Kashgar, also known as Kashi, is a city in southern Xinjiang, China. If you come here, tourists need to pay attention to some necessary things.
Essential items during the trip
Kashgar is located in a border area, so you must always bring your ID card and passport. All attractions, hotels and public transportation require verification.
The local climate is dry and ultraviolet radiation is extremely strong, so you need to prepare sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, lip balm, moisturizer, sunshade, and sunglasses. In the summer, you should also prepare thin long-sleeved jackets to avoid sunburn.
The temperature difference between day and night can be up to 10-15 degrees Celsius. Even when you travel in August, you should also bring a thin jacket.
Bring common medications such as digestive medicines, flu medicines, motion sickness medications and nasal sprays to reduce discomfort from dry nose; high-altitude motion sickness medications can be brought if needed.
Basic travel information
Restaurants will usually start opening around 10 am, lunchtime around 2 pm and dinner starts after 8 pm.
Mobile bank transfer is the main payment method and is supported by most stores. However, cash is a mandatory method in some remote rural areas and small stalls in Cho Lon. You should bring a little cash, about 100-200 yuan (Chinese currency).
Instructions on means of transport
Overseas tourists are prioritized for direct flights to Kashgar Laining International Airport. There are direct flights from many provinces and cities in China. In addition, you can fly to Urumqi first and then switch to high-speed trains or planes to Kashgar. The Urumqi-Kashgar route has many regular flights and often has discounted tickets.
For travel between cities in Xinjiang province, the high-speed railway is the priority choice. The high-speed railway journey from Urumqi to Kashgar takes about 11 hours and offers a beautiful view of the Tianshan Mountains and the Gobi Desert along the way, very suitable for tourists with a lot of time.
Walking is the best choice in Kashgar Old Quarter. The streets and alleys here are very winding, only walking can help you explore hidden shops and unique cultural landscapes. In addition, in Old Quarter there is also a sightseeing tram for 10 yuan/person, which can take you everywhere.
Calling a car or taking a taxi in the city is very convenient. Public transport to surrounding attractions (Pamir Plateau, Red Beach Scenic Area, etc.) is not convenient. You can choose a car to pick up and drop off directly from regular travel companies or ride a car with other tourists.
Tips to avoid mistakes that consumers often make
Do not trust unlicensed tour guides or "cheap day tours" that offer customers at airports and train stations. When choosing a tour, make sure to find a reputable company that confirms the sights, meals and accommodation standards included in the itinerary and signs an official travel contract.
Be careful when buying jewelry, jade and precious metals. If you need to buy, choose a reputable store and request an invoice and appraisal certificate.
Prices at specialty stores around scenic spots are usually about 30% higher than in the city. Go to places where prices are clearly listed and quality is guaranteed like supermarkets.
When eating at a restaurant, check the menu and ask for the price first.
Do not visit some border areas prohibited from illegal entry in Kashgar. Before leaving, make sure to confirm whether the route complies with regulations or not.
* Suggested schedule adjustments for different customer groups
• For families traveling with children: It is possible to shorten the journey to the highlands and add zoos and fruit picking.
• For couples traveling together: You can add experiences such as a picnic by Baisha Lake, taking photos at the ancient citadel and watching the stars on Mount Kumgang.
• For photography enthusiasts: explore more activities such as climbing the Muztagh Ata glacier and photographing Bandir Blue Lake.
