Kashgar, a city located in the westernmost province of China, is a cultural and historical gem on the ancient Silk Road. For centuries, it has been a crossroads of cultures and peoples, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in history, culture, and adventure.
Located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Kashgar is known as the “Pearl of the Silk Road.” It was an important trading post on the ancient Silk Road, connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Today, it is still an important hub for trade and commerce, as well as a popular tourist destination.
As a traveler who loves to explore lesser-known destinations, I decided to venture to Kashgar, a city located in the westernmost province of China, and a cultural and historical gem on the ancient Silk Road. My journey to Kashgar was by road, via the Torugart Pass, which connects the Naryn region in Kyrgyzstan to Kashgar in China. The journey was an adventure in itself, and with all the checkpoints, it took me about 7 hours to arrive in Kashgar.
During my stay in Kashgar, I explored its rich history through its diverse architecture, which blends Chinese, Islamic, and Central Asian styles. I visited many historic sites, including the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, and the Abakh Khoja Tomb, the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. The Kashgar Old Town was another fascinating destination, with its labyrinthine maze of narrow alleys, traditional courtyard houses, and bazaars selling everything from spices to silk.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Animal Market, which is said to be one of the largest and most colourful markets in the world. Here, I witnessed vendors from all over the region selling their wares, including livestock, produce, clothing, and handicrafts. It was a unique experience to immerse myself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this bustling market, and even try some of the local delicacies.
Another must-see attraction in Kashgar is the Karakoram Highway, one of the highest and most scenic roads in the world. I traveled along this highway, which stretches from Kashgar to Islamabad, Pakistan, and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and rugged terrain.
For those seeking adventure, Kashgar offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and even skiing in the nearby Tian Shan Mountains. I visited the Karakul Lake, located about 200 kilometers from Kashgar, which was a popular destination for hiking and camping, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
I spent seven days in Kashgar, which gave me enough time to explore the city and its surroundings thoroughly. Despite its remote location and lesser-known status, Kashgar is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its fascinating history, diverse architecture, bustling markets, and stunning natural beauty, Kashgar truly is a gem on the Silk Road.
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