB to enter.

Tomb of Mahmud Kashgari

Mahmud Kashgari compiled and created the first Turkic Language dictionary in the 11th century. The tomb is also home to a mosque and sacred spring. 30 RMB to enter. Located in Upal, about an hour drive south outside of Kashgar.

Karakul Lake

A beautiful lake located about a 5 hour drive south of Kashgar. A nice stop if you’re planning to travel between Kashgar and Tashkurgan. Nearby along the Karakoram Highway toward Tashkurgan you can find the turquoise Bulungkol Lake.

Shipton’s Arch (Toshuk Tag)

Likely the highest rock arch in the work at 2,973m in altitude. Located about 2 hours drive west of Kashgar as you drive toward the Irkeshtam border crossing with Kyrgyzstan. A good stop for those bound for or coming from Kyrgyzstan.

Travel Or Cycle The Karakoram Highway

For the adventurous, you can cycle or travel the Karakoram Highway. The Karakoram Highway starts in Kashgar in the north, continues south to Tashkurgan and then heads south to cross the  Khunjerab Pass  into Pakistan’s  Gilgit-Baltistan  and eventually ends in Islamabad in the south.

This is a bucket list trip for many as the KKH is one of the highest paved roads in the world and  Khunjerab Pass  is the highest paved border crossing in the world. Note that to travel south beyond Tashkurgan on the KKH you need a Pakistani Visa which must be applied for from your home country usually.

Read:  Crossing Khunjerab Pass  & The  Gilgit-Baltistan Travel Guide  to plan for the KKH

How To Get To Kashgar

You’ll arrive to Kashgar either by road, train or by air.

By Plane : Kashgar Airport has direct connections to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Internationally there are direct flights to Islamabad, Pakistan. A taxi from the airport to the center of Kashgar will cost around 30 RMB. Many times taxis operate as shared taxis so others may climb in with you and you can split the fare.

By Car & Bus : You can reach Kasher from Urumqi, Hotan, Tashkurgan, Kuqa and more by bus or car. You can also travel by road over the Irkeshtam Pass from  Kyrgyzstan , the  Khunjerab Pass  from Sost, Pakistan, or over the  Qolma Pass  from Tajikistan. Traveling to Kashgar from Sost usually requires an overnight stay in Tashkurgan.

By Train : Kashgar isn’t yet connected to China’s high-speed network. All trains ( much like buses ) will take an eternity. You can reach Kashgar by train from Urumqi,  Turpan , Kuqa, and Hotan. Note that train stations in Kashgar and Xinjiang require you to go through a painstaking number of security checkpoints.

Want To Visit Turpan?

Turpan In One Day Travel Guide: The Hottest Place In China

How To Get Around

Kashgar is small enough that you can get around by foot as most things are not more than 15-20 minutes walk apart. Though some of the outlying sites as well as sites outside the city you may want to get a taxi.

The train station you’ll want to either get a taxi or take bus #28 to reach the center of Kashgar. From the airport grab a taxi.

Where To Sleep

Most accommodations in Kashgar will not accept foreigners at this time. One that has been confirmed to take foreign guests is Ancient City Yashe Hostel.

Where To Eat

Trying traditional Uyghur food is a must in Kashgar. Uyghur cuisine is related to Central Asian cuisine but it tastes 1,000x better.

Make sure and try lagman, plov, samsa, manti, kawaplar, and non. Of course, there are a scattering of Sichuan restaurants around town as well.

Going across Irkeshtam Pass? Check out my  Kyrgyzstan travel guide

Wanna combine China &  Tajikistan ? Read about crossing  Qolma Pass

Not up to sort a trip on your own?

Check out this private Kashgar 2 day tour

Book one of these multi-day Xinjiang and Silk Road tours

Looking to save some money? It’s usually cheaper to book tours once you arrive in Kashgar.

Heading to Kashgar Soon?

Have any questions not answered in the Kashgar Travel Guide? Ask in the comments!

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Kashgar Travel Guide: Xinjiang’s Oasis In The Chinese Far West

Crossing The Qolma Pass Between Tajikistan & China

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Travel with Me to China, Tajikistan and Pakistan in 2018!

5 thoughts on “kashgar travel guide: xinjiang’s oasis in the chinese far west”.

Hi! I plan to travel to Kashgar in April. I’m wondering where people stay overnight if most hotels don’t take foreigners? I was in Urümqi in 2018 and was able to book via booking… was the restriction mentioned due to COVID or did it have another reason? Thank you in advance for taking the time to read and respond 🙂

A traveler had emailed this past summer stating that it was difficult to find accommodations accepting foreigners, and I am assuming that this was something related to China finally opening up to travelers again but it could be due to the political situation-I don’t have the concrete details on this. I would look up hotels via booking/google/etc and contact the hotel via email directly and ask.

Any update how to reach in 2022?

As of now it still sounds like China has some really strict entry rules (Covid).

Thank you! I arrived in Kashgar and used your advice here, very helpful!!

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Museum of Wander

15 Things to do in Kashgar, China’s Best Silk Road City

The very best things to do in Kashgar to experience the Silk Road: from the Sunday Bazaar and tea houses to mosques and the Karakoram Highway

Kashgar in southern Xinjiang province is one of the most exotic places to visit in China . If you’re travelling the Silk Road and looking for the best things to do in Kashgar, you’re in the right place. We’ll show you what to do, where to stay, and eat in this stunning Silk Road city.

Kashgar (or Kashi in Chinese) is an oasis city located at the merging point of cultures and countries.

Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan are all just around the corner and Kashgar has served as a trading post between China, Central Asia and Europe for thousands of years. It is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

From Central Asia’s most exciting bazaar, the juiciest watermelons, relaxing at traditional Uyghur teahouses, shopping for carpets and visiting colourful mosques and shrines, Kashgar has a lot going for it. Add the spectacular Karakoram Highway just down the road and it’s easy to justify coming out all this way to far western China.

Kashgar is a Uyghur city, with Muslim Uyghurs making up the majority of the population. Other groups that live in Kashgar include Tajiks, Kyrgyz, Hui, Uzbeks and Han Chinese. The demographics, language and writing that reminds a little of Arabic make Kasghar feel very Central Asian or even Middle Eastern. It truly is a fascinating place.

Here is our travel guide to the best things to do in Kashgar to help you plan your trip to Xinjiang and the Silk Road.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Quick Guide to Kashgar

Visited:  July Suggested time:  3 days Where to stay:   Orange Hotel Kashgar Ancient City Famous for:  Sunday Bazaar, Silk Road history, Uyghur culture Transportation:  Best reached by flight (Beijing is a 6-hour flight away). There is no DiDi in Xinjiang, but many regular taxis. Tip:  Taxi drivers don’t speak English, and most can’t read Chinese. Find your destination on a maps app and hand over your phone to the driver to follow the directions. Unique experience : Tea at the Century Old Teahouse

How Long to Spend in Kashgar?

Most Silk Road Tours to southern Xinjiang only spend one full day in Kashgar, which is not nearly enough to enjoy the city. We stayed in Kashgar for 3 nights which we think is the perfect amount of time, as it allows you to see all the attractions without rushing and gives you enough free time for just wandering around.

When planning your trip to Kashgar,  try to be in Kashgar on a Sunday . The Kashgar Livestock Market is held every Sunday and hanging out with the Uyghur, Tajik and Kyrgyz traders is one of the best things to do in Kashgar.

With 2 full days in Kashgar, you can spend a whole day exploring the ancient city with its red ochre-coloured alleys and lanes, eat street food, relax at one of the many teahouses, shop for carpets and visit the Id Kah Mosque. 

On the second day, visit the Kashgar Bazaar, see the stunning Afaq Khoja Mausoleum complex and People’s Park. If you’re in Kashgar on a Sunday, you must go to the Sunday Livestock Market – it’s one of the best in Central Asia.

How to Get to Kashgar

The most convenient way to reach Kashgar is by plane. It takes a whopping 6 hours if flying in from Beijing, which is about the same flight duration as a flight from London to New York!

Ask for a window seat on the left of the plane for the best views over the snowcapped mountains and glaciers of the Tian Shan Mountains.

Air China has two direct flights a day from Beijing Capital International Airport and several others with transits in Urumqi or Lanzhou.

For an epic trip to this part of China, you could also put aside at least 46 hours and take a train from Beijing. It must be an incredible journey travelling from Beijing to Kashgar by train.

Taking a train from Shanghai to Kashgar will take at least 56 hours.

After visiting Kashgar, we took an overnight train to Turpan along the edge of the Taklamakan Desert which took 17 hours.

Do I Need a Guide in Kashgar / Xinjiang?

You do not need to join an organized tour to travel in Xinjiang…for now. Some predict that will change soon, and Xinjiang will become like Tibet, where you MUST join a tour and apply for entry permits. But for now, foreign tourists are free to travel in Xinjiang independently.

We put together a tour with 8 of my colleagues with the help of M2 Adventure based in Shanghai, and we had a local Uyghur guide in Kashgar who also took us to Tashkurgan.

Having a local guide will make your trip to Xinjiang A LOT MORE enjoyable. Regulations in Xinjiang are constantly changing when things are normal, and even more so during the time of Covid.

Sadik, our guide, proved to be worth his weight in gold. Not only did he tell us about life in Kashgar and showed us the hidden alleys of the Old Town, but he guided us through getting the required Covid Tests at the hospital (needed before being allowed to board the train to Turpan) and applied for our permits to travel to Tashkurgan.

You can contact Sadik by email on [email protected], or on Wechat (ID: wxid_zti16ud7s4i122)

Best Things to do in Kashgar

Here are the best things to do in Kashgar. Allow yourself at least two full days to see all the attractions in Kashgar before travelling on towards Tashkurgan and the Karakoram Highway.

1. Admire the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum

Also known as the Tomb of the Fragrant Concubine or the Abakh Khoja Tomb , this splendid complex is the finest example of Islamic architecture in Xinjiang and one of China’s holiest Muslim sights.

The complex consists of the  Mazar  (mausoleum), a cemetery, a big and small mosque and lovely gardens surrounding them all. 

The magnificent Afaq Khoja Mausoleum, with its colourful green, yellow and blue glazed bricks, dome and central Asian look, is the complex’s highlight and well worth a visit. It is the family tomb of Abakh Khoja, the powerful ruler of Kashgar during the 17th century. 

Abakh Khoja was also a saint and prophet, second only to Muhammad.

The mausoleum -constructed in 1640, encloses the tombs of five generations of the family. Of the 72 graves inside the mausoleum, the tomb of the Fragrant Concubine is the most well-known among locals.

Abakh Khoja’s granddaughter, Xiang Fei, was born with gorgeous looks and a heavenly scent. When she grew up, she became the favourite concubine of Emperor Qianlong, and she was known all over the Qing Dynasty as the Fragrant Concubine. 

After her death, the heartbroken emperor had her body returned by royal caravan all the way back to her hometown, where she was laid to rest in the Afaq Khoja Mazar with her family.

It took 124 men more than three years to return her body to Kashgar from Beijing . Han Chinese refer to the mausoleum as the Xiangfei Tomb (Xiangzhangyuan).

Juma Mosque

Another fine example of Islamic architecture is the Juma Mosque, just next to the  Mazar . Here you will see 62 uniquely carved and painted wooden columns, each carved by a different craftsman. 

2. Attend a Uyghur Wedding

There is a reenactment of a Ughuyr Wedding held at intervals throughout the day at the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum – and everyone’s invited!

While this is all set up for Chinese tourists, it is a lively and delightful event and gives you an insight into Uyghur culture that you would not otherwise be able to experience.

There is a lot of energetic singing and dancing, and the dance where young women balance cups and saucers on their heads is very entertaining.

After even more singing and dancing, the bride gets unveiled and thrown into a carpet, tossed into the air and then carried off by the wedding party.

3. Shop at the Kashgar Bazaar

Kashgar has been all about buying and selling for thousands of years and continue to be so today. Also known as Kashgar Sunday Bazaar, this sprawling market is held daily, but Sunday still remains the busiest (and best) time to visit.

In the past, the Kashgar Bazaar and Livestock Market were held together in the same location. It was a sprawling market where it’s said you could find anything except chicken milk and cow eggs. The most fantastic market in Central Asia was a one-stop shop for everything from a baby camel to spices and fur hats. 

However, the livestock market was moved to the city’s edge in recent years and is only held on Sundays. At the same time, the Kashgar Bazaar remains in its original location near the Old Town and is open for business daily.

With its vibrant colours and exotic smells and sounds, the Kashgar Bazaar is the perfect place to soak up the Silk Road atmosphere while haggling and buying souvenirs.

Dutars  (traditional Uyghur musical instruments), Yengisar knives, Uyghur pottery, Kashgar rugs, spices or dried fruits and nuts all make for good souvenirs from Xinjiang to take back with you. 

4. Experience the Kashgar Livestock Market

For a slice of undiluted Kashgar culture, don’t miss the Sunday Livestock Market. It’s a wonderful experience to see the Uyghur, Tajik and Kyrgyz farmers show off and trade their animals.

We are happy to say that all the animals we saw at the market were in top condition and well taken care of (How do I know? Well, I grew up on a farm…and one of the sheep told me personally that she was thrilled to be at the market).

The Livestock Market is supposedly best on Sunday morning, but when we arrived there around 17:00, deals were still going on. Unfortunately, there were only fat-tailed sheep and cattle left when we got there. Maybe when you come here in the morning, you can also see camels, yaks, horses and donkeys. 

Try to spot when a deal is struck. The buyer will shove a hand full of cash into the seller’s hand. The seller will probably refuse the first offer and push the money back. This will go back and forth, with the buyer adding more money each time. When both parties are happy, they will firmly shake hands to seal the deal. 

The food market at the entrance to the market has the freshest meat in town, and stalls sell delicious lamb skewers,  samsa , noodles, plov and nang bread. Our vegetarian and vegan friends will want to skip this part and head straight back to town.

5. Get Lost in Kashgar Old City

The ancient city of Kashgar is best explored without a plan or a map. Wandering around following your gut is by far the most rewarding way to see the back alleys of Old Kashgar. 

People who have seen the movie The Kiterunner might recognize the alleys and lanes of Old Kashgar. Kashgar had to stand in for Kabul, as shooting the film in Afghanistan was too unsafe. 

While most of Kashgar Old City was bulldozed and rebuilt in 2009 in the Chinese government’s attempt to modernize Kashgar, the  new  Old City remains extremely beautiful. It is still the heartbeat of the Uyghur community. 

We found the Old Town near the East Gate to be the least touristy and best for walking around. 

Some argue that the houses of Ancient Kashgar were unsafe in the event of an earthquake and lacked proper plumbing. Others see the modernization of the Old City of Kashgar as destroying the culture and heritage of the Uyghur community in the city. 

We are not here to pass judgement – what we can say is that the (new) Old City of Kashgar is still magnificent, and the best thing to do is to explore it on your own and make up your own mind about how you feel about it. After all, it’s not so much about the alleys and buildings, but about the community that still lives here that makes the city of Kashgar what it is.

6. See What’s Left of Kashgar Ancient City

While almost the entire Old City of Kashgar has been modernized, a small section still remains…for now. This section has been boarded off and sits like an island between the new/old town and the river.

Our guide told us that this section was meant to stay in its original state, but then plans changed, and it is now slowly being torn down to be modernized.

Take a walk along the barriers for a last glimpse of the original Kashgar Old City.

7. Find Tranquility at Id Kah Mosque

The beautiful, yellow Id Kah Mosque is the largest in China and one of the most prominent landmarks in Kashgar.

Built in 1442, the mosque can hold tens of thousands of worshippers during religious holidays such as Eid. Sadly, as with many other places in Xinjiang, the Id Kah Mosque has been turned into a tourist attraction rather than serving its original purpose.

Walking through the courtyard paths lined with poplars and ponds and prayer halls is relaxing and beautiful, yet it feels like something is missing.

While the mosque is magnificent and the atmosphere quite serene, keep your expectations in check and enjoy it for what it is.

8. Drink Tea at the Century-Old Teahouse

The Hundred Year-old Teahouse has been in the Mamat family since it opened its doors and is one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old City of Kashgar.

Visitors can enjoy tea and Xinjiang snacks and look out over the Old City from the balcony while tapping their feet (or join the dancing) to live Uyghur music throughout the day. The teahouse has an incredible convivial atmosphere.

We ordered the snack set, which came with nut pastries, rock candy, yoghurt and sweet noodles. The tea infused with cardamom and other spices was unlike the tea that we’ve had in the rest of China so far.

9. Shop for a Kashgar Rug

Kashgar is perhaps the best place in China if you’re in the market for a hand-knotted rug with a captivating backstory…

This one time, I haggled for hours with an Uyghur merchant in the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar…

Xinjiang province produces fantastic handwoven rugs, similar to that of Central Asia. In the carpet world, this region is known as East Turkestan, and the carpets have a lot in common with the designs and techniques of Bukhara in Uzbekistan.

Khotan rugs from the town of Khotan farther east in Xinjiang are prized for their spectacular pomegranate motifs. With Khotan being in the Xinjiang hinterland, these Khotan rugs come to Kashgar to get sold.

In addition to the stunning Khotan rugs, you can also buy exquisite carpets from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan in Kashgar.

We were looking for a pomegranate Khotan rug, but because they were too large had to settle for something else. In the end, we walked away with a beautiful tribal Baluch from Afghanistan.

Where to go carpet shopping in Kashgar: The carpet shop next to the Century-Old Tea House in the centre of the Old City has a good selection of antique and new rugs. The father and son team has been in the carpet business for 40 years. They also packed and shipped it for us. There are also a few carpet shops in the Kashgar Bazaar, but we think that the prices were way too high to start with.

10. Eat Lamb Skewers and Nang

Lovers of mutton and bread will love Kashgar! If you want to live it up here in Xinjiang, it’s very possible to have it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The most typical Kasgar food is lamb skewers ( yang rou chuan’r ) with nang and, as elsewhere in Xinjiang, they’re a match made in heaven. Before our Xinjiang trip, we thought that the best lamb skewers in China came from Xi’an , but we were wrong. Xinjiang is the undeniable champion of the yang rou chuan’r.

Heavily seasoned with cumin and chilli, chunks of lamb and fat are skewered and grilled on charcoal to perfection. The aroma of grilled lamb and the smoke from BBQ fires around the Old City, especially around sunset, is something to look forward to. 

These sumptuous sticks of lamb are best enjoyed with  nang , a traditional flatbread from Xinjiang.

Still on the lamb theme, kao bao zi is yet another delicious snack packed with mutton! Kao bao zi is something between a dumpling, a samoosa and a baked pie and consists of a crispy dough pocket stuffed with lamb and onions. 

You’ll see kao bao zi being baked in clay ovens all around Xinjiang, and they cost about RMB2 each. You should definitely get more than one.

That’s not the end yet. Yet another tasty lamb dish to try in Kashgar is plov . Typical to Central Asia, plov is Xinjiang style pilaf of lamb and rice cooked together. This rich, fatty rice and lamb dish is as good as it sounds and something you must absolutely have when you travel to Kashgar. 

Plov is a traditional breakfast meal in Xinjiang, so don’t expect to find it any time after mid-morning.  

11. Observe the Morning Rituals at People’s Park

Like any other city in China, Kashgar has a People’s Park. Like the other People’s Parks across China, Kashgar’s is bursting with life early in the mornings.

Come here in the morning, and you’ll see young and old having a good time, whether that involves doing aerobics, ballroom dancing, stretching, flying kites or simply enjoying the morning sun.

12. Greet Chairman Mao

Across from the park, People’s Square in the centre of Kashgar is where you can see an enormous statue of beloved Chairman Mao.

Just like in Lijiang and Chengdu , we stopped to wave at the chairman, snap a picture and then swiftly moved on.

13. Relax at a Kashgar Rooftop Cafe

Kashgar Coffee in the Old City is the best (and most beautiful) cafe in Kashgar. Inside you’ll find three floors, covered in carpets and scattered with cushions and daybeds where you can spend hours drinking tea, coffee or something stronger and perhaps smoke a hookah pipe if that is your thing. They also serve light meals and cake.

While the inside is charming, head up to the rooftop, where you have a sweeping view over the Old Town. This is the absolute best place for a sundowner in Kashgar.

14. Embark on the Karakoram Highway

One of the most epic journeys on Earth starts right here in Kashgar. The Karakoram Highway, or China-Pakistan Friendship Highway as it’s known in China, is often called the 8th Wonder of the World and runs between Kashgar and Islamabad.

Even if you’re not planning on crossing the border into Pakistan, you should still travel along the Chinese side of the Karakoram Highway from Kashgar to Tashkurgan . An overnight trip will take you to the most breathtaking mountain scenery, the surreal White Sand Lake, Lake Karakul and up to the town of Tashkurgan, on the border with Tajikistan.

15. Get a Straight-Razor Shave

Here is something that all men who are visiting Kashgar must do! (Ladies, if you’re reading this, please treat your man and take him to a barber while in Kashgar).

Forego shaving at your hotel, and instead visit a barber in the old city. Many of them are scattered all over the ancient city, and you don’t need any language skills. Simply sit down and let the barber work his magic.

After a vigorous face massage to open up your pores, he’ll get to work with his straight-razor blade. To complete the shave, he’ll let your face rest under a hot towel before splashing you generously with aftershave.

You’ll walk out of the barbershop with a face as smooth as the proverbial baby’s butt and feeling like a brand new man!

Where to Stay in Kashgar

Few hotels in Kashgar allow foreigners, and we had to give the address of our hotel on arrival at Kashgar Airport.

We stayed at the excellent Orange Hotel Kashgar Ancient City. This brand new hotel, located a short taxi ride from the entrance to Kashgar Ancient City, has excellent facilities and friendly service.

Rooms are spacious, clean and come with hot showers and cold AC. Guest can enjoy an included buffet breakfast with both western and Xinjiang food on offer. The free washing machines are also a nice touch.

There is an AMAZING foot massage place just two doors down, something that you really should go and experience.

What else is there to do in Kashgar?

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• Attractions
• Transportation

Kashgar Attractions

Starting from the city center, you can see the Id Kah Mosque on Jiefang Lu. It is the largest mosque as well as the center of Islam in Xinjiang. On Sundays and holidays, thousands of Moslems will gather here to pray. Some of the young Uygur men wear their national costumes and dance happily to show their thanks to god. The mosque itself is also an excellent architectural work worth visiting. Women are not allowed to enter mosques according to Islamic regulation. However, as a tourism attraction, Id Kah Mosque accepts women visitors with special permission. The locals go to church on Friday of each week. On Fridays no women are allowed to enter the mosque for any reason. The Old Town District of Kashgar, which is located opposite the Id Kah Square outside the mosque is also attractive. It is the best place to experience the everyday life of the locals as well as the traces of history. This Old Town District has a history as long as 2,000 years. Traditional workshops are scattered every corner here, making pottery products, colorful caps and other folk handicrafts. The locals are warmhearted. You may even get a chance to have dinner with one of the families.  

Getting out of the Old Town District, you can take Bus No.20 at Renmin Square to the nearby Abakh Khoja Tomb. The tomb is located in Haohan Township, five kilometers (3.1 miles) northeast of the city proper. It is a typical Islamic mausoleum where the large family of an Islamic leader buried. Abakh Khoja Tomb is commonly known as Fragrant Lady's Tomb. Fragrant Lady was one of the favorite concubines of Emperor Qian Long of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The tomb is like a magnificent palace and there are several ingenious mosques around it. Taking Bus No.20 to Dongmen Stop, you will come to the biggest bazaar in northwest China --- Grand Bazaar (also known as Central Asia International Grand Bazaar). It has a history of more than 2,000 years and was known as 'the largest bazaar in Asia' in ancient times. There are over 5,000 booths in the bazaar selling thousands of goods, including some folk handicrafts like knives and carpets. It is a shopping heaven for visitors. If you are looking for natural beauty, the following sites will satisfy you:  

Mt. Muztahgata means the 'father of iceberg' in the Tajik language. It is an important destination for mountaineers and also the only way to Khunjerab Pass from Kashgar. This lofty white mountain towers elegantly, regarded as a symbol of pure love by the Tajik. Lying at the foot of Mt. Muztahgata, Karakul Lake is 191 kilometers (118 miles) from city center. It is a moraine lake surrounded by a series of high mountains. The white-capped Mt. Muztahgata inverts its reflection in the blue lake, where the mountain and the lake echo each other's beauty. It is truly a god-given scene worth experiencing. The Khunjerab Pass is situated in the Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of Xinjiang, about 290 kilometers (180 miles) from Kashgar, a significant crossroad on the world-famous Silk Road . The pass is close to the Pamirs in the west and near Karakoram Range in the south.  Because of the foul weather, the pass is only open to the public from April 15th to October 15th.  

With an elevation of about 4,727 meters (15,509 feet), the pass is a border between China and Pakistan and was named 'No.7 Mere Stone'. In Xinjiang, it is also the only highway trades pass open to Pakistan and other countries. It had become an important door to the Middle East, India and Europe. This high mountain pass was once the key route of the time-honored Silk Road. Xuanzang passed through this place in Tang Dynasty  (618-907) and recorded the old civilization of Taxkorgan County titled with "Qiepantuo State" in Pilgrim to the West in Tang Dynasty. Nowadays, with the prosperous border trade between China, Pakistan and other countries, this pass has built a bridge for exchanging culture and economy between China and Central Asia. This provides a vital nexus for linking friendly neighboring countries. In addition, the nongovernmental frontier trade develops rapidly. Kashgar becomes the flourishing market site for Uygurs (Uigurs), Tagiks (Tajiks), Khalkhas and Pakistanis. The opening up of the Khunjerab Pass brings not only new prosperity of the ancient commercial city – Kashgar, but also the new look of Taxkorgan.  

Tips:  1. Owing to the high altitude and low temperature of the Khunjerab Pass, please carry an oxygen tank and quick-acting for heart resurrection, wear down coats and muffler. 2. You must have a valid Identity Card or Passport to get a Border Permit (CNY 10 per person) at the Border Checkpoint of Tajik Autonomous County. 3. There is no bus to the Khunjerab Pass, so it is necessary to charter a vehicle (bus, car, taxi) in Kashgar. 4. Spring (March - May) and autumn (September – November) are the best seasons to visit the Khunjerab Pass. Three Immortals Buddhist Caves, are one of the earliest Buddhist caves in western China, and are possibly 300 or 400 years older than Mogao Caves. Located in the north of the city, the Caves are on a cliff on the side of the mountain near to a river. Another famous attraction around the city is the Stone City. Lies in Tashkurgan County, it's a renowned historical site on the ancient Silk Road.

Kashgar Travel Guide

Located in the Tarim Basin region of southern Xinjiang, Kashgar is one of the westernmost cities of China which borders Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in Central Asia. Thanks to its strategic location, Kashgar has been an important junction on the ancient Silk Road for centuries, having been endowed with a splendid history and diverse cultural influences.

The region is embraced by the Tianshan Mountains, Pamir Mountains, and Taklamakan Desert, with the Kashgar River flowing through the city. Today, there are over 782,000 people here, and most of them are Uyghurs who practice Islam, build their houses in Central Asia architectural style, and still retain the region’s cultural heritage to this day. Their traditional handicraft, bazaars, mosques, and neighborhoods all together contribute to the unique character of Kashgar.

Chinese : 喀什 kā shí

Location : Southwest Xinjiang

Population (urban area) : 7,113,000

Why visit Kashgar?

• Explore well-preserved historical and cultural heritages that have witnessed a history of thousands of years.
• Experience the exotic culture and customs in this region. Its Uyghur majority and culture exchange in the past centuries leave Kashgar a charming destination with unique life and tradition.
• Visit the lively and colorful bazaars filled with a variety of goods, from spices, carpets, and handicrafts to livestock.
• Savor local food that is influenced by Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Chinese flavors.
• Interact with local ethnic groups and experience their hospitality and friendliness.

Top Kashgar Attractions

Top things to do in kashgar, visit the kashgar old city.

A top highlight of Kashgar, the over 2,000-year-old Kashgar Old City is a labyrinth-like neighborhood where narrow alleys are lined with mud-brick houses in Islamic and Uyghur styles. Locals decorate their houses with floral patterns and domes and pave the alleys with bricks of different shapes. The bricks of the alleys serve as direction indicators for visitors, for example, the hexagonal bricks lead to the direction to walk out of the town and quadrilateral bricks show that you are walking to a dead end. A walk through the winding alleys will lead you to the daily life in the ancient town with locals wearing traditional clothes, making handicrafts and instruments in the store, enjoying tea and food in ancient teahouses, etc.

Stroll around Kashgar’s Iconic Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Kashgar is the largest and busiest of its kind in Xinjiang. Here you may encounter not only local merchants but also merchants from all over Central and Western Asia. It is a paradise for shopping, and also a place showing the splendid culture and life of local Uyghurs. Taking a leisure stroll around the bazaar, you will surely be mesmerized by the endless stalls selling a variety of products, such as spices, teas, silk, dried fruit, carpets, musical instruments, clothing, and local delicacies.

Experience the Kashgar Livestock Bazaar

A popular animal market, the Kashgar Livestock Bazaar takes place every Sunday from  8 am to 2 pm. Here you will get a rare chance to witness local farmers and traders selling and buying livestock, such as sheep, goats, camels, horses, and donkeys, and find many local cuisines. Boasting a history of over 2,000 years, it is not only a place for goods and animal exchange but also a testament to the region’s rich and diverse cultural and religious tapestry.

Admire the Abakh Hoja Tomb

Abakh Hoja Tomb is a masterpiece of Uyghur architecture that serves as the mausoleum for the Abakh Khoja family. Abakh Khoja was once the leader of this region in the 17 th century. The tomb is now one of the holiest Muslim sites for locals, offering a glimpse into the beauty and history of the Uyghur culture and architecture. The tomb chamber is the highlight of the tomb complex, inviting visitors with its big dome of green glazed tiles and the circular edifice with a crescent on top.

Calm Your Spirit at Id Kah Mosque

Id Kah Mosque is the largest mosque in China, covering an area of about 16,800 square meters, with its lecture hall can house over 20,000 worshippers. The mosque was built by the king of this region in 1442 and now stands as a landmark of local Islamic architecture. It impresses visitors with its yellow brick facade, the green tiles-covered dome, and three towering minarets. To have a close observation, you will be enchanted by the delicate wood carvings, ceramic tiles, and Arabic inscriptions which add the grandeur of the buildings.

Kashgar Weather

Kashgar has a temperate continental climate with very hot summers and very cold winters. Due to its distance from the ocean, geographical location, and elevation, the region undergoes a dry and low-precipitation climate, with large temperature differences annually and daily. In summer, the highest temperature can reach up to 40℃. January is usually the coldest month with the lowest temperature dropping to -22℃. The best time to visit Kashgar is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and comfortable, suitable for outdoor activities.

Kashgar Transportation

Kashgar offers multiple transportation options for getting there and getting around the city.

Getting to Kashgar

You can fly to the Kashi Laining International Airport which is located about 8 km from the city center. The airport operates flights to/from 17 domestic cities outside Xinjiang, such as Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Xi’an, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, etc. and 13 cities inside Xinjiang, such as Urumqi, Shihezi, Kuqa, Yining, Hetian, Korla, etc.

From the airport to Kashgar city center, a taxi ride will cost about CNY 30 and take about 20 minutes. Or you can take a shuttle bus from the airport, which runs every 30 minutes from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. The shuttle bus ride will cost CNY 10 per person, and take about 30 minutes.

Currently, no high-speed trains are operating in Kashgar, so to arrive by train, you’ll need to take a normal train and arrive at Kashgar Railway Station which offers daily trains to/off many cities in Xinjiang along the Southern Xinjiang Railway and the Kashgar-Hotan Railway. There are also trains to/off other major domestic cities, such as Urumqi, Xi’an, Chengdu, Turpan, etc.

Getting around Kashgar

Taking a taxi is the most convenient way to travel around Kashgar, and the taxi fares are affordable here. The fare starts at 5 CNY for the first 3 km, and then 1.5 CNY per km after that.

Kashgar has a well-developed bus system, making it convenient to get to most attractions by bus. The bus ride is generally CNY 1 per person.

Walking is also a good choice to explore Kashgar, with many of its attractions within walking distance.

Tips for Traveling in Kashgar

• Respect local culture and customs: Considering the diverse ethnic groups and diverse cultural mix in Kashgar, it’s important to respect local customs. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and ask for permission when taking photos of people.
• Prepare for temperature variations: There are large temperature differences annually, monthly, and daily, so it’s recommended to layer your clothing and pack accordingly in case of extreme temperature.
• Prepare for language barriers: English is not widely spoken in Kashgar, most locals speak Uighur or Mandarin. It would be helpful to learn a few basic phrases or download a translation app beforehand.
• Drink plenty of water: Kashgar is extremely dry, it’s important to drink plenty of water and pay attention to maintaining body hydration.
• Protect local heritages: Kashgar is rich in historical and cultural heritages, please be mindful of maintaining a clean environment and avoid making damages to the heritages.
• Pay attention to food hygiene: Try diverse Kashgar snacks and specialties is a can’t-miss when traveling in this area. But, it’s necessary to pay attention to food hygiene and choose clean restaurants or stalls for your meals.

Our Top Kashgar Tours

2 Days Kashgar Local Cultural Tour

3 Days Kashgar Tour with Excursion to Karakuri Lake

4 Days Kashgar In-depth Tour Including Tashkurgan

7 Days Classic Xinjiang Tour from Kashgar

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Far West China

Ultimate Travel Guide to Kashgar in Xinjiang, China

Kashgar China At a Glance

• Chinese Name: 喀什 (Kāshí) or 喀什噶尔 (Kāshígé’ěr)
• Uyghur Name: قەشقەر
• Population: Approximately 1,000,000
• Transportation:  Kashgar China has an international airport, train station and bus service.
• Trivia:  Kashgar was a stand-in for Afganistan in the movie Kite Runner

Visiting Kashgar, China is a chance to travel back in time more than a century. It is a city that epitomizes life during the times of the Silk Road caravans and Great Game struggles despite all of the recent Chinese modernization. Walking the small, mud-brick alleyways of the Old Town is an exciting adventure (even though a good portion of the Old Town is being destroyed ) and the area surrounding Kashgar has a lot to offer.

It is possible to ride a camel in the Taklamakan Desert one day and then be traveling up the Karakoram Highway to the high-altitude pass between China and Pakistan. If at all possible, Kashgar is one city that you  must visit during your travels around Xinjiang.Because of its location at the foot of a major mountain pass (not the Karakoram Highway heading into Pakistan) and along the edge of the world’s 2nd largest desert (the Taklamakan), Kashgar was an important hub of activity for Silk Road merchants. Throughout the centuries, power shifted between many groups including the Mongol, Han and Uyghur people.

–> Traveling to Kashgar? <– Check out the FarWestChina Xinjiang Travel Guide !

Kashgar has been a favorite of many travelers for over 100 years, dating back to ancient explorers like Sven Hedin and Albert von Le Coq. It offers great scenery – access to both the mountains and the desert – as well as many interesting sites to see. Walk through the alleys of the Old Town, visit the Apak Khoja Mausoleum to hear the fascinating story of the Fragrant Concubine, visit the famous Sunday market and of course take a tour of the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in all of China.

Once you venture outside the city limits, you can visit the ancient stone city near Tashkorgan, the newly-discovered Shipton Arch, and the city of Yengisar – home of the famous Uyghur knives.

You could easily spend a week in Kashgar alone, but it’s possible to enjoy most of what the city has to offer in 3-4 days (not including the Karakoram Highway). Make sure to save enough time for Kashgar in your itinerary!

Useful Kashgar China Links

Kashgar Hotels

– Chini Bagh Hotel:   recently renovated –  Taiyuan International : center of town – Seman Hotel : an old favorite

Kashgar Hostels:

– Old Town Hostel : highly recommended –  Pamir Hostel : equally recommended

Kashgar Destinations at a Glance

Kashgar’s Id Kah Mosque

Kashgar’s most popular site and China’s largest mosque.

Kashgar’s Old City

Step back in time and enjoy dirt alleys and mud-brick homes.

The Apak Khoja Mausoleum

Home of the famous Fragrant Concubine and other great stories.

Shipton’s Arch

A natural phenomenon only recently rediscovered.

Other places to visit in Kashgar ▸

Transportation to/from Kashgar, China

Flying to/from kashgar, china.

You can fly the following routes to/from Kashgar (often referred to as “Kashi” for booking sites):

• Kashgar to Urumqi Flights
• Kashgar to Beijing Flights
• Kashgar to Xi’an Flights
• Kashgar to Chengdu Flights
• Kashgar to Yining Flights

Taking the Train to Kashgar

Trains, on the other hand, are not only a cost-effective way to travel to Kashgar, but they also allow you to see much of the south Xinjiang countryside. Make good use of the train schedule below to help plan your trip to Kashgar.

Kashgar City Map

Below is a 2017 city map of Kashgar. If you would like a higher resolution map to download and bring with you on your trip, consider purchasing the FarWestChina Xinjiang Travel Guide or just the Kashgar Chapter . Thank you for your support!

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• 1 Understand
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.3.1 From Kyrgyzstan
• 4 Get around
• 5.1 Bazaars
• 5.2 Old Town
• 5.3 Other sights
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge

Kashgar (Chinese: 喀什 Kāshí ; Uyghur: قەشقەر Qeshqer ) is in the extreme west of China and the southwest extreme of Xinjiang . The city has been an important trading centre since the days of the Silk Road , and still is today; it is said to have the largest bazaar in Asia.

The local population is a colourful mixture of Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kyrgyz, Tajiks and Uzbeks, with ethnic Uyghurs forming the majority. It is considered by most people to be the main center of Uyghur culture in China.

The Silk Road route from Eastern and Central China branches after Dunhuang ; one route runs along the north edge of the Taklamakan Desert, the other along the south. Kashgar is where the two branches meet again in the western part of the desert. From there, the main route continues west into toward the Ferghana Valley and Samarkand .

Another former caravan trail has now become the Karakorum Highway leading south into Pakistan ; Kashgar is its northern terminus.

Historically, Kashgar has often been the capital of an independent kingdom — Marco Polo mentions one that existed before the Mongol conquest; the most recent was under Yakub Beg (originally from Kokand ) in the late 19th century — and at other times part of various empires including Mongol, Persian and Chinese. It has usually been under Chinese control since the Qing took it in 1759, though there have been several revolts; the last ended in 1934. Today it is China's westernmost city.

Due to its large ethnic Uyghur majority, Uyghur is the main language spoken in Kashgar. That said, younger people who have been to school generally speak Mandarin as well.

Travelling in this area has several options, with a direct relationship between how much you are willing to pay and how fast you want to get to your destination. Trains are the slowest and only leave a few times a day, but are also almost always the cheapest option.

A taxi to the city should cost about 30-¥100 by meter. Shuttle buses leaving from the International Hotel at People's Square are available for ¥10 per person. The airport has its own shuttle bus that goes from the airport into any location in town (just tell the driver where you are going) for ¥15. There is also a public bus that goes to/from the airport to most locations in town, the line 2, for ¥2. To get to the public bus, you must walk straight out of the front entrance of the airport, past the airport gates and turn left. The line 2 buses wait at the side of the street, about 20 metres to the left.

Kashgar Railway Station (喀什火车站; Kāshí Huǒchēzhàn ) is the main railway station in the city. It is on Renmin East Road (人民东路; Rénmíndōnglù ). Although it is east of the town centre, the distance is too far for walking. Bus 28 connects the city including Renmin Square (人民广场; Rénmín Guángchǎng ), to the railway station. From the railway station, walk out and turn right and you will probably see a bus waiting there already. The fare is ¥1 and is paid onboard. If you do not know where you are going, get on bus 28, get off at Renmin Square and figure things out from there; the city centre is walkable and at Xinhua Bookstore (新华书店; Xīnhuá Shūdiàn ), next to the main square, you will be able to purchase the best maps of Kashgar for about ¥5-8 (although these maps are only in Chinese).

From the railway station, Qinibagh and Seman Hotels can be reached a couple of stops after Renmin Square on bus 28 and then walking uphill for about 5 minutes; the people on the bus can probably help you and most people on the street know where these places are.

Kashgar is at the end of the Urumqi-Kashgar line. Destinations of interest include:

• Korla - takes about 13–16 hours
• Kuqa - takes about 9–11 hours
• Urumqi - Fast train K9788 - takes 24 hours, departs at 13:15, Train 7558 - takes 32 hours, departs at 08:15
• Turpan - about 22 hours by the fast train

Kashgar– Hotan Railway has been completed and is now also open. Stops include but are not limited to:

• Yarkand - takes about 4 hours
• Hotan - takes about 10–12 hours

International Bus Station is at 5 Jicheng Road

• Korla - takes about 16 hours
• Kuqa - takes about 11 hours
• Urumqi - takes about 24 hours
• Sost, Pakistan - daily buses, which includes an overnight stay at Tashkurgan required at own expense. In Sost, there are connections from Gilgit .
• Hotan - takes about 10 hours. If you take the night bus, it takes about seven hours, letting you out in front of Hotan's Jiaotong Bingguan (Traffic Hotel) at 3:30am.
• Tashkurgan - takes about 8 hours
• Yecheng - takes about 4 hours
• Ili - takes about 26 hours

From Kyrgyzstan

• To Osh : Two weekly direct sleeper buses (M and F) leave at 10:00 (Beijing time), and the trip takes about 18 hours. The trip is pricey at ¥550 and the buses depart from Kashgar International Bus Station (north of town on the road to the airport).

It is less expensive, and maybe even faster, to get to Osh , or at least to Sary-Tash in Kyrgyzstan using a combination of service taxis and trucks. At Kashgar's International Bus Station, get a taxi around 08:30 (Beijing time) for the 2 hour journey to the immigration point near Wuqia (they'll want 300Y but you can bargain down to 150Y). If you want to take a shared taxi to Wuqia (25Y), go earlier to make sure you're at the immigration checkpoint when it opens at 11:00. From Wuqia, stick to the main road and flag down passing vehicles westwards or get another taxi for the five-minute journey to the immigration checkpoint. There, immigration officers will even help you to get on a truck or into a car - they all go at least to Sary-Tash. Trucks might require a small payment. If you're lucky to get a seat in a car, you may be in Sary-Tash before 17:00. From there, it's only 3 hours to Osh (2000-2500 Som for a private taxi). There is no special permit (other than a Kyrgyz visa) required for this border.

• Bishkek , Kyrgyzstan - You will need a special permit if you're a foreigner. Most foreigners use the services of a travel agency. There is a direct bus, which takes about 16 hours including overnight stay (you must have PSB permit and valid visa for Kyrgyzstan).

The Karakoram Highway runs from Pakistan into China. Kashgar is the nearest major town on the Chinese end.

Most of Kashgar including the bus station, bazaar, main square, downtown (with the notable exception of the animal market) can be reached on foot within 15–20 minutes of each other if you are not carrying huge amounts of baggage. The railway station is too far to walk but is reachable with public bus 28 which, among other places, stops at Renmin Square (人民广场; Rénmín Guángchǎng ), the main square. The international bus station is near the city and walkable.

The old town and narrow alleyways are pretty much only explorable on foot.

Cross streets carefully in Kashgar as no pedestrian crossings are available.

Cycling is an option but the traffic is somewhat dangerous, so only do this if you are experienced with this kind of traffic environment. Bicycles can be rented at major hotels such as Qinibagh for typically less than ¥30/day.

Taking a taxi with Didi or just by flagging one down is the easiest method of traveling around.

• Mor Buddhist Pagoda ( About 40 km northeast of Kashgar city ). Built in 7th century during the Tang dynasty and destroyed in the 12th century. Nowadays only one pagoda is left, next to the pagoda is a platform. The pagoda is the place where the monks in the city to come and do their worship. The Mor pagoda has three square layers, each a little smaller than the one below it. The bottom layer has circumferences of more than forty-eight meters, the second layer forty meters and the third layer thirty-two meters, while the pagoda stands more than twelve meters high. The platform beside the pagoda was one of the central temple structures, and in its side walls were carved niches housing Buddha figurines. But now there aren’t any figures left, and even the niches themselves are barely visible. ( updated Jun 2024 )
• Mal Bazaar ( Take bus 23 from near the international bus station, next to the river. (¥1) ). Sundays . The livestock market, where locals from all the surrounding villages come to town to buy and sell animals. It's held on an open and fenced ground. It's popular with tourists, yet is so big it still feels like (in fact it is) a working bazaar. It changed its location some three years ago; now it's a good 30 minute bus ride north of the city (bus 23, get off with everyone else - you'll know when) or a (¥15-20) metered taxi ride for around 15 minutes.  
• Yengi Bazaar . Daily . The handicrafts, cloths, carpets and anything-else-you-can-expect market. Less crowded on weekdays. Bargain hard!  
• Old Town . The old town used to have warren-like niches and winding streets, home to friendly (if occasionally guarded) residents and delightfully improvised architecture. However, as of 2017, the Chinese government has completely destroyed everything in the Old Town and "redeveloped" it into a dystopia. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Other sights

• Tomb of Yusup Khass Hajip . The tomb of Kashgar's much loved philosopher and poet who wrote the 13,290-line poem The Wisdom of Happiness and Pleasure in the Uighur language. ¥30 .  
• Tomb of Mahmud Kashgari ( About an hour's drive from Kashgar in Upal ). The tomb of an Uyghur scribe, famous for compiling a dictionary of the Turkic languages in the 11th century. This picturesque complex is situated on a hillside and includes a mosque and a sacred spring. Upal has a lively bazaar. ¥30 .  
• Davakul Lake . Davakul Lake is 130 km from Kashgar, on the southeast tip of Taklimakan Desert. Davakul means "curing lake" in Uyghur language. It is one of the nearest places to Kashgar to do one or more days camel trekking in the Taklamakan Desert. ¥30 .  
• Kashgar Silk Road Expeditions tour company , 144 Seman Road . Offers several types of tours in the area, including mountain treks.  
• Kashgar Guide tour company's Shipton's Arch Trekking , 407 Wusitang Boyi Rd . This is a one-day trek done in steeply walled canyons and over Rocky River bed terrain. The arch is 500 metres high and 100 metres wide, and is a little known wonder of the world.  

The price of everything is negotiable in Kashgar, adding to excitement of shopping. Be polite in bargaining , but be mindful that merchants will overcharge you as a foreigner especially if you do not speak Uyghur or Chinese; so bargain hard. Price differences between locals and foreigners can easily amount to several hundred yuan so be careful. Local specialties include kilims (carpets), and colourful Central Asian hats (doppa, kalpak).

There are plenty of good local restaurants and street food.

• Food stalls . For a variety of snacks and dishes, try the food stalls opposite the Id Kah mosque. The stalls start operating during the evening.  
• Sunday Market . The Sunday market also has good things to eat.  

It may be wise to avoid anything with ice as the ice in Kashgar is usually carried in large blocks and frequently placed on the ground so they may not be clean, but there are places around Id Kah where the ice is clean and safe, and well-known all around Xinjiang. During the summer months there are huge heaps of melons and watermelons - cheap, tasty and refreshing. The going price for a hami melon (哈密瓜; hāmìguā ) is around ¥1 per kilogramme, so in total, it costs ¥2-5 per melon depending on the size. Buying, washing and cutting it yourself is probably the most hygienic way to eat these fabulous tasty fruits. It would be wise to have the melon seller to cut the melon for you, as it will be hard to find a knife.

• Altun Orda Restaurant is the local restaurant with reasonable prices. It is not only good place to taste some local dishes but also to see the local architecture of Uighur people. Try the specialty pollo or rice pilaf with raisins. Tel: +86 (998) 2583555
• [dead link] Karakoram Cafe ( 新疆 ), 87 Seman Road ( 新疆喀什色满路87号2822669 ), ☏ +86 998 3422888 . Western style. Quality food, hot drinks and service that speak English, this may be an oasis in the middle of hectic Asia. Prices are a little pricey but if you can afford it, it is worth it.  
• K2 Rooftop Cafe , Rd Nuo'er Beixi ( Right to the North of Id Kah Mosque ), ☏ +86 998 2823376 . Western style. Fine coffee& pizza, iced drinks, dessert and waiter that speaks good English, the terrace that covered with plants has great view of the mosque and the old town. The cafe is within the Kashgar Pamir Hostel.  
• Shawarma ( Continental food ), 110 Seman Road ( Just north of Eden Hotel and Fubar on Seman Road ). Owned and run by a native Pakistani, this is the place to get home-made Pakistani food in Kashgar. Serving mostly daily specials, such as a spicy ground beef platter or curried chicken, the taste of the food is impressive. Ask politely in advance to have delicious falafel or houmous made to order. 10-¥20 .  
• Yasin Kariagim Silk Road Uighur Restaurant , 库木代尔瓦扎路 Kumudaierwazha Road ( Just off the main old city shopping road that runs up the west side of the Id Kah Mosque ), ☏ +86 998 2820008 . Popular among the locals, this place serves very fresh meat. In fact, sometimes they have no more meat to offer because they've sold out. Buy a nan bread fresh out of the oven from one of the many local bakers on the side of the road and bring it with you. Get lamb skewers and liver skewers and enjoy it with your nan bread. 10-¥20 .  

There are not as many places serving alcohol in Kashgar as in other areas of China.

• John's Cafe ( In Qiniwak Hotel (ancient British consulate) ). Offers backpacker hospitality at 1.7 times the price of other locations, and is very popular among single travellers. Managed by Jack who speaks fluent English. Seems to be closed in the off-season.  
• [dead link] The Gallery Cafe ( Gallery Cafe ), Jie Fang Bei Lu ( From DaShiZi, go towards the Idkah mosque and take the first right turn ), ☏ +86 998 2828207 . A little oasis for those looking for home style western food or a cup of coffee. Foreign-owned Gallery Cafe opened in October 2009. The place also acts as a showcase for local artists' oil paintings and a tourist information center.  
• Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel ( 喀什老城青年旅舍 ), NO.233 in Wusitangboyi road ( bus number 28 ), ☏ +86 998-2823262 . A hostel centrally based with dorm beds and shared bathrooms. Beds were previously very hard, but in spring 2012, the hostel purchased new mattresses that are much more comfortable. Enclosed with a central courtyard with eastern styled areas. Seems to be very popular so a booking is suggested. Community Breakfast (10Y), lunch and dinner (20Y) is offered, as well as a kitchen area. April 2016: There are also doubles for 108Y (non-attached bathrom) or 140Y (own bathroom) 45Y/Night .  
• Qiniwak Hotel ( 喀什其尼瓦克宾馆; Kāshí Qíníwǎkè Bīnguǎn ), 144 Seman Road (色满路144号; Sèmǎnlù) ( Occupies the building that used to be the British Consulate, at the cross road with Nuoerbeixi ), ☏ +86 998 2981158 . Offers dorm style bedrooms in the adjacent building. More expensive doubles have free internet. Business centre, currency exchange, gift shop, ticket office, karaoke, massage and sauna available. Chinese and Western Restaurants as well as coffee shop and bar. Dorms ¥50 in a three bed room; discounted rates for doubles ¥160 including breakfast .  
• Kashgar Guest House , Tawaguzi Road , ☏ +86 998 2612360 , fax : +86 998 2614679 .  
• Chini Bagh Hotel , 337 Seman Road , ☏ +86 998 2822103 , fax : +86 998 2842299 . Prices for a double start at ¥60 in the older building .  
• Seman Hotel ( Seman Binguan ), 337 Seman Road , ☏ +86 998 2582150 , fax : +86 998 2582129 . In an old Russian consulate building, the rooms are oddly-shaped with simple bathrooms, common areas have high ceilings and military-themed oil paintings, 300 rooms. Prices for a double start at ¥100. Dorms from ¥40 .  
• Hotel Eden , ☏ +86 13899132103 , [email protected] . The hotel is right on the edge of the old town. Double Rooms are ¥238 per night incl. breakfast.Fantastic yogurt on the ground floor restaurant although served at room temperature. The ground floor restaurant of this hotel is one of the "happening" scenes of Kasghar among locals and is usually packed with affluent local Uyghurs.  
• [dead link] Sultan Hotel ( 苏力旦大饭店 ), no 37 North Liberation Road ( Just south of the Id Kah Mosque ), ☏ +86 09982653333 , [email protected] . A four-star Uigher-run hotel just south of the central mosque. Reasonable price most easily obtained by calling them. ¥240 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• Kashi Tianyuan International Hotel ( 喀什天缘国际酒店; Kāshí Tiānyuán Guójìjiǔdiàn ), 8 Renmin East Road (人民东路8号; Rénmíndōnglù) , ☏ +86 998 2801111 , fax : +86 998 2802266 . Four star hotel with large rooms with free internet and mini bar. Business center, gift shop, ticket office, karaoke, spa, massage and sauna available. Chinese restaurant coffee shop and room service. The restaurant is not good, but the 24 hour spa, massage and sauna are excellent. Listed rates for doubles ¥780-1,880 including breakfast .  
• Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar , No. 2, Duolaitebage Rd , ☏ +86 998 268 8888 , [email protected] . Upscale Western hotel with pool, restaurant, and conference/meeting rooms,. ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Karakul Lake - Scenic alpine lake, located on the road to Tashkorgan and Pakistan. A mini bus departs at 11:30 (Beijing time) from the main bus station, costs 35Y & takes 4 hours. However, a permit is required for all non-PRC citizens. This can be very difficult to arrange on your own, but all travel agencies in Kashgar are familiar with the process. Before arranging your own transportation to Karakul Lake (or any location on the Karakoram Highway), make sure you have a permit, as there are checkpoints along the highway. No one without a permit can go past the checkpoints, which are real military checkpoints, complete with armed soldiers. One must show one's permit and passport at the checkpoints. A couple hours past the lake is the tranquil Tajik city of Tashkurgan, which provides beautiful mountain vistas near the border of Tajikistan. Spend the night there before heading back down the Karakoran Highway and enjoy the quiet town and its peaceful pastures.
• Kashgar is also near the border with Kyrgyzstan , which can be accessed via the Irkeshtam and Torugart passes.
• Khunjerab Pass is along the Karakoram Highway , allowing access to India and Pakistan.

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Kashgar Travel Guide, Plan the Best Trip to Kashgar

• 01. Step 1: Where to go in China
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Kashgar is a city located in the westernmost part of China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, near the border with Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. The city has a rich history dating back more than 2,000 years.

Kashgar was an important trading hub on the ancient Silk Road , connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The city was a melting pot of different cultures and religions, with Buddhist, Christian, and Islamic influences. It was also home to the Uyghur people, a Turkic ethnic group with a unique language and culture.

In the 10th century, Kashgar was part of the Karakhanid Khanate, a Turkic state that ruled over Central Asia and parts of Iran and Afghanistan. In the 13th century, the city was conquered by Genghis Khan and became part of the Mongol Empire.

During the 16th century, Kashgar was part of the Yarkent Khanate, which was ruled by the Uyghur Sultanate of Kashgar. The city was an important center of Islamic learning and culture, and many scholars and poets lived there.

In the 18th century, Kashgar became part of the Qing Dynasty, and the Chinese government exerted control over the region. During the early 20th century, the city was a hotspot for political and social unrest, with various factions vying for control.

What to visit in Kashgar

Kashgar is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and popular attractions to visit include the Id Kah Mosque , the Kashgar Old Town , the Kashgar Bazaar , the Abakh Hoja Tomb , the Kashgar Livestock Market , the Karakul Lake , the Kashgar Museum , and the nearby Taklamakan Desert .

Top attractions in Kashgar >>

Local food, what to eat

Food in Kashgar is a delicious blend of Chinese and Central Asian cuisine, with influences from the Uighur, Uzbek, and Kazakh cultures, featuring a wide range of flavors and spices, such as cumin, chili, and garlic, and popular dishes include lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, polo (pilaf) with lamb or chicken, and various breads, such as nan and samsa, as well as dried fruits and nuts, making it a unique and exciting culinary destination for food lovers.

Food and restaurants in Kashgar >>

Hotels in Kashgar for your reference

Kashgar offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers including budget-friendly guesthouses like the Kashgar Old Town Youth Hostel , luxurious hotels such as the Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar , and charming traditional-style accommodations like the Yambu Hotel Kashgar , all of which offer different amenities and experiences while providing convenient access to the city's main attractions, including the Id Kah Mosque, the Abakh Khoja Tomb, and the Kashgar Bazaar.

Best hotels in Kashgar >>

Weather in Kashgar

The best time to visit Kashgar is during the months of April to October when the weather is mild and dry, and the city is bustling with activity. During these months, temperatures range from around 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and there is little rainfall, making it a comfortable time to explore the city and its surroundings.

The months of June to September are the busiest tourist season in Kashgar, as the city hosts the famous Kashgar Sunday Market, also known as the "Grand Bazaar," which attracts traders and visitors from all over the region. The market is held every Sunday and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine.

If you plan to visit Kashgar during the winter months from November to February, be prepared for cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, the city takes on a different character during the winter months, with fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere, making it an excellent time to explore the city's history and culture.

More about the best time to visit Kashgar >>

How to plan a travel itinerary

A recommended travel itinerary for visiting Kashgar would include exploring the ancient city of Kashgar, experiencing the vibrant culture and traditions of the Uyghur people, visiting the bustling Kashgar Sunday Market, admiring the beautiful Id Kah Mosque and Abakh Hoja Tomb, taking a scenic drive to Karakul Lake and the surrounding mountains, and indulging in the delicious local cuisine, etc.

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

Arrive in Kashgar and check-in at your hotel, Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, Explore the bustling Kashgar Bazaar, a lively market selling everything from spices to clothing, Visit the Abakh Khoja Tomb, a beautiful mausoleum of a famous Islamic missionary

Day 2: Scenic Tour

Drive to Karakul Lake, a stunning lake nestled in the Pamir Mountains, Enjoy the stunning scenery along the way, including the famous Karakoram Highway and the Muztagh Ata Mountain, Have lunch with a local Kyrgyz family and learn about their unique culture, Return to Kashgar in the evening

Day 3: Cultural Experience

Visit the Kashgar Old Town, a traditional Uyghur neighborhood with narrow alleys and ancient architecture, Learn about Uyghur culture and history at the Kashgar Museum, Have a traditional Uyghur lunch at a local restaurant, Visit the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, the largest bazaar in Central Asia, and shop for souvenirs, Depart from Kashgar in the evening.

Travel itineraries for Kashgar >>

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Kashgar Travel Guide

Kashgar is one of the historical and cultural cities along the Silk Road in Xinjiang . This city is consisting of relics of ancient cities, frescoes, and Buddha caves. Remains of celebrities and charming folk buildings all tell the glamour and rich folk culture of Kashgar.

The topography of Kashgar is characterized by low in the north and high in the south. The highest Oiaogeli Peak and the lowest point in the Taklimakan Desert are separately 8611 meters and 1100 meters above the sea level.

As the statement, " Kashgar is not considered Xinjiang ". Kashgar faces the Taklimakan Desert in the east, Karakorum Mountain in the south and the Ali region in Tibet in the south, and the Pamirs in the west. The tourist resources here are still rich, such as the largest  Idigar Mosque  in Xinjiang, exotic Terraced Households, the unique scenery of  Karakul Lake , and the mousse she is silhouetted against  The Mustag Peak , the highest elevation Hongqilafu Port , and the famous  Sunday Bazaar , which highlights the local life ... These have gathered into the unique cultural atmosphere of the western region of Kashgar, the desolate plateau scenery, tall and pure The beauty of the snow-capped mountains touches every inch of your nerves.

Kashgar was a place of strategic importance in the history of Xinjiang, contributing greatly to the exchange of eastern and western cultures. Kashgar means " green glasshouse or jade city ". Today's Kashgar fully demonstrates the unique characteristics of the Uyghur culture. With the entry of the new century and the implementation of the West Development Strategy of China, Kashgar has stepped into a new stage. Nowadays, a railway reaches to Kashgar and it will extend to Kirgizstan. The international airport is being built and will be put into use in the near future. Furthermore, based on the favorite four ports. The highway runs through the city. At present, a new continental Bridge linking with Europe and Asia is coming into shape. A modern Kashgar is on the way.

Area: 162,000 square km

Population: 3.14 million (90% are Uygur) 

Postal Code: 844000

Phone Area Code: 0998

Ethnic groups:  Uygur, Han, Hui, Tibetan, Manchu, Tajik, Kirgiz, Uzbek, Kazak, Xibo, Russian and Mongolian

Time in Kashgar:  the same as Beijing time, GMT+8

Where Kashgar is Located?

Kashgar is actually located to the southwest of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, borders Pishan County in Hotan Prefecture on the southeast, and keeping Awati Counties in Aksu prefecture on the northeast, resting on Gumatag Mountain and Atush city on the northwest.

With a total area of 146,000 square kilometers, Kashgar Prefecture spans 750 kilometers from east to west and 535 kilometers from south to north. Bordering the Taklimakan Desert to the east, Karakoram Mountains to the south, the Pamirs to the west, Kashgar neighbors with Tadzhikistan, Kirghizstan, Pakistan, and India . Besides, it is surrounded by Yerchang and Kashgar River. Kashgar Prefecture is a place with the coexistence of many ethnic peoples, among which the cultures of the Uyghurs and Tajiks show their beauties. Moreover, Kashgar has a reputation for the "home of song and dance". Hand drum and Dolan Meshrep are world-famous. In addition, Kashgar is well known as the land that abounds in almond, watermelons, sweet melons, grape, fig, and pomegranate. Therefore, Kashgar is a showcase to display the beauty of Xinjiang. Only after coming to Kashgar can one claim that he has been to Xinjiang.

Life Adventure in Kashgar (Things to Do)

Kashgar has many picnic spots as well having quite high mountains which attract tourists to visit. Especially   Hiking in Karakul Lake to explore the beautiful landscape. Karakul Lake can be reached at the Subash Village, Aktao County, on the 312 State Highway 192 km away from Kashgar City. Around the lake there are about ten thousand Kirgiz people live their hard mountain life by herding their sheep, goats, yaks, camels, cows, and horses. you can experience the life of Kirgiz people by staying at their yurt or stone houses up in high altitudes.

Enjoyment at tea house of the old town of Kashgar, which is over 2000 years old,  in the north-west of China is threatened with destruction. 

Tea House in Kashgar Old Town remains popular among residents and tourists alike. It maintains very reasonable prices, with a pot of ordinary tea sold at five yuan. For two more yuan, one can also purchase nang, a kind of crusty pancake common in Xinjiang. The cheap snack is popular among locals, while tourists usually prefer slightly more expensive medicinal teas, such as those containing rose, saffron, honey, and other ingredients.

The Most Popular Attractions

Tourists should must visit to  Id Kah Mosque which is situated on the Idigar Square. It has the great history of more than five hundred years. Id Kah' means a place of praying and celebrating in festivals. As the biggest mosque in China, it is a group of old Islamic buildings with strong ethnic style and religious features.

Walking at the bazaar is the best way to know Kashgar. Sunday Bazaar at East Gate of Kashgar the largest one in south Xinjiang. At the bazaar, one can find people selling various commodities such as delicate embroidered Uyghur hats, Uyghurstyle Yengisar Knives, and traditional designed earthenware.

Pay a visit to the  Stone City  located on the north side of Taxkorgan, is a famous ancient city ruin on the ancient road in Xinjiang. The fortress is built on a high mount with very precipitous topography. Outside the city are multi-level or scattered walls, between which overlapping stone mounts form a unique stone city landscape. 

The   Shipton Arch , located in Kezil Su Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, at the junction of the Kunlun Mountain and the Snow Mountain, around 75 kilometers (47 miles) away from the Atushi city. About 65kms from Kashgar city, and takes a couple of hours by car and a couple of hours by foot to reach. The surface of the stone wall looks like a strange mural. It is considered the tallest Natural Arch on the planet.

Travel in Kashgar

Transportation.

Kashgar Transportations provide the informations about traveling . The transportation of Kashgar is airplane, railway, highway and city transportation

• Ethnic Arts and Crafts

Kashgar Ethnic Arts and Crafts are not only a daily necessity but an object of esthetic beauty. In a sense, all of them display the unique ethnic culture, art and tradition craft. Therefore, they are honored as ethnic arts and crafts of the Kashgar Uyghurs.

Delicious Food and Fruits

Kashgar is not only a Town of Music and Dance, Town of Fruits and Melons ", but also a place with distinctive local flavors. Under the double influences of continental climate and Islamic culture. Mutton is the main meat, of which roast meat is the most attractive food among the local delicacies. See more

Pay Attention

Under the influence of religion attention and tradition, people have to be very strict rites in their social relations. Here we prepare the Kashgar T ravel Advice  for you

• Best Time to Visit Kashgar

The best Time to Kashgar is from March to November . Due to the long distance away from the sea, Kashgar has a temperate continental climate, with a long period of sunshine and little rainfall. With a short warm winter and a long cool summer, temperatures in the city are pleasant most of the year. The differences between the four seasons in Kashgar are very distinctive.  See more

Where to Stay

The architecture of Kashgar Hotels not only with ethnic characteristics but also with the cultural and historical atmosphere will bring you the ultimate service

Kashgar Things to do

Kashgar Tour Packages and Offers

16 Days China Adventure from Kashgar to Lhasa via Nagri

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$5700 View Details

11 Days Xinjiang Group Tour to Kashgar & Kanas

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$1890 View Details

10 Days Silk Road Tour from Kashgar to Xi'an

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$2400 View Details

6 Days Kashgar In-depth Tour

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$930 View Details

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$1880 View Details

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$1020 View Details

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Kashgar Travel Guide

Introduction of kashgar.

People may hear Kashgar being titled as "an important trade and cultural city on Silk Road ". "a South Gate to neighbors Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan," "without Kashgar without Xinjiang," and "an alive recorder of Xinjiang's history," etc. By whatever praised, Kashgar is just more than words to describe.  

Located in the abdomen of Central Asia , Kashgar belongs to a warm continental arid climate zone with four distinct seasons. Summer is hot with abundant sunshine. The sun loves Xinjiang so much that it doesn't want to leave until 10 pm in summer. Winter is not cold but comfortable for outdoor activities. Golden Autumn shows us the best side of smoked yellow and avocado red.

Why Visit Kashgar

** Hi storical Significants**

Kashgar is one of the oldest cities in China, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a vital hub along the Ancient Silk Road , connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Explore the well-preserved Kashgar Old Town , visit historical sites like the IdKah Mosque and the Abakh Hoja Tomb, and immerse yourself in the city's fascinating past.

**Cultural Diversity**

Kashgar is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, with a strong Uyghur influence . Experience the unique culture, traditions, and cuisine of the Uyghur people, known for their vibrant music, dance, and craftsmanship. Explore the bustling markets, sample local delicacies like Uyghur kebabs and hand-pulled noodles, and witness traditional performances and celebrations.

**Architectural Marvels**

Marvel at the distinctive architecture of Kashgar, characterized by traditional Uyghur homes , mud-brick buildings , and ornate mosques. Visit the iconic Apak Hoja Mausoleum, the picturesque Afaq Khoja Mausoleum, and the historic Kashgar Old Town, where you can wander through narrow alleyways and admire traditional courtyard houses.

**Natural Beauty**

Surrounding Kashgar are breathtaking natural landscapes that offer opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration. Visit Karakul Lake , a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Pamir Mountains, or hike through the Taxkorgan Grasslands for panoramic views of rolling hills and grazing yaks. The rugged beauty of the Xinjiang region is sure to captivate nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

**Culinary Delights**

Indulge in the delicious flavors of Uyghur cuisine while in Kashgar. Sample local specialties such as polo (pilaf), laghman (hand-pulled noodles), samsa (meat pies), and Uyghur bread. Visit the bustling Grand Bazaar to taste a variety of street food, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and savor the unique blend of Central Asian and Chinese flavors.

**Colorful Markets**

Explore the lively markets of Kashgar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts , textiles, carpets, and souvenirs. Visit the Sunday Market , one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia, where you can browse a wide array of goods, interact with local vendors, and experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kashgar.

Top Attractions in Kashgar

Idkah Mosque , a courtyard-style temple. 

The main body is goose yellow, which looks warm and inviting. Next to the gatehouse are two minarets in soft-curved shape with Islamic crescent moons on each tower's top. The inside decorations are spectacular. The roofs are supported by 158 light blue pillars in a grid shape. The ceiling and the four corners of the wooden pillars have exquisite wood carvings and colorful bath well patterns. They are a symbol of  peace  and the  universe . 

Kashgar Old Town

The town has been commercialized in order to attract tourists, but people still love to visit it with great passion. Its biggest draw is the well-preserved and adored residential complex - the largest in the world - which showcases a long history and epitomizes Uyghur culture . 

T he town is also vibrant and full of life. Whether you stroll through the streets or enjoy a cup of tea in the hundred-year-old Tea house, you can't help but fall in love with the place, with its light orange color and intricate layouts. It feels like nothing has changed here, yet everything has. To me, the Old Town is like an elderly man - wise and peaceful, yet possessing the strong chest muscles of a Spartan warrior and a fearless spirit. It stirs my soul and sparks my imagination.

Apak Hoja Mazzar

I'd rather call it a magnificent palace with   Islamic ancient architecture styles  of domes and crescent m oons on the top. Outside walls are all veneered with dark green glazed bricks from top to bottom and occasionally with colorful pictures and Arabic Quran epigrams. 

These glazed bricks were made more than 300 years ago but are still beautiful and shining today. 

Su nday Bazaar

Held every Sunday on the outskirts of Kashgar, this bustling market is a  Must-visit  for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. You can find a wide range of goods, from livestock and produce to clothing and household items.

Whether in the Sunday Bazaar or the Grand Bazaar, Uyghur business people are good at trading. 

Pamir  -- "Roof of the World"  

The Pamir are renowned for their stunning beauty, with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes creating a breathtaking backdrop for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. 

Trekking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching are popular activities in the Pamirs, offering visitors a chance to explore this pristine and awe-inspiring region.                                              

Karakul Lake --"Black Lake"  

The lake is a deep, dark blue and quite spooky. It is located about 160km away from Aktao county, at an elevation of 3600m above sea level, and covers an area of 10km. The presence of Gongge Peak, Gongger Jiubie Peak, and Mustage Peak around the lake makes the area very picturesque, with mountains and the lake coexisting in a stunning manner. The Silver mountains and Blue Lake create an intoxicating scene, adding a touch of romance to the majestic Pamirs.

Taxkorgan County 

A town located near the border with Pakistan and Tajikistan, Tashkurgan is known for its ancient stone fortress, cultural heritage, and stunning mountain scenery. 

You can explore the town's historic sites and interact with the local  Tajik community . The Tajik like the European white people in China are so special and unique.

Best time to Kashgar

The Best Time to tour Kashgar is in  August-October.  At this time, the sun isn't so scorching as in summer and sets us free to go outside. August fruits and September breeze make everything possible. 

The average temperature ranges from 15℃ ~ 31℃(59 ℉~ 87.9℉) , you can travel there with a mild climate. 

As for clothing, It is recommended to wear breathable clothes such as cotton and linen fabric shirts, thin long skirts, T-shirts, and other lightweight clothing in the daytime. Additionally, as for night, it is recommended to wear warm clothes such as suits, jackets, trench coats, casual wear, blazers, and thin sweaters.

To those who love sunshine and make trips in Summer(May to July)  is also a good choice. Kashgar's  summer  is always hilarious, like its red color, with the average temperature ranges from 15℃ ~ 34℃(59℉ ~ 93.2℉） . You might burn the passion for experiencing "lonely smoke straight in the desert, long river, and a round sunset" somewhere in the desert of Kashgar.                   

Different seasons offer unique experiences: Spring brings youthful green, while Winter brings icy white. Time resides within you. Act now, just  contact us .

Transportation to Kashgar

Kashgar is the transportation hub of Southern Xinjiang. It is convenient either by  plane  (the airport is about 9km away from the city center) or by train to come down. Round-trip trains from Urumqi are available every day.

Kashgar highways  go to  12 counties (cities)  directly. From Kashgar City to the northeast highways leading to Kezhou, Aksu, Korla, Turpan, and northward to Urumqi. From Kashgar City to the southeast highways leading to Shule, Yingjisha, Shache, Zepu, Yecheng, and Hotan, and to Dunhuang in Gansu Province and Golmud in Qinghai Province to the East, and Ali area of Tibet from Yecheng to the south.

Accommodation in Kashgar

Accommodation of Kashgar has been upgraded a lot in recent years to fit in the title as an important city on the Silk Road. Travelers do not worry about finding a hotel room to stay in. 

Some valuable hotels are well-rated among guests for your reference. They can ensure cozy hotels and pleasant service to help travelers have a great experience in Kashgar. Please have a check .

Kashgar Maps You Might Need

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The Best Kashgar Tour Itinerary

Welcome to Kashgar, an enchanting city on the ancient Silk Road, in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Ideal for first-time international travelers, this destination promises a unique blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. Our Best Kashgar Tour Itinerary is meticulously crafted to offer you an immersive experience, balancing cultural explorations with local gastronomy and leisure. Embark on this remarkable journey and discover the wonders of Kashgar.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Kashgar

Start your Kashgar adventure at the Id Kah Mosque （艾提尕尔清真寺） a magnificent symbol of Islamic architecture and the largest mosque in China. As you explore, observe the intricate design that adorns its facade and interiors.

Outside, the bustling square becomes a canvas of daily life, echoing the calls to prayer. This experience provides a profound insight into the religious and cultural aspects of the city.

For lunch, delve into the flavors of Uyghur cuisine at a traditional restaurant. Must-try dishes include the aromatic l amb pilaf , rich in spices, and handmade noodles, a testament to the culinary skills of local chefs. These dishes offer a delightful introduction to the regional palate.

Next, wander through the Old City of Kashgar . This area is a living museum, with its narrow alleys and ancient homes.

Visit the famous Handicraft Street, where skilled artisans showcase their crafts, from intricate jewelry to traditional Uyghur musical instruments. Observing these artisans at work offers a window into Kashgar’s rich artisanal legacy.

For dinner, enjoy the local specialty at a kebab house . The succulent kebabs, grilled to perfection, and the hand-pulled noodles offer a flavorful end to your day. These dishes are not just meals but a part of Kashgar’s culinary identity, deeply rooted in its culture.

Conclude your day at People’s Park . Here, the city’s vibrant nightlife comes alive. It’s a place where locals converge to relax and socialize, offering an authentic experience of everyday life in Kashgar. Stroll through the park, enjoy impromptu music performances, and engage with friendly locals.

Day 2: Silk Road History and Local Culture

Begin your second day with a visit to the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum （阿帕克和卓麻扎）, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. This historical site, adorned with blue tiles and intricate patterns, stands as a testament to Kashgar’s rich religious heritage.

Explore the mausoleum’s tranquil gardens and discover the history behind this significant landmark, offering a serene start to your day.

At lunchtime, immerse yourself in Kashgar’s vibrant street food scene. Sample Uyghur staples at the local bazaar, such as savory mutton soup and samsa, delicious baked buns filled with seasoned meat. These street food delights provide a true taste of local flavors.

Spend your afternoon at the bustling Kashgar Bazaar , one of the largest in Central Asia. This lively marketplace is a sensory overload, with colorful stalls selling everything from spices to silk.

It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and observe the dynamic market life. Engaging with local vendors offers a glimpse into Kashgar’s commercial traditions and social fabric.

For dinner, explore a fusion of Uyghur and Western cuisines at a local restaurant. This culinary combination reflects the diverse influences that have shaped Kashgar’s gastronomy, offering an exciting and varied dining experience.

The evening brings a cultural treat – a traditional Uyghur music and dance performance. These performances, rich in history and expression, showcase the artistic heritage of the region. Engaging in this cultural experience provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of Uyghur arts and traditions.

Day 3: A Glimpse of Rural Life and Nature

Your last day begins with an excursion to Shipton’s Arch （阿图什天门） the world’s tallest natural arch. This remarkable geological formation is a bit of a hike, but the panoramic views at the top are absolutely worth it.

The journey itself is an adventure, offering a chance to connect with the natural beauty and rugged landscapes that surround Kashgar.

Enjoy a picnic-style lunch, featuring local fruits and breads, amidst the scenic backdrop. This simple yet delightful meal allows you to savor the tastes of the region while immersed in its serene natural environment, creating a peaceful and memorable dining experience.

In the afternoon, visit a local Yurt village to experience the traditional Kyrgyz lifestyle. This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the rural way of life in Xinjiang.

Interact with the villagers, learn about their customs and daily activities, and witness the harmony of their lives with nature. This visit offers a unique perspective on the cultural diversity and simplicity of life outside Kashgar’s urban center.

Dine at a family-run restaurant, where you’ll enjoy authentic Uyghur cuisine in a more intimate setting. This dinner not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides an opportunity to connect with local families, offering insights into their culinary traditions and warm hospitality.

End your tour with a leisurely walk around Kashgar’s modern districts. This contrast to the historical and rural parts of your journey showcases the city’s contemporary developments. Observe the fusion of old and new, understanding Kashgar’s role as a bridge between traditional culture and modernization.

This Best Kashgar Tour Itinerary offers a deep dive into the city’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and cuisine. As you reflect on your journey, remember the importance of respecting local customs and traditions.

Kashgar’s unique position at the crossroads of ancient trade routes has cultivated a blend of cultures and traditions, offering travelers a truly unique experience. Carry these memories and respect with you, ensuring a rewarding and enriching visit to this remarkable city.

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Kashgar Travel Guide

Kashgar or Kashi is an oasis city with approximately 350,000 residents in the western part of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China. Kashgar is the administrative centre of Kashgar Prefecture which has an area of 162,000 km²and a population of approximately 3.5 million. Located in the western extremity of China, the city covers an area of 15 km² at the altitude averages 1,289m/4,282 ft. above sea level.

Kashgar features a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters, with large temperature differences between those two seasons: The average high in January and July is 0.3 °C (32.5 °F) and 32.1°C (90 °F). Spring is long and arrives quickly, while fall is somewhat short. The mean annual temperature is 11.9 °C (53.4 °F). Kashgar is one of the driest cities on the planet, averaging only 64 millimeters (2.52 in)of precipitation per year.

Kashgar has been an important trading centre since the days of the Silk Road, and still is today. The road from Eastern and Central China branches out to both the north and south of the Taklamakan Desert, and Kashgar is where the two branches meet again in the western part of the desert. The local population is a mixture of Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kyrgyz,Tajiks and Uzbeks, boasting a colorful ethnic variety. The majority residents are Uyghurs in Kashgar. The Uyghurs employed an alphabet based upon the Syriacand borrowed from the Nestorian, but after converting to Islam widely used alsoan Arabic script. They spoke a dialect of Turkic claimed to be preserved in the Kudatku Bilik, a moral treatise composed in 1065.

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Beijing, Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Xian, Shanghai

From $ 3510

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Beijing, Xian, Lanzhou, Xiahe, Wuwei, Zhangye, Jiayuguan Pass, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kashgar, Shanghai

From $ 3683

Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar

From $ 1324

Urumqi, Turpan, Korla, Kuqa, Shaya, Hotan, Kashgar

From $ 2728

Top Attractions in Kashgar

Apak Hoja Tomb

Id Kah Mosque

Karakul Lake Kashgar

Big Bazaar Kashgar

The Stone City Kashgar

Kashgar Old Town

Zhiren Street Kashgar

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Kashgar travel guide

Kashgar in brief Kashgar or rather Kashi in Uyghur, is a city located at the west border of China and southwest part of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Considered as the end of China's west frontier, the city is bordering the countries of Kyrgyzstan to the north and Uzbekistan to the west. Situated in a mountainous region, Kashgar is surrounded by many mountains of high renown all over the world especially for its hike features: Tianshan Mountains in the north, Kala Kunlun Mountain and Kunlun Mountain in the south, Pamir Plateau to the west and finally Taklimakan Desert to the east. Kashgar is definitely a place where the humid Yunnan climate will feel like a dream! This city of far west China enjoys a hard desert climate punctuated by hot summers and cold winters starting at -10C (14F) to 32C (89.6F), and is also home to a large Muslim community where Chinese Han represent just a few people. Still, lush vegetations and cultures can be found in the surrounding valleys, astonishing scenery for this part of the country surrounded at the same time by desert. The city of Kashgar is from another world: looking dramatically different from the rest of Xinjiang, Kashgar is just a plac... More information about Kashgar »

Top Attractions in Kashgar

Idgar Mosque, Kashgar

Sunday Bazzar

Abakh Khoja Tomb

Karakuri Lake

Kashgar Old Town

Ancient Art Street, Kashgar

Stone City, Kashgar

Taklamakan Desert

Three Immortals Buddhist Caves

• China tours to Kashgar
• Kashgar Attractions
• Kashgar Weather
• Kashgar Transportation
• Kashgar Cuisine

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A Snob's Guide to What's New in the Hamptons This Summer

Our guide to the hotels, restaurants, spas, and stores gracing the East End this season.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

For the past few summers, the Hamptons have felt busier than ever. With remote work and summer Fridays, any weekend can be a long weekend if you catch the Jitney (or the Blade ‘copter) on time.

To capture the ever increasing crowds, Hamptons hotels and restaurants are remodeling, relaunching, and reintroducing themselves. That’s alongside a crop of newcomers and a solid chunk of New York City mainstays following their customers down Highway 27-A.

So, whether you're delighted or devastated that Zero Bond hasn’t been able to open in East Hampton yet, we’ve gathered options to spice up your summer rotation.

Arthur & Sons

A new outpost of the popular West Village Italian-American restaurant Arthur & Sons opened in Bridgehampton in May. It’s “for anyone wanting a full Italian-style meal but also a lively atmosphere,” said Andrew Warren, the socialite and content creator.

Casa Sereña at The Surf Lodge

The sceney Hamptons party spot needs no introduction—everyone from the Kardashians to Jimmy Buffet have been spotted at the beachside hotel-meets-concert venue. But, this year, the hotspot added a new restaurant, Casa Sereña at The Surf Lodge , serving a Mediterranean-Asian inspired menu—think mezze, seafood towers and crudos. Afterwards, catch a concert outside; this year’s lineup includes Diplo (July 4) and Duke Dumont (August 24).

The California brand , known for breezy dresses and lacey tops often has a line outside its West Village outpost. Expect the new Sag Harbor spot to be equally popular, as Hamptonites rush to secure their beach cover ups.

The invite-only pilates studio , with locations in LA and New York, followed its clients to Sag Harbor for the summer. Expect a tough, energizing workout that can offset a night at Surf Lodge… maybe.

Gurney's Montauk

Gurney’s is a Hamptons standby, but this summer it's exploring a high fashion collab. Dolce & Gabbana is revamping the hotel’s Beach Club and East Deck outdoor area, from the decor to the cocktails, giving the whole place an air of the Amalfi Coast. The takeover begins July 4th weekend.

Perhaps you’re still trying to get your hands on Khaite’s sheer ballet flats. It’s worth trying the brand’s new East Hampton store—one of just three Khaite stores worldwide—that opened in May.

The West Village pizza joint Lil Charli opened in the Hamptons with Roman-style pizzas and late night hours. Closing time is at 4am on Friday and Saturday nights—a rarity for East Hampton.

The Los Angeles-based streetwear company, popular with celebrities and teenage girls alike, opened a modern, airy popup shop in Southampton, perfect for grabbing some post-beach loungewear.

The Maidstone

LDV Hospitality, best known for Scarpetta, took over the Maidstone , a 150-year-old East Hampton mainstay, and gave it a much needed upgrade and a new restaurant, LDV at the Maidstone, run by chef Jorge Espinoza. The restaurant aims to bring “Italian Summer” to the Hamptons with trademark pastas and an aperitivo hour. We’ll meet you there for a Spritz.

A new Montauk steakhouse from James Beard-nominated chef Jeremy Blutstein , Mavericks emphasizes local ingredients and an extensive wine list, with over 500 options. They also opened a beachside bar, Shark Bar, nearby for frozen cocktails and a classic beachy menu.

Montauk Yacht Club

The Montauk Yacht Club is yet another Hamptons classic that's had some tasteful work done. The hotel is under new management: Proper Hospitality, known for spots like the Santa Monica Proper in Los Angeles. The rooms are beachy and modern, and guests can spend time at the hotel’s two pools or tennis, volleyball, or padel courts. There's also a new restaurant and bar, the seafood-forward Ocean Club Montauk.

The Rams Head Inn

Venturing up to Shelter Island, the Rams Head Inn is also under new ownership and just went through a significant remodel. The resort now has a new dock, beach dining and a beach bar, all off the property’s 900-ft private beach.

The Reform Club

The boutique Amagansett hotel is bringing back its Meeting House restaurant, which closed in 2017. Replacing Wölffer Kitchen, the eatery's new menu includes crowd favorites like macaroni and cheese and a raw bar, as well as a prime steak dinner option. The hotel is also the headquarters for Pop Up Bagel's summer residency, dishing out the TikTok-famous, pull apart bagels every weekend morning.

The Row and the Hamptons are a match made in fashion heaven, so it’s no surprise that the brand set up shop Out East in the former Tiina the Store space.

Ruschmeyers

The campground-style Montauk hotel starts the season with two new food and beverage offerings: Placēbö , a Puerto Rican New American fusion restaurant (pictured), and Don Jaguar’s, a speakeasy with cocktails and small bites. The 19-room hotel also got a refresh under hospitality group El Grupo SN, best known for Somewhere Nowhere and 9 Jones in Manhattan.

Sag Harbor Tavern

Chef Billy Durney, the owner of Red Hook Tavern and Hometown Bar-B-Que, opened up a spot in Sag Harbor , bringing his famous burger out East. It’s already a tough table to score—and if you’re a real pro, you’ll aim for one of the tufted booths.

Staud and Staud Sea

Sarah Staudinger’s namesake brand opened up not one, but two shops in East Hampton. One for the main brand, Staud , with its chic sets and beaded handbags, and the other across the street for Staud’s swimwear line, Staud Sea.

Veronica Beard

Do you really want to be the only Hamptons mom without a Veronica Beard blazer? The brand’s new store in East Hampton, filled with variations on linen and raffia, opened just before Memorial Day Weekend.

Wayan & Ma•dé

These two NYC hotspots are combining to pop up in the Hamptons. The Indonesian eateries from Chef Cédric Vongerichten, son of the famed Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, are holding court in East Hampton Wednesdays through Sundays until September 2.

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An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

V isiting the Eternal City for the first time? Rome is one of the most visited cities in Italy and we created an easy travel guide to Rome so that you know the best things to see and do.

In this post, we’re sharing all we’ve learned from our vacations in Rome to help you plan your getaway. We’ll cover the most popular neighborhoods, the best things to see and do, how to get around in Rome, the best time of the year to visit, how to get to central Rome from FCO Airport, and tips for traveling.

Where is Rome

Rome is located in the region of Lazio, near the and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Italy. It has the highest population of all cities in Italy and sits about 1 hour from the western coast.

And when it comes to tourism, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the globe travel to Rome to see its beauty and Renaissance art, experience Roman cuisine and Italian cooking , shop the fashion capital, discover the piazzas and fountains, explore the historical landmarks, or even practice Italian phrases that they’ve learned.

The various neighborhoods are the most widely visited by tourists because they are where most attractions can be found. Traveling through the city is easy on foot, but you should also consider the Rome sightseeing bus or the Rome golf cart tours .

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the summer months (primarily June through September). In April and May, the spring temperatures are nice, the mornings are cool, and by noon you probably won’t need a jacket.

The Best Things to See and Do (by Neighborhood)

Each neighborhood of Rome has museums, churches, gardens, parks, and iconic spots to visit. This list gives a brief description of each district, and helps you understand what to see in each neighborhood. It will come in handy for deciding where to stay in Rome while planning your trip.

You may need to take public transportation to reach a specific neighborhood depending on where you stay. However, once you arrive, the area is completely walkable and getting from one point of interest to another is easy.

Modern Center

This neighborhood is located around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the Modern Center neighborhood combines classic and contemporary influences. It has a mix of upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing the modern side of Rome.

Palazzo del Quirinale

Complesso delle Quattro Fontane

Trevi Fountain

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica a Pallazo

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Castro Pretorio

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Museo e Cripto dei Frati Cappuccini

The heart of Rome’s historic center, the Old Rome neighborhood captivates with its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Scalinta di Trinita dei Monti (Spanish Steps)

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

Campo de’ Fiori

Palazza Farnese

Piazza Navona

Museo di Roma Palazzo Braschi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone

By far this is the most popular neighborhood in Rome for travelers. Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for it narrow, winding streets, nightlife, and charming piazzas. Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, and traditional trattorias.

Villa Farnesina

Galleria Corsini

Basilica di Santa Maria

Orto Botanico

Home to the iconic Colosseum, the Colosseum neighborhood in Rome immerses visitors in ancient history as they explore the grandeur of the Roman Empire, marvel at ancient ruins, and soak in the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Bocca della Verita

Circo Massimo

Piazza Venezia

Altare della Patria

Aventino – Tastaccio

Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. It offers a vibrant food scene with traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and a bustling food market.

Basilicia di San Giovanni

Terme di Caracalla

Knights of Malta Keyhole

Esquilino – San Giovanni

Located near Termini Station, the Esquilino neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Known for its diverse immigrant communities, Esquilino is a mix of ethnic restaurants, colorful markets, and architectural gems like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Museo Nazionale Romano

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincole

Nomentano combines residential tranquility with commercial areas. This neighborhood is characterized by its leafy parks, elegant villas, and the iconic University La Sapienza. There is a mix of students, locals, and dining. Nomentano has a relaxed and intellectual atmosphere.

Sapienza University

North Center

The North Center neighborhood of Rome, encompassing areas like Villa Borghese and Parioli, presents a more tranquil and residential atmosphere. With its leafy parks, elegant villas, and cultural institutions like the Galleria Borghese, this area provides a peaceful retreat from the city center.

• Museo e Galleria Borghese
• Villa Borghese
• La Galleria Nazionale
• Museo Nazionale Etrusce di Villa Guilia

Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this iconic neighborhood offers a rich blend of religious significance, magnificent art, and awe-inspiring architecture.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Vatican Museums

Castel Sant’Angelo

Southern Rome

The southern part of Rome is less touristy and has an authentic atmosphere that portrays a taste of local Roman life. From food markets and traditional trattorias to vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, Southern Rome provides a glimpse into the city’s everyday charm.

Via Appia Antica

Catacombe di San Sebastiano

Catacombe di San Callisto

Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around the cobbled-stoned streets of Rome is not hard. I’ve walked, biked, and bused throughout Rome and loved it! All are great ways to get around and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and your personal preference.

I recommend the  Big Bus Tour  or a Golf Cart Tour in Rome if you are short on time or if you booked your travel in the dead heat of summer (which can be intensely hot).

With these tours, you’ll see all the top Rome attractions with audio commentary in your language of choice. If you choose an open top tour bus, the added benefit is free wi-fi and for 3 extra euros, you can use your ticket for two days (it is worth it).

When it comes to seeing Rome, walking can not be avoided especially when getting to an attraction that require climbing hilly pathways or navigating ancient streets. In my opinion, being on foot is one of the best ways to travel in Rome.

Exploring the narrow streets can lead you to the most marvelous pasta, the creamiest gelato, or the most perfect pasta! I highly recommend visiting the Trastevere neighborhood for  Italian street food . 

Public Transportation

This is the best option for getting to a part of town that is more than 20 minutes on foot, especially if visiting a museum or park. Save your energy and use public transportation for less than 2 euros. You can purchase them at the tobacconist store.

You will need to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus (it’s an honor system). Getting caught with an un-validated ticket can result in a fine. You should also use a really good map of Rome. 

Bike or Vespa

Peddling around the city on your own time feels so liberating. Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the  Italian breakfasts  that you eat, and explore Rome.

You can find rentals for as little as 13 euros for 24 hours, complete with lock, for a standard bike. The price for e-bikes is higher.

Getting around on a two-passenger scooter is loads of fun!  Rent a Vespa to skirt traffic or explore outside the city. They can be rented by the hour or day. This will make your trip to Rome memorable as you travel in true Italian style!

How to Get to Central Rome from FCO Airport

There are several options to get from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the center of the city. I found the train to be the quickest and most affordable especially if you’ve had a long day of travel and want to get to Termini station.  

The most economical way to get from the airport to the city center is via a shuttle bus service from the airport. You can travel conveniently between Rome’s city center and the airport and take pleasure in a stress-free arrival or departure from the city.

The ride takes about 50 minutes and departures run from the airport every 30 to 40 minutes so you have time to collect your luggage. Shuttles stop in Terminal 3’s arrivals section. Look for the respective service at the arrival platform.

Terravision offers a shuttle service for less than 8 euros it’s quite popular. The buses are air-conditioned and there is no cost to bring your luggage aboard. It goes directly to Termini station with no extra stops. 

Another option is the public transportation system, which costs about 6 euros. The bus stops multiple times in the city center, including one close to the Vatican and one at Termini Station, throughout the 45- to 1-hour one-way trip.

Buses halt in Terminal 3’s arrivals section, at number 14. You can purchase tickets at the airport desk or online. 

A taxi is quite expensive. It will set you back almost 50 euros and the ride takes just as long as a shuttle service (about 50 minutes). You can find the taxis at the arrival level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The Leonardo Express train is less than 20 euros and runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. It is operated by Trenitalia and the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If you wait to collect your luggage, and then make your way to the window or kiosk to purchase your ticket, note that many others will be doing the same. Hate long lines? You can purchase tickets in advance and be ready for validation after boarding the train.

I can’t recommend a car rental unless you plan a day trip and need a set of wheels. Rome is completely walkable. Not to mention, even Italians know that finding a parking space can be a hassle.

Tips for Visiting Rome

I adore visiting Italy. And no trip would be complete without seeing some of the most iconic and historic spots in the Eternal City.

Don’t make the mistake (that I made on my first trip) and skip these incredible spots! Fortunately, I was able to see them on return visits!

Whether you are visiting the Vatican for the first time or returning because you tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain, these Rome travel tips will come in handy to make your stay enjoyable.

• Be prepared! Read these tips on the essentials for an international flight .
• Think comfort when flying coach , it will help you stay calm and confident.
• Beware of scammers, pickpockets, and panhandlers. It’s a thing in Europe and it can happen when you least expect it. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight to Rome and thank me later.

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Kashgar Old City - Where the Soul of Kashgar Lies

Kashgar Old City Facts

Kashgar Old City is in the center of Kashgar. It has a history of over 2000 years. As the best place to experience local customs and get an understanding of local life, Kashgar Old City is a must-go for a Kashgar trip. It is composed of crisscross lanes with all kinds of shops. Though a tourist site, it remains its original feature, that's also what makes it attractive and popular. The famous Kashgar Century-old Teahouse, Id Kah Mosque, and Gaotai Ancient Homes are all in this area.

Type: Old Cities, Culture & History

Best Seasons: All year round

Recommended Visiting Time: 2 hours

Opening Hours: All day

Tickets: Free (CNY 45 to Id Kah Mosque)

Address: No. 10 Yawage Road, Kashgar City 喀什地区喀什市亚瓦格路10号

History of Kashgar Old City

Kashgar Old City (喀什老城), or Kashgar Ancient City, is located in the center of Kashgar , covering an area of 4.25 square kilometers, with about 126800 residents. Presenting a vivid picture of Xinjiang Uygur folk customs, it is said that the soul of Kashgar lies in Kashgar Old City. It represents the ancient past and peaceful present of the city. The ancient city of Kashgar, formerly known as Shule, has a history of more than 2000 years . Local residences and shops line along the crisscross streets, forming the only labyrinth-like urban blocks characterized in Islamic culture in China. Now it is a AAAAA tourist site and a must-see in Kashgar.

8 Days Classic Xinjiang Tour including Urumqi Turpan Kashgar Tashkurgan

History of Bezeklik Caves

Bezeklik Caves was first excavated in the Gaochang period (A.D. 499 - 640) and more caves and murals were added in following dynasties. It has been one of the Buddhist centers in the western regions in hundreds of years through the Tang, Five Dynasties, Song and Yuan Dynasties.

Huihu Gaochang (回鹘高昌) is the most prosperous period of the caves. At the end of the 13th century, the Gaochang royal family moved eastward to Yongchang, Gansu Province, and Islam was introduced into Turpan, which led to the gradual decline of Buddhism as well as Bezeklik Caves. Later, it was damaged in the pagan conflict, and the eyes of the figures in the murals were all removed. Disasters piled up on one another. From 1904 to 1913, 90% of the murals in Bezeklik Caves were cut by four expeditions and transported abroad in batches. They are now collected in the Indian Art Museum in Berlin, the Amitash Museum in St. Petersburg, the National Museum in Tokyo, the British Museum, the National Museum of India and the National Museum of Korea. In spite of all the misfortunes, it is still a treasure house of Buddhist culture and art where you can appreciate the colorful murals and see the trace of history.

What to Do in Kashgar Old City

Wandering through the crisscross lanes & immersing in local atmosphere.

Kashgar Old City is about 2 km in length and width with many streets and alleys you can walk at will. Most of the buildings in the old city have been renovated but the local features have been retained. The colorful walls, round arches, beautifully designed door and windows offer perfect background for your picture.

In addition to the architecture, many characteristic shops on the streets are also worth a visit. Almost every street in the old city has its own theme, which is called bazaars (means “market” in Uygur). There is Cantuman Bazaar (Blacksmith Street), Dopa Bazaar (Flower & Hat Street), Flowerpot Bazaar, Handicraft Bazaar, Pottery Bazaar, etc. There are also vendors of special snacks such as grapes, Nang (staple food of the Uygur and Kazak nationalities), and goat milk ice cream that you can have a try when shopping.

Some residences are available to visit. You can see what it is like inside the typical local house but usually you need to buy some products sold there. In the streets of the old city, the elderly people are basking in the sun and the children are playing around, which makes people unconsciously want to stay and linger a little longer.

Spend a Leisure Afternoon at Kashgar Century-old Teahouse

Kashgar Century-old Teahouse (喀什百年老茶馆) is where both local people and tourists like to gather. It shows the traditional lifestyle of Uyghur people. Entering the teahouse, the scene of red carpet, blue wall, yellow ice sugar, local people and tourists drinking tea with little porcelain bowl, eating Nang and listening to local music is what makes it attractive. In the afternoon, it’s like a routine that people living nearby come here, sitting and chatting casually with a cup of tea in front of them. If you happen to sit by the window, you can see people passing by on the bustling street. The teahouse is like a century-year-old man talking with great interest about the stories that happened on the Silk Road.

Witness Grand Worship Ceremony at Id Kah Mosque

• Opening Hours: 10:30-19:00
• Ticket: CNY 45

Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺), firstly built in 1442, is located in the west of Id Kah Square in Kashgar. It is 140 meters long and 120 meters wide, covering a total area of 16800 square meters. It is the largest mosque in Xinjiang. Apart from the magnificent Islamic buildings, most tourists come here to witness the grand worship scene five times a day. At that time, the mosque is not open to tourists but you can see it outside. Two or three thousand people gather here (in the mosque or on the square), worshipping silently, which gives people a shock to the heart.

Note: Respect local religions, be quiet and dress properly (don't wear clothes that expose too much skin) when visiting Id Kah Mosque.

Relive the Scene of The Kite Runner in Gaotai Ancient Homes

Gaotai Ancient Homes (高台民居) is a Uyghur ethnic community built on the loess cliff with a height of more than 40 meters and a length of more than 800 meters at the northeast end of Kashgar Old City. With a history of 600 years, it shows the ancient Uyghur residential buildings and folk customs in Kashgar. However, what really brings it to the public view is the movie The Kite Runner . “For you, a thousand times over.” Numerous audiences are moved to tears by the loyalty of young Hassan towards his little master Amir. As the setting of The Kite Runner , Gaotai Ancient Homes will bring you back to the classic movie.

Note: Gaotai Ancient Homes is not open to tourists as the 600-year-old houses are not in good condition and it is not safe to go in there. But you can still feel the sense of history watching it from outside.

5 Days Legendary Pamirs Tour from Kashgar to Tashkurgan

Kashgar Old City Location & Transportation

Kashgar Old City is located at No. 10 Yawage Road, Kashgar City (喀什地区喀什市亚瓦格路10号), just in the downtown area. To get to Kashgar Old City, you need to get to Kashgar first. Kashgar Old City is about:

• 6 km, 20 minutes' drive from Abakh Hoja Tomb;
• 12 km, 25 minutes' drive from Kashgar Live Stock Market;
• 8 km, 25 minutes' drive from Kashgar Railway Station;
• 10 km, 25 minutes' drive from Kashgar International Airport.

Step 1: Get to Kashgar First

Kashgar is near the western border of China. You can get there by flight from domestic cities such as Beijing (about 6~7 hours), Xian (about 4 hours), Chengdu (about 6~7 hours), Shanghai (about 8 hours), Guangzhou (about 8 hours), Jinan (about 7 hours), Zhengzhou (about 7 hours), Urumqi (about 2 hours), Korla (about 1.5 hours), Yili (about 1.5 hours), etc. High speed train is not available and normal train takes too long a time. You can also get to Kashgar from land border ports, such as Kalasu Port, Irkeshtam Port, Torugart Port, and Khunjerab Port. Read more about Kashgar Transportation >

Step 2: Kashgar to Kashgar Old City Transfer

No matter you arrive in Kashgar by flight or train, there is regular city bus to Kashgar Old City. As a landmark in Kashgar, it is also easy to reach by taxi.

Travel with China Discovery: If you want to get rid of hustle of public transportation and troublesome navigation, you can book a private tour package which covers sightseeing, dining and transfer from us. Our knowledgeable local tour guide and skilled driver will escort you to visit Kashgar Old City with speed and convenience, and take care of all the details. You just need to focus on sightseeing. Contact us to customize a worry-free tour package now!

Best Time to Visit Amne Machin & Dressing Ideas

Amne Machin is cold all year round, especially from November to March (January is the coldest when the temperature at the peak can drop to -50℃). The snow will not melt on the peak so you can see the snow mountain whenever you come. If you want to take an Amne Machin trip on a relatively temperate day, June to October is more recommended. If you want to see the highland flowers and the vast green grassland, come between June and mid-August, but it is better to avoid mid-June to July because it is the rainy season.

Where to Wear & Pack: Keeping yourself warm is always important because it is cold even in summer. It is recommended to wear winter outfits such as thick coat, sweater, boots, etc. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat are also advised because the sunlight is strong.

Warm Tips for Kashgar Old City Travel

1. When visiting Id Kah Mosque, respect local religions, be quiet and don't wear low

2. It is not allowed to take photos in the caves.

3. Please don't touch the murals; smoking is forbidden in the caves.

4. Try to visit Bezeklik Caves in the early morning or late afternoon because on most days, it is very hot at noon and the ultraviolet rays are strong.

How to Plan A Kashgar Xinjiang Tour

How to Get to Kashgar: From mainland cities - you can take domestic flights from Beijing (about 6~7 hours), Xian (about 4 hours), Chengdu (about 6~7 hours), Shanghai (about 8 hours), Guangzhou (about 8 hours), Jinan (about 7 hours), Zhengzhou (about 7 hours), etc., or provincial flights from Urumqi (about 2 hours), Korla (about 1.5 hours), Yili (about 1.5 hours). From the borders - you can also get to Kashgar from land border ports, such as Kalasu Port, Irkeshtam Port, Torugart Port, Khunjerab Port. If you need transfer, we can send a tour guide and driver to pick up you from the borders.

Best Time to Visit Kashgar: suitable for travelling all year around, but May to October is most comfortable and beautiful.

Top Places to Visit Kashgar: Kashgar Old City, Karakul Lake, Tashkurgan (Stone City, Golden Grassland), Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar Bazaar

Plus arrival and departure days, you’d better plan at least 4 days for your Kashgar trip . If you want to extend your trip to Tashkurgan , you need at least 5 days. You can spend 2 days exploring attractions in Kashgar city and its old town, such as Kashgar Bazaar, Kashgar Old City, Id Kah Mosque, Abakh Hoja Tomb, Ancient Tea House , etc., then have a day trip to Karakul Lake from Kashgar. If you want to experience something more authentic, Tashkurgan , about 3.5 hours’ drive from Kashgar, is strongly recommended.

☛ 4 Days In-depth Kashgar Tour to Karakul Lake ☛ 5 Days Legendary Pamirs Tour from Kashgar to Tashkurgan

After Kashgar tour, you can take a flight to Urumqi to marvel at the alluring Heavenly Lake and visit the mummy and Silk Road exhibitions in Xinjiang Regional Museum, then keep traveling to Turpan to see the grape valleys, visit historical Jiaohe Ancient City, etc. For an in-depth Silk Road journey, you can travel from Kashgar to Hotan, Kuqa, Taklamakan Desert , etc., which usually need about 8~13 days. If you love landscape, don’t miss out the Kanas Lake in northern Xinjiang.

☛ 6 Days Urumqi to Kashgar Dream Tour - Best Xinjiang Tour for the First-timers ☛ 8 Days Urumqi Turpan Kashgar Xinjiang Tour ☛ 13 Days Xinjiang Silk Road Adventure Tour

Kashgar and Xinjiang regions can also be connected to other Silk Road destinations easily, such as Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye, Xian , etc. Qinghai, Tibet, Inner Mongolia are also some recommended extensions of Kashgar Xinjiang trip. Find recommended Silk Road tours here or contact us to tailor-make a trip of your own if you want to discover more destinations.

☛ 10 Days Classic Silk Road Tour from Xian ☛ 11 Days Wild In-depth Silk Road Adventure Tour ☛ 15 Days Classic Ancient China Silk Road Tour with Bullet Train Experience

Keep Reading About Kashgar

• Kashgar Tours
• Tashkurgan Tours
• Kashgar Travel Guide
• Things to Do in Kashgar
• Kashgar Weather & Seasons
• Kashgar Transportation
• Travel from Kashgar to Tashkurgan
• Kashgar Railway Station
• Kashgar Hotels
• Kashgar Airport and Flights
• Kashgar Silk Road
• Id Kah Mosque
• Karakul Lake
• Kashgar Century-old Teahouse

Keep Reading About Xinjiang Tours & Travel Guide

• Xinjiang Tours
• Urumqi Tours
• Turpan Tours
• Kanas Tours
• How to Plan Xinjiang Trip
• Xinjiang Destinations
• Xinjiang Attractions & Things to Do
• Xinjiang Weather & Seasons
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• Xinjiang Maps
• Xinjiang Tips
• Urumqi Travel Guide
• Turpan Travel Guide
• Shache Travel Guide
• Altay Travel Guide
• Hotan Travel Guide
• Kucha Travel Guide
• Ili Travel Guide
• Taklamakan Desert

Recommended Kashgar Tours

Top 3 Kashgar tours chosen by most customers to explore Kashgar in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

11 Days In-depth Wild Silk Road Adventure Tour (Cultural Relic & Unrivalled Landscape)

Lanzhou / Zhangye / Jiayuguan / Dunhuang / Turpan / Urumqi / Kashgar

Kashgar - Karakul Lake - Tashkurgan - Kashgar

Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar - Tashkurgan

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Mendocino County in Northern California

This Northern California destination has 24 national and state parks and 90 miles of idyllic coastline.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

What to Do in Mendocino

Where to eat and drink in mendocino, where to stay in mendocino county, how to get here.

Northern California’s Mendocino County is home to an inordinate number of natural treasures, and so few residents that you’re often completely alone when exploring them. This was the case when I visited the coastal region with my mom and young daughter during peak summer travel season. At Russian Gulch State Park, on the bluffs of Mendocino Headlands State Park, at nearly every stop we made, we were on our own, ramblers in a sea of quiet. 

That's how it should be in Mendocino County because so much of the area is protected. There are 24 state and national parks here, plus hundreds of miles of incredible hiking and biking trails and secluded shores.

alantobey/Getty Images

This is the ancestral land of the Pomo tribe, but European settlers arrived in the early 1800s and essentially pillaged it for timber. The Mendocino Lumber Company was founded in 1853, and it cut down trees here for almost a full century, until protections came into play. Stunning Hendy Woods State Park , for example, was established in 1958 to preserve old-growth redwood trees. Northern California’s coast is one of the few landscapes in the world where the magnificent redwood grows, and to walk among them is a spiritual experience — many have stood for more than 1,000 years, and they’ll be here long after those who gaze upon them.

Courtesy Visit Mendocino

For big trees, gorgeous coastal trails, and a peek at Golden State history, here’s how we suggest you explore Mendocino.

Visit Mendocino Headlands State Park

Brendan McGuigan 

Mendocino Headlands Trail, a 4.2-mile, out-and-back trek, skirts along the edge of a bluff, wild grasses and flowers swaying in the wind on either side of you. (The only other place I’ve seen such coastal beauty is actually 150 miles south, in Point Reyes .) Rock formations far below the cliff’s edge are gorgeous, but with mostly brush as your barrier, it’s best to watch your step and keep younger travelers close. Pack binoculars to get up-close looks at brown pelicans and egrets, and marvel at lupine and other wildflowers if you’re visiting in spring.

Hike Fern Canyon Loop.

Find this 6.2-mile loop trail in Russian Gulch State Park , which is just south of the town of Fort Bragg. You’ll get intimate with the landscape on this canyon trek, following a creek through dense forest with plenty of redwood trees. (Always check park websites before arriving, though, as storms can wash out trails and lead to temporary closures.) And before or after your trek, walk under the very pretty Russian Gulch Bridge to visit the shoreline here. We easily spent two hours here looking at sea birds, abalone, and other shells washed up on the sand. 

Ride the Skunk Train

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

Known as the Redwood Route, the tracks laid in this region date back to 1885, when trains carried logging workers and their families — and, of course, actual logs. Today, any route on the Skunk Train is a slow and easy ride kids and train enthusiasts will love. We bought the souvenir popcorn bucket on our 75-minute, round-trip ride from Fort Bragg to Pudding Creek Estuary, snacking and marveling at how close we were to the redwoods, their rough and red bark the ultimate shield, protecting them from fire and insects.

Visit Glass Beach

David Pu'u/Getty Images

The history of Glass Beach is among many a head-scratching California tale, and it goes something like this: for the first half of the 20th century, water dump sites were sanctioned, so residents disposed of all kinds of things right in these waters — appliances, everyday glass items, and more. They’d light it all on fire from time to time to reduce the rubbish, and then when the site got too full, they’d make a new one nearby. Glass Beach is the site of Mendocino’s third water dump. It stopped being used as such in 1967 (and the practice ended for good), but the now-smooth shards of all that trash continue to wash up in this rocky coastal nook. My mother is a collector at heart, a modern-day treasure hunter, and as she picked up bits of sea glass and fawned over her findings as if they were shells, I saw “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” in action. 

Visit another Mendocino beach.

Glass Beach isn’t representative of Mendocino’s shoreline, so leave time for another beach stop — the county has 90 miles of coastline and many accessible beaches to choose from. Note that even in July, the average high here is 66 degrees Fahrenheit. We suggest arriving in layers and pants you can roll up, then ditching your socks and shoes near your car and exploring barefoot. If you’re close to Fort Bragg, head to Jug Handle State Beach, where you’ll find tide pools (at low tide) and a kid-friendly lagoon to play in. If you’re in the southern part of the county, check out Bowling Ball Beach, named for the giant round formations that reveal themselves at low tide. Big River Beach is another favorite, and Van Damme State Park offers a great stretch of sand, too. 

Mendocino Village

“Downtown” would be an ill-fitting term for this charming stretch of shops and Victorian structures on a bluff, so “village” it is. It’s adorable and peaceful and simply relaxing to walk around here, the coastal wind whipping right up from the sea. We popped into a few cafes and coffee shops for snacks, and recommend you do the same. Good Life Cafe is likely the only place you’ll wait in any form of a line, because people are happy to wait for fresh baked pastries here. Try Fog Eater Cafe for plant-based Cali cuisine. And don't skip Cafe Beaujolais , a French spot in an 1893 Victorian farmhouse. If you don’t feel like a fine-dining experience, go midday, Wednesday to Sunday, for wood-fired pizza in the garden.

Anderson Valley

Courtesy Goldeneye Winery

If you spot rolling hills near California’s coast, it’s pretty safe to assume there’s great wine nearby. No surprise then that dozens of wineries dot Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley, which is 10 to 20 miles from the shore, depending on where you’re coming from or headed. If you prefer to wine taste while snacking, book a private visit to Fathers + Daughters Cellars , where wine comes with charcuterie curated by Boonville market Disco Ranch , and guests enjoy the experience from atop vineyard hill. Other tasting rooms for your list are Lichen Estate , Toulouse Vineyards , and Goldeneye . Note that most require a timed reservation, so it’s best to plan your visit in advance.

An agenda-less day in a small town is a good day, and Boonville (pop. 1,035) checks all the boxes for me: diners, general stores full of snacks and local creations, antique shops, and more. Arrive hungry and thirsty so you can stop at Pennyroyal Farm for pinot and cheese, and/or a farmstead tour, and Disco Ranch market for provisions to go. If you’d like to stay right in town, check in at the one-of-a-kind Boonville Hotel and Restaurant . In between meals and wine flights, go antiquing at Your Money’s Worth, shop in Farmhouse Mercantile , and roam in Hendy Woods State Park, which is less than 10 miles north on Highway 128, past the teeny town of Philo. On hot summer days, you’ll see people swimming in cool pools along the Navarro River in the park. 

The Apple Farm in Philo

My grandmother was a religious farmstand shopper. No matter where we were driving in Northern California, she knew what unmarked dirt road hid the juiciest peaches in the state, the sweetest corn to toss on the fire. This is surely why a place like Philo Apple Farm catches my eye — a local grower working tirelessly to raise delicious fruit for the lucky few. The farmstand is open daily, so you can stock up on apples and pears for your hiking adventures. A list of seasonal apple options reads like poetry: Black Twig, Cherry Cox, Crimson Gold, Fireside, Fox Whelp, Cinnamon Spice, Fireside. If you find yourself wanting to linger, they have a few rooms for rent and Saturday Suppers in the summer. 

Noyo Harbor

If you’re cruising the Mendocino coast, you will undoubtedly stop in the city of Fort Bragg , and for a meal nearby, we point you to Noyo Harbor. The seafood here is as fresh as it gets, with commercial fishing operations coming right up the Noyo River and local restaurants prepping just-caught salmon, rockfish, tuna, halibut, steelhead, and more for delighted diners. Try Noyo Fish Company for fish and chips, fish tacos, and chowder; the woman-powered Princess Seafood Deli and Market ; and The Wharf , which has been serving locals and out-of-towners for decades. 

Little River Inn

Aubrie Pick

This Victorian-style, family-owned property has a great address, right on Highway One and with a rolling lawn in front that’s ideal for cartwheeling while you watch the sunset – which is exactly what my daughter did after our dinner here. Most rooms have sea views and fireplaces to cozy up next to, and some have their own hot tub. We were not overnight guests, but we thoroughly enjoyed our meal here, especially the chef’s incredible clam chowder and olallieberry cobbler à la mode. The energy of this space is too good, with locals and guests buzzing together at the adjacent Ole’s Whale Watch Bar, which, of course, has bar stools facing west to the sea. 

Thatcher Hotel

Set inland in the adorable town of Hopland (pop. 899), Thatcher Hotel has 18 simple-but-stylish rooms and is a great accommodation option if you’re planning to do some wine tasting in the area, or if you’re heading to a wine country wedding. The hotel was established in 1890, but its current look is the result of a somewhat recent renovation. Read a book in the first-floor library, have a cocktail at the incredible, saloon-like Bar Thatcher, and enjoy coffee and pastries from Cafe Poppy, also off the lobby. When I’m in town, I make sure to walk down the street to look for treasures at Country Porch Antiques and have a classic diner breakfast at Bluebird Cafe.

The Inn at Newport Ranch

Nick Z Photo

Back at the coast and just north of Fort Bragg, The Inn at Newport Ranch sits on more than 2,000 acres of private land, complete with a working farm and cattle ranch. The inn has just 10 rooms, making it a pretty incomparable private escape (one that’s sometimes booked out for wedding parties and such). I love all the wood paneling and furnishing in the rooms – seaside lodge vibes to calm the soul – as well as the 25-plus miles of on-property trails. The inn team will help you book adventures, too, like forest bathing and seasonal foraging excursions. They also plant a redwood tree for every guest – better yet, they’ll help you plant the seed yourself.

Mendocino Grove

For a glamping experience, consider Mendocino Grove . The site has 60 tents set up in well-spaced “neighborhoods,” as the resort calls them. Each tent is furnished with comfy beds, wool blankets, and a deck with leather butterfly chairs perfect for resting and redwood watching. There’s live music around the campfire on select summer nights, and a campfire cookout series, too.

The Stanford Inn

A rustic hilltop lodge with 41 rooms and suites, The Stanford Inn is just one mile from Mendocino Village, and it offers anything you might need for rest and relaxation, and/or play and adventure. Activities readily available for guests include yoga and tai chi classes, mushroom and kayak tours, garden tours and cooking classes, and guided meditation. Vegan breakfast at the on-site Ravens Restaurant is included in your stay, and the inn recently opened Catch A Canoe and Bicycles Too , a rental site right at Big River Estuary where travelers can book kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and bikes to explore the area. 

Mendocino is a year-round destination, with adventure options any season and a temperate climate. Winter is good for whale watching , with boat trips out of Fort Bragg’s Noyo Harbor — there’s even an annual whale festival celebrating the gray whale migration. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and myriad events worth a drive (or flight), including Mendocino Music Festival , Anderson Valley Pinot Festival , and a June urchin festival . Note that individual wineries curate their own calendars of events, too, so consider those as you’re planning your trip.

Mendocino is a long trek from San Francisco International Airport at 176 miles, but it’s an incredible road trip if you have the time, bringing you through Sonoma County towns, like Petaluma and Healdsburg, before plopping you on Highway 128. The highway pitches you left and right as you curve west through redwood forest. Stopping at Navarro River Redwood State Park is a must, and the aforementioned Boonville is here, too. You’ll still take this highway (and shorten your driving journey) if you fly into Sonoma County’s regional airport in Santa Rosa. From there, Mendocino Village is 95 miles away. 

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More From Forbes

22 amazing pickleball destinations around the world.

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The Broadmoor has the highest-altitude court in the world.

When pickleball hit the mainstream radar during the pandemic, some dismissed it as a quirky tennis knockoff that had a shelf life of a year or two. But pickleball has exploded in popularity — it’s the fastest-growing sport in America with 36.5 million annual participants, full-fledged professional leagues and even themed restaurants around the country.

“It’s the perfect resort vacation sport,” says Scott Colebourne, CEO of Picklestars , a company that seamlessly integrates bespoke pickleball programs into luxury resorts, hotels and other destinations. “You can have two or three generations having a good time together. A lot of people have discovered the game on vacation and have gone back home and gotten hooked on it.”

Some of the appeal, Colebourne says, comes from the fact that pickleball is a low-impact sport that doesn’t require its participants to be in Olympic shape. The other draw is that the smaller courts can often be tucked into spectacular spaces. Many high-end hotels are now fully invested in the sport, building fabulous facilities and hiring professionals to help guests around the net.

“Top places will have amazing views from the court,” Colebourne says. “They also have a schedule of programming that’s welcoming. They have availability of paddles for new players to try the game. They have staff on hand to assist with guests and new programs. Sometimes a resort will put a court out and say, ‘Okay, we’re done.’ No, that’s not enough.”

The following places go above and beyond to ensure you and your paddle-whacking group have fun. From a custom court sitting along a pristine patch of Pacific coast to one resting in the middle of French vineyards, the following getaways around the globe will make you want to pack your gear.

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The Broadmoor , Colorado Springs

The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star resort takes pickleball to new heights in the Rocky Mountains. One of its Cloud Camp’s courts is perched at an exhilarating 9,200 feet, making it the highest-altitude court in the world. Get ready for an action-packed summer schedule, including the Adult Intermediate Pickleball Camp in July and an Adult Pickleball, Pasta & Pizza Weekend in August.

Paddle in paradise at Montage Healdsburg.

Montage Healdsburg , California

Two pickleball courts are nestled in the oak-covered grounds at this 258-acre wine country retreat. If you’re new to the game, sign up for the “Intro to Pickleball” course on offer Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Or fine-tune your skills with a private class led by a pickleball pro.

The courts at Arizona Biltmore.

Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts , Phoenix

The rallies are remarkable as this palm-tree-draped, Phoenix Mountain Preserve-surrounded resort. And for pickleball players, things are made even more enticing with the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended property’s four new courts, hassle-free equipment rental and all-level classes instructed by Peter Burwash International experts such as USPTA Elite Professional Brendan Easterling.

Playing in the Dominican Republic.

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas , Dominican Republic

There aren’t any excuses for not being on your A-game during a stay at this Four-Star Dominican Republic gem. For starters, there technically are no losers here since you’re paddling in paradise. And second, if you want to improve your score, practice more — and with the recently rebranded Racquet Center’s team of instructors and courts equipped with lights, you have the tools to do it.

Hitting in Hawaii.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

This extraordinary Five-Star retreat has long served as a proponent for health (ozone therapy) and healing (acupuncture). It hops on the pickleball wave with courts that just happen to have postcard-perfect Wailea Beach as their backdrop. After a few matches, make time to heal with an Infrared Therapy Deep-Tissue Recovery Massage at the sensational spa.

Work out with coach Matt Manasse.

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , Mexico

When you’re ready to take your pickleball passion to the next level, look into this Four-Star stunner’s Pickleball Getaway with the Pros. A four-night experience for up to eight players, this perk-filled promotion comes with accommodations (an oceanview suite), access to pros (like famed coach Matt Manasse), airport transfers and other lavish additions (a welcome dinner and a yacht trip). The over-the-top package may cost $56,000, but it also includes a post-play massage at the Five-Star spa to help you forget about the price tag.

Ready for a little action in Big D.

The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas

With its $55 million renovation completed in January 2024, the Dallas resort has a lot to capture your eye. But if you’re looking for more than a splashy new pool and a transformed spa, peer over at the adjoining state-of-the-art Nelson Sports & Golf Club for four pickleball courts. The facility offers more than 10 clinics and drills per week, so those looking to strengthen their swings can do so with ease.

Le Logis’ beautiful court.

Le Logis , Cognac, France

Surrounded by vines, this 16th-century buyout-only Cognac chateau (home to L’Académie, a Forbes Travel Guide center for excellence) offers two of the country’s rare private pickleball courts, delicately woven into the amazing landscape adjacent to the most premier of all Cognac vines. So, even if the score isn’t going your way, stunning vineyard views will always win out. However, if you do want your game to be as impressive as the vista, Le Logis can arrange a three-day workshop for an additional fee with Colebourne or one of the other Picklestars pros. It doesn’t end with pickleball: there’s a full Technogym dojo as well as all the recovery equipment you can imagine, a pizzeria for carb loading, a full Dolby theater for relaxing, and soon to debut is a culinary center by Bonnet with a kitchen that you actually can step into.

Take a swing in the Sunshine State.

The Boca Raton

Test your endurance in a monthly round robin that pits mixed teams (it’s open to hotel guests and members) against one another at this storied resort. But if you aren’t yet ready for fierce competition, try private lessons, open play or clinics. The Boca Raton provides four pickleball courts but will debut a large-scale court expansion in December.

Dink in the desert.

Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

Dink in the Baja desert with the sunset in the backdrop at this Japanese-inspired Four-Star Los Cabos escape. The two complimentary on-property courts are a hot amenity among guests, and you can reserve them for open play or private lessons.

Rancho Valencia’s pickleball court.

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa , San Diego

While the 49-suite Five-Star getaway long ago cemented its status as a top-tier tennis resort, pickleball has become incredibly popular among guests. If you’re interested in the latter, book one of four courts, a private lesson or a spot in a weekly beginner pickleball clinic Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Hilton Head is always a hit.

The Inn & Club at Harbour Town , Hilton Head

Guests at this Hilton Head hideaway have access to Sea Pine Resort’s activity-filled 5,000 acres, which include six pickleball courts. These courts cater to every level of paddler, with a Pickleball 101 program for beginners, a Junior program tailored for ages eight to 12 and a Power Hour with resident pro Mick Ray for those looking to up their game.

Dinks and drinks.

The Mansion at Ocean Edge , Cape Cod

This Cape Cod resort seamlessly blends historic charm with modern trends, making it a fitting destination for the bourgeoning sport. Guests enjoy complimentary sessions on the property’s six courts with top-of-the-line Selkirk paddles. The Mansion at Ocean Edge can also play matchmaker for those needing a pickleball partner.

Volleying on vacation.

The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort , Scottsdale

Guests at the Four-Star Scottsdale stay can access the property’s massive, two-story Athletic Club. There you’ll receive a complimentary hour on pickleball courts set against the backdrop of the dramatic desert. Forgot to pack your racket? No worries; the club supplies guests with gratis equipment.

Pickleball fun in the Caribbean sun.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay , British Virgin Islands

The pickleball action at this Five-Star Caribbean paradise takes place on two courts surrounded by tropical gardens with local flora, towering palm trees and verdant hills. A resident pro is available for hourlong private pickleball clinics catering to individuals, families or anything in between.

Rally, relax and repeat in wine country.

Carneros Resort and Spa , Napa

No wine country retreat would be complete without a glass of bubbly, and the Four-Star Carneros resort makes a delightful pairing of pickleball and champagne courtesy of its partnership with Veuve Clicquot. The property’s Rally, Relax and Repeat experience offers 90 minutes of playtime and courtside bottle service. Those who prefer to cheer from the sidelines can hang out at the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar & Lounge before sharing a toast with the day’s champion.

Paddling in Panama City.

The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel and Golf Resort , Panama City

While this exclusive Panama City paradise is known for its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, the resort also caters to pickleball players. Enthusiasts in both sports receive a complimentary membership to the adjacent private Santa Maria Country Club, where they can enjoy sprawling greens and pristine pickleball courts.

Show your skills near a sugar mill.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour

Take lessons or join group games at the St. Kitts hotel’s two pickleball courts, which sit in the shadow of a replica of a century-old sugar mill. For additional wellness, head inside the mill — part of Sugar Mill Spa & Sanctuary, the open-air structure holds activities such as yoga and sound healing.

Everything you’ll need at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection , Napa

The Four-Star Calistoga hotel turns a game of pickleball into an experience with two new outdoor courts, bright custom paddles from pickleball goods purveyor Recess and even courtside wine service, where you can enjoy Juliet sustainable Central Coast wine from chicly designed round magnum boxes with fabric rope handles.

Take your swings in southern Vermont.

Twin Farms , Barnard, Vermont

This Five-Star luxury summer camp for adults has added pickleball to its activities list. You will find two beautiful courts nestled beside a charming pond on the property’s 300 acres of unspoiled Vermont countryside, where even a competitive three-setter can feel romantic.

All signs lead to Cape Cod for pickleball excitement.

Wequassett Resort and Golf Club , Cape Cod

This Five-Star Cape Cod resort prides itself on creating ample opportunities for family fun, and its pickleball programs encourage precisely that. A raised terrace allows spectators to cheer on players from the sidelines. Two courts provide playing space, and a resident pro is on hand for private lessons and to help arrange tournaments for healthy family competitions.

Court is in session in Southern California.

Ojai Valley Inn , California

You won’t mind playing game after game at the Four-Star hotel with the stunning panoramic views of the Topatopa Mountains in the background. And you will have plenty of opportunities to do so: while Ojai has two dedicated pickleball courts, its tennis facilities can easily convert to offer 18 total courts.

For more pickleball getaways, click here .

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Guide to floating lower Santiam River: Beautiful but mellow

When people paddle the North Santiam River, they’re typically riding the Class II and III rapids of the upper river.

The two upper runs, from Packsaddle to Mill City, or Fishermen’s Bend to Mehama , require the ability to navigate rocks, waves and holes in a fast-moving part of the river. It’s not expert-level, but it’s not for beginners either.

That’s why, as my daughters are starting to learn to paddle their own kayaks, I’ve started exploring the lower stretches of the North Santiam to float. From Stayton downstream is where I first learned to paddle my raft.

The river is slower, often scenic and occasionally bouncy as it traverses forest and agricultural land. It’s a stretch often floated by anglers, occasionally rafters and kayakers, and, though I can’t recommend it, tubers.

Watch out for trees!

The danger in the lower river isn’t rapids, but rather downed trees that sometimes stretch across the river and can be dangerous if you get caught in them.

The good news is that this summer, the river from the Stayton boat ramp downstream to Green's Bridge, Jefferson and Interstate 5 is more open than in previous years. High water over the winter and spring knocked out the worst blockages.

“Luckily, right now it’s pretty clear, at least for the moment,” said Dan Graybill, marine deputy for the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.

Here are a few North Santiam floats on the lower river that those paddling boats and looking for slower but still fun river can travel.

Stayton to Buell Miller Boat Ramp (about 5 miles)

Among the lower North Santiam floats, this one is my favorite. It’s close, has a great boat ramp, is scenic and has a few splashy rapids. It’s mostly free of trees.

There are a few places where the river pulls you near some brush. And 3 miles into the river, there is a large downed cottonwood tree on river left to stay away from. I’d recommend people have some experience on moving water before jumping on this run. But overall, it’s pretty safe. The hardest part might actually be getting to the boat ramp at the take out, which has some fast current.

The downside of this run is that it’s pretty short. Depending on how much you paddle, it probably takes one to two hours.  

Buell Miller to Green's Bridge (about 7-8 miles)

This section was notorious for collecting large and dangerous blockages of trees in its braided channels. But for now, it’s in decent shape. There are logs in the water, and large root wads, but they’re easy to get around as long as you can navigate. This stretch is slower and feels a lot more agricultural in scenery, but does have some beautiful moments. It also allows for a longer day on the river. I paddled pretty fast from Stayton to Green’s Bridge and made it in about two hours. A mellower float would probably be at least three hours.

Green's Bridge to Jefferson (about 5 miles)

This is one of the better loved and more infamous inner tubing floats. It follows some scenic river bends to the confluence of the North and South Santiam River and the eventual takeout in Jefferson. This is a stretch that commonly has trees in the water, and where numerous inner tubers have needed to be rescued. Graybill said that if you can navigate, it’s not in bad shape currently. “It’s not bad right now,” he said. “However, if you’re drunk and in an inner tube it’s not the best.”  

Jefferson to Santiam Rest Area on I-5 (about 4 miles)

This is the safest run on the Santiam — the mainstem down to the Interstate 5 rest area. That’s because it’s wide and deep. There’s some scenic spots as well, as the river drifts below the Santiam Bluffs. But mostly, it looks a lot like the Willamette, which is just fine. For first-time paddlers, this is a good one to start with.

Notes on floating the North Santiam River

Note #1: The Oregon State Marine Board has a hazards map that’s worth a look in advance of a float. It shows pictures and locations of obstructions like downed trees. However, it does sometimes, including now, list hazards that are no longer there. Hopefully that will be fixed soon.

Note #2: I can’t recommend tubes that leave no way to navigate. I know people use them frequently in the summer. But they get people into trouble all the time on the Santiam because the current does sometimes push you into downed trees and other hazards.  

Note #3: Every year, the North Santiam Guides Association hosts a “learn the river” trip where you can go down with groups of experienced boaters. In addition, the Willamette Kayak and Canoe Club offers outings that help people learn with more experienced paddlers. The best way to learn is by going with those who know what they're doing.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 16 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast . Urness is the author of “ Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon ” and “ Hiking Southern Oregon .” He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

These Islands Nicknamed “Europe’s Hawaii” Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

By Katie Lockhart

Spiky pineapples popping out of the ground, volcanic rock spilling into the azure ocean, and thermal pools steaming with heat. You may think I’m waxing poetic about Hawaii , but I’m talking about the Azores.

This string of nine volcanic outposts between Portugal and the United States is as lush an island paradise as you’ll find anywhere in Europe. A less-touristy antidote to Madeira, it’s been a longtime favorite for adventurous Europeans lacing up their hiking boots or road-tripping the island’s craggy corners—and now, Americans are starting to take notice.

The largest and most populous of its islands is São Miguel, nicknamed the “Green Island” for its pastoral rolling hills dotted with dairy cows. Narrow and long, travelers can drive from west to east in an hour and a half, but that would be a mistake. The island’s startlingly wild volcanic landscapes, terracotta-topped villages, and endless scenic viewpoints mean that it will actually take days.

So, this summer, skip the Greek Islands, packed like a can of tinned fish, and head for the hydrangea-lined roads of Portugal’s “Big Island” equivalent.

Where to Stay

The majority of accommodation is located in the island’s capital city of Ponta Delgada, ranging from large, budget-friendly hotels to small boutique hideaways. But the allure of the Azores isn’t found along concrete sidewalks; the best places to stay in São Miguel are sprinkled around its green countryside and charming villages.

Furnas, a village built in the crater of a volcano, appears at the top of every Azorean itinerary. And the town’s best hotel is the four-star Octant Furnas . Located down the hill from the steaming and sputtering geothermal Caldeiras, the smell of sulfur lingers in the air outside the vintage-inspired yet simple rooms. But the best part of the hotel is the spacious spa, featuring various pools filled with geothermal waters heated to different temperatures. And with a staff full of locals, they’re overflowing with helpful Azores ideas for your trip.

Outside of Ponta Delgada, Solar Branco Eco Estate is a brand-new sustainable boutique hotel in a 150-year-old estate. Its three rooms and five apartments have a minimalist Scandi design with thoughtful Portuguese touches throughout. A true eco-estate, it’s 100% solar-powered with zero food waste and green software that tracks guests’ energy use. Also on the estate is The Gin Library and a sushi speakeasy serving Azorean fish. The owner makes his own gin and encourages a gin-swap program with the hopes of having the largest collection in the world this year.

By Maria Goldbach

By Alice Newbold

By Leah Faye Cooper

For a more peaceful ocean escape, White Exclusive Suites & Villas offers wild Atlantic Ocean views for adults only. Once an old summer house, its traditional white exterior and terracotta roof house nine modern suites and two villas. Every room here has light, breezy interiors with pops of orange and waves so close that the sound of crashing against the cliffs will lull you to sleep.

Where to Eat

Each island in the Azores is known for its signature artisan foods, from cheeses to bread to wine. On Sao Miguel, pineapples, soft cheeses, and bolo lêvedo (an English muffin-like bread) are found almost everywhere. Book a table at Restaurante Associação Agrícola de São Miguel , a classic date night spot for locals to share hand-made cheese and tender cuts of steak marinated in butter. Nearby, on the black sands of Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara, you’ll find the jam-packed TukáTulá Beach Bar . Grab a drink from the bar and sit in their outdoor area made for watching surfers. But if you’re after food, wait for a table inside for comforting croquettes and fresh seafood, especially the mussel-like limpets.

While staying outside Ponta Delgada will ensure a more rugged and relaxed Azorean vacation, eating in the capital is a must. Full of young creatives doing innovative things, skip the hours-long line at A Tasca and head around the corner to Tasquinha Vieira . This chef pumps out a small menu of local, upscale cuisine, perfectly cooked and masterfully plated (booking is recommended). If you’d have your fill of seafood, get your comfort food fix at Nonnas Teeth & Tomatoes . This trendy, design-focused pizzeria serves the island’s best Neapolitan pies paired with a killer soundtrack.

If you’re in Furnas, a pit stop at Queijaria Furnense is practically a requirement. This shop makes all their own cheese and cheese-flavored chocolates. Order a variety board with a selection of their hand-made favorites, but whatever you do, don’t leave without tucking into their infamously addictive garlic bread.

On an island as varied as São Miguel, renting a car is the best way to experience everything on offer at your own pace. The temperamental waters of the Atlantic and the island’s cliff sides often make taking a dip a hazard, but there’s one place that is ideal for adventurous swimmers. Walk to Ponta da Ferraria when the tide is low, and the ocean is calm. This small, volcano-made swimming hole has warm geothermal water cooled by the ocean waves. Take water shoes as the rocks can be sharp.

The Miradouro da Boca do Inferno graces the cover of every Azores advert. The stunning lookout spot over the volcanic crater lakes on the island’s west side is worth braving the inevitable crowds. Another fantastic volcanic crater lookout is in the middle of the island. Lagoa do Fogo is a water reservoir with an emerald lake that may as well be cut from a scene in Jurassic Park. Travelers can take the path down to the shores of the lake for a peaceful hike but just be prepared to climb the steep path back to the top.

Unexpectedly, travelers will find Europe’s oldest tea plantation on São Miguel. Stop into Gorreana Tea Factory for a warm cup of green tea and a peek at the still-functioning tea production. If you’re up for a walk, head across the street into its rolling tea hills for a circular one-ish hour hike that reveals panoramic ocean views.

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Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Gas Prices Pop Ahead of Independence Day Holiday

By: andrew gross.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 27, 2024)—The national average shook off nearly three weeks of stagnation, moving a nickel higher since last week to hit $3.50. The move came as the cost of oil crossed the $80 per barrel mark, putting upward pressure on pump prices. With oil costs accounting for about 54% of what you pay at the pump, more expensive oil usually leads to more expensive gas.

“Summer got off to a slow start last week with low gas demand,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “But with a record 60 million travelers forecast to hit the road for the July 4 th holiday, that number could pop over the next ten days.  But will oil stay above $80 a barrel, or will it sag again? Stay tuned.”

For the complete report, including the latest EIA data and oil market dynamics, please visit:  https://gasprices.aaa.com/gas-prices-pop-ahead-of-independence-day-holiday/

Since July 4th falls on a Thursday, the gas report will return 7/11.