Kashgar (Kashi)喀什

Overview

Kashgar is China's westernmost city, anciently called Shule, where the Silk Road's northern and southern routes met. The Old City is China's only maze-like Islamic neighborhood with earthen buildings. Id Kah Mosque is Xinjiang's largest. Kashgar Grand Bazaar is one of Central Asia's biggest markets. The Pamir Plateau offers spectacular Muztagh Ata and Karakul Lake scenery.

Key Facts

Top Attractions

Kashgar Old City

China's only maze-like Islamic neighborhood, national 5A. Winding earthen buildings, best light at dawn and dusk.

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Id Kah Mosque

Xinjiang's largest mosque accommodating 20,000. Yellow building gleams in sunlight. Note: closed during prayer times.

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Apak Khoja Tomb (Fragrant Concubine Garden)

Legendary family tomb of Qianlong's Fragrant Concubine, Xinjiang's largest Islamic mausoleum with exquisite earthen architecture.

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Kashgar Grand Bazaar

One of Central Asia's largest markets, 5000+ stalls with silk carpets, spices and crafts. Busiest on Sundays.

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Food & Snacks

Lamb Kebab (Kawap)

Authentic Xinjiang kebab origin, large lamb chunks on red willow skewers, cumin-spiced.

Pilaf (Polu)

Uyghur staple, lamb with carrots, raisins and rice, fragrant and rich. Traditionally eaten with hands.

Naan Bread

Uyghur staple bread baked on tandoor walls, crispy outside soft inside. Sesame naan, onion naan varieties.

Festivals & Events

World & Intangible Heritage

• Uyghur Muqam Art (2005) — Grand Uyghur classical music suite, 'Pearl of Eastern Music', UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2005.

Practical Tips