[2025 Tashkurgan Attraction] Travel Guide for Khunjerab Port (Updated Mar)

👉 Starting from Kashgar and following National Highway 314, you will pass through plateaus, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lakes, all the way to the westernmost point of our country, the Khunjerab Pass. This most beautiful border corridor is the Karakoram Highway, also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway. One-third of it is in China (416 kilometers), and two-thirds is in Pakistan (616 kilometers). 🚘 Self-drive route: Kashgar — Oytagh — White Sand Lake — Karakul Lake — Muztagh Ata — Tashkurgan Wetland — Tashkurgan County — Stone City Ruins — Jincaotan — Khunjerab Port 👉 Here you can find the eagles of the Pamir Plateau, visitors on the ice mountains, the origin history of the Tajik people, the ancient capital of the Pando nation 'Stone City', and the lush 'Jincaotan'. 👉 There is also the 'Tashkurgan Ancient Path' leading to the ancient kingdom of Yarkent in Shache; the 'Wakhan Corridor Road' that lies like a giant dragon on the land; and the birthplace of 'Why Are the Flowers So Red', Kaner Well Village. ⚠️ National Highway 314, the 'China-Pakistan Friendship Highway', requires a border pass in Taxkorgan County ⚠️ At the Bulungkol fork, the road to 'Muztagh Village' and its volcano crater requires a border pass ⚠️ In Tashkurgan County, the fork to the 'Tashkurgan Ancient Path' is a shortcut from Taxkorgan to Shache ⚠️ From Tashkurgan County towards Khunjerab, the fork to the 'Wakhan Corridor Road', also known as the Panlong Ancient Path, continues to Wakhan Township and then to 'Kaner Well Village', eventually returning to Tashkurgan County. ⚠️ Khunjerab requires a border pass. Khunjerab Port

1. Must-visit attractions in southern Xinjiang: 1️⃣ Kashgar: The largest Aitigaer Mosque in Xinjiang, the exotic Gaotai residential houses, the unique Karakuri Lake, and the Mustag Peak it reflects, as well as the highest-altitude port - Khunjerab Pass. Its unique Western Region cultural atmosphere, desolate and atmospheric plateau scenery, tall and pure snow mountain scenery, all touch every inch of your nerves. 2️⃣ Aksu: Aksu has played a huge role since ancient times. At its most glorious, the Aksu region was an important post on the "Ancient Silk Road" connecting Central Asia, West Asia and the Central Plains. 3️⃣ Hotan: Hotan is famous for its jade, but as an important town on the southern line of the ancient Silk Road, it has left many ruins such as the Niya ruins, the Aksu ancient city, the Mailik Awati ancient city, and the Karadun ancient city; the ancient woodblock prints, silk carpet fragments, gold Buddha statues, mummies, ancient coins, etc. unearthed here all shine with the brilliance of ancient civilization. 4️⃣ Bayingolin: Most of Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture is located at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains and the north and northeast edge of the Tarim Basin, with a small part located at the southeast edge of the Tarim Basin and between the Kunlun Mountains and the Altun Mountains. Here, there are not only rich alpine grasslands, but also beautiful Bosten Lake, and the most mysterious and desolate Taklamakan in China.

For those seeking an epic road trip, the journey from Kashgar to the Karakoram Highway (often called the "Dragon Road") is an unforgettable adventure. This legendary route takes you through some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, from the rugged mountains of Xinjiang to the breathtaking borderlands near Pakistan. Buckle up for a ride filled with jaw-dropping scenery, cultural encounters, and a true sense of exploration. 🌟 **Why Take This Road Trip?** - Karakoram Highway: Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," this high-altitude road is one of the most scenic and thrilling drives on the planet. - Stunning Landscapes: Marvel at the towering peaks of the Karakoram and Pamir mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and vast, untouched valleys. - Khunjerab Pass: At 4,693 meters (15,397 feet), this is the highest paved border crossing in the world, offering panoramic views and a chance to stand at the gateway between China and Pakistan. - Cultural Encounters: Along the way, you’ll meet diverse ethnic groups, including Tajik and Kyrgyz communities, and experience their unique traditions and hospitality. - Adventure Awaits: Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, or simply a lover of nature, this route offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. 📸 **Pro Tip**: Plan your trip between May and October for the best weather and road conditions. Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes, and don’t forget your camera—every turn offers a postcard-worthy view! 📍 **Route Highlights**: - Kashgar: Start your journey in this historic Silk Road city, exploring its Old Town and vibrant bazaars. - Tashkurgan: A picturesque town near the border, known for its stone fort and stunning mountain backdrop. - Khunjerab Pass: The crown jewel of the trip, where you can soak in the awe-inspiring views and snap photos at the border marker. 👉 **Plan Your Adventure**: Add this epic road trip to your bucket list on Trip.com and experience the thrill of driving one of the world’s most iconic routes. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, the journey from Kashgar to the Karakoram Highway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. #KarakoramHighway #DragonRoad #RoadTripAdventures #TravelChina #KashgarToPakistan #MountainViews #BucketListJourney #travelinginchina

Winter break is here! Want to explore Kashgar in southern Xinjiang? Check out this 3-day study guide and enjoy your trip to Kashgar without any worries! -------- 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Explore Southern Xinjiang - Kashgar 3-day tour🏞️ Day 1: White Sand Mountain - White Sand Lake Scenic Area - Karakul Lake Scenic Area - Pamir Plateau - Pamir Tourist Area - Kashgar Old Stone City - Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Alal National Wetland Park 🏜️ Immerse yourself in the purity of White Sand, explore the secrets of Karakul, and then ascend to the Pamir Plateau to experience its grandeur. Visit the Old Stone City, and finally end the day at the National Wetland Park. Day 2: Hongqilapu Port - Wakhan Corridor - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake 🌅 Depart from Hongqilapu Port, traverse the vicissitudes of the Wakhan Corridor, challenge the winding Panlong Ancient Road, and finally arrive at Bandir Blue Lake to enjoy the tranquility of the highland lake. Day 3: Tahman Wetland Park Observation Deck - Mustagh Glacier Park 🌲 Gaze into the distance from the Tahman Wetland Park Observation Deck and feel the beauty and harmony of nature. Then, head to Mustagh Glacier Park and get up close to the miracle of glaciers. -------- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Karakul Lake Scenic Area 🌟🌟 Recommended index: 4 stars Address: 1700 km of National Highway 314, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: 10:00-20:00 Duration: 2-3 hours The holy lake under the Mustagh Peak, the lake water is as clean and clear as sapphire, which is intoxicating. 🏞️ White Sand Mountain - White Sand Lake Scenic Area 🏞️ Recommended index: 4 stars Address: Bulunko Township, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening hours: 09:00-22:00 Duration: 1 day The rocks on the top of the mountain are pulverized into powder, which contrasts with the lakes and rivers below, forming a beautiful picture. 🧊 Mustagh Glacier Park 🧊 Recommended index: 4 stars Address: G314 (Hongxian) of Kashgar Prefecture Opening hours: 10:30-18:30 Duration: 3-4 hours Rich glacier landscapes, including spectacular ice towers and mysterious ice caves. You may also have the opportunity to see wild animals! 🌄 Pamir Plateau 🌄 Recommended index: 4 stars Address: Tiznap Township, Kashgar Prefecture, Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening hours: Open all day Duration: 2-3 days Ascend to the Pamir Plateau and experience the grandeur and vastness of the roof of the world, as if you are in a fairyland. 🌸 Pamir Tourist Area 🌸 Recommended index: 4 stars Address: Old Stone City, Kashgar Prefecture, Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening hours: 09:00-20:00 Duration: 1 day The scenery here is beautiful, and the natural beauty of the plateau is perfectly integrated with the profound history and unique folk customs, making people linger. -------- Before you go: 👕 **Clothing:** It is relatively cold in Kashgar in January, so it is recommended to bring thick coats, sweaters, and thermal underwear. Don't forget hats, scarves, and gloves to keep you warm and windproof. 🎒 **Accessories:** Sunglasses are a must-have, providing eye protection and fashion in the strong sunlight. Moisturizing masks and lip balm are very useful for combating the dry climate. U-shaped pillows make long journeys more comfortable. 📇 **Documents and other:** Bring your ID card and border pass, as well as cash, as some attractions may not have a signal. Also, prepare some cold and stomach medicine in case of emergency. -------- The trip to Kashgar is over. I hope this guide will help you. I wish you a pleasant journey and many wonderful memories!🌟

You'll pass by Mount Muztagh Ata on your way to Tashkurgan. The air is thin here, but every breath is filled with the purity and primitiveness of nature. The Wakhan Corridor leads to Pakistan in front and Afghanistan to the right. But that's not the end of the journey. You can drive all the way to the Khunjerab Pass deep in the snow-capped mountains. Khunjerab is the world's highest border crossing, located at the China-Pakistan border. The five-star red flag accompanies you along the way, fluttering in the wind on the Pamir Plateau, filling your heart with pride and excitement. Bandir Blue Lake is hidden among the mountains. The lake is as blue as the sky, and its beauty is tranquil and understated. The beauty of southern Xinjiang is dazzling and mysterious. Only by setting foot there can you truly appreciate the endless charm of southern Xinjiang. Xinjiang is a gift from nature, a paradise on earth.

I walked along the Duku Highway once in 2019 and 2022, and the feelings were very different. First of all, when choosing a place to travel in Xinjiang, you should consider the season. If you go to the Duku Highway in June, there are snow-capped mountains and green grass. It even snows from time to time, so you can play in the snow at close range. There are relatively few people before the summer vacation, and the experience is really very good❗ When we went there in mid-July of the following year, not only was there no snow on the road, but even the top of the Tianshan Mountains in the distance was almost snowless. The surrounding grass was dried and yellowed by the sun, and was littered with garbage by low-quality tourists 🖕🏻 The snow-capped mountains may have something to do with the climate of that year, but global warming has really accelerated the disappearance of many peerless scenery. If you are considering going to Xinjiang in July-August, I suggest giving up the Duku Highway (you don’t have to go there specifically, you can just pass by or walk a section of it) and go to southern Xinjiang ❗ The summer climate on the Pamir Plateau is really friendly, mild and cool, with a high chance of sunny days, abundant vegetation, sufficient oxygen, and a low chance of altitude sickness. The key is that you can still see huge snow-capped peaks in southern Xinjiang in summer. The China-Pakistan Friendship Highway is a top visual feast on the border. The China-Pakistan Friendship Highway is 1,224 kilometers long, of which 415 kilometers are in my country, from Kashgar to Khunjerab; and 809 kilometers are in Pakistan, from Khunjerab to Takht, with the Khunjerab national gate in the middle. Check-in points along the way: ❤Road signs in Wakhan Corridor, Afghanistan and Pakistan; ❤Yak-carrying-sheep farm (there are many yurts of Tajik residents here, and you can make an appointment for the yak-carrying-sheep show, which is not commercialized and super exciting); ❤The Shuibulanggou branch checkpoint and the former site of the China-Pakistan meeting station; ❤Khunjerab National Gate The road conditions are safer and more grand than the Duku Highway! The whole journey was filled with snow-capped peaks. The ancient ranch had large meadows that were rare in southern Xinjiang, and it was a real pleasure to have few cars. Parking📸Don't forget to pay attention to road safety❗

Khunjerab Pass is located in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County on the Pamir Plateau. This is the commercial port of China's border with Pakistan, and it is also the only highway port in Xinjiang that is open to third countries. It is an important gateway from western China to the Middle East, the South Asian subcontinent and even Europe.

If you wanna go China on a pleasent and affordable journey you should choose China southern airline. Make sure you had the window seat and it worth of seeing all that Himalayan range peaks. mashaAllah. #viewontop #china #chinatravel #chinadestination #pakistan #pakiatantours #borderline #中国